English Electric Class 50 Diesels: From the Western Region to Preservation

Peter J. Green's interest in Class 50 diesels began in the early 1980s when they were named and painted in Large Logo livery. They stood out from other locomotives with their impressive sound and were a particular target for his railway photography. Today, many of the class are working on heritage railways, and there are still plenty of photographic opportunities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In 1975, Peter J. Green captured the first images of Class 50 diesel locomotives in operation, while they were being transferred from the London Midland to the Western Region of British Rail. However, it was during the early 1980s, when these locomotives received their names and were painted in the iconic Large Logo livery, that Green's fascination with the class truly blossomed. For Green, these locomotives stood out from the majority of other locomotives adorned in the rather plain Rail Blue livery. What truly captivated Green about the Class 50s was not only their visual appeal but also the remarkable sound they produced, particularly when in motion. The locomotives' powerful engines generated a thunderous roar, often causing excited photographers to exclaim "50!" even before the train was in sight.

The Class 50s became a focal point of Green's railway photography, and he dedicated numerous trips to capturing their essence. These locomotives were frequently used on railtours around his hometown of Worcester, making it convenient for Green to find suitable subjects for his camera. With their frequent appearances in the area, he had ample opportunities to capture stunning images of the Class 50s in various settings and conditions.

Unfortunately, the Class 50s were withdrawn from service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, marking the end of an era. However, their legacy continues to live on today. Many of the class have been preserved and are now operated on heritage railways, providing enthusiasts with a chance to experience the thrill of these iconic locomotives. Additionally, a number of privately owned Class 50s are registered for main line use, ensuring that their legacy continues to be celebrated.

In this collection, we present a selection of Peter J. Green's finest photos of the Class 50 diesels, taken over a span of forty-five years. These images showcase the beauty and power of these locomotives, capturing their unique characteristics and the excitement they generated among photographers and rail enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 1102g
Dimension: 224 x 287 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399017824