Yes, this certificate confirms that M. Turner, Esq. made a £50 donation to purchase one "Donation Share" in the North Staffordshire Railway Diesel Group back in 1993.
However, unlike the Northern Ireland Electricity shares we discussed previously, this is a heritage railway preservation certificate rather than a commercial stock exchange share. [1]
What Is This Document?
The certificate represents a funding contribution made in 1993 to help a group of volunteer rail enthusiasts purchase and restore a vintage British diesel locomotive. [2]
- The Locomotive: The group successfully used these donation funds to bid for and buy BR Class 33 Diesel Locomotive No. 33102 (named "Sophie") in 1993. [2]
- The Location: The group and the locomotive were based at the Churnet Valley Railway in Staffordshire. [2, 3]
- The "Shares": In the context of UK railway preservation, "Donation Shares" are structured as non-profit contributions. They give the holder satisfaction and supporting rights within the volunteer club rather than cash dividends or equity ownership that can be cashed out on the stock market. [1]
Does It Have Cash Value?
- No Financial Market Value: It cannot be sold on a stock exchange or redeemed for cash, as the group was a preservation society. [1]
- Corporate Ownership Shift: Over the years, ownership of the locomotive ("Sophie") was legally transferred into the main supporting charity, the North Staffordshire Railway Co. (1978) Ltd. [2]
- Collector/Sentimental Value: Because it is beautifully framed and represents a piece of preserved British transport history, it holds great sentimental and historical value—especially considering the address listed is right here in Norwich (Grove Walk).
If you are interested in tracking the legacy of your donation, No. 33102 "Sophie" was fully overhauled and remains an active, operational part of the heritage fleet at the Churnet Valley Railway today! [2, 3]
Would you like to find out more about the locomotive you helped save, or do you have any other old certificates you want to look into?
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