Dick Kerr and Company Ltd took over Victoria Engineering Works, Rugby in 1917, which then became part of the English Electric Company (EE) a year later and the name changed to the Willans & Robinson Engineering Works, Rugby. Willans & Robinson Engineering Works continued as the centre for the design and manufacture of steam and water turbines, diesel, gas and oil engines, initially mainly for industrial, marine and power generation applications. Its main contribution to the rail traction industry was the development of the ’6K’ series engine used in the 1930’s for the early diesel electric shunters built by Preston and in railway workshops. During the Second World War the factory continued with its normal product range, but mainly for military and naval applications.

Engine production of the K, and the further developed RK and V versions moved to the west works at Preston and then in the mid-sixties to the Vulcan Foundry works. After the GEC takeover in 1968, Willans primary work became the design and manufacture of large power station steam turbines. The merger with Alsthom eventually resulted in this activity being transferred to Alstom factories in France. The Willans site now hosts the thermal power division for Alstom.