57309 at Eastleigh - 25 March 2018

This slightly earthy scene at Eastleigh illustrates the longevity of many of the locomotives (and other stock) seen today at a once great depot and works which has enjoyed a substantial renaissance. The Class 57s were converted from 47s - DRS 57309 'Pride of Crewe' was 47806 - and the 73s have been around for more than 60 years. Both classes have carried different liveries and performed varying roles. 73133, here behind 57309, is in Transmart Trains scheme. I know very little about wagons but I imagine the one in this picture also has a long history.

During this visit to a place where photography is never easy, other DRS 57s were visible and, notably, two 37s which have been in service since the early 1960s. I do not dislike the more recent locomotives such as classes 66, 67, 68 and 88 but I am saddened by the reduction in overall numbers and loco-hauled diagrams. The 37s and 73s in particular are part of the thread of my long interest in railways.

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