Southern Railway designed Bulleid 'Battle of Britain' class 4-6-2 No. 34071 '601 Squadron'. Built at Brighton in April 1948, rebuilt at Eastleigh in May 1960 and withdrawn in April 1967. Whatever the merits or demerits of the Bulleid Pacifics, in their original form they were of startlingly original appearance. The malachite green livery and 'sunshine' lettering brought a very welcome touch of colour to the post-war railway scene. With absolutely no restriction to any lineside photography, 34071 dashes towards Dover and away from Folkestone in July 1949 whilst working a Victoria - Dover Marine boat train via Maidstone East having just left Martello tunnel just east of Folkestone Junction station and reversing sidings.

© Les Hanson-David Hanson Archive