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The "Westerns" were always a little special, ever
since their inception in 1961, and were the final development
of the Western Region diesels using hydraulic transmission.
Other regions based their designs on electric transmissions
utilising large medium-speed diesel engines. The "Westerns" married
superb bodywork styling and German-designed high-speed Maybach
engines and Voith transmissions to produce a locomotive that
was extremely powerful and considerably lighter than an equivalent
diesel-electric.
A decision to rationalise the diesel locomotive types on
British Rail marked the beginning of the end for the diesel-hydraulics.
The "Westerns" were the last survivors and struggled
on magnificently despite their neglected state until the final
locomotives were withdrawn in February 1977.
With their impressive design, awesome engine sound and cast
name and number plates, the "Westerns" had many marks
of distinction. All 74 "Westerns" were named, proud
names such as "Western Glory", "Western Thunderer" and "Western
Crusader", and these endeared them to enthusiasts who
saw them as the last sign of the spirit and traditions of the
Great Western Railway.
The demise of the mighty "Westerns" evoked a fanatical
following, the like of which had not been seen since the end
of steam traction, and this led to the early efforts of the
W.L.A. to preserve an example of the class. The results of
these efforts, "Western Courier" and "Western
Ranger", can be seen on the Severn
Valley Railway today. Please
click here for a WLA membership form.
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