HSTs: Around Britain, 1990 to Present

High Speed Trains (HSTs) have been the mainstay for express services in the UK for almost 50 years, but following their mass withdrawal in 2018-19, many were put into storage or scrapped. However, some operators have been reconsidering their potential and Colas Rail and Locomotive Services Ltd have acquired some to use as test trains. This book showcases HSTs over the past 20-30 years in numerous UK locations, highlighting why they have served so long and why they should be saved.

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

For nearly half a century, High-Speed Trains (HSTs) have remained the primary choice for express services across numerous operators in the United Kingdom. While British Rail extensively utilized these trains, earning them the nickname "the savior of British Rail," they have also been embraced by other operators such as East Coast, Midland Mainline, and Virgin CrossCountry. However, following their mass withdrawal in 2018-19, when the Hitachi bi-mode units entered the scene, a significant number of HSTs were either stored or, unfortunately, scrapped altogether. Fortunately, not all operators followed suit. In recent times, some have reevaluated the potential of HSTs. Colas Rail acquired a few units to serve as test trains for Network Rail, while Locomotive Services Ltd operates two dedicated charter sets across the UK. Illustrated with over 230 images, this book serves as a continuation of HSTs: The Western Region, showcasing HSTs over the past 20-30 years in various locations within the UK, highlighting their enduring service and the urgent need to preserve them.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 171 x 242 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802822496