ly-pug
The L&YR Class 21 'Pug' was a series of 23 diminutive 0-4-0 saddle-tank shunting locomotives built by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway between 1891 and 1910 for dock and works shunting duties where the compact wheelbase was essential for the tightest industrial curves. John Aspinall designed the Pug as the L&YR's standard small shunter, suitable for the confined dock areas of Liverpool, Fleetwood, Goole, and the various industrial sidings along the L&YR's busy network across Lancashire and Yorkshire.
The Pug nickname described both the dogs (compact, tenacious) and the locomotives aptly: small, sturdy, and capable of working in the most confined locations where a larger locomotive could not go. The L&YR's ports and docks generated substantial freight traffic — Liverpool Docks in particular was one of the busiest port complexes in the world — and the Pug tanks that shunted the dock roads and quayside sidings were an essential and unglamorous part of that industrial machinery. One example, No. 19, is preserved.
Design and development
John Aspinall designed the Class 21 Pug in 1890–91 for L&YR dock and works shunting. 23 built at Horwich Works 1891–1910. The compact 0-4-0ST wheel arrangement gave manoeuvrability in dock approach roads and tight industrial sidings. No. 19 preserved.
Service and withdrawals
Pugs worked L&YR dock shunting from 1891, including Liverpool and Fleetwood docks. Survived into BR service; last withdrawn 1964. No. 19 preserved.
Identification features
Compact 0-4-0 saddle tank with 3 ft coupled wheels — very short wheelbase.
Notable locomotives
- 51237 / L&Y 11243 (1897, K&WV Railway)
