GWR Route: Alcester to Hatton Junction

GWR Route: North Warwickshire Line

Bearley Junction: gwrbj789

GWR 0-4-2T No 1425 is seen at the rear of the Alcester bound auto train as enters the Alcester Branch line on 30 May 1934. This 517 Class locomotive was withdrawn later that year to be replaced by the new 48xx class 0-4-2T tank engines. Auto trains had a mechanical arrangement, which allowed the driver to control the regulator and vacuum brake from the front of the auto trailer while leaving the fireman alone on the locomotive to tend the fire and maintain stream pressure. An electric bell allowed communication between the driver and fireman. The auto trailer also had large warning gong on the front to replace the whistle.

Robert Ferris

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