Battle of Britain Class Locomotive Plate, Fighter Command

This locomotive was formally named at Waterloo Station by Sir James Robb on 11 September 1947, along with the locomotives Winston Churchill and Lord Dowding. It was the standby engine for Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral train in January 1965 with it being held in steam at Staines in the event it was required.

The 1000th locomotive built at Brighton locomotive works since 1852, new to traffic 14 July 1947. After trials, fitted with first of the modified ‘V’ wedge shaped cabs, with two side windows (three became standard later). New to Ramsgate shed. Renumbered 34064 3 June 1948. Unrebuilt; fitted with Giesl oblong Ejector and chimney April 1962, but this had no particular effect on already excellent steaming abilities. Withdrawn from Salisbury shed 22nd May 1966, stored in Basingstoke yard September 1966 and scrapped by Birds at Bridgend November 1966. Final mileage 759,666.