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Class 26 and Class 27 Embroidered Clothing Now Available!

Class 26 loco 26007-2 Metal Sign

We have just added Class 26 and Class 27 locos to our embroidered range so you can now relive those 1970s and 1980s Freedom of Scotland memories!

Which Class 26 and Class 27 Colour Schemes Are Available?

Currently, both loco designs are available in BR Green and BR Blue. Depending on popularity, I may add the Class 26 Dutch Civils, Red Stripe Railfreight and Coal Sector variations.

These new embroidered designs are available on the full range of clothing, plus beanie hats and caps plus our popular rucksacks, backpacks and messenger bags.

What Were The Class 26 and Class 27 Locos?

If you missed the Class 26s and Class 27s in service, you missed a real treat. They were built by the Birmingham Railway and Carriage Works (BRCW) and entered service between 1958 and 1962. They were designated as BR Type 2s designed for local freight, parcels and passenger duties.

Where Did The 26 and 27 Type 2s Work?

Initially these locos were used for local passenger and freight duties around North London, particularly from Kings Cross. In the late 1960s they transferred north to the Scottish Region, in part because of the poor reliability of the Class 17s and Class 29s. The Class 26s and Class 27s then became synonomous with the scottish region of British Rail and could be found pretty much anywhere in Scotland.

Many enthusiasts will remember them working services on the West Highland line from Glasgow to Fort William and Oban and from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh and the Wick/Thurso services on the Far North Line.

Random stations such as Achnasheen, Crianlarich, Tyndrum Upper and Lower and Arrochar and Tarbet are all well known leaps for fans of these locos!!

Were The Class 26 and Class 27 Locos any Good?

In general, both classes were pretty reliable and capable locos for their intended duties. From a Railway Enthusiasts point of view, they were pretty cool locos. They had that lovely Sulzer sound and being rated at just over 1000hp, were always worked hard and provided an entertaining performance on services.

In later years, Class 27s in particular, gained a reputation for self combusting and several locos were condemned following loco fires.

The Class 27s were first to be withdrawn due to their propensity to catch fire, but also never had their asbestos insulation removed. All were withdrawn by 1988. Class 26s lasted through until 1994.

Are There any Class 26 or Class 27 Locos Around Today?

Thankfully there are several of both classes preserved and in operational condition so you can still enjoy that super Sulzer sound!

These locos really suit preserved railways as they can be worked really hard before reaching the line speed and recreate those awesome Freedom of Scotland memories.

Below is a selection of the new designs!

Class 26 and Class 27 Embroidered Clothing

Thanks for reading and please dont hesitate to contact me about anything discussed in this post!

Below are some related items that may be of interest and our contact form if you would like to get in touch!

Thanks Gary

Share With Your Family & Friends !!


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