IT is no exaggeration to say that David Elliott was a pioneer of new-build steam.
Since he began volunteering in 1991, David made possibly the greatest contribution to the objectives of The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust of any one individual, and in so doing has paved the way for new-build projects in the UK and overseas.
We were not surprised to hear of David's passing in December as, in his characteristic pragmatic style, he had informed those working within the trust and its supporters of his prognosis after being diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago. Nonetheless, we are deeply saddened to lose a dear friend and quite brilliant colleague.
David took an early interest in railways, influenced by his grandfathers: one worked for the Railway Clearing House and the other was a signalman at Velvet Hall on the Berwick to Coldstream line and later at Belford on the East Coast Main Line.
