Ex-Southern Railway Bulleid 'Battle of Britain' class 4-6-2 No. 34083. Built at Brighton in October 1948 and withdrawn in June 1964.

It cannot be argued (I think!) that Oliver Bulleid's 'WC' and 'BoB' light 'Pacifics' were striking in both appearance and livery. By livery I refer to the use of malachite green with yellow lining. The addition of the full 'British Railways' in the SR's 'sunshine' typeface, was a lovely finishing touch to the loco. Add the headboard and flags, the Golden Arrow adorning the boiler's sidesheets and Pullman stock... 'nuff said. Later named '605 Squadron' 34083 emerges majestically from Martello Tunnel in July 1949.

© Les Hanson-David Hanson Archive