153371 Class 153 Driving Motor Second Lavatory

Home Railway

Great Central Railway

Location History

Great Central Railway Dec 23-Present

Current Location

Great Central Railway

Current Status

Operational

Current Livery

London Midland

TRA Designation

4

Owner

Great Central Railway

Website

gcrailway.co.uk

Record Last Updated

1 April 2024

Preservation Modifications
None

Preservation Information
153371 was the first complete Class 153 to enter "preservation" although the owners, Great Central Railway, were quick to announce that the vehicle was not purchased as a traditional historic item and was fully intended to be used as a commercial asset intended for income generating testing contracts. It was acquired along with sister 153308 which came to the line shortly after 153371.

Unfortunately 153371 suffered a graffiti attack almost immediately after arrival.

In January 2024, 153371 was moved to Loughborough motive power depot where it received repairs and interior cleaning to quickly bring it back into a condition suitable for carrying passengers. In a "worst kept secret" style of delivery, the railway soon announced that 153371 was in fact to do more than just private testing work and that enthusiasts were to be given the opportunity to enjoy the vehicle in heritage passenger service over Easter weekend.

153371 made history in March 2024 when it operated its first passenger services in preservation, which also marked the very first preserved Sprinter train workings in preservation.

153371 continues to operate private work at the Great Central with occasional public appearances.

Future Plans
153371 will continue to be used to generate income for the GCR by being available primarily for hiring and testing contracts, but also making special appearances at selected public events.

153371 about to depart Loughborough on its first weekend in passenger service, and the first weekend of official Sprinter services in preservation! 30/3/24. Bruce Pollard

153371 on the depot at Loughborough being repaired and prepared for passenger service, 13/1/24. Harrison Fawcett

The newly arrived 153371 is being prepared to make its first move in preservation from the unloading pad at Quorn & Woodhouse to Loughborough shed, 14/12/23. Great Central Railway

One of 153374's cabs, whilst being repaired and prepared for passenger service, 13/1/24. Harrison Fawcett

153374's passenger saloon, whilst being repaired and prepared for passenger service, 13/1/24. Harrison Fawcett