Thoughts on the 121s

The 121 has reached its final livery, does anyone notice anything they would like to see changed?

A Farewell Filled with Fond Memories

They say you cannot escape fate, the Bubble Cars have dodged their fate for decades, eventually they can cheat it no longer. Today Chiltern is having a special ceremony to retire these grand ladies. Whilst they may not have the grace and prestige in the railway hierarchy that a Western (52) or Deltic (55) have, they both are from the same era, the BR Green era, and the Bubble Cars have served far longer than the 55s, a testament to the little mechanical DMUs. Though these specific 121s spent some time retired, they will end 60+ years of continuous slam door multiple unit operation. These are the last 1st generation multiple units, the 101s went and it was a sad day, but the 121s had started running again, today is their final day. We must bid them farewell with sadness of course, but with all of the happy memories. Memories made in 121s scrapped or retired decades ago, and memories made on the short but unforgettable 18 minute trip through Buckinghamshire to or from Aylesbury. Thank you to Chiltern Railways for all they have done to keep these 2 treasures working, and to get 121020 ready for today's ceremony, as well as being all polished up for the cameras!!

A Sad Day

On the 19th of May at 12.15pm UK time at Little Kimble Station, Chiltern Railways 121 Nos 121020 and W 55034 are set to arrive at a ceremony at Little Kimble Station. This ceremony will end more than 60 years of continuous slam door service on Britain's railways. These 2 beautiful vehicles have served honourably and hopefully will both go to nice new homes, maybe a mainline certified 121???? 57 years of their service are coming to an end, and what icons they have become. Thank you to Chiltern for keeping them going all of these years. I thought it was important to draw some attention to recognise these beautiful vehicles.