The HST 125 Story
Our guest speaker on 11 April was John Zabernick to present The HST125 Story. The history of the project was outlined from original concept in 1969,the design and construction of the two prototype power cars in 1972 and subsequent testing, with one of the many advantages being simplified operations and maintenance. It was in competition with the electric APT but commercial production began in 1975 whilst the APT struggled through its testing programme,finally being abandoned in the eighties. The heavily promoted sets were initially deployed on the Great Western and other non electrified Inter City routes soon followed although the number built was less than BR had requested. A batch was also constructed for Inter City operations in Australia,the only export order forthcoming. During the next thirty years or so there were many livery changes with the original Paxman Valenta engines were replaced in some of the power cars and areas of operation changed after the electrification of some routes. Some sets are still in use albeit mainly on secondary routes and others are with private operators and Network Rail. The 125 Group was founded in 1994 and currently has over 700 members,dedicated to the preservation and operation of a complete HST set in service. The group was also involved in Project Miller with the NRM, a challenging restoration of the surviving prototype power car to operational use which was achieved in 2014.The group currently has four power cars and compatible coaching stock based at the Midland Railway Centre. One these helped set the world speed record for diesel traction in 1987 which still stands. A thoroughly recommended presentation.