The class 50s plied the tracks of the UK rail network for over twenty five years. They gained many fans for their performance, distinctive sound and their dramatic large logo livery.
Bernard Mills followed the class with his camera from their early years on the West Coast Mainline, and when they moved south to the Great Western, they ended up working in his “Back Yard”. Consequently he has a peerless photographic record of 50s undertaking all types of services throughout their period of ownership by British Rail.
Bernard spent 57 years working as a railway employee, the bulk of which was spent working in the Travel Centre at Plymouth Station. This position enabled him to foster good relationships with a wide range of colleagues with technical and operational roles who were pleased to give him advanced notice of unusual workings. These tip-offs allowed him to be in the right place, at the right time, and with the right equipment to capture the moment. He has regularly contributed his work to railway magazines and books, and is has given illustrated talks on the railways of Devon and Cornwall to railway interest groups around the UK.
This book opens the lid on Bernard’s image vault, exposing many previously unpublished photos of 50s at work. These, combined with his notes and personal memories of the day they were taken, provide a very valuable record of the class in squadron service.
Chapters:
Introduction
The Early Years
The 50 Class 50s
The Last Hurrah