The engines were built as Class G1 2-4-0s. They had simple expansion cylinders, slide valves, and Joy valve gear. Twenty locomotives were built at Darlington Works in 1887-1888. They were initially classed as "G1" to leave the classification "G" available for a compound version. However, the compound version was not built and they were reclassified as "G" in 1914.
Modifications
Between 1900 and 1904, they were rebuilt as 4-4-0s. At the same time, they were fitted with piston valves and Stephenson valve gear. Superheaters were fitted between 1913 and 1916.