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Sheffield & Rotherham area locomotive scrapyards


Peter Hall

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Those with long memories may recall the https://www.sheffieldhistory.co.uk/forums/topic/9499-white-lion/ where the mystery surrounding the demise of experimental diesel locomotive 'Lion' was revealed.  This being one of a large number of steam and diesel locomotives that was scrapped in Sheffield and the surrounding area in the 1960's and 1970's after seeing British Railways service.

Over the years various publications and listings have appeared detailing the scrapping of these locomotives at the local yards of T. W. Ward, C. F. Booth, Arnott Young, Slag Reduction Company and G. Cohen to name just a few.  However, much is not known about which locomotives were scrapped where and when. Also, unfortunately a number of errors have crept into the published listings, some accidental, some malicious.

Around ten years ago the 'What Really Happened to Steam' project https://www.whatreallyhappenedtosteam.co.uk/  was launched and has made good progress in establishing what was the true disposal of many of the locomotives but many mysteries remain to be resolved.

Whilst many local railway enthusiasts have been in contact with the project and provided observations and photographs which have proved invaluable the project is conscious that those with a more broader and general interest in local history may also be able to help.  Perhaps they worked at one of the yards or had relatives or friends that did and have anecdotes they can recall from the era. They may also have noted the locomotives or taken the odd photograph or perhaps have on the mantel piece a plate off one of the locomotives as a family heirloom without realising it is a vital clue in establishing what became of the locomotive it was once affixed too.   

I have started this topic in the hope that members of the forum who may have not been aware of the project and might recall something that might seem insignificant but might be of great interest to the project can post.  At the same time giving an insight into this aspect of local history little known about outside railway enthusiast circles. 

 

     

 

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