GWR 6100 Class

The GWR 6100 Class is a class of 2-6-2 side tank steam locomotives designed by Charles Collett and introduced in 1931. It was a straightforward development of the earlier 5101 Class with a higher boiler pressure of 225 psi and so greater tractive effort. Seventy were built in two batches, in 1931 to 1933 and in 1935, specifically for commuter services around London, where they replaced the ageing 2221 Class on routes from Paddington to Aylesbury, Oxford, Windsor, Reading and Basingstoke. Trainspotters called them the Tanner One-ers after their 61xx numbers. They were mostly based at Old Oak Common, Southall, Slough, Reading and Aylesbury and lasted until the end of steam on the Western Region in 1965. Number 6106 is preserved at Didcot Railway Centre.