POWER OF THE 60s (OPC)

Following the introduction of the US-built Class 59 locomotives in 1986, it became evident that BR’s existing fleet of diesel locomotives, including the Class 58s, then under construction at Doncaster, were outmoded and the decision was made to seek to build 100 new locomotives for use, primarily by the freight sector. These locomotives, designed to incorporate all the latest developments, were to be the most technically advanced diesel locomotives constructed in Britain; they were, moreover, the last main line diesel locomotives built for BR and indeed the last main line examples originated in Britain (the subsequent Classes 66 and 67 came from North America). Following a tendering process, Brush of Loughborough were contracted to produce the locomotives, with the first emerging in 1989 and the last of the class three years later. The construction process was not smooth, early technical issues almost resulted in the cancellation of the order, but eventually, with the teething problems ironed out, the class has proved to be a reliable addition to the BR fleet. The class’ career, however, has been overshadowed by the massive purchase of Class 66 locomotives since privatisation and, as a non-standard design, the long-term future of the class is in doubt.

In Power of the 60s, noted railway photographer and author Gavin Morrison portrays the construction, history and operational record of the class through some 250 mono and colour illustrations. Reflecting the rapid changes of the railway industry in the period immediately prior to privatisation and the subsequent evolution of EWS as the country’s prime railway freight contractor, the book provides a comprehensive record of the many livery changes to have affected the class during its relatively short career. As with most other volumes in the series, the author also includes an account of each individual locomotive with a selection of images recalling its career.

The Class 60 represents an important stage in the evolution of British locomotive design. Power of the 60s, provides a comprehensive pictorial tribute to the class. With their long-term future open to debate, this is an appropriate time to recall the near 20 years that these locomotives have been in service.