PLYM VALLEY RAILWAY PRESERVES POWER CAR

The Plym Valley Railway is pleased to announce that it has been generously gifted a Class 43 HST Power Car from Great Western Railway. 

The Class 43 has been synonymous with the South West having been based at Laira T&RSMD and operating from Plymouth to London Paddington since 1979, the PVR are keen to preserve such an iconic locomotive. The power car, No. 43063 will arrive in the next few days. A cosmetic overhaul will commence in the spring and the locomotive will then be placed on display so the public can visit the cab. The locomotive has had its power unit (engine) lifted as well as other important components removed so cannot be started or driven, but will be a static exhibition and an important piece of the region’s railway history saved. 

Also arriving will be Class 43 No. 43161. This power car will be a source of spares for 43063 and once the cab has been lifted, it will be broken up on site during the closed season with parts being used to keep others of its class operational. Our site is currently closed but if all goes plan, both locomotives will be visible for the duration of our Christmas Trains starting from November 30th. If two power cars were not enough, following from the pair will be No. 43091 but this will only be on site for a matter of days prior to further onward road movement. 

Daniel Phillips,  Plym Valley Railway Co. Ltd Chairman said “We would like to thank our friends at GWR for this fantastic opportunity to acquire and preserve one of the most recognised locomotives in the world. I have wanted to preserve a power car for years and am so pleased that we have been given the opportunity. There will soon be a time when the HST is not a regular visitor to the city so to have one preserved less than a mile from where they have been based for decades is amazing. If you would like to get involved in the restoration of our new asset, please get in touch with the railway”

Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates and for their arrival. Three power cars on site, wow!