VA22 18DC_NikonDf_AF-SNikkor28-300G@35mm
This photograph shows what all the fuss is about concerning this locomotive. It is actually 45699 GALATEA; one of the later built class members that were fitted from new with high superheat domed boilers with a larger fire grate, increase fire box volume and with a sloping throat plate. For unknown reasons, but sentiment probably played a significant part, the locomotive ran from late 2018 carrying the name, ALBERTA, number, 45562, and shed code,55A, to represent the final survivor in BR service of a class of 191 locomotives. In the Spring of 2021 it was observed to be carrying the number 45627 on the smokebox and SIERRA LEONE nameplates but the cabsides were still showing 45562 and the shedcode was 55A. Surely this was only temporary; but it remains unchanged almost a year later. For the record 45627 was never allocated to Leeds Holbeck, 55A.