Introduction of Class 126 Diesel Multiple Units

Class 126 diesel multiple units were introduced to Scotland from 1956. Initially, they were diagrammed to work between Edinburgh Waverley and Glasgow Queen Street.

Later Developments and Operations

In 1959, a second batch was introduced with slight design changes, and these were used on the Glasgow St Enoch to Ayr and Stranraer Harbour workings. The Edinburgh units were always based at Leith Central and the later builds were based at Ayr Depot.

Service and Routes

They became known as Inter City units as they initially connected Edinburgh and Glasgow with faster end-to-end journey times compared with their steam forerunners. The Ayr-based units were later moved to work from Glasgow Central. Both fleets have worked charters on the West Highland Lines and other routes.

Historical Significance and Preservation

This book illustrates the class from introduction in the mid-1950s until withdrawal from British Rail in 1983. Four coaches have subsequently been preserved at the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway. With a wealth of previously unpublished images, this book will delight Scottish rail enthusiasts both young and old.