Introduction to Class 43 Locomotives

Class 43 locomotives were introduced to British Rail from 1976 onwards and eventually numbered 197 in total. In Scotland, they were initially allocated to Craigentinny Depot in Edinburgh and later to Inverness and in recent years to Cadder Depot, near Glasgow.

Operational History

They became known as High Speed Trains, or HSTs, and initially ran on the east coast route between Edinburgh and London King’s Cross. In later years, the fleet spread their wings to many other parts of Scotland and even worked charters to Fort William and Stranraer.

Upgrades and Preservation

A number of the locos were also upgraded at Crewe Works in the mid-1990s and re-fitted with Mirrlees Blackstone engines which were more environmentally friendly. This book documents the class from the late 1970s in the BR era through to privatisation and beyond.

These locos have performed reliably and worked all over Scotland, and some are now preserved at various heritage lines throughout the United Kingdom.

Contents and Audience

With a wealth of previously unpublished images, this book will delight Scottish rail enthusiasts both young and old.