The 8E Association was formed by a group of local railway enthusiasts who had become involved in servicing the steam locomotives stabled at Northwich prior to the 1980 ‘Rocket 150’ celebrations at Rainhill. The same group continued to service the visiting locos at Northwich MPD and decided in 1981 to form the association, taking its name from the shedcode (8E) of the former Northwich steam depot.

Over the years many locos were ‘8E serviced’ including Lord Nelson, Duchess of Hamilton, Leander, Evening Star, Clan Line, Princess Elizabeth, King George V and Flying Scotsman.

Following the closure of Northwich MPD (Nov 1984) servicing activities continued at Chester, followed by Crewe Heritage Centre from 1987. Although no longer servicing main line steam locos as a group. the 8E remains closely linked to Crewe Heritage Centre and has recently been asked by them to undertake the restoration of an ex-NCB ‘Austerity’ tank engine - Robert. This is likely to take several years and will remain an 8E project.

Our membership takes a wide ranging interest in railways past & present - which is reflected in other aspects of our activities. A lively programme of regular evening fixtures is promoted at two venues when guest speakers from B.R. and the preservation movement address the group, often with slides and films of both current and archive material.

Our membership includes both enthusiasts and railwaymen - some of whom are involved in the preservation scene at Llangollen (see photos above & left showing Flying Scotsman at Llangollen with 8E member Tom Walton), East Lancs, Butterley, Severn Valley etc. Members receive a magazine twice a year and members’ notes every two months. Some wish to become involved with our projects, others merely wish to spend a pleasant evening in convivial company at our monthly meetings.

Meetings are held at Northwich (The Gladstone Club)at 7:30pm on the 2nd Tuesday of each month - excluding July & Aug. Warrington (St.Hilda’s Clubroom, Slater St., Latchford) - occasional fixtures - see meetings page for details.
If you live locally why not come along and see what we are all about? Distant members are very welcome too!