introduced the first of three important tank engine classes, which were ultimately produced in large numbers. The diminutive LB&SCR A1 Class (Terrier) 0-6-0 tanks were introduced in 1872 and a number were still in active use in the 1960s; several have been preserved. The D1 class 0-4-2T were used for London suburban services of the LBSCR from 1873 until electrification, and some survivors lasted until the early 1950's. The last survivor of the E1 class freight 0-6-0T was withdrawn in 1962, while a previously withdrawn example now preserved. In 1874, Stroudley also designed the G class of powerful 2-2-2 'singles', the last of which survived until 1914. Less successful were his 0-6-0 C and C1 freight classes of 1871 and 1882 respectively, both of which were underpowered. Stroudley is best remembered for his 0-4-2 passenger classes. The first of these was a tender engine version of the D1 class, the D2 or "Lyons" class, introduced in 1876 and which proved to be very successful. A larger version for express passenger work, the "Richmond class", was introduced in 1877. However it is the enlarged B1 class ("Gladstone class") express engines of 1882 for which he is best remembered, the last of which survived until 1933. The first member of this class is preserved at the National Railway Museum in York. Other engineering activities Stroudley was responsible for the re-organisation and modernisation of Brighton railway works and the repair facilities at New Cross. He also designed railway carriages and the steam engines for the LB&SCR cross-channel ferries which operated between Newhaven and Dieppe. He is also remembered for inventing the re-railing ramps that are still known as "Stroudley's Patent Ramps" or "Rampes de Stroudley" in some parts of the world. Death He died of acute bronchitis on 20 December 1889 during his visit to the Paris Exhibition where he was exhibiting one of his locomotives. Stroudley was buried in the Extra Mural Cemetery, Brighton on 24 December 1889. He was succeeded at Brighton by R. J. Billinton. References Cornwell, H. G. Campbell (1968) William Stroudley: craftsman of steam, Newton Abbot : David & Charles, External links Biography 1833 births 1889 deaths English engineers Locomotive builders and designers Locomotive superintendents London, Brighton and South Coast Railway people English railway mechanical engineers People from Oxfordshire (before 1974)