Antics Limited Edition

A detailed model of a 7-plank open wagon operated by Osman Trevor Powell a coal factor and merchant based in Gloucester. Naturally he obtained his wagons on lease from the nearby Gloucester RC&W Co. The Dapol model includes a removable coal load and metal wheels for smooth running.

Listed as a coal factor in a trade directory of 1876, Trevor Powell's main business address was in Commercial Road, Gloucester, from where he also operated a coal merchants business. He also had offices in Lydney, most likely where coal was purchased and transport arranged. The Gloucester RC&W Co. recorded 28 10-ton wagons hired to Trevor Powell in October 1875, the minute suggesting that this is a renewal of hire on these wagons. Despite several orders in the Gloucester company's books only one official photograph is known, quite unusual as the company normally routinely recorded it's work and products on film.

Coal factors were wholesalers of coal, purchasing large quantities (hundreds of tons) from collieries, often when demand (and therefore the price) was low, and selling the coal on in smaller quantities (eg. 10-ton wagonloads). Coal factors would also purchase coal from several sources, allowing coal merchants to obtain different types and grades of coal ecconomically without having to contract with several collieries. Many factors also supplied industrial consumers who did not wish to own railway wagons.