43159

Fleet Update – May 2023

A lot has been happening over the past few months. A number of volunteers undertook the task of both interior and exterior cleaning on our MK3’s at Swanwick in early April ensuring these are clean and fit for service in the near future.

Meanwhile, 43159 (thanks to the kindness of the Midland Railway diesel group) entered the diesel shed at Swanwick for some much needed cosmetic attention. With the powercar under cover, the opportunity was taken to make some overdue repairs to the van roof. The mammoth task of repainting was then started! As May 2023 happens to be the 20 year anniversary since commencement of Midland Mainline’s “Project RIO” services from St. Pancras to Manchester Piccadilly, we chose the latter MML “Ocean Blue” livery, which 43159 carried as a RIO power car for the repaint.

Last but no means least, May 1st saw 43025 officially join the 125 Group fleet, thanks to a generous donation by one of our members. 43025 is in good condition despite being stored for 4 years and will provide a 2nd MTU engined example to complement 43159. As always, updates on restoring 43025 to mainline operation will be featured in our Members Magazine OTF.

Running days in June 2022

Did you miss the chance to ride on our HST during our first operational weekend in April or maybe you just want another chance to ride because you enjoyed it so much? We’re pleased to announce that our friends at Midland Railway – Butterley have invited us to operate again over the weekend of Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th June – so that is what we intend to do!

43048 in service at Midland Railway – Butterley in April 2022 © Andy Wade

Our operations over this weekend will be primarily using First Class Coaches and our record breaking power cars 43159 (the World’s fastest diesel) and 43048 (the first to operate in preservation at 125mph). Timetable & ticket information for the weekend can be found here.

While on board, come and check out Buffet 125 serving refreshments and snacks throughout the day and enjoy your trip in first class comfort as we operate the Railway’s Yellow timetable of six services each day. Shop 125 will also be open with a wide selection from badges to books, DVDs to postcards for you to purchase.

Other site attractions will be available should you break your journey. Why not take the chance to view 43089 at Swanwick Junction and maybe take a ride on the Golden Valley Light Railway?

Please come along and support our operation, meet the team and enjoy our early preservation operations along the beautiful Midland Railway.

125 Group would like to take this opportunity to say how very grateful we are to Midland Railway – Butterley for their continued support in both storing and using our lovely HST.