Prototype HST 41001 for Old Oak Common Open Day

Prototype HST on test at Didcot station, with power car 41001 (43000) nearest the camera, February 1975. ©Dave Hird

125 Group is delighted to announce that Prototype High Speed Train power car 41001 is planned to be one of the star exhibits at Great Western Railway Old Oak Common public open day on Saturday 2nd September 2017, celebrating over 111 years of train maintenance and servicing at this West London depot. On display will be a unique collection of steam, diesel and electric locomotives also merchandise stalls including the 125 Group Sales Stand, children’s activities, fun fair, entertainers plus locomotive naming ceremonies.

Tickets are now on sale and demand is expected to be high for this unique event. All proceeds will go to the depot’s chosen charity Place2Be, providing mental health support for children and whose patron is the Duchess of Cambridge. To view full information about the open day, including how to get there and to buy tickets on-line, see the event website www.oocopenday.com

Old Oak Common has an illustrious history, including being home to iconic Inter-City 125s since introduction. The prototype HST is no stranger to Old Oak, it was based at the depot in 1975/6 during Western Region passenger service trials. After withdrawal, power car 41001 entered the National Collection, 125 Group became custodians in 2012 and we restored it back to working order under the ‘Project Miller’ banner. The historic power car is now based at GCR(N) Ruddington where it works public trains together with our matching Mk3 coaches.

Please note that 41001 is advertised in good faith but is subject to transfer rail movements. Should problems arise we can not be held responsible for losses (and disappointment!) arising from non-appearance. The 125 Group team are very much looking forward to this fantastic event and hope to see you there!

Retired Southern Engine meets Grandad HST

Locomotive 33035 arrives at Rushcliffe Halt GCRN viewed from the cab of Prototype HST 41001 ©125 Group

Stuck for something to do this Saturday 29th July? Why not bring the whole family to Great Central Railway (Nottingham) where classic former Southern Region loco 33035 will be running top and tail with historic Prototype High Speed Train power car 41001.

Coaching stock will be our sleek Mk3s with big comfy 1st class seats and air-conditioning to keep you cool, plus a Mk2 coach with opening windows for sound effects. On-board the train we have Buffet 125 where our volunteers will be cooking up delicious bacon and sausage baps and hot dogs, with tea and coffee to wash down plus something stronger available too for the grown ups.

The excitement continues off the train this weekend with the fantastic GCR(N) Model Rail Show at our Ruddington base, plus the miniature railway to ride, great for little and big kids! And when you need a rest, relax in the sun at Rushcliffe Country Park where the green children’s play area is right next to our line at Ruddington. More details from www.gcrn.co.uk and www.125group.org.uk