Following a closed auction, King James I has been sold for £40,000 in memory of Dennis Herbert’s wife.

Every penny will be donated to Alzheimer’s Research.

Dennis was keen to make sure that the locomotive would raise a good sum of money for charity, but also wanted to know it was going to a new home where it would be used, rather than being ‘stuffed and mounted’.

The Elmdon Model Engineering Society has announced that the successful bidder, who wants to remain anonymous, is a member of the society, meaning that the locomotive will remain at the EMES miniature railway and will be in use.

‘We are delighted that the new owner is in our midst. The auction has raised a significant amount for Alzheimer’s Research, Dennis’s wish throughout the process, but the result means that we can all see and ride behind this majestic machine for years to come. Dennis has always been a huge influence on the railway, encouraging and mentoring our members, young and old, in the art of miniature engineering. His legacy will live on in both the locomotive and his unstinting contribution to the society’.

Reece Greenstreet, Chairman of EMES