3 1/4 inch gauge Midland Railway 4-4-0 No.863

A 3 1/4 inch gauge Midland Class 3 4-4-0, we believe commercially made although carrying no maker's plate. Possibly built by or for Bassett-Lowke - who had produced a Midland 4-4-0 as far back as 1904 - the gauge and method of construction would indicate early twentieth century, we'd hazard a guess at around 1910.

Designed by Johnson who had been chief mechanical engineer of the Midland Railway since 1873, the Class 3 4-4-0s comprised a total of 80 locomotives, built between 1900 and 1905. They proved successful on express services, in part due to an all new boiler design, its Belpaire firebox a first for a Midland Railway locomotive.

The model is in remarkable condition for its age, apparently retaining its original paintwork and lining. The motionwork and valve gear is very finely made and fitted - silky smooth to turn over, it runs absolutely beautifully on air. There is some wear - most noticeably in the coupling rod bushes - which is unsurprising given its age.

At some stage a "Metropolitan" whistle by J.Hudson of Birmingham has been neatly fitted beneath the drag beam.

Out of respect for its age and archaic method of construction, no attempt has been made to strip and test the boiler, which is fitted with a vintage Schäffer & Budenberg pressure gauge. An ashpan is fitted, which in the past has been connected to damper controls on the footplate - the grate is missing.

A handsome, beautifully made model - it needs conservation not restoration, with the lightest of cleaning and oiling to preserve it for another hundred years.

We would be pleased to hear from anybody who has further information on the maker or history of this engine.