The fascinating and unique Cromford & High Peak Railway in Derbyshire was a remarkable survivor of some of the most ancient railway operating practices in Britain. A quite incredible and unlikely series of locomotives were drafted in to operate the system over the years. In this instance, it's ex-Midland Railway Deeley '0F' 0-4-0 Tank No. 41536 that is in the limelight seen in the sidings at the delightfully named Sheep Pasture in June 1955. It was built at Derby in July 1907 as MR No. 1536 and was withdrawn in March 1961.

Robin Whittle says "I think this photo is taken at Steeplehouse Goods rather than Sheep Pasture Top which was originally thought to be the location, as the track arrangement does not fit the latter. It fits for the small Steeplehouse Goods yard - on the right - with 41536 on the line from Sheep Pasture to Middleton Bottom and the wagons in the background on the line to Killers Quarry".

Geraint Hughes adds "This photograph is taken at the canal side at the foot of Sheep Pasture Incline, adjacent to the Cromford Works. The loco paid a short visit to the High Peak as a temporary replacement for Kitson tank 47000 after it was derailed at Steeplehouse in 1956. 41536 spent most of its time operating the section between the Sheep Pasture and Middleton Inclines, so this is indeed a rare photograph, probably taken just after its arrival from its usual home of Burton-on-Trent. "

© Ken Widd-SA Collection