Hornby R3134

Class & Prototype

The British Rail Class 47, or Brush Type 4, built 1962-1968, represents Britain's most numerous mainline diesel with 512 locomotives constructed by Brush Traction and BR Crewe Works. Despite early reliability problems, a mid-1960s decision to derate engines from 2,750 to 2,580 bhp transformed the class into Britain's most dependable mixed-traffic locomotive, achieving 55+ years service. Operating across all BR regions hauling everything from royal trains to coal hoppers, Class 47s wore over 30 distinct liveries spanning BR green through colourful sector schemes to privatisation colours. Currently, Bachmann and Heljan produce exceptional OO gauge models with motorised fans, ESU LokSound V5 sound, and 150+ detail parts, while Graham Farish dominates N gauge. With 32 preserved locomotives and continuing heritage operations, the "Duff" remains an iconic part of British railway heritage.

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery

Direct Rail Services (DRS) is Britain's premier nuclear transport and commercial rail freight operator, established in 1995 by British Nuclear Fuels Limited to handle the safe movement of nuclear materials. Now owned by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority through Nuclear Transport Solutions, DRS has evolved into one of the UK's leading freight companies whilst maintaining its core nuclear transport mission.

Operating from major depots at Carlisle Kingmoor, Crewe Gresty Bridge, and Motherwell, DRS runs a modern fleet including cutting-edge Class 68 diesels and revolutionary Class 88 bi-mode locomotives alongside heritage Class 37s and specialist Class 20/3s. The company's distinctive blue and grey livery has become synonymous with operational excellence and technical innovation.

DRS's commercial success centres on its partnership with Tesco, operating ten dedicated rail routes carrying over 12,000 containers monthly, whilst infrastructure support services include rail head treatment, snow clearance, and rescue locomotive provision. The company's commitment to environmental leadership delivers 76% fewer CO2 emissions compared to road transport, with Class 88 locomotives achieving additional efficiency gains through dual-mode electric/diesel operation.

Key Facts:

• Founded: 1995 (30 years of operation)
• Owner: Nuclear Decommissioning Authority via Nuclear Transport Solutions
• Headquarters: Carlisle Kingmoor Depot
• Fleet: Class 20/3, 37, 66/4, 68, 88 locomotives
• Specialty: Nuclear transport, intermodal freight, infrastructure support
• Major Contract: Tesco (12,000+ containers/month across 10 routes)
• Environmental Impact: 76% CO2 reduction vs road transport

The Northern Belle Pullman livery was applied to Direct Rail Services Class 57 locomotives allocated to haul the luxury Northern Belle train. The scheme mirrored the colours of the Pullman-style coaching stock, featuring a rich cream and umber brown bodyside, divided by fine gold lining. The upper bodyside carried the bold “Northern Belle” name in elegant lettering, with crests and embellishments adding to the prestigious appearance. High-visibility yellow cab ends were retained for mainline compliance, but the overall finish was traditional and refined, evoking the golden age of Pullman luxury.

This livery was unique within the DRS fleet, designed specifically to complement one of Britain’s most exclusive charter trains. It provided a strong visual contrast with the operator’s standard Compass livery, underlining DRS’s role not only in freight and nuclear traffic but also in high-profile, luxury passenger operations.