To: Mr D Champion, Millennium Cavalcade Chairman, c/o Steam Railway, Apex House, Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 9NP

Dear David

First Generation Diesel Railcars at the Millennium Cavalcade

The Railcar Association believes that there is an overwhelming case for first generation diesel railcars to appear at Rail 2000's Millennium Cavalcade at Shildon in August 2000, and recommends that one or more sets be invited to participate.

Almost four thousand diesel railcar vehicles were introduced on Britain's railways over the ten year period 1954 to 1963. A key component in the change from steam to diesel and electric traction, they revolutionised passenger services and have continued in service for over forty years. However fewer than one hundred vehicles remain on the main line and all will have gone by the end of 2000. So the Cavalcade is a very timely opportunity to celebrate these trains as they approach the end of their long and successful active life.

How many in the crowd will recall the pleasure of sitting behind the driver, watching the line ahead and of course imagining that they were driving the train themselves? And honoured guests who ride in the Cavalcade would welcome the excellent view of railway surroundings that only a railcar can provide.

The first generation railcars were very British vehicles. Their motive power was based on proven passenger vehicle technology then in wide use on the country's roads. They also heralded the dawn of changes to railway vehicle body design, utilising weight saving materials and new types of body structure to combine strength with economy of manufacture and operation. More good reasons for recognising the contribution they have made to today's railway scene.

You may also wish to consider the appearance of two other diesel unit types not strictly part of the first generation railcar fleet. The ex-GWR railcars of the 1930s and 1940s pioneered the use of the bus-based traction system, and W22W is still operational at the Didcot Railway Centre. And the Southern Region of British Railways introduced almost 350 of its own unique "Hastings" and mixed-density units in diesel-electric form, largely to give some compatibility with its large EMU fleet. A few of the latter are still in public service and a preserved Hastings unit is also regularly chartered for main line operation.

The diesel railcar movement is one of the most actively expanding parts of the railway preservation scene. Over thirty units are fully operational, any of which could perform at the Cavalcade. An analysis of the first generation fleet is enclosed which describes the five major types of railcar and the different contribution each has made to Britain's railways.

So, should you accept our suggestion, please let us know in the first instance which types of railcar you might be prepared to invite to the Cavalcade. The Railcar Association can then ensure that you are put in touch with the appropriate preservation groups for detailed discussions about specific vehicles. Naturally, we believe there is justification for a representative of each type to appear…!

Of course, if you wish to review our proposal in more general terms then The Railcar Association will be delighted to join in discussions with you. Just call or email me.

Regards

Tony Fox

Chairman

The Railcar Association