The popular Class 37 diesel locomotive is one of the most identifiable locomotive types of the post-steam era. Over 300 were built from 1960 onwards and a number still remain in active service on the main line today.
This book tells the story of the Class 37s working in the West Country on freight and passenger services west of Taunton and Yeovil Junction. Freight was the reason for the locomotives being sent to the far west, notably for use on china clay trains in Cornwall. Although not frequently used on passenger trains in the area, they could be seen hauling relief trains and covering for train failures.
In this book, author Steve Marshall recalls the trails and tribulations of trying to ride behind the class in the west of England. Over 150 colour photographs, taken from between the 1970s and the present day illustrate the locomotives at work.
Chapter List:
- Early Days
- The First Arrival
- Freight Duties in the South West
- Passenger Duties in the South West
- Class 37 Hauled Rail Tours
- Class 37 Component Exchange Overhauls at Plymouth Laira
- Complete List of Class 37 passenger workings in loco number order
- List of Pilot Locos on 1C09 0635 Bristol-Plymouth
Class 37s in the Far West provides a comprehensive history of Class 37 operations in the southwest of England. Well illustrated with colour photographs throughout. Hardback. 148 pages. Published 2019.