GWR Route: Hatton to Bearley and Alcester Branch Junction

Aston Cantlow: gwrac794

GWR Collett class 48xx 0-4-2T engine No 4801 with an auto trailer approaches Aston Cantlow Halt in the mid 1930s. No 4801 was built at Swindon in August 1932 and was initially allocated to Cheltenham. This engine was allocated to the Alcester Branch between July 1936 and January 1938. It was renumbered 1401 in 1946 and was withdrawn in November 1958 from Horton Rd. Gloucester and scrapped in November 1959. The 48xx class engines were considered to be good steamers with plenty of power and good acceleration, which made them ideal for branch line service. They were however particularly prone to priming when the boiler was dirty and the small firebox required firing with care to avoid ‘blacking out’ when the engine was running light or choking when a large fire was required. Despite these problems and the cramped cab, the 48xx class were regarded as reliable good riders and were popular with both the engine crew and the travelling public.

Robert Ferris

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