The history of railways in Britain is marked by the domination of key individuals. Sir Edward Watkin was one such colossus of railway ambition who bestrode the late Victorian era. As chairman of, amongst others, the Manchester, Sheffield & Lincolnshire Railway, he conceived a grandiose scheme for a new main line built to the most exacting standards. Watkin's plan was ahead of its time: he intended to link the existing MS&LR with London and thence, over the South Eastern & Chatham (with which he was also involved), to reach France through a tunnel under the Channel. Unfortunately, much of his ambition was unfulfilled, but one part that did get completed was the MS&LR's London Extension - the future Great Central main line - which opened to freight traffic in 1898 and to passenger traffic the following year.

The stations, locomotives and rolling stock are explored in detail, and the operation and the atmosphere of the Great Central main line from Annesley to Marylebone. Historic photographs and line drawings illustrate the text.

CONTENTS : The London Extension from 1899 - 'Forward'; The Route in Detail; Express Passenger Services; Cross-Country Passenger Services; London Suburban, 'Ords' & Locals; Goods Services; London Extension Motive Power Depots & Locomotive Allocations 1947 to 1966.

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