The steam locomotive was a British invention and even today, the world speed record for steam remains with a British locomotive, Mallard.

Steam's first significant contribution to British industry was through powering pumping engines for mines. When steam was applied to the railways, the `railway age' began. The steam locomotive went through several distinct phases during its long life, which came to an end on regular service in the late 1960s.

The early phase was followed by the trend for large single driving wheels, then compound locomotives with connected driving wheels once steel became strong enough for the connecting rods. Further developments included tank engines that could run equally well forwards and backwards; the 4-6-0 and 4-6-2 expresses; the passion for speed records and streamlining; and the standardisation years of British Railways.

This insightful, fully illustrated story book follows the history of the steam locomotive and will delight all those interested in the steam age.