One of the first steam engines to become part of the world’s largest collection of such machines has returned to its home. 

Victory, a showman’s engine, is back at the Thursford Collection after a nine-month restoration.

Victory was the first of its kind to be designed and built by Burrells of Thetford. It was bought by George Cushing in 1947 for £28 - one of three which started his collection.

Fakenham & Wells Times: The Victory steam engine at ThursfordThe Victory steam engine at Thursford (Image: Thursford)

John Cushing, chief executive of Thursford and George Cushing’s youngest son, said: “Finally, we welcome Victory back home, fully restored after a big restoration project lead by our trustees. 

“It’s amazing to see this original Burrells of Thetford showman engine back in steam after so long. 

Fakenham & Wells Times: George Cushing, founder of the Thursford Collection - he died in 2003, aged 98George Cushing, founder of the Thursford Collection - he died in 2003, aged 98 (Image: Supplied)

“We hope the work carried out will keep her running for many years to come and welcome new and old faces to the museum. 

“We can’t wait for the big reveal at this year’s Royal Norfolk Show and then officially at our gala day on July 2. 

“Thank you to Craftmaster Restorations and our trustees.”