Class 43 locomotives were introduced to British Rail from 1976 onwards and eventually numbered 197 in total. In Scotland, they were initially allocated to Craigentinny Depot in Edinburgh and later to Inverness and in recent years to Cadder Depot, near Glasgow. They became known as High Speed Trains, or HSTs, and initially ran on the east coast route between Edinburgh and London King’s Cross. In later years, the fleet spread their wings to many other parts of Scotland and even worked charters to Fort William and Stranraer. A number of the locos were also upgraded at Crewe Works in the mid-1990s and re-fitted with Mirrlees Blackstone engines which were more environmentally friendly. This book documents the class from the late 1970s in the BR era through to privatisation and beyond. These locos have performed reliably and worked all over Scotland, and some are now preserved at various heritage lines throughout the United Kingdom.

With a wealth of previously unpublished images, this book will delight Scottish rail enthusiasts both young and old.

'An excellent read for those who follow the HST 'scene'.' * West Highland News, Autumn 2025 *
'This book offers a pictorial record of the HSTs, captured in many locations - including some unusual routes - and showing off a rainbow of different liveries. Both passenger and departmental HST sets are featured, as is informative supporting text.' * Model Rail Magazine, November 2025 *

Colin J. Howat has lived in Ayrshire all his life. He has worked within the rail industry for many years, and has a diploma in photography.