The Hunslet Diesels

The Hunslet Diesels were two narrow gauge diesel engines, formerly owned by the National Coal Board.

Biography
These diesel engines were designed and built by the Hunslet Engine Company. They worked for the National Coal Board on the Mainland. By the 1980s, the two diesels became worn-out, so the Skarloey Railway purchased them.

They were transferred to the Island of Sodor, and dismantled at Crovan's Gate Works. By using the best parts from both engines, Fred was constructed in 1989. He was put into service as a secondary diesel (to Rusty) and used exclusively for maintenance and engineering work.

Basis
These engines are based on narrow gauge diesels designed and built by the Hunslet Engine Company. Individual examples of some of these diesel types have been preserved on heritage railways throughout England, Scotland and Wales, such as the Dean Forest Railway.

Fred's basis, Alf, an engine who works on the Talyllyn Railway, was also rebuilt using parts from another Hunslet diesel engine after they arrived on the railway. The remains of the spare engine have since been stored at Brynglas level crossing/railway station.

Appearances
Railway Series=

Companion volumes

 * 2005 - Sodor: Reading Between the Lines