When Basford Gasworks, Nottingham, opened in the 1840s, railway wagons were moved around by means of capstans and wagon turntables. However, during the 1890s the works was extended to meet to growing demand for gas. As a result, the works railway system was significantly altered and the need for a locomotive arose.
During 1895, Beyer Peacock, Gorton, supplied an inside cylinder 0-4-0 saddletank aptly named Victoria. Four years later she was joined by sister engine Irene.
Apart from a brief stint at Eastwood Gasworks, both engines spent their entire time at Basford.
This image, dated 19 February 1951, shows Victoria in steam for the last time as East Midlands Gas Board has taken delivery of a shiny new four-wheeled diesel-mechanical loco built by Ruston & Hornsby.
Victoria and Irene were cut up on site.
Clive is our Transport and Railway writer, with years of experience he is a fount of knowledge on all things transport nostalgia.
