Worcester Locomotive Shed
- Engines & Train Workings
IT CONTINUES to amaze me that although it is around 60 years since main line steam vanished from the former Great Western Railway so many new books continue to be published on the subject of GWR steam. Finding new angles and material is obviously challenging, but author Steve Bartlett has done a phenomenal job with this superb book which, as the title explains, focuses on the former loco shed at Worcester. It is the third in a series of in-depth studies of Western Region motive power depots and Worcester has long been a vital and very busy part of the rail network. During the period in question freight movements were far more numerous than they are today and the number and variety were huge, as were the various main line, regional and local passenger services. In turn, these required a varied range of motive power, ranging from 0-6-0 pannier tanks through to main line Castles.
The GWR established a major locomotive depot at Worcester, which eventually had a passenger shed, goods shed and also a loco works. All are covered in superb detail using a variety of sources, including stories from former footplate and shed staff, which has ensured that local custom and practice is well recorded. Everything from the shed allocation, loco classes and duties, the works, and staff through to the main line Castles, GWR railcars, sub sheds, such as Evesham, Honeybourne, Kingham and Ledbury, and other routes served are all dealt with in immense detail. It is worth pointing out that Worcester was the final shed of the GWR railcars when they were retired in 1962.
Topping all this off are the absolutely first-class photographs used throughout the book. One only has to look at the cover to see that, and inside there are literally dozens of equally amazing gems to drool over. Anyone who is into the GWR, steam or Britain’s railway history should have this on their bookshelves. (MN)