In the mid-1920s, with train load sizes increasing to and from the South West, the Great Western Railway were faced with the need for even more powerful locomotives, something that could haul the heavy expresses at an average speed of 60 mph. The problem, however, was that the main routes were limited to a 20 ton axle weight and to counter this, a number of the Great Western’s routes were upgraded to take an increase in axle weight, including the strengthening of some bridges.
Based on this the Great Western’s General Manager, Sir Felix Pole, gave his Chief Mechanical Engineer, Charles Collett, permission to proceed with the design and construction of a “Super-Castle”, the result being the King class 4-6-0 design which emerged from Swindon works in June 1927.
Locomotive 6006, King George I, was built at Swindon Works in February 1928, being allocated to Plymouth Laira shed. Post-war, King George I was allocated to Wolverhampton Stafford Road (84A) and was fitted with the double chimney in June 1956. Withdrawn from service in February 1962, the locomotive was cut up at Swindon Works in March 1962.
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