(23) Mike
Mike is an Ex-LNER P1 class 2-8-2 mikado, designed by Sir Nigel Gresley for heavy mineral traffic in the 20s. 2393 was built at Doncaster works in June 1925 and, rather than being put strait to work, he took part in the Stockton and Darlington Centenary celebrations, and he caused quite a stir due to his size. Later in November, 2393 would be joined by sister locomotive 2394, and would be sent to work hauling heavy coal trains for the LNER, prior to purchase by the NWR in a deal for 2 mineral engines. For the years between 1929 and 1945 Mike, (The name he gained due to his wheel arrangement), would be the premier freight engine of the Northwestern, being similar in stature to the late number 4, but during a trip up to Doncaster Mike would learn about the fate of his only other sibling, developing a hatred for newer freight locomotive out of concern for his own fate. Throughout his time on the NWR, Mike would always be allocated to Arlesburgh MPD, as the lines mineral traffic was frequently heavy, and he would always become known for his red livery and golden number 23 painted on his tender.
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North Western Profiles
Historical FictionThis will primarily be a way to help those of you reading NNWRS get a better idea of some of the characters to appear in the series soon, namely discussing their shed allocations, their personallity, livery, locomotive classes, and their backstories.