Stunning previously unpublished photographs documenting the end of steam railways in the West Coast and Midlands area.

The 1950s and 1960s was a time of profound cultural and technological transformation. With images and vivid recollections, we journey back to the newly formed London Midland and Scottish regions of British Railways. We explore favourite routes and railway places, many now changed beyond recognition. Trackside, at busy stations, in and around depots - an evolving mood is revealed in pictures. In the 1950s, railway pride and optimism overcame staff shortages. Former LMS classes returned to pre-war performance and modern BR standard designs were introduced. By the 1960s, fiscal efficiency and the dawning diesel era turned pride to neglect. Sparkling steel gave way to dust, rust and flaking paint. This photographic tour includes some of the most characterful former LMS routes. People, machines and landscapes are crystalized on film for future generations; reawakening memories for those who lived through this time of change and offering a fascinating insight for those who are too young to have been trackside during this intriguing period of railway history.