The A4 Pacific locomotive No. 60009 Union of South Africa has recently been retired and is destined to go into a museum. Here, this famous loco’s support crew share their memories and anecdotes of working to keep it running for the enjoyment of thousands of railway enthusiasts over the years.

With experiences stretching back to 1966, when the loco was first purchased from British Railways, these stories are sometimes funny and sometimes serious; all offer a fascinating insight into what it takes to keep a magnificent machine on the rails. Supported by a range of previously unpublished images, this is a wonderful tribute to a terrific locomotive.