The Locomotives of Robert Riddles

The Locomotives of Robert Riddles is a book that explores Robert Riddles's career on the LMS and in war service, and how it shaped his knowledge and character. It outlines the impact he had on the design and supply of locomotives for the Allied military campaigns in the second world war, and the decision-making processes that led to the twelve designs of standard steam locomotives. The book is comprehensively illustrated with unpublished pictures that cover a wide range of locations and locomotive duties.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Locomotives of Robert Riddles delves into the captivating journey of Robert Riddles, exploring the profound impact his career on the LMS and in war service had on his knowledge and character, ultimately making him the ideal candidate to lead the locomotive engineering function within the newly established Railway Executive. This comprehensive book meticulously outlines Riddles' substantial contributions to the design and supply of locomotives that played a crucial role in supporting the Allied military campaigns during World War II. It provides valuable insights into the specific types of locomotives engineered for this purpose, offering insightful analysis.

The core of the book revolves around the decision-making processes that resulted in the creation of twelve standard steam locomotives, intended to serve as a temporary solution before electrification. It sheds light on the political and practical factors that led to these designs' unexpectedly short lives, including the 1955 Modernisation Plan and subsequent railway rationalisations that reduced the demand for new steam locomotives and rendered relatively new diesel locomotives obsolete. Each BR standard locomotive type is presented in its dedicated chapter, with a focus on highlighting the unique characteristics and performance of each class. Numerous unpublished pictures, spanning a wide range of locations and locomotive duties, complement the text, enhancing the reader's visual experience.

In conclusion, The Locomotives of Robert Riddles is a meticulously researched and captivating work that delves into the life and career of Robert Riddles. It provides a detailed account of his contributions to locomotive engineering and the broader context of railway development during World War II. Through its comprehensive illustrations and insightful analysis, the book offers a valuable perspective on the evolution of locomotive technology and its impact on the railways. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, history buff, or simply interested in the engineering world, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the remarkable journey of Robert Riddles and his profound influence on the industry.

Weight: 1118g
Dimension: 289 x 225 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399099967