Fowler No.3900002

Built by John Fowler & Co in 1945, 3900002 was supplied new to Halifax Gas Works. It was initially named ‘Alderman J. H. Waddington J.P.’ but was later renamed ‘Alderman W. Regan J.P.’. 

In September 1961 it was moved to Keighley Gas Works where it would remain until rail traffic ceased in September 1966. It was then sold to scrap traders W. H. Arnott Young & Co Ltd. Shortly after, it was sold to George Cohen, Sons and Co Ltd and moved to their yard in Stanningley. 

With a clear need for another diesel locomotive to act as a standby for ‘John Alcock’, Middleton purchased 3900002 as it was found to be in reasonable condition. Following the purchase, it arrived at the railway in December 1967.

Although delivered in green, it was quickly repainted into dark blue and later yellow. It saw regular use during the early years of preservation but with only 40HP it wasn’t powerful enough for the passenger trains that begun to operate. This combined with the requirement for an overhaul, largely due to frost damage, meant it was put aside non-operational.

With the Engine House providing a museum space for undercover loco storage, the decision was made to cosmetically restore it for display. It was painted back in its ornate ‘as built’ livery of lined green. It can now be found on display, generally with the bonnet covers off to show visitors how a typical diesel shunter is put together.