Caption:

In many ways, this shot shows just how advanced the

electrified railway is compared to one powered by diesel locomotives. The extreme length of these two Class 50 diesels with number 432 nearest the camera were not just there to impress. Their combined power of 5500hp was required by the new WCML timetable in the days immediately prior to the overall electrification of the whole line from Crewe to Glasgow, or, more strictly speaking, from Weaver Junction in order to keep time with the most prestigious trains. Here, they have uncoupled smartly from the southbound Royal Scot to be replaced by one comparatively small Class 86 seen waiting on the left of the picture which was all that was required under the wires.