"Austins No 1" was built by the Bristol firm, Peckett & Sons Ltd which was primarily known for building steam engines for use in industry. In the late 1950's, Peckett attempted to develop its business by entering the growing diesel market. Only five diesel locomotives were built of which "Austins No 1" is the only 0-4-0 survivor. An 0-6-0DM, which was works no. P5014 of 1959 is owned by National Power and preserved at Aberthaw Power Station in South Wales.

The locomotive was built in 1958 but did not find a buyer until 1961.  For the next 10 years it worked for the West Yorkshire steel stockholders, James Austin & Son (Dewsbury) Ltd - hence its name. In 1971 the locomotive was no longer required by the company and was moved to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway on permanent loan. It saw regular use there until the early 1990's when it was withdrawn from use.

Following discussions between the Middleton Railway, the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and the locomotive owners in 2001, "Austins No 1" was moved to the Middleton Railway where it underwent some modifications including the fitting of vacuum brake equipment to enable it to work passenger trains.

The locomotive's return to service at the Middleton Railway Gala in September 2001 was witnessed by a representative from Austin Truman and company (formerly known as James Austin & Son) which has kindly transferred the loan of the locomotive to the Middleton Railway.

Click here to find out when the locomotive is rostered for use