Midland and Scottish Region Railways The Late 1940s to the Early 1960s

The 1950s and 1960s was a time of profound cultural and technological transformation. With images and vivid recollections, we journey back to the newly formed London Midland and Scottish regions of British Railways. We explore favourite routes and railway places, many now changed beyond recognition. Trackside, at busy stations, in and around depots – an evolving mood is revealed in pictures. In the 1950s, railway pride and optimism overcame staff shortages. Former LMS classes returned to pre-war performance and modern BR standard designs were introduced. By the 1960s, fiscal efficiency and the dawning diesel era turned pride to neglect. Sparkling steel gave way to dust, rust and flaking paint. This photographic tour includes some of the most characterful former LMS routes. People, machines and landscapes are crystalized on film for future generations; reawakening memories for those who lived through this time of change and offering a fascinating insight for those who are too young to have been trackside during this intriguing period of railway history.

As the curtain closed for mainline steam traction, Brian captured with film and vivid memories, the sights, sounds and smells; the last acts of great mechanical and human railway personalities. Close friends with railway workers, Brian was a member of Alan Peglar’s original Flying Scotsman support team, helped restore Bressingham’s Thundersley, and ran with the A4 Sir Nigel Gresley. Brought-up with lathes, mills, the smell of cutting oil and steam, Ian developed a passion for science and engineering. Designing an LNER B17 steam replica as a teenager, he pursued a career as a professional engineer. Ian retains an admiration for the generations of engineers whose imagination gave birth to modern industry and transportation.