HML Train Running

The December, 2013 and January, 2014 Railway Magazine include two articles on train running on the Highland Main Line by Keith Farr detailing the performance of various forms of diesel traction between Perth and Inverness, along with a number of photographs taken over the years along the route, including one of the erstwhile Clansman which ran between Inverness and London Euston via Coatbridge and the West Midlands. The earliest report is of two class 26s in April, 1971 and the latest two were on 8th October, 2013 when the author recorded two class 158s in one direction (one of them a Haymarket unit) and a class 170 in the other. Both daytime and sleeper trains are included and amongst the other traction units recorded are class 24, 37, 40, 47 and HST. The author concludes by asking whether double-tracking and electrification are preferable to yet more widening of the A9 and mentions the aspirations for an hourly service. Other rail-interest magazines are available.