Collections
Locomotives - D200
The Class 40's were first designated as type 4's. They were built to haul main line passenger services. On D200's first run in 1958 it struck a jacking tool left on the line by startled staff working in Conisborough Tunnel, unaware of the locomotives approach until the last moment. The engine was brought to a halt when the Automatic Warning System receiver was torn from the locomotive.
The first 10 engines cost £100,000 each to build and were developed for the modernisation programme. D200 was originally allocated to Stratford depot in London and on 18th March 1958 carried a headboard proclaiming "First 2000 HP Diesel London-Norwich. Progress by Great Eastern" The 40's hauled every conceivable load including Royal Trains and freight such as ammonia, and it was one of this class (D326/40126) which hauled the mail train involved in the Great Train Robbery of 1963.
The class were withdrawn in 1985 although D200 (latterly numbered 40122) was retained by BR to run enthusiast's specials. Its final run in BR service on 16th April 1988 was from London to Norwich and then on to York, carrying a headboard proclaiming "Last 2000 HP Diesel London - Norwich. Progress by Inter-City". On arrival at York D200 entered the NRM to become part of the National Collection.
The class were know affectionately as "Whistlers" because of the characteristic engine exhaust sound.
- Name: British Rail (English Electric) Diesel-electric 2,000 bhp type 4 No D200 (class 40 No 40122)
- Class: Class 40
- Built: 1958
- Built by : English Electric
- Weight: 136 tonnes operational
- Driving wheel Diameter: 3' 9" (1.442m)
- Wheel Arrangement: I Co-Co I
- Power: 2000 HP
Locomotive inventory number 1988-7001
Photograph reference number NRM_CT_936501