The compact and highly specialized GWR 6400 Class was designed by Charles Collett and introduced to service in 1932. Built entirely at Swindon Works across several batches until 1937, a small but efficient fleet of 40 of these nimble "pannier tanks" was produced. Featuring smaller driving wheels for rapid acceleration and equipped from birth with push-and-pull "auto-fitted" apparatus, they were custom-engineered to handle the challenging, stop-start demands of branch line and suburban passenger services. Following the widespread closure of these routes under British Railways, the class was withdrawn by the mid-1960s, though 3 fortunate survivors escaped the cutter's torch to enjoy long, active careers in preservation.
 

This gallery celebrates a distinctive branch line favourite, turning the spotlight on an iconic auto-train specialist that remains a joy to watch on the country's heritage lines.