[2] This was exacerbated by the fact that there were few locomotive classes in the LSWR stable that could undertake commuter traffic at the desired level of efficiency.

[2] The LSWR therefore required a locomotive with attributes of power and compactness, with a small wheel size to gain acceleration on intensive timetables.

[1] The brief behind the design was to create a locomotive capable of mixed-traffic operations, a characteristic dictated by the relatively small wheel diameter and smaller cylinders, effectively to replace the obsolete Beattie 0298 Class.

[3] As a result, a compact locomotive with high route availability was produced, a factor that would be essential during the later career of the class.

[1] As a result, the O2s were cascaded to lighter services, and became distributed throughout the LSWR system, being of particular use on restricted branch lines due to their relatively low weight and short wheelbase.

Another example of push pull operation working was from Guildford to Leatherhead with a 2 coach ex-LSWR Maunsell converted Lav Non-corridor Suburban Push-Pull set with initially 2 driving cabs (under BR this was reduced to the engine with a single driving trailer) Despite the early withdrawals, a number of O2s lasted well into BR days, working various branch lines until closure began to take place in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

[1] This plan fell through, however, and it was not until after Grouping in 1923 that the newly formed Southern Railway was forced to resolve the desperate locomotive power situation on the Isle of Wight.

[3] The solution to this problem presented itself when electrification of the LSWR's suburban network resulted in a cascade of newer, more powerful designs (such as the M7s and T1s) into the rural strongholds of the O2 class.

Two of these spare engines were modified at Eastleigh works with the addition of a Westinghouse air brakes to allow compatibility with the Isle of Wight coaching stock.

[1] Thanks to their compact nature, low weight and relatively high power they proved ideal for island duties, although the lack of adequate coal bunker space initially hampered the class.

Calbourne was restored to operating condition, re-entering service in 1992, and had a further overhaul in 2010, hauling tourist trains over the line between Smallbrook Junction and Wootton.

Roxey Models have a 7mm white metal kit with nickel silver chassis; mainland and IOW versions are covered.