We are pleased to be able to reproduce some photographs taken at Worcester in the 1960s from the photograph collection of fireman Brian Parsons. Please respect his copyright in these photographs.
Brian states that he was on his own on the footplate when he took this photograph at Wyldes Lane. Having dropped off the van in the loop, the locomotive was returning across the main line to Midland Yard. No.4664 was one of the ubiquitous "5700" class of 0-6-0 Pannier Tank. It spent its entire working life in the area being withdrawn in July 1965.
These two photos of ex-GWR "5700" class 0-6-0 Pannier Tank No.4680 were taken on 16th September 1965. Brian's diary entry for that day shows that he booked on duty at 05.25 and also notes that he spent three hours driving. Although, obviously, strictly against the rules it was common practice, when on these shunting duties, for some drivers (a very small minority) to leave their fireman to carry on alone whilst they spent time elsewhere. He was only seventeen and really keen, so that arrangement suited me fine, but when I look back it seems remarkable. No.4680 was one of the last steam locomotives used at Worcester and was not withdrawn until the end of December 1965.
This fine photograph shows ex-LNER 'A1' 4-6-2 on Worcester shed on 29th June 1964 whilst awaiting repair following a shunting incident at Worcester. Note that one of the connecting rods has been removed. There are many other photos of No.60114 at Worcester - see the locomotive index.