Class 33 – D6535

D6535, part of the National Collection, stands as a significant example of British Railways’ medium-powered diesel locomotives developed under the 1955 Modernisation Plan.

Built in 1960 by Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company, D6535 was ordered by the Southern Region, which requested a modified version of locomotives already supplied to the Eastern Region. Enhancements included a more powerful Sulzer engine, electric train heating, and both air and vacuum braking systems. Two variants were built—98 locomotives in total—including 12 to the narrower Hastings gauge.

D6535’s class later saw 19 examples modified for push-pull operation with EMUs on the Bournemouth–Weymouth line, where the locomotive would haul a service from Bournemouth to Weymouth and return under driver control from the EMU cab. This versatile system remained in use until electrification reached Weymouth, with duties also extending to Salisbury and Clapham Junction–Kensington Olympia services.

D6535 entered traffic in December 1960, first allocated to Hither Green and later serving at Eastleigh, Stewarts Lane, and Old Oak Common, where it was withdrawn by EWS following a shunting accident. In 1993, it was named Hertfordshire Railtours at Weymouth Quay. Upon withdrawal in 1998, it was earmarked by the Railway Heritage Committee for inclusion in the National Collection.

After years stored at Old Oak Common, where it deteriorated in the open, the locomotive moved to the Great Central Railway in 2005 under the custodianship of the 5305 Locomotive Association. Early work included a partial rewire, engine repairs, and bodywork attention. However, prolonged exposure to the elements in London had caused significant corrosion, especially in the cab fronts and lower body panels. Water-trapping filler and failed internal guttering further contributed to widespread rot.

Recognising the locomotive’s historical importance, a comprehensive restoration is currently nearing completion and has included full structural repairs to bodywork, renewal of corroded metal sections, and ongoing repairs to the cabs at both ends—ensuring that D6535 continued to tell the story of diesel development.