This book tells the story of the transition from steam power to diesel and electric traction in the Birmingham and Rugby Districts of the London Midland Region, encompassing the former London and North Western Lines, and those of other companies subsumed into the Birmingham Division in the 1960s.
Starting with the early prototype diesel locomotives, it then covers the introduction of diesel shunters and multiple units during the 1950s, working through to the final elimination of steam in 1967 and the changes made to the end of the decade.
Chapters include:
- Shunting Engines
- Early Main Line Duties
- Light Weight Diesel Trains
- The Impact of Electrification
- Rationalisation
- Depots and Future Traction Requirements
- Depot Developments
- Saltley and the Former Midland Lines
- National Traction Plan and Further Developments
- End Game
- End of an Era
- Consolidating for the New Traction
The book covers the organisation of the changes, ordering and allocation of locomotives, development of diesel and electric depots, reliability issues with the new traction, and the final rundown of steam duties. It is based on extensive research into surviving official records as well as contemporary reports and the reminisces of some of those involved, backed up with a comprehensive selection of colour and black and white photographs. Hardback. 142 pages.