Class 50s

Class 50s

During the mid-1960s, British Rail (BR) was looking to introduce a high-powered diesel locomotive to improve services on the West Coast Main Line. Although the new Class 47s may have been the first choice, these were already proving unreliable and suffered regular engine failures. Subsequently, BR opted to lease 50 locomotives from English Electric instead. Initially known as English Electric Type 4s, the locos were purchased outright at the end of the lease and became known as Class 50s.

When Class 50s were introduced on to Britain’s railways, they were regarded as poor substitutes for the beloved Western Region diesel hydraulics they were sent to replace. However, as time went on, they impressed more and more. In fact, towards the end of their careers, they developed a following not unlike the last days of the hydraulics, with many enthusiasts clamouring to photograph or ride behind them. The interest in the class is evident to this day, with as many as 18 still surviving in various states of repair. Including more than 200 images, this volume shows the class at work around the UK, covering the BR era, and also subsequent years.

Available: NOW

ISBN: 978 1 80282 258 8

Price: £15.99

Series: Britain’s Railways Series, vol 36

Format: Paperback, 96 pages

Author: Mark V. Pike