Class 59s

Foster Yeoman suggested the unusual arrangement of running its services with locomotives owned by them, leading to the agreement with General Motors to provide Class 59s. These locos surpassed expectations and are still performing the work they were designed for, with over 230 images in the book.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2022
Publisher: Key Publishing Ltd

In the mid-1980s, Foster Yeoman, a prominent customer of British Rail for heavy block trains, proposed an unconventional arrangement. They suggested running their services with locomotives owned by them, rather than relying on British Rail's fleet. Dissatisfaction with the performance of the Class 56s on their routes prompted Foster Yeoman to explore other options. Eventually, they reached a deal with the US firm General Motors to acquire the locomotives designated as Class 59s.

The Class 59s exceeded everyone's expectations, and as a result, other customers who were unhappy with the Class 56s also decided to purchase the Class 59s. These locomotives, which are now over 30 years old, continue to perform the tasks they were designed for with remarkable reliability.

This comprehensive book, featuring over 230 images, showcases the Class 59s throughout the United Kingdom over the years. It provides a detailed account of their design, development, and operational history, offering a captivating glimpse into these iconic locomotives' enduring legacy.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 171 x 242 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802821369