Railcar GWR Gloucester Profile and Models

A similar GWR Railcar stands at Oxford in May 1956. ©Dr Neil Clifton

The Great Western Railway produced a variety of railcars between 1934 and 1942, which survived in regular use until the 1960s. Earlier examples were nicknamed "Flying Bananas" due to their eye-pleasing streamlined bodywork, whilst later examples had a more angular appearance - which proved to be more practical. The class were a great success for the GWR and provided services on a number of lesser used branch lines. One example was built as a parcels car and was not used for the transport of passengers. Replaced by first generation multiple units by the end of 1962, three examples with the later angular bodywork have been preserved. (Information provided via Wikipedia)
Type of Unit	Single Diesel Railcar
Builder	Gloucester RCW
Build Dates	1935 to 1937
Total Built	14
Power Output	260 hp (2 x AEC 130hp engines)
Top Speed	63 to 80 mph
Passenger Capacity	49 to 70 Seated (0 in Parcels variant)
Operated By	Great Western Railway British Railways
Main Duties	Local Passenger Parcels
In Service Until	1960
Surviving Examples	0