Single-driver locomotives had been superseded in the late 19th century as loads increased, but were then reintroduced when steam sanding allowed better adhesion.

Speeds up to 90 mph (140 km/h) were not uncommon, and the sight of their large, spinning driving wheels with no visible connecting rods earned them the nickname "Spinners".

Due to the Midland's practice of building low-powered locomotives and relying on double-heading to cope with heavier trains, many had working lives of up to 30 years.

During World War I most were placed in store, but were then pressed into service afterward as pilots on the Nottingham to London coal trains.

It was steamed around 1976–1980 when it took part in the Rainhill Trials 150th cavalcade but is currently a static exhibit in the National Railway Museum in York but not on display currently.