Class 142: The Bus That Became a Train

Description

The British Rail Class 142 Pacer was an attempt to produce a cost effective train to replace the worn-out and elderly first generation BR Diesel Multiple Unit fleet that had been introduced in the late 1950's. The Class 142 concept was a marriage of proven bus technology and traditional railway chassis and powertrain by utilizing modular Leyland National Bus Bodies mounted on a substantial steel underframe and powered by conventional underfloor diesel engines. They came at a time when the network was lacking in investment, and when first introduced from 1985 onwards, they presented a fresh, bright & clean image, breathing new life into many suburban and rural services. Unfortunately, soon after introduction, there were serious reliability problems, which necessitated much re-engineering, since when they have become a familiar sight across the network. With the remaining ninety-four trains now all past their thirtieth birthday, the fleet is due to be retired by 2020.

An avid railway enthusiast and photographer, Martyn Hilbert has amassed a large collection of images and notes that document the changing face of the UK railway network since the 1970's. Still active with the camera and recording the daily routine before it all becomes history in an ever changing World. 'Class 142: The Bus That Became a Train' is his fourth railway book to be published by Fonthill Media.