Published by The History Press in Cheltenham, this latest book in a series by Brian Dickson will be of interest to any railway enthusiasts.
The 12 British Railway Standard Locomotive Classes were all constructed incorporating Belpaire fireboxes, rocking grates, self-emptying ash pans and self-cleaning smoke boxes to allow easy access for both daily maintenance and running needs. The first to enter service during January 1951 from Crewe Works was a Class 7 4-6-2 No. 70000 named Britannia, with the last coming out of Swindon Works in March 1960, a Class 9 2-10-0 No. 92220 suitably named Evening Star.
Working for British Railways in Derby, Ron Buckley was fortunate to be able to witness and photograph the many Standard locomotives that were constructed in or passed through Derby Works for repair and maintenance. The book is a compilation of some of the best images from this time, as well as from his many travels with enthusiast groups throughout the country.
Ron was born in 1917 and joined the LM&SR in 1934. After war service with the Royal Engineers, he would work in the Divisional Managers’ Office at Derby until retiring in 1977 after 42 years of service. He died in 2018.
Brian Dickson worked in the printing and publishing industries in both Edinburgh and London for 35 years, retiring in 2000. He works as a volunteer driver and fireman at a local heritage railway. He has written a number of railway books which are available at .