The Battery was named Redrum in 2001 after her repaint into a red livery. Up until then she was just known as "the battery". This was
because she runs off two 12Volt Lorry 'semi traction' batterys. Redrum got her name from looking similar (if you squint a little) to the prototype
Deltic. With this in mind it was felt that a race horse name (like those fitted to the real Deltics) was needed, and it was also one of the nick names
to the junior member at the time who took a great deal of care of her. So the name Redrum was chosen in homage to the 23rd Deltic that never was!!!
Redrum was actually the SNBR's first engine and was purchased by the then owners (before the SNBR society took control) in a hurry to meets its obligation with the
Swanley Town council. Although she is of large size her power is actually quite small, being only able to handle a 3 or 4 coach train, and then only for 8 to 10 trips before running out of charge.
In the first year of running Redrum was "boosted" with power from a battery charger after every run, and was the only engine on site. Along with 3 toast rack style coaches. 2 of these coaches still
survice today and are undergoing some work making them "enclosed" coaches, for use on special occassions.
With the arrival of Tulyar in 1987 and the subsequent additions of Steptoe and Romulus. Redrum was removed from "active" passenger service and spent most of her life on the break down and rescue train. With the creation of the
lifting crane, even this work was removed from her. She then became pretty much un-used and un-loved until in the 90's some Junior members took an interest in her and rebuilt her electric controls, and once again she saw some use.
She later became even more useful being double headed with Romulus, which then allowed both engines to work a full set (although only for 10 trips). In 2003 she became known as the "chairmans mount". The then chairman would often take her
for a run with the freight train, before eventually her body gave out with fatigue and she was withdrawn from service. Redrum is believed to based on an East African style diesel engine, although her "nose" at the front does suggest a more American F7 heritage?
In 2005 the society purchased her from the local council who had retained ownership of her when the first company went bust. Although still a lot of work was needed her future was secured. In 2007 some work has
been undertaken in getting her body repaired and back to her formal glory, and with the soon to be finished Romulus she may again prove a useful engine. Her electrics are indeed in need of some "fettling" by the CME, but the signs are good
that this engine will once again be used.
