Hollycombe Steam has received upgrade and maintenance works from the Octavius Rail Electrification and Plant team. Octavius carried out the work as part of its commitment to community projects.

An Octavius spokesperson said: “A site as large and as popular as Hollycombe requires constant maintenance to ensure the unique collection of working steam can remain running for the community.

“With our supply chain partners, the team removed vegetation and upgraded the narrow-gauge steam quarry railway which runs for 1 ¼ miles through woodland and fields.”

“More than 30 metres of track have been renewed including the replacement of 40 sleepers. An adjustment of the bend in the track and a realignment to allow smoother journeys; and the installation of a ballast to stabilise the area.”

A new training room was also constructed, including a test track to support training for future railway workers, a children’s play area and painting works to restore an old Liphook signal box. Believed to be more than 100 years old, the box will be submitted for a heritage award once restored.

The team also added bird boxes and bee hotels to the newly planted wildflower and bluebell meadows to attract wildlife and insects.

Senior project manager and lead for Octavius Paul Medcraft added: “We've not only supported the vital preservation of these historic steam engines but also ignited a spark of joy in the volunteers and fostered a positive energy through our giving back.”

To celebrate completion, Octavius organised a family fun day on Sunday, June 2.