East Midlands Railways : From Steam to Modern Traction

A transitional period existed following the announcement of British Railways’ Modernisation Plan in 1955 as steam engines operated alongside new diesel and electric forms of motive power. The East Midlands was particularly affected as diesel locomotives came to work the area’s expresses and freight trains. Diesel Multiple Units sought to halt declining branch line usage, though many eventually closed. Yet, some improvements in infrastructure were also seen. The area’s lines were formerly operated by the London, Midland & Scottish Railway and the London & North Eastern Railway. Many of these companies’ locomotives could be seen, as well as British Railways’ Standard Classes. A number of new diesel classes and DMUs appeared and worked alongside these during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The locomotives are at locations across the East Midlands and the pictures have been captured from the lineside, engine sheds, stations, marshalling yards and industrial locations.