In 1804 a self-propelled locomotive invented by Richard Trevithick succeeded in hauling a heavy load of iron and 70 passengers along a tramroad at Penydarran, Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales.

Several Trevithick locomotives were built and in 1808 one called 'Catch-me-who-can' was attached to a landau (a horse drawn carriage) and any one brave enough could have a ride for a shilling. Unfortunately there was a minor accident which put paid to the fun