The ‘Knotty’ was one of the most beloved of Britain’s pre-grouping companies. Centred on Stoke-on-Trent, at one time it carried two-thirds of the country’s pottery, as well as partaking in the lucrative coal and iron trades. It began to build its own carriages and locomotives at an early date and operated an extensive canal system, as well as narrow gauge lines including the Leek & Manifold. Never a wealthy company, it withstood aggressive take-over attempts from its bigger rivals to maintain its independent existence until 1923. This book, illustrated with a wealth of rare images, marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the railway’s independence.