A SCHOOLBOY from Radstock has won a competition among local primary schools to name a new electric locomotive at nearby Whatley quarry.

Five-year-old Cillian Gallagher from Bishop Henderson Primary School visited the quarry to see his winning entry Battery Bill unveiled in a naming ceremony.

The name was chosen by Heidelberg Materials’ for their newly commissioned Class 08e electric shunting locomotive.

The Class 08e is the first of its kind to be used at any UK quarry and was converted by Positive Traction from a diesel-powered shunter into a fully electric locomotive.

Winner Cillian Gallagher holding the name he chose for the new electric loco with his family and MP Anna Sabine.
Winner Cillian Gallagher holding the name he chose for the new electric loco with his family and MP Anna Sabine. (Neil Phillips Photo and Film Ltd)

Its electric engine is emission-free and also noticeably quieter, reducing associated noise for neighbours.

Frome and East Somerset MP Anna Sabine who was in attendance to learn more about the battery-powered loco said: “I was delighted to attend the unveiling of Battery Bill at Whatley quarry, brilliantly named by five-year-old Radstock resident, Cillian.

“The electric locomotive is a fantastic example of innovation happening in the industry, helping move away from diesel towards cleaner, more environmentally friendly ways of working, with the added benefit of reducing noise pollution for local communities.”

The investment in a zero-emission shunting locomotive is part of the company’s efforts to reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability, while continuing to supply high-quality construction materials used to build and maintain roads, schools and other essential infrastructure.

Schoolboy Cillian Gallagher unveiling the name of Battery Bill he chose for the new locomotive at Whatley Quarry.
Schoolboy Cillian Gallagher unveiling the name of Battery Bill he chose for the new locomotive at Whatley Quarry. (Neil Phillips Photo and Film Ltd)

“As a long-standing part of the local area, we’re committed to being a responsible operator and minimising impact on our near neighbours,” said Daniel Welch, rail logistics manager at Heidelberg Materials UK.

“Commissioning the first electric shunter to operate at a UK quarry is a significant milestone and reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainable operations,” he added.

Whatley Quarry, near Frome, has been operating since the 1930s and supplies limestone aggregate to local markets, as well as to depots in London and South East England via rail link.