FROM THE RM AUGUST 1986

“THE original batch of 35 [Class 87] names had mostly been carried by express passenger steam locomotives of the recent past, and included a cross-section of LMSR, LNER and SR types as well as a group of BR ‘Britannias’. It was, perhaps, inevitable that latter day GWR locomotives were excluded but, even so, several of the names had been utilised by that company during the 19th Century. For some reason, the designation ‘Royal Scot Class’ which accompanied the naming announcement did not catch on.

“The majority of Class 87 nameplates were fitted without ceremony at Willesden depot and, given the early caution which accompanied new-style naming, it is not surprising the class has received less than its fair share of accompanying crests, badges and coat of arms.

“No. 87002 was named Royal Sovereign at Willesden on July 3, 1978.”