Our Story

Nobody actually likes HSTs do they? After all they replaced or ousted many favourite locomotive types upon entering service and their unconventional 'power car at each end' mode of operation distinguishes them from 'proper' trains doesn't it? And if they are all that good then why do none of the magazines ever report HST news or carry articles about the HSTs? Well, 125 Group has proved 'popular' opinion to be wrong by building up a membership of over 250 people and by turning out a magazine every two months packed full of news, information, articles and photographs of HSTs.

 

When 125 Group was established in 1994 by a small but dedicated band of enthusiasts we feared we may be alone in our interest in HSTs, but since then we have discovered a solid band of enthusiasts who share our enjoyment of the Class 43s. Our initial aims were simple, there was no other group dedicated to the HSTs that meant there was no reliable source of news or information on our favourite type of traction. The near total lack of coverage given to HSTs in the 'popular' railway press back in 1994 enabled us to fill this void and we quickly discovered that there were plenty of people out there with a thirst for information on the HSTs!

 

We believe that the reporting of HSTs in the railway press is still inadequate and that 125 Group remains the principal source of information on the InterCity 125 fleet. Whilst others find little to report on the HST fleet, our bi-monthly magazine "One Two Five" is packed from cover to cover with news, features, photographs and information on the Class 43s. Our coverage is second to none and our team of contributors provides a fascinating insight into the full spectrum of HST operations together with some excellent and topical photography. Recent editions of our magazine have included full information on the continued disbanding of the once sizable Virgin Trains fleet, a unique technical study of the HST powercars in full detail and behind the scenes information regarding the current operations of the HST fleet. Enthusiasts who enjoy travelling on or photographing HSTs appreciate our detailed diagram booklets that are produced each timetable.

 

When 125 Group started out preservation seemed very far away, but as the HST fleet gets ever closer to the end of its working life our attentions have been turned to the future and our role in preserving for future generations an example of these magnificent trains which the revolutionised the long-distance rail network in the 1970s. We will do everything we can to meet our commitment to preserve an HST in as near to original configuration as possible. Our dream is to save a pair of power cars with Valenta engines and a selection of trailer cars. As the only group with an interest in HSTs we are working to build up sufficient funds in order to purchase and maintain in working order an example of the train which formed the backbone of InterCity services during its distinguished career.