Change is the only constant
FIRST things first: I'd like to pay tribute to my predecessor – Paul Bickerdyke – who has apparently effortlessly (though he assures me this isn't actually the case) guided the magazine not only through the trials and tribulations of recent times, but has been steadfast in the front cab of Rail Express for more than eight years. Many of you have either communicated with or met Paul at rail events over the years and some of you have already told me (thank you for that!) that I have big shoes to fill. So, I'm delighted that Paul will be ‘just down the corridor' at The
Railway Magazine and I know he will be keeping a friendly eye on what is happening in this publication.
I've been asked more than once ‘what will a new editor mean for Rail Express?' In a nutshell: the same, but different. Right now, I'm excited at being able to devote my full attention to modern and classic traction, an interest that I have followed with a passion since before I could walk. Looking ahead, I promise that I will do my very best to continue to provide you with the best possible mix of news and features. I have already been out and about and also talking to some of you via email and social media (see p88).
The headline above paraphrases a famous line from Heraclitus (possibly the only time an ancient Greek philosopher will appear in these pages) because it sums up perfectly what is happening on our railways. The forthcoming transition into Great British Railways will take us into a new railway era. We are already witnessing the arrival of large fleets of brand-new stock, with plenty more on the way. And yet, venerable workhorses, both passenger (Class 43) and freight (Class 56), which have long been a feature of the railway landscape, are being repurposed for a new lease of life (as short-formation HSTs and Class 69 respectively). Proof, perhaps, that not only is change constant, it can also be a rather good thing.
I wish all of you a rail-filled summer and look forward to speaking with and meeting you over the coming months. Your feedback – positive or otherwise – is always welcome.