‘Diesel Mallard’ HST power car given to NRM
THE Class 43 High Speed Train power car which holds the world speed record for a diesel train has been donated to the National Railway Museum.
No. 43102 was delivered to Locomotion in Shildon on the evening on May 25 after being gifted by rolling stock owner and asset manager Porterbrook. It was unloaded and moved to public display outside the museum's entrance the following day before visitors arrived.
The 148.5mph record was set while No. 43102 was descending Stoke Bank on November 1, 1987, with a test run for a new type of bogie for use on Mk. 4 coaches on the East Coast Main Line. The HST set was trailed by No. 43159.
Other records
It was on Stoke Bank that the museum's LNER A4 Pacific No. 4468 Mallard set the world speed record for a steam railway locomotive on July 3, 1938. The NRM also owns prototype High Speed Train power car No. 41001 (43000) which set the then world speed record for diesel traction at 143.2mph on June 12, 1973. While No. 41002, which was also on that run, was scrapped at Booths in Rotherham, No. 41001 was claimed for the National Collection.
A Class 125 HST also holds the world speed record for a diesel train carrying passengers. On September 27, 1985, a special press run for the launch of a new Tees-Tyne Pullman service from Newcastle to King's Cross briefly reached 144mph north of York.
Porterbrook chief executive officer Mary Grant said: “While we are focused on investing in the future of Britain's railway, our partnership with the NRM shows we also celebrate its successful past. As long-term asset owners with a fleet of 4000 rail vehicles, we are pleased to support the NRM as it explores how the railway contributes to national life.
“Our wider collaboration with the NRM will include joint work on inspiring the next generation of young engineers, as well as highlighting how the railway can sustainably contribute to delivering Net Zero.”
NRM director Judith McNicol said: “The NRM is proud to have a strong and established relationship with Porterbrook, which has previously joined forces with us on projects such as Future Engineers, Railfest and the overhaul of Flying Scotsman.
“Porterbrook continues to work with us to engage our visitors, in particular young people.”
Gold partner
“Our combined passion and resources ensure that we offer positive STEM experiences to bridge the skills gap with as many young people as possible. In the next phase of our relationship, we look forward to working with Porterbrook as a gold-level partner and continued collaboration to support the future of the UK rail industry.”