Ex-London & North Western Railway Whale 'Precursor' class 4-4-0 No. 25298 'Dragon'. Built at Crewe in Oct. 1904 as L&NWR No. 60 and withdrawn in Nov. 1938. One of the photographer's favourite locations was here at the south end of Northampton Castle Station. On this occasion we find 'Dragon' breathing not fire but smoke as she (he?) departs. An appropriate backdrop is provided by the large water tank and linesman's bothy where a bit of horticulture is seemingly taking place. Nice rhubarb!

© Les Hanson-David Hanson Archive