Bowleaze Switcher

The Bowleaze Switcher was designed by architect Patrick Henshaw, and built in 1974-75 by Tom Smith at his 'Miracle Works' (actually the garage on his suburban hole in Lechlade, Gloucestershire!). At the time, it was a very large machine, measuring 239cm long, 74cm wide and 131cm tall . The general outline was that of a US 'Switcher' shunting locomotive, with a generously proportioned cab by any standard, let along 7 1/4" gauge, a bonnet filled with heavy traction batteries, and a Smith power-bogie at the rear.