Great Western Horse Power

Writers of railway history have until now, largely overlooked the major part the working horse has played in the development of the railways of Britain. The Great Western Railway in particular relied upon horses to a very great degree throughout its existence, right from the initial construction of the railway, and owned and cared for many thousands of them. This is the story of GWR's involvement with the horse which was used for collecting and delivering merchandise, shunting wagons, where a steam locomotive could not be justified or was inconvenient, as well as the hauling of company omnibuses, fire engines and refuse carts. The use and care of horses, their vehicles and equipment are fully described and illustrated with a selection of period photographs and line drawings.