The Changing Southern Scene 1948-1981
There have been many important changes to the railways of Britain in the 33-year period covered in this book: the changes caused by the Nationalisation in 194 and the disappearance of the 'Big Four', which might have made small differences to the passengers - some new markings and liveries on the rolling stock, some new badges and insignia on the officials' uniforms - but which betokened a major change in ownership, control and outlook; the changes caused by the decision to terminate the use of steam traction which took final effect between 1967 and 1968; the changes caused by the reduction of services by successive cuts culminating in Dr Beeching's. All these changes affected the Southern as they did the other Regions of BR, but the resultant network in the south of England in 1981 is very different to its counterparts and reflects the basic differences the Southern has always had. To begin with the passengers using Southern lines are mainly commuters - and they require different services to other travellers - secondly the Southern has a history of electrification dating back to the pre-World War I years and in 1981 it runs the largest electrified suburban network in the world, pioneering new techniques and rolling stock. The demise of steam merely assisted this accomplishment rather than necessitating it.
Michael Baker shows all the changes to the Southern in this comprehensive pictorial record of the Southern scene. With over 220 splendid photographs and detailed, informative captions, it will both delight and instruct the reader.
Hardback with dust jacket, 112 pages, black & white photographs
Condition: Good/Very Good with some wear to DJ
ISBN: 9780711010901
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