A COMPANY specialising in maintaining vintage rail and road locomotives has reluctantly announced it will be closing its doors.

Heritage Painting in Darwen has delivered quality paintwork to much-loved vintage locomotives including repainting iconic engines like the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard as well as preserving those held by the National Railway Museum, North Norfolk Railway, and many others over the past 10 years.

Sadly for rail enthusiasts, the business intends to wind down over the next month, with owner Ian Hewitt making the decision due to health reasons.

He said: “It’s no secret that I’ve struggled with health issues throughout the entire time of Heritage Painting but, these last four years have been the hardest as my condition deteriorated. 

“It’s become more of a burden to manage all the various aspects of the business, whilst also relying on Mike and the rest of the team more and more. 

“Therefore, with a heavy heart, I had to make the decision to close the business from the end of the month.” 

Mr Hewitt thanked his entire team for their support and said there was a chance that Heritage Painting could continue in some capacity but that he was not sure what form this would take.
For the past decade, Heritage Painting’s services have included all areas from initial preparation through to lining and varnishing.

The firm was founded by former RAF pilot Ian Hewitt after he taught himself to paint and started volunteering with the East Lancashire railway.

He has also occasionally given talks to travellers on the historic railway.

Mr Hewitt added: “I’d like to thank all of our clients, family and friends for all their support over these 10 years. 

“It has genuinely been a wonderful experience and it’s been a huge honour to apply our handiwork to many of the nation’s treasures.”