Graham Farish 371-007ASF
British Rail Class 08 08953 British Rail Engineers Grey
Class & Prototype
- Class: British Rail Class 08
- Traction: Diesel
- Transmission: Electric
- Built: 1952-1962
- Total Built: 996
The British Rail Class 08 diesel-electric shunter represents Britain's most numerous locomotive class with 996 built 1952-1962. Powered by the reliable English Electric 6KT diesel engine producing 350-400hp, these 0-6-0 yard locomotives continue working after seven decades, with 100-170 still in active service alongside 87 preserved examples. The Class 08's universal deployment across freight yards, passenger stations, and industrial sidings from 1953 to present makes it the most versatile British diesel for model railway layouts.
No prototype found.
Operator & Livery
- Operator: British Rail
- Livery: Engineers Grey
British Rail (1965-1997) transformed Britain's railways through revolutionary modernisation, introducing the iconic double arrow logo, Rail Blue livery, and business sectorisation. BR pioneered high-speed rail with the InterCity 125 and Advanced Passenger Train, electrified major routes, and created profitable divisions like InterCity and Network SouthEast. From steam succession through diesel and electric development to privatisation preparation, British Rail's diverse locomotive fleet, multiple livery schemes, and operational scenarios provide unparalleled variety for railway modellers across all scales and periods.