The Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Class 21 was a class of 57 very small 0-4-0ST steam locomotives built between 1891 and 1910 for shunting duties. Known as "Pugs", they weighed in at just over 21 tons and had a short wheelbase. They were ideal for shunting duties on docksides and yards where they could easily negotiate tight radius curved track. This example, no.19, later became LMS no. 11243 and was sold in 1931 for use on a major contract at Southampton Docks. Four years later the locomotive was moved to London and operated at the Charlton works of United Glass Bottle Manufacturers Ltd. It was acquired for preservation in 1969 after 38 years of industrial service after its sale by the LMS. It has not yet run in preservation, extensive work being required, so it has been a static exhibit for 45 years. The owners are seeking sponsorship to restore this lovely little engine to running order. This ultra-wide shot shows it on display at the Ribble Steam Railway, Preston, among other non-runners in a warm dry environment. They all wait for the day the money arrives and restoration work can start.
