Based on a GWR design locomotive intended for light railway use this shunting engine is typical of the side tank engines used in private sidings at factories, mines, quarries and other industrial installations. Small locomotives were needed to move wagons around a works complex, deliver coal to the furnaces when required and move wagons to and from the connection with the mainline railway company.
Some of locations had extensive rail networks and provided an internal passenger service to get staff around the site. An ideal use for Hornbys' Victorian era 4-wheel coaches.