Steam engine runs out of puff

Stranded steam roller in Station Road, Hemel Hempstead. Photo: Mick Whelan

A steam engine got into a a spot of bother when it tried to navigate a hill in Hemel Hempstead last week.

The traction engine was attempting to pull a trailer up Station Road and over the canal bridge, but its driver soon realised it was not going to make it.

Reader Mick Whelan, who sent in the photos, said: “The steam engine dumped its trailer, did a U-turn and parked on the bridge over the River Bulbourne.

“It took in much needed water, leaving the traffic at a standstill, before returning and hooking up again.

“This time it made the hill!”

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