The railways nationalisation act placed the British rail network under the control the British Railways Board on the 1st of January 1948. The board appointed Robert Riddles as its’ chief engineer, charging him with the design of standard locomotives, coaches and wagons, for use across the entire BR network. A design philosophy was evolved, combining standardisation of parts and fittings with accessibility and ease of maintenance.

999 BR Standard locomotives were built, from 1951, in 12 types, ranging from 2MT 2-6-0 and 2-6-2 tank classes for local use to the 9F heavy goods 2-10-0 and Britannia class express passenger 4-6-2. Initially region loyal enginemen disliked the standard types, however reliability and the comfort offered by enclosed cabs made many converts and standard locomotives served successfully on all regions until displaced by diesel power.

Remember! All orders over £40.00 Total are carriage paid to mainland UK addresses!