Proposed by William James and Joseph Sanders in 1821. In 1826 George Stephenson was appointed chief engineer. Originally was going to use fixed locomotives but a competition was set up for the most efficient engine and thus the Rainhill trial of October 6th 1829 came to be and the Rocket won. Company opened its line ceremonially on 15th September 1830, passengers were taken two days later and goods on December 1st. It was absorbed into the GJR on 8th August 1845.