When did Gateshead gain it's reputation?

[Tom F]

I'm currently working on Gateshead A1 2571 'SUNSTAR'. I'm trying to work out when did Gateshead earn it's reputation for not cleaning locomotives. Was it a BR thing, or does it go back further to LNER days?

[ArthurK]

Tom

I believe that was a BR thing but there were exceptions. Here are two, one dirty and one reasonably (though not pristine) clean in the 1960s. I think the deterioration started in late LNER days.

"Sir Hugo" on menial duties at Tyne Yard.

"Trigo" returning light to Gateshead, devoid of shed plate and nameplate. I wonder who got those?

ArthurK