West Coast Main Lines 1957-1963

Throughout its length from London to Glasgow via Crewe and Carlisle, with a loop through the West Midlands and spurs to Holyhead, Liverpool and Manchester, the West Coast Main Line has consistently provided interest for those with more than a passing interest in trains and travel. This book outlines the history of the route, its physical characteristics and sets the scene for the various passenger and goods traffic flows that sustained it; it then details the arrangements for motive power and train working through the era of change that was 1957 to 1963. The book also goes ‘behind the scenes’ to provide insights into the daily and seasonal challenges of managing that section of a wider railway network, as directed by the varying terms of relevant legislation, and a government increasingly concerned to shape the railways for the changing needs of the public, industry and the economy. The book is illustrated with colour and monochrome images and supported by maps.