Despite their many innovative features and reputations for fast running and superb steaming capacity, Bulleid's West Country and Battle of Britain light pacifics (4-6-2s) had a number of weaknesses which led British Railways to decide on a rebuilding programme in the 1950s. Although key features such as the boiler and firebox and distinctive wheels were retained, their appearance was completely transformed with the removal of the air-smoothed casing which had led to their being nick-named 'spamcans' by some. The new design was somewhat reminiscent of the Standard Britannia pacifics and betrayed the work of Riddles and Jarvis superimposed on Bulleid's genius.
REMINDER :-) Images with an ARCHIVE suffix may need further cleaning and restoration which will be carried out before orders are completed.
