LBSCR A1x class 0-6-0T

LBSCR A1 / A1x class 0-6-0T

In total 50 were built, but by the end of the nineteenth century the need for so many had been reduced. Not only that, but after 30 years of intensive working, many of these small engines were literally worn out, and a proportion were scrapped in the first few years of the 20th century and several sold off. It was proposed to scrap the rest, but with the introduction of 'motor-trains' (push-pull) the 'Terriers' were found to be useful. For this use, new boilers were fitted, and other modifications carried out, and so the 'Terrier' became the A1X. Others had been sold to private industrial users and other railways over the previous 10 years or so. This included 2 to the LSWR for use on the Lyme Regis branch, to the SECR and to lesser lines.

On 6th August 1956, the Brighton Works shunter (DS377) made its way as a light engine working from Brighton to Purley at which point it was attached to a 3 coach "birdcage" set and adorned with a somewhat defacing headboard all of which heralded the short existence of the train run to mark the centenary of The Caterham Railway Company.

What would today's "Nanny State" make of this?

photograph by Mike Morant

A further view, in colour this time, of DS377 with the Caterham Centenary train.

photograph: David Cobbe/Mike Morant collection

And here she is again, outside Brighton Works. Originally LBSCR Nº35 Morden she was renumbered 377S in 1946 and repainted in Stroudley livery during 1947. BR(S) continued the Stroudley livery and added the words "Brighton Works". Subsequently returned to capital stock and renumbered as 32635 in 1959, she still carried the Stroudley livery.

photograph: Mike Morant collection

Another view of 377S, the Brighton Works Shunter, seen here running round her stock at Kemp Town on 23rd June 1956.

photograph by Mike Morant

Nº32636 together with Nº32650 at Havant on 24th February 1957 with the LCGB "Southern Counties Limited".

photograph: Mike Morant collection

Nº32662 at Tenterden on 11th June 1961 with the LCGB "The South Eastern Limited".

photograph: Mike Morant collection

Nº32650 photographed whilst at Eastleigh.

photograph: Mike Morant collection

Nº32650 photographed at Havant on 19th August 1962.

photograph by Mike Morant

Nº32636 with E6 class Nº32418 and the RCTS (Sussex & Kent Branch) The Sussex Special Rail Tour of 7th October 1962 near London Road, Brighton whilst on route to Seaford.

photograph by Mike Morant

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This page was last updated 13 August 2011