Author(s): Robin Jones

Special Orders

The name 'Great Western Railway' immediately conjures up images of Stars, Castles and Kings, the legendary express passenger locomotives that were the envy of the world in their day. However, the Swindon empire also produced extensive fleets of all-purpose tank engines - everyday reliable workhorses and unsung heroes - which were also standout classics in their own right. The most distinctive and immediately recognizable type in terms of shape, all but unique to the GWR, was the six-coupled pannier tank. Great Western Railway Pannier Tanks details the history and development of all the classes of pannier tanks, from the mid-Victorian age to the end of London Underground steam locomotives in 1971. It has a particular focus on the 5700 class, the second-biggest British steam locomotive class of all. GWR pannier tanks are still giving sterling service today, both on heritage railway and hauling specials on the main line - one has even pulled a Royal Train!