GWR RAILCAR, NO. 22 ‘MONICA’

The Great Western Railway (GWR) was well ahead of its competitors in diesel railcar technology, introducing streamlined units as early as 1933. Initially designed for lightly-used branch lines, these railcars were surprisingly versatile, operating on some busy urban and long-distance routes as well. Of the 38 railcars produced, 35 were scrapped in the 1950s and ’60s when British Rail introduced lightweight railcars nationwide. Railcar No. 22 was one of the fortunate three to escape scrapping, having remained at Swindon Works long enough for its historical value to be recognized. It later operated on the Severn Valley Railway and is now preserved at the GWR Museum in Didcot. Another notable railcar, *Monica*, was built by Jim Rough in 2004 for Bob Symes. After Bob’s passing in January 2015, *Monica* moved first to White’s Farm and later to Cropthorne.

Bob’s GWR railcar, affectionately named *Monica*, is another charming piece of machinery. Built in 2004 by Jim Rough, it joined the Grittenham Light Railway in 2013, where it underwent a conversion from a petrol to a diesel engine. Designed to carry two passengers—though snugly and somewhat uncomfortably—it offered a unique travel experience.

After Bob’s passing in January 2015, Monica moved first to White’s Farm and later to Cropthorne.