Description

Introduced by Nigel Harris, managing editor of EMAP’s railway titles, this superb programme will bring you right up-to-date with the current rail freight scene. When British Rail finally abandoned wagon load traffic and appeared to put every obstacle in the path of any company who actually wanted to continue using their rail freight services, it seemed inconceivable that any form of rail freight renaissance could ever take place – and yet that is exactly what has happened!

The first years under English Welsh and Scottish Railway’s ownership has already seen the biggest investment programme ever to benefit the UK rail freight scene, with huge orders for rolling stock and locomotives being placed and well planned new wagon load services already being extended. As well as a close look at the Toton depot, there’s superb line side action including freight only branch lines, Enterprise and bulk flow services.

There’s also the unique opportunity to go ‘behind the scenes’ and visit customers’ premises to see wagons being unloaded and shunted. Supported by an informative and interesting script from the acknowledged rail freight expert Paul Shannon, the EWS Story is an absorbing and useful overview of current rail freight operations.

Features include:-

• An exclusive interview with Ed Burkhardt, Wisconsin boss and Chief Executive of EWS.

• A fascinating look ‘behind the scenes’ at Toton depot – including plenty of action over the special EWS/RAIL Open Weekend.

West Coast mainline traffic flows – scenic action, plus a visit to busy Mossend yard and, the Euroterminal to see the new Parcel Force wagons being unloaded.

• An overview of some typical rejuvenated freight flows, including timber to Chirk, and a site visit to Kronospan.

Wales – heavy freight for British Steel featuring 59s at work.

• The renaissance of rail freight on the scenic Settle to Carlisle route – the line that BR once said ‘must be closed’.

• Scotland – the West Highland Line featuring action along one of Scotland’s most beautiful railway lines, highlighting Enterprise services, plus a site visit to Arjo Wiggins to see wagons being loaded on site.

• Also a look at Taynuilt & Crainlarich timber loading points.