The Power of the B-1's (Power series) Book

The B1 class 4-6-0 mixed traffic locomotives were the LNER's equivalent of the LMS's "Black Fives", and in all probability were quite as successful, seeing service throughout the company's system, and beyond. Designed by Edward Thompson, Sir Nigel Gresley's successor, the first B1 appeared during World War II in December 1942, and construction continued through to British Railways' days, a total of 410 being completed. The early members of the class were named after breeds of antelope, the sixth being Bongo - which almost inevitably became used as a nickname for the type in general. The class survived almost to the end of steam on BR, the last working example being withdrawn in September 1967. Fortunately, two have been saved in preservation - No. 1306 "Mayflower" having been a popular locomotive with enthusiasts for many years, whilst the other nears completion in a major restoration programme from near-derelict condition.Read More