Direct Rail Services has confirmed that it is auctioning off some of its fleet of heritage locomotives and Mark 2 Coaches as it aims to modernise its fleet

All DRS Class 20 locomotives will be up for sale, which were the first locomotives to be owned by Direct Rail Services, whilst a selection of Class 37s, Class 57s and Mark 2 coaches will also be available to purchase.

Parts are also available to purchase for Class 20s, 57s and Mark 2 coaches

The freight operator has also confirmed that this is just the first in a series of sales, which will see further Class 37s and 57s disposed of.

The assets up for sale are: 20301, 20302, 20303, 20304, 20304, 20308, 20309, 20312, 37606, 37703, 57302, 57311 and Mark 2s 5787, 5937, 5173, 6064.

Interested parties can sign up to place their bids via the DRS website.

The tender closes on the 11th November 2021 at 12:00.

DRS says it marks a new chapter as it aims to lower its carbon footprint and using more of their modern locomotives (Class 68s and Bi-Mode Class 88s).

A spokesperson for DRS has confirmed to RailAdvent that these locomotives, listed above, are all surplus to requirements and are not set to be replaced.

Chris Connelly, NTS Deputy CEO and Rail Director, said: “This is an important first step for DRS as we look at our fleet and our plans for the future.

“The Class 20s are really special engine to us, having been with us from the start, but things move on and a modern, dynamic rail freight operator needs a modern fleet to match our ambitions.

“This is the first phase and there will be more Class 37s and some 57s offered in the future as we move towards our net carbon zero ambitions.”

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