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{{distinguish|British Rail Class 80}}
{{distinguish|British Rail Class 80}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2023}}
{{Use British English|date=June 2013}}
{{Use British English|date=June 2013}}
{{Refimprove|date=December 2009}}
{{More citations needed|date=December 2009}}
{{Infobox train
{{Infobox train
|name = <span style="color:white;">Northern Ireland Railways Class 80</span>
| name = <span style="color:white;">Northern Ireland Railways 80 Class</span>
|background = #0000FF
| background = #0000FF
|image = 69, DCDR.jpg
| image = 69, North Junction.jpg
|imagesize = 300px
| imagesize = 300px
|family = [[British Railways Mark 2|Mark 2]]
| family = BR Second Generation ([[British Rail Mark 2|Mark 2]])
|caption = 80 Class power car No. 69 in preservation at the [[Downpatrick and County Down Railway]]
| caption = 80 Class power car No. 69 in preservation at the [[Downpatrick and County Down Railway]]
|manufacturer = [[British Rail Engineering Limited]]
| manufacturer = BREL ([[British Rail Engineering Limited]])
|service = 1974 – 2011 (Passenger)<br>2006 – 2017 (Sandite)
| service = 1974–2011 (Passenger)<br />2006–2017 (Sandite)
| replaced = [[UTA MED]]<br />[[UTA MPD]]
⚫
|numberbuilt = 22 power cars<br>20 intermediates<br>26 driving trailers
| yearconstruction = 1974–1979
⚫
|formation = 2, 3, 4 or 6 cars per set
| yearservice = 1974–1979
⚫
|capacity = Variable depending on trailer capacity, most 3 car sets up to 210 passengers
| refurbishment = 2006–2011
⚫
|operator = [[NI Railways|Northern Ireland Railways]]
| yearscrapped = 1983–2019
⚫
|maxspeed = {{Convert|70|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
⚫
| numberbuilt = 22 power cars<br />20 intermediates<br />26 driving trailers<br />Total: 22 sets
⚫
|weight =
| numberpreserved = 3 sets
⚫
|brakes =
| numberscrapped = 19 sets
⚫
|engine = [[English Electric diesel engines|English Electric 4SRKT]]
⚫
| formation = 2, 3, 4 or 6 cars per set
⚫
|safety = [[Automatic Warning System#British Rail AWS|AWS]], [[Train Protection & Warning System|TPWS]]
⚫
| capacity = Variable depending on trailer capacity, most 3 car sets up to 210 passengers
⚫
|gauge = [[Irish gauge]] – {{RailGauge|1600mm}}
⚫
| operator = [[Northern Ireland Railways]]
⚫
|lines = [[Belfast-Derry railway line|Belfast-Derry]]<br>[[Belfast-Bangor railway line|Belfast-Bangor]]<br>[[Belfast-Newry railway line|Belfast-Newry]]<br>[[Belfast-Larne railway line|Belfast-Larne]]<br>[[Coleraine-Portrush railway line|Coleraine-Portrush]]<br>[[Lisburn-Antrim railway line|Lisburn-Antrim]] (Until 2003)
⚫
| maxspeed = {{Convert|75|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
⚫
| weight =
⚫
| brakes =
⚫
| engine = [[English Electric diesel engines|English Electric 4SRKT]]
⚫
| safety = [[Automatic Warning System#British Rail AWS|AWS]], [[Train Protection & Warning System|TPWS]]
⚫
| gauge = [[Irish gauge]] – {{RailGauge|1600mm}}
⚫
| lines = At time of withdrawal:<br />[[Belfast-Derry railway line|Belfast-Derry]]<br />[[Belfast-Bangor railway line|Belfast-Bangor]]<br />[[Belfast-Newry railway line|Belfast-Newry]]<br />[[Belfast-Larne railway line|Belfast-Larne]]<br />[[Coleraine-Portrush railway line|Coleraine-Portrush]]<br />Formerly:<br />[[Lisburn-Antrim railway line|Lisburn-Antrim]]
}}
}}


The '''Class 80''' is a type of [[diesel electric multiple unit]] formerly used by [[Northern Ireland Railways]]. They were affectionately nicknamed 'Thumpers' by rail enthusiasts due to the thumping noise their engines produced.
The '''80 Class''' is a type of [[diesel electric multiple unit]] formerly used by [[Northern Ireland Railways]]. They were affectionately nicknamed 'Thumpers' by rail enthusiasts due to the thumping noise their engines produced.


==History==
==History==
By the early 1970s the MEDs and units inherited from the [[Great Northern Railway (Ireland)|Great Northern Railway]] (GNR) had been in service for 20 years, and the MPDs for 10 years. To replace these increasingly life-expired units, [[Northern Ireland Railways]] (NIR) placed an order with [[British Rail Engineering Limited]] (BREL) for 9 new DMUs. These were to be built as four 3-car and five 2-car sets and were delivered in 1974/75. Structurally, the new trains were based on the [[British Rail Mark 2]]b bodyshell, which NIR was already using for the [[Enterprise (train)|Enterprise]] service. The new trains were classified as the Class 80.
By the early 1970s, the [[UTA MED|MED]]s and units inherited from the [[Great Northern Railway (Ireland)|Great Northern Railway]] (GNR) had been in service for 20 years, and the [[UTA MPD|MPD]]s for 10 years. To replace these increasingly life-expired units, [[Northern Ireland Railways]] (NIR) placed an order with [[British Rail Engineering Limited]] (BREL) for 9 new DMUs. These were to be built as four 3-car and five 2-car sets and were delivered in 1974/75. Structurally, the new trains were based on the [[British Rail Mark 2]]b bodyshell, which NIR was already using for the [[Enterprise (train)|Enterprise]] service. The new trains were classified as the 80 Class.


The power cars were fitted with an [[English Electric]] 560 HP diesel engine, with electric transmission to two traction motors mounted on the rear bogie. The seating capacity of the power cars was 45, however after providing for wheelchair accommodation, this was reduced to 42. The vehicle also incorporated a guards/parcel compartment. The intermediate coaches were fitted with an additional door on each side to aid passenger flow and had a capacity of 87. The driving trailers had a small cab built at one end, which necessitated the removal of six seats. This cab was set to the left to preserve the gangway connection, so that two train sets could be coupled together and still allow passengers to travel between the trains. All three types are of integral construction, however the power cars, because of their weight, also have an underframe. They were similar to the [[UTA 70 Class]], both mechanically and electrically.
The power cars were fitted with an [[English Electric]] {{Convert|560|hp|abbr=on}} diesel engine, with electric transmission to two traction motors mounted on the rear bogie. The seating capacity of the power cars was 45, however after providing for wheelchair accommodation, this was reduced to 42. The vehicle also incorporated a guards/parcel compartment. The intermediate coaches were fitted with an additional door on each side to aid passenger flow and had a capacity of 87. The driving trailers had a small cab built at one end, which necessitated the removal of six seats. This cab was set to the left to preserve the gangway connection, so that two train sets could be coupled together and still allow passengers to travel between the trains. All three types are of integral construction, however the power cars, because of their weight, also have an underframe. They were similar to the [[UTA 70 Class]], both mechanically and electrically.


The Class 80 was intended to replace the aging MED, MPD and ex-GNR AEC and BUT railcars on the NCC services and the suburban service between [[Bangor railway station, Northern Ireland|Bangor]] and [[Portadown railway station|Portadown]]. The railcars proved so successful that a second series was ordered in 1975, entering service in 1977/78.
The 80 Class was intended to replace the aging MED, MPD and ex-GNR AEC and BUT railcars on the NCC services and the suburban service between [[Bangor railway station, Northern Ireland|Bangor]] and [[Portadown railway station|Portadown]]. The railcars proved so successful that a second series was ordered in 1975, entering service in 1977/78.


Each vehicle was numbered individually, with power car numbers running from 67 to 69, and 81 to 99. The Intermediate Trailers were numbered 761 to 780 and the Driving Trailers were numbered 731 to 756. Power cars 81 to 89 were built between 1974/1975, while 67 to 69 and 90 to 99 were built between 1978/1979. Intermediate Trailers 761 to 764 were also built between 1974/1975, with 765 to 773 being completed between 1978/1979. Likewise, the Driving Trailers were also completed in batches, with 731 to 739 built between 1974/1975 and 740 to 751 built between 1978/1979. The additional coaches were conversions from BR or old [[NI Railways]] loco-hauled coaches, and were not original Class 80 vehicles. These were Driving Trailers 752 to 756 and Intermediate Trailers 774 to 780. During the mid-1990s the surviving vehicles were all renumbered by Translink, by adding 8000 to their numbers to avoid duplication with the bus fleet operated by Ulsterbus and Citybus, also Translink subsidiaries.
Each vehicle was numbered individually, with power car numbers running from 67 to 69, and 81 to 99. The Intermediate Trailers were numbered 761 to 780 and the Driving Trailers were numbered 731 to 756. Power cars 81 to 89 were built between 1974/1975, while 67 to 69 and 90 to 99 were built between 1978/1979. Intermediate Trailers 761 to 764 were also built between 1974/1975, with 765 to 773 being completed between 1978/1979. Likewise, the Driving Trailers were also completed in batches, with 731 to 739 built between 1974/1975 and 740 to 751 built between 1978/1979. The additional coaches were conversions from BR or old [[NI Railways]] loco-hauled coaches, and were not original 80 Class vehicles. These were Driving Trailers 752 to 756 and Intermediate Trailers 774 to 780. During the mid-1990s the surviving vehicles were all renumbered by Translink, by adding 8000 to their numbers to avoid duplication with the bus fleet operated by Ulsterbus and Citybus, also Translink subsidiaries.


===Use by Iarnród Éireann===
===Use by Iarnród Éireann===
[[File:IE80Class.jpg|thumb|alt=Diesel train standing in station with passengers boarding|An unidentified 80 class set carrying the then Iarnród Éireann logo at Dún Laoghaire in 1988.]]
[[File:IE80Class.jpg|thumb|alt=Diesel train standing in station with passengers boarding|An unidentified 80 class set carrying the then Iarnród Éireann logo at Dún Laoghaire in 1988.]]
Three 3-car sets were leased by [[Iarnród Éireann]] (IÉ) from NIR in October 1987 for use on, respectively, the [[Bray railway station|Bray]]–[[Greystones railway station|Greystones]] shuttle (previously operated by a push–pull set rebuilt from [[CIÉ 2600 Class]] railcars), the [[Dublin Connolly railway station|Dublin Connolly]]–[[Maynooth railway station|Maynooth]] route, and the [[Cork Suburban Rail|Cork–Cobh line]]. They were originally intended as a short-term measure until [[British Rail Mark 3|Mark 3]] push–pull sets became available.<ref>{{cite journal |last= |first= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date=February 1988|title=Railcars |trans_title= |journal=Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society |volume=16 |issue=105 |pages=360–1|id= |url= |accessdate=2009-08-17 |quote= }}</ref> The sets entered service on 2 November. In addition to their regular services, they were employed on a variety of other workings, including a nine-car [[All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship|All-Ireland hurling]] special from Cork to Dublin. However, although the sets were fitted with [[Continuous Automatic Warning System]] and IÉ train radio in March 1990 and "for a while it appeared as if the units were going to be purchased by [IÉ]," NIR required them back when the lease expired at the end of October 1990. A brief "stay of execution" for the Greystones shuttle lasted until 26 November.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Whistler |first=A.J. |authorlink= |coauthors= |date=January 1995|title=Greystones Shuttle|trans_title= |journal=Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society |volume=19 |issue=127 |pages=54–67|id= |url= |accessdate=2009-08-17 |quote= }}</ref>
Three 3-car sets were leased by [[Iarnród Éireann]] (IÉ) from NIR in October 1987 for use on, respectively, the [[Bray railway station|Bray]]–[[Greystones railway station|Greystones]] shuttle (previously operated by a push–pull set rebuilt from [[CIÉ 2600 Class]] railcars), the [[Dublin Connolly railway station|Dublin Connolly]]–[[Maynooth railway station|Maynooth]] route, and the [[Cork Suburban Rail|Cork–Cobh line]]. They were originally intended as a short-term measure until [[British Rail Mark 3|Mark 3]] push–pull sets became available.<ref>{{cite journal |date=February 1988|title=Railcars |journal=Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society |volume=16 |issue=105 |pages=360–1}}</ref> The sets entered service on 2 November. In addition to their regular services, they were employed on a variety of other workings, including a nine-car [[All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship|All-Ireland hurling]] special from Cork to Dublin. However, although the sets were fitted with [[Continuous Automatic Warning System]] and IÉ train radio in March 1990 and "for a while it appeared as if the units were going to be purchased by [IÉ]," NIR required them back when the lease expired at the end of October 1990. A brief "stay of execution" for the Greystones shuttle lasted until 26 November.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Whistler |first=A.J. |date=January 1995|title=Greystones Shuttle|journal=Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society |volume=19 |issue=127 |pages=54–67}}</ref>


===Refurbishment===
===Refurbishment===
[[File:NIR 8082.jpg|thumb|right|8082 at Belfast Central (2004)]]
{{Unreferenced section|date=April 2024}}[[File:NIR 8082.jpg|thumb|right|82 at Belfast Central (2004)]]
[[File:Sandite At Helen's Bay.JPG|thumb|right|8090 at Helen's Bay (2015)]]
[[File:Sandite At Helen's Bay.JPG|thumb|right|90 at Helen's Bay (2015)]]
[[File:Sandite At Lisburn.JPG|thumb|right|8069 at Lisburn (2015)]]
[[File:Sandite At Lisburn.JPG|thumb|right|69 at Lisburn (2015)]]
Despite the increasing age and obsolescence of the Class 80, the lack of available rolling stock meant that NIR was forced to retain a number of units, even in spite of the entry into service of the new [[NIR Class 3000|Class 3000]]. Until 2011, NIR maintained up to three 4-car units for use on passenger services. These saw a pair of 2-car units, a power car and driving trailer, coupled back to back. Six trailers were refurbished and fitted with central door locking enabling them to remain in service until the new [[NIR Class 4000|Class 4000]] units entered service in 2012. (742 had been nominated for retention but was scrapped in May 2008 and replaced in the programme by 752)
Despite the increasing age and obsolescence of the 80 Class, the lack of available rolling stock meant that NIR was forced to retain a number of units, even in spite of the entry into service of the new [[NIR Class 3000|Class 3000]]. Until 2011, NIR maintained up to three 4-car units for use on passenger services. These saw a pair of 2-car units, a power car and driving trailer, coupled back to back. Six trailers were refurbished and fitted with central door locking enabling them to remain in service until the new [[NIR Class 4000|Class 4000]] units entered service in 2012. (742 had been nominated for retention but was scrapped in May 2008 and replaced in the programme by 752)


The power cars were overhauled at LH services in Staffordshire and the trailers at York Road works in Belfast
The power cars were overhauled at LH services in Staffordshire and the trailers at York Road works in Belfast. Set 89-733-738-69 remained in service until 24 May 2008. Set 93-754-749-94 was sporadically on test from Wednesday 23 July 2008. From Monday 3 November 2008, regular passenger services commenced with this set.

Set 89-733-738-69 remained in service until Wednesday 24 May 2008

Set 93-754-749-94 was sporadically on test from Wednesday 23 July 2008. From Monday 3 November 2008, regular passenger services commenced with this set.


On Thursday 17 December 2009, a second refurbished 80 class was deployed onto the Larne Line. The final sets on the Larne Line were 90-749-752-93 and 94-754-747-82. The third refurbished set was stored at York Road and it consisted of 69-733-738-89. It was rumoured that 82 had been withdrawn from service following from an engine fire. 82 was fixed and returned to working order after the fire in Larne.
On Thursday 17 December 2009, a second refurbished 80 class was deployed onto the Larne Line. The final sets on the Larne Line were 90-749-752-93 and 94-754-747-82. The third refurbished set was stored at York Road and it consisted of 69-733-738-89. It was rumoured that 82 had been withdrawn from service following from an engine fire. 82 was fixed and returned to working order after the fire in Larne.


On Tuesday 26 January 2010, 89 entered passenger service with 93, 90 was taken off the set on Wednesday 23 January 2010. 90 was stored at the south end of the south siding at York Road.
On Tuesday 26 January 2010, 89 entered passenger service with 93, 90 was taken off the set on 23 January 2010. 90 was stored at the south end of the south siding at York Road.


=== Withdrawal from passenger service ===
=== Withdrawal from passenger service ===
In 2011, the entire [[NIR Class 450|Class 450]] fleet, together with the remaining Class 80 units, was listed by NI Railways for disposal.<ref>[http://www.translink.co.uk/Corporate/Tenders/Rail-Vehicles-for-Disposal/ Rail Vehicles for Disposal] - Translink</ref>
In 2011, the entire [[NIR Class 450|450 Class]] fleet, together with the remaining 80 Class units, was listed by NI Railways for disposal.<ref>[http://www.translink.co.uk/Corporate/Tenders/Rail-Vehicles-for-Disposal/ Rail Vehicles for Disposal] – Translink</ref>


The final Class 80 units were withdrawn from passenger service on Sunday 25 September 2011.
The final 80 Class units were withdrawn from passenger service on Sunday 25 September 2011.


== Sandite and final withdrawal ==
== Sandite and final withdrawal ==
97 was converted to a [[sandite]] spraying vehicle in 2006 and in 2006 and 2007 was used on these duties coupled to 89. On Wednesday 1 October 2008 97 had a test run with refurbished 82 and this pair were used for sandite trains until December 2008.
97 was converted to a [[sandite]] spraying vehicle in 2006 and in 2006 and 2007 was used on these duties coupled to 89. On Wednesday 1 October 2008, 97 had a test run with refurbished 82 and this pair were used for sandite trains until December 2008.


In 2009, 97 was on sandite duties again with 82. During October 2009 while out on sandite duties the engine in 97 exploded. 82 struggled with hauling dead 97 so it was decided to add 94 to back of the train to help it along.
In 2009, 97 was on Sandite duties again with 82. During October 2009 while out on sandite duties, the engine in 97 exploded. 82 struggled with hauling dead 97 so it was decided to add 94 to back of the train to help it along.


Power cars 69+94+90 and driving trailers 749+752 were overhauled, and in 2012, 97 was painted in all-over yellow to help commuters identify it as a non-passenger train. In 2013, 69, 94 and 752 were repainted into all yellow livery to join 97. As part of this repaint, 69 was accidentally renumbered 96.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.preservedthumpers.com/nir-belfastslast.html|title=NIR-belfastslast|website=Preserved Thumpers|language=en-GB|access-date=2018-05-31}}</ref>
Three Power cars 69+94+90 and two driving trailers 749+752 were overhauled, and in 2012, 97 was painted in all-over yellow to help commuters identify it as a non-passenger train. In 2013, 69, 94 and 752 were repainted into all yellow livery to join 97. As part of this repaint, 69 was accidentally renumbered 96.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.preservedthumpers.com/nir-belfastslast.html|title=NIR-belfastslast|website=Preserved Thumpers|language=en-GB|access-date=2018-05-31}}</ref>


After the 2014 sandite season, 94 was taken off the set and replaced with 90, which was never repainted into the sandite train's yellow livery. It ran as such for 2015, 2016 and 2017 with the final run taking place on Wednesday 22 November 2017.
After the 2014 Sandite season, 94 was taken off the set and replaced with 90, which was never repainted into the Sandite train's yellow sandite livery. It ran as such for 2015, 2016 and 2017 with the final run taking place on Wednesday 22 November 2017.


All but one of the Sandite vehicles were preserved. The last remaining 80 class vehicle in NIR ownership, 97, is expected to be scrapped in due course.
All but one of the Sandite vehicles were preserved. The last remaining 80 Class vehicle in NIR ownership, 97, was scrapped at York Road on 8 June 2019.


== Preservation ==
== Preservation ==


=== Downpatrick & County Down Railway ===
=== Downpatrick & County Down Railway ===
[[File:Umbra level crossing near Downhill.jpg|thumb|An 80 Class at Umbra level crossing in original maroon and blue livery.]]
[[File:Umbra level crossing near Downhill.jpg|thumb|An 80 Class at Umbra level crossing in original maroon and blue livery in 1987.]]
On Tuesday 27 March 2018, the [[Downpatrick and County Down Railway]] announced it was to preserve four 80 Class vehicles, consisting of power cars 69 and 90, and driving trailers 749 and 752. 69 and 749 have been painted in the original, as-delivered maroon and blue livery. (See photo to right) The fundraising appeal for the campaign can be found on the [http://www.downrail.co.uk/donate/dcdr80class/ DCDR's website]. In April it emerged that the campaign was endorsed by [[Pete Waterman]], one of the most notable individuals in the world of railway preservation and owner of several locomotives, including at one point [[LNER Class A3 4472 Flying Scotsman|No. 4472 <nowiki>''Flying Scotsman''</nowiki>]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/downrail/photos/a.197664943585060.50273.110143252337230/1874187492599455/?type=3&theater|title=Downpatrick and County Down Railway|website=www.facebook.com|language=en|access-date=2018-04-10}}</ref>
On Tuesday 27 March 2018, the [[Downpatrick and County Down Railway]] announced it was to preserve four 80 Class vehicles, consisting of two power cars 69 and 90, and two driving trailers 749 and 752. 69 and 749 have been painted in the original, as-delivered maroon and blue livery. (See photo to right) The fundraising appeal for the campaign can be found on the [http://www.downrail.co.uk/donate/dcdr80class/ DCDR's website]. In April it emerged that the campaign was endorsed by [[Pete Waterman]], one of the most notable individuals in the world of railway preservation and owner of several locomotives, including at one point [[LNER Class A3 4472 Flying Scotsman|No. 4472 <nowiki>''Flying Scotsman''</nowiki>]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/downrail/photos/a.197664943585060.50273.110143252337230/1874187492599455/?type=3&theater|title=Downpatrick and County Down Railway|via=Facebook|language=en|access-date=2018-04-10}}</ref> 69 is particularly notable for having worked the last [[Peace Train Organisation|Peace Train]] in 1995, an accolade which made it the subject of an episode of [[Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways]] in 2019.


90 and 752 left York Road for the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on Wednesday 12 May 2018, and 69 and 749 joined them the next day.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/downrail/posts/1870179373000267|title=Downpatrick and County Down Railway|website=www.facebook.com|language=en|access-date=2018-04-10}}</ref> It is planned that No. 69 will be named <nowiki>''Mike Collins'' in honour of the railway'</nowiki>s former chairman.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.downrail.co.uk/donate/dcdr80class/|title=Save an 80 class! {{!}} Downpatrick & County Down Railway|website=www.downrail.co.uk|language=en-GB|access-date=2018-03-30}}</ref> No. 69 was started for the first time in preservation on Wednesday 26 May 2018. It ran for the first time under its own power on Wednesday 23 June 2018, with a series of crew training and platform-gauging runs to [[Inch Abbey railway station|Inch Abbey]], [[Downpatrick Loop Platform railway station|Downpatrick Loop Platform]], and [[King Magnus' Halt railway station|Magnus Grave.]] Power car No. 90 was similarly started for the first time since it arrived at DCDR, on Wednesday 7 July 2018. The same day, 69 and 749 entered the main platform at [[Downpatrick railway station|Downpatrick station]], completing their gauging trials and thus enabling them to traverse the entire DCDR network. 69 And 749 are expected to make a return to service before the end of 2018, with 90 and 752 being much longer term projects for full restoration.<gallery mode="nolines" caption="DCDR's four 80 Class vehicles">
90 and 752 left York Road for the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on 12 May 2018, and 69 and 749 joined them the next day.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/downrail/posts/1870179373000267|title=Downpatrick and County Down Railway|via=Facebook|language=en|access-date=2018-04-10}}</ref> It is planned that No. 69 will be named <nowiki>''Mike Collins'' in honour of the railway'</nowiki>s former chairman.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.downrail.co.uk/donate/dcdr80class/|title=Save an 80 class! {{!}} Downpatrick & County Down Railway|website=downrail.co.uk|language=en-GB|access-date=2018-03-30}}</ref> No. 69 was started for the first time in preservation on 26 May 2018. It ran for the first time under its own power on 23 June 2018, with a series of crew training and platform-gauging runs to [[Inch Abbey railway station|Inch Abbey]], [[Downpatrick Loop Platform railway station|Downpatrick Loop Platform]], and [[King Magnus' Halt railway station|Magnus Grave.]] Power car No. 90 was similarly started for the first time since it arrived at DCDR, on 7 July 2018. The same day, 69 and 749 entered the main platform at [[Downpatrick railway station|Downpatrick station]], completing their gauging trials and thus enabling them to traverse the entire DCDR network.

File:8090 At DCDR.jpg|90
69 and 749 put in a [[cameo appearance]] at the 2019 [[Irish Traction Group]] 30th anniversary diesel gala, but could not carry passengers due to ongoing floor repairs in 749. The pair were originally planned to enter service in May 2020, but their launch has been postponed until further notice due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]]. 90 and 752 are much longer-term projects for full restoration, though 90 has successfully worked in multiple with 69 and 749 since arriving at DCDR.
File:752, DCDR.jpg|752
File:69, DCDR.jpg|69
File:749, DCDR.jpg|749
</gallery>


=== Other ===
=== Other ===
{{Unreferenced section|date=April 2024}}
⚫
Two other 80 Class vehicles are preserved outside the DCDR. '''Intermediate trailer 771''' was purchased in 2007 by a now-closed B&B in Ballynure, where it remains today. '''Power car 99''' is at the [[East Lancashire Railway]] in England, having been purchased for spare parts for [[British Rail Class 207|207202]]. It is currently used as a workshop/storeroom.

⚫
One other 80 Class vehicles are preserved outside the DCDR. '''Power car 99''' is at the [[East Lancashire Railway]] in England, having been purchased for spare parts for [[British Rail Class 207|207202]]. It is currently used as a workshop/storeroom.


==Fleet details==
==Fleet details==
Line 92: Line 94:
!Class
!Class
!Operator
!Operator
!No. in service
!Year built
!Year built
!Cars per set
!Cars per set
!Unit nos.
!Unit nos.
!Notes
|-
|-
|rowspan=2|'''Class 80'''
|rowspan=2|'''80 Class'''
|rowspan=2|Northern Ireland Railways
|rowspan=2|Northern Ireland Railways
|align=center|0
|rowspan=2 align=center|1974–1979
|rowspan=2 align=center|1974–1979
|align=center|Varied in service, typically 3 or 4
|align=center|Varied in service, typically 3 or 4
|67–69<br />81–99
|97 Withdrawn at York Road
|No. 69, 90, 99, 749 and 752 Preserved.
|}
|}


==Status Of Class 80 Units==
==Status of 80 Class Units==
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:100%;"
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:100%;"
|-
| style="background-color: pink" |
| Stored
|-
|-
| style="background-color: lightgrey" |
| style="background-color: lightgrey" |
Line 116: Line 115:
| style="background-color: lightskyblue" |
| style="background-color: lightskyblue" |
| Preserved
| Preserved
|-

|}
|}


Line 128: Line 125:
|67
|67
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Was involved in the derailment at Downhill in 2002, after colliding with a rockfall. Scrapped on Monday 6 December 2004.
|Was involved in the derailment at Downhill in Tuesday 4 June 2002, after colliding with a rockfall. Scrapped on Monday 6 December 2004.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|68
|68
Line 136: Line 133:
|69
|69
|Preserved
|Preserved
|Underwent refurbishment by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England. Returned to York Road Works on Friday 18 September 2009. Part of Sandite train. 69 was withdrawn on Friday 9 December 2016 but returned to service during the 2017 sandite season to run along with the new NIR MPV. Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Repainted into their first NIR livery (maroon and blue) for preservation at the Downpatrick & Co. Down Railway since Sunday 13 May 2018.
|Underwent refurbishment by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England. Returned to York Road Works on Friday 18 September 2009. Part of Sandite train. 69 was withdrawn on Friday 9 December 2016, but returned to service during the 2017 sandite season to run alongside the new NIR MPV. Its final sandite run took place on Wednesday 22, November 2017. Repainted into original NIR livery (maroon and blue) before entering preservation at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on 13 May 2018.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|81
|81
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Named ''The Boys Brigade'' in 1988. Bomb damaged in 1976 but re-built 2 years later in 1978. Scrapped in January 2006.
|Named ''The Boys Brigade'' in 1988. A 21-year-old female passenger was killed on 81 in a bombing close to Moira. 81 was re-built two years later in 1978 and re-entered service the same year. Scrapped in January 2006.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|82
|82
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Badly damaged in the arson attack at Lurgan in Sunday 6 July 1997, but repaired in 1999. Returned after refurbishment by LH Services on Monday 15 September 2008. Returned to passenger service on Thursday 17 December 2009, after spending the last two years exclusively working on sandite duties. Engine block cracked. Scrapped in February 2012.
|Badly damaged in the arson attack at Lurgan in Sunday 6 July 1997, but repaired in 1999. Returned after refurbishment by LH Services on Monday 15 September 2008. Returned to passenger service on Thursday 17 December 2009, after spending the last two years exclusively working on sandite duties. Engine block cracked. Cut up in Ballymena and Scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|83
|83
Line 152: Line 149:
|84
|84
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Removed from Adelaide and scrapped in 2008
|Removed from Adelaide and scrapped in 2008.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|85
|85
Line 168: Line 165:
|88
|88
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Scrapped after an accident at Hilden in 1983. Equipment was re-used in power car 459, to make up the ninth Class 450 set.
|Scrapped after an accident at Hilden in Friday 25 March 1983. Equipment was re-used in power car 459, to make up the ninth 450 Class set.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|89
|89
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Refurbished by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England, and returned to York Road Works on 8 July 2009. Re-entered service on Tuesday 26 January 2010. Engine block cracked. Cut at Ballymena and scrapped at Ahoghill on Thursday 2 February 2017.
|Refurbished by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England, and returned to York Road Works on Tuesday 8 July 2009. Re-entered service on Tuesday 26 January 2010. Engine block cracked. Cut at Ballymena and scrapped at Ahoghill on Thursday 2 February 2017.
|- bgcolor=lightskyblue
|- bgcolor=lightskyblue
|90
|90
|Preserved
|Preserved
|Refurbished by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England, and returned to Adelaide Yard on Sunday 14 December 2008. Formerly part of Sandite Train. Replaced 94 on the sandite train at the start of the 2015 season. 90 was withdrawn on Friday 9 December 2016 but returned to service during the 2017 sandite season to operate alongside the new NIR Multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Preserved in "Red Bull" livery at Downpatrick and County Down Railway since Wednesday 12 May 2018.
|Refurbished by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England, and returned to Adelaide Yard on Sunday 14 December 2008. Formerly part of Sandite Train. Replaced 94 on the sandite train at the start of the 2015 season. 90 was withdrawn on Friday 9 December 2016 but returned to service during the 2017 sandite season to operate alongside the new NIR Multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Arrived at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway for preservation still carrying its 'Red Bull' livery on 12 May 2018.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|91
|91
Line 188: Line 185:
|93
|93
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Damaged at Finaghy in 1980, but rebuilt the following year in 1981. Returned after refurbishment by LH Services on Monday 12 May 2008. Electrical defect. Scrapped in February 2012.
|Damaged at Finaghy in 1980, but rebuilt the following year in 1981. Returned after refurbishment by LH Services on Monday 12 May 2008. Electrical defect. Cut up in Ballymena and Scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|94
|94
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Named ''Glenariff'' in 1989. Refurbished; returned on Wednesday 2 April 2008. This power car was removed from the sandite train at the end of the 2014 season following an engine failure and was replaced by power car No. 90. Cut up at York Road and scrapped at Ahoghill on Wednesday 11 March 2017.
|Named ''Glenariff'' in 1989. Refurbished; returned on Wednesday 2 April 2008. This power car was removed from the sandite train at the end of the 2014 season following an engine failure and was replaced by power car No. 90. Cut up at York Road and scrapped at Ahoghill on 11 March 2017.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|95
|95
Line 201: Line 198:
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Named ''Glenshane'' in 1989. Scrapped in January 2006.
|Named ''Glenshane'' in 1989. Scrapped in January 2006.
|- bgcolor=pink
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|97
|97
| Scrapped
|Stored
|Named ''Glenshesk'' in 1990. Suffered irreparable engine damage and was hauled by 2 other power cars as part of the Sandite Unit. Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Expected to be scrapped summer of 2018.
|Named ''Glenshesk'' in 1990. Suffered irreparable engine damage back in October 2009 and was hauled by two other power cars as part of the Sandite Unit. Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Cut up at York Road and scrapped at Ahoghill on 8 June 2019.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|98
|98
Line 212: Line 209:
|99
|99
|Preserved
|Preserved
|Named ''Sir Myles Humphreys'' in 1978. Damaged in an attack in May 1993, but repaired during 1994. Converted to standard gauge and stored at the East Lancashire Railway in Bury, Greater Manchester, England (intended for spares for other trains)
|Named ''Sir Myles Humphreys'' in 1978. Damaged in an attack in May 1993, but repaired during 1994. Converted to standard gauge and stored at the East Lancashire Railway in Bury, Greater Manchester, England (intended for spares for other trains, specifically the British Thumpers).
|}
|}


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|770
|770
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Date of scrapping unknown
|Date of scrapping unknown.
|- bgcolor=lightskyblue
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|771
|771
|Scrapped
|Preserved
|Purchased privately in May 2007 and sited at a Bed and Breakfast near Ballynure (closed 2013).
|Purchased privately in May 2007 and sited at a Bed and Breakfast near Ballynure (closed 2013) cut up at Ballynure and scrapped on Sunday 14 May 2023.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|772
|772
Line 271: Line 268:
|773
|773
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Date of scrapping unknown
|Date of scrapping unknown.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|774
|774
Line 314: Line 311:
|732
|732
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Scrapped in January 2006.
|Scrapped in January 2006
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|733
|733
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Refurbishment not completed. Scrapped in February 2012.
|Refurbishment not completed. Cut up in Ballymena and scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|734
|734
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Scrapped on Wednesday 28 May 2008.
|Scrapped on Wednesday 28 May 2008
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|735
|735
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Date of scrapping unknown
|Date of scrapping unknown.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|736
|736
Line 338: Line 335:
|738
|738
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Refurbishment not completed. Scrapped in February 2012.
|Refurbishment not completed. Cut up in Ballymena and Scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|739
|739
Line 374: Line 371:
|747
|747
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Returned to service on Monday 3 November 2008. Scrapped in February 2012.
|Returned to service on Monday 3 November 2008. Cut up in Ballymena and scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|748
|748
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Destroyed in a bomb attack at Crumlin on Friday 25 May 1979<ref>http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/c/crumlin/index.shtml</ref>.
|Destroyed in a bomb attack at Crumlin on Friday 25 May 1979.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/c/crumlin/index.shtml|title=Disused Stations: Crumlin Station}}</ref>
|- bgcolor=lightskyblue
|- bgcolor=lightskyblue
|749
|749
|Preserved
|Preserved
|Refurbished. Spare but unused driving trailer car for Sandite Train. Repainted by NIR into their original maroon and blue livery for preservation at the Downpatrick & Co. Down Railway since Sunday 13 May 2018.
|Refurbished. Spare but unused driving trailer car for Sandite Train. Repainted into original NIR livery (maroon and blue) before entering preservation at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on 13 May 2018.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|750
|750
Line 394: Line 391:
|752
|752
|Preserved
|Preserved
|Refurbished. Part of Sandite train until final Sandite run on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Preserved at Downpatrick and County Down Railway in all over yellow livery since Wednesday 12 May 2018.
|Refurbished. Part of sandite train until final sandite run on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Arrived at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway for preservation still carrying its all-over yellow sandite livery on 12 May 2018.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|753
|753
Line 402: Line 399:
|754
|754
|Scrapped
|Scrapped
|Refurbished. Stopped on Thursday 16 December 2010. Scrapped in February 2012.
|Refurbished. Stopped on Thursday 16 December 2010. Cut up in Ballymena and scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
|755
|755
Line 413: Line 410:
|}
|}


== Gallery ==
== References ==
<gallery>
File:"80" class railcars, Larne Harbour - geograph.org.uk - 2630848.jpg
File:Train, Knockmore, Lisburn - geograph.org.uk - 2892384.jpg
File:Barn railway station (2) - geograph.org.uk - 569299.jpg
File:The Third Line, Lisburn - geograph.org.uk - 1612356.jpg
File:York Road station, Belfast (2) - geograph.org.uk - 995115.jpg
File:05 970 Bf Belfast Central, VS-VB-VT NIR.jpg
File:Road Train - geograph.org.uk - 511123.jpg
File:749, DCDR.jpg
</gallery>

==References==
<References/>
<References/>
{{Commons category|NIR Class 80}}
{{Commons category|NIR Class 80}}

Latest revision as of 02:39, 26 April 2024

Not to be confused with British Rail Class 80.

Northern Ireland Railways 80 Class
80 Class power car No. 69 in preservation at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway
In service1974–2011 (Passenger)
2006–2017 (Sandite)
ManufacturerBREL (British Rail Engineering Limited)
Family nameBR Second Generation (Mark 2)
ReplacedUTA MED
UTA MPD
Constructed1974–1979
Entered service1974–1979
Refurbished2006–2011
Scrapped1983–2019
Number built22 power cars
20 intermediates
26 driving trailers
Total: 22 sets
Number preserved3 sets
Number scrapped19 sets
Formation2, 3, 4 or 6 cars per set
CapacityVariable depending on trailer capacity, most 3 car sets up to 210 passengers
OperatorsNorthern Ireland Railways
Lines servedAt time of withdrawal:
Belfast-Derry
Belfast-Bangor
Belfast-Newry
Belfast-Larne
Coleraine-Portrush
Formerly:
Lisburn-Antrim
Specifications
Maximum speed75 mph (121 km/h)
Prime mover(s)English Electric 4SRKT
Safety system(s)AWS, TPWS
Track gaugeIrish gauge – 1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in)

The 80 Class is a type of diesel electric multiple unit formerly used by Northern Ireland Railways. They were affectionately nicknamed 'Thumpers' by rail enthusiasts due to the thumping noise their engines produced.

History

[edit]

By the early 1970s, the MEDs and units inherited from the Great Northern Railway (GNR) had been in service for 20 years, and the MPDs for 10 years. To replace these increasingly life-expired units, Northern Ireland Railways (NIR) placed an order with British Rail Engineering Limited (BREL) for 9 new DMUs. These were to be built as four 3-car and five 2-car sets and were delivered in 1974/75. Structurally, the new trains were based on the British Rail Mark 2b bodyshell, which NIR was already using for the Enterprise service. The new trains were classified as the 80 Class.

The power cars were fitted with an English Electric 560 hp (420 kW) diesel engine, with electric transmission to two traction motors mounted on the rear bogie. The seating capacity of the power cars was 45, however after providing for wheelchair accommodation, this was reduced to 42. The vehicle also incorporated a guards/parcel compartment. The intermediate coaches were fitted with an additional door on each side to aid passenger flow and had a capacity of 87. The driving trailers had a small cab built at one end, which necessitated the removal of six seats. This cab was set to the left to preserve the gangway connection, so that two train sets could be coupled together and still allow passengers to travel between the trains. All three types are of integral construction, however the power cars, because of their weight, also have an underframe. They were similar to the UTA 70 Class, both mechanically and electrically.

The 80 Class was intended to replace the aging MED, MPD and ex-GNR AEC and BUT railcars on the NCC services and the suburban service between Bangor and Portadown. The railcars proved so successful that a second series was ordered in 1975, entering service in 1977/78.

Each vehicle was numbered individually, with power car numbers running from 67 to 69, and 81 to 99. The Intermediate Trailers were numbered 761 to 780 and the Driving Trailers were numbered 731 to 756. Power cars 81 to 89 were built between 1974/1975, while 67 to 69 and 90 to 99 were built between 1978/1979. Intermediate Trailers 761 to 764 were also built between 1974/1975, with 765 to 773 being completed between 1978/1979. Likewise, the Driving Trailers were also completed in batches, with 731 to 739 built between 1974/1975 and 740 to 751 built between 1978/1979. The additional coaches were conversions from BR or old NI Railways loco-hauled coaches, and were not original 80 Class vehicles. These were Driving Trailers 752 to 756 and Intermediate Trailers 774 to 780. During the mid-1990s the surviving vehicles were all renumbered by Translink, by adding 8000 to their numbers to avoid duplication with the bus fleet operated by Ulsterbus and Citybus, also Translink subsidiaries.

Use by Iarnród Éireann

[edit]
Diesel train standing in station with passengers boarding
An unidentified 80 class set carrying the then Iarnród Éireann logo at Dún Laoghaire in 1988.

Three 3-car sets were leased by Iarnród Éireann (IÉ) from NIR in October 1987 for use on, respectively, the Bray–Greystones shuttle (previously operated by a push–pull set rebuilt from CIÉ 2600 Class railcars), the Dublin Connolly–Maynooth route, and the Cork–Cobh line. They were originally intended as a short-term measure until Mark 3 push–pull sets became available.[1] The sets entered service on 2 November. In addition to their regular services, they were employed on a variety of other workings, including a nine-car All-Ireland hurling special from Cork to Dublin. However, although the sets were fitted with Continuous Automatic Warning System and IÉ train radio in March 1990 and "for a while it appeared as if the units were going to be purchased by [IÉ]," NIR required them back when the lease expired at the end of October 1990. A brief "stay of execution" for the Greystones shuttle lasted until 26 November.[2]

Refurbishment

[edit]
82 at Belfast Central (2004)
90 at Helen's Bay (2015)
69 at Lisburn (2015)

Despite the increasing age and obsolescence of the 80 Class, the lack of available rolling stock meant that NIR was forced to retain a number of units, even in spite of the entry into service of the new Class 3000. Until 2011, NIR maintained up to three 4-car units for use on passenger services. These saw a pair of 2-car units, a power car and driving trailer, coupled back to back. Six trailers were refurbished and fitted with central door locking enabling them to remain in service until the new Class 4000 units entered service in 2012. (742 had been nominated for retention but was scrapped in May 2008 and replaced in the programme by 752)

The power cars were overhauled at LH services in Staffordshire and the trailers at York Road works in Belfast. Set 89-733-738-69 remained in service until 24 May 2008. Set 93-754-749-94 was sporadically on test from Wednesday 23 July 2008. From Monday 3 November 2008, regular passenger services commenced with this set.

On Thursday 17 December 2009, a second refurbished 80 class was deployed onto the Larne Line. The final sets on the Larne Line were 90-749-752-93 and 94-754-747-82. The third refurbished set was stored at York Road and it consisted of 69-733-738-89. It was rumoured that 82 had been withdrawn from service following from an engine fire. 82 was fixed and returned to working order after the fire in Larne.

On Tuesday 26 January 2010, 89 entered passenger service with 93, 90 was taken off the set on 23 January 2010. 90 was stored at the south end of the south siding at York Road.

Withdrawal from passenger service

[edit]

In 2011, the entire 450 Class fleet, together with the remaining 80 Class units, was listed by NI Railways for disposal.[3]

The final 80 Class units were withdrawn from passenger service on Sunday 25 September 2011.

Sandite and final withdrawal

[edit]

97 was converted to a sandite spraying vehicle in 2006 and in 2006 and 2007 was used on these duties coupled to 89. On Wednesday 1 October 2008, 97 had a test run with refurbished 82 and this pair were used for sandite trains until December 2008.

In 2009, 97 was on Sandite duties again with 82. During October 2009 while out on sandite duties, the engine in 97 exploded. 82 struggled with hauling dead 97 so it was decided to add 94 to back of the train to help it along.

Three Power cars 69+94+90 and two driving trailers 749+752 were overhauled, and in 2012, 97 was painted in all-over yellow to help commuters identify it as a non-passenger train. In 2013, 69, 94 and 752 were repainted into all yellow livery to join 97. As part of this repaint, 69 was accidentally renumbered 96.[4]

After the 2014 Sandite season, 94 was taken off the set and replaced with 90, which was never repainted into the Sandite train's yellow sandite livery. It ran as such for 2015, 2016 and 2017 with the final run taking place on Wednesday 22 November 2017.

All but one of the Sandite vehicles were preserved. The last remaining 80 Class vehicle in NIR ownership, 97, was scrapped at York Road on 8 June 2019.

Preservation

[edit]

Downpatrick & County Down Railway

[edit]
An 80 Class at Umbra level crossing in original maroon and blue livery in 1987.

On Tuesday 27 March 2018, the Downpatrick and County Down Railway announced it was to preserve four 80 Class vehicles, consisting of two power cars 69 and 90, and two driving trailers 749 and 752. 69 and 749 have been painted in the original, as-delivered maroon and blue livery. (See photo to right) The fundraising appeal for the campaign can be found on the DCDR's website. In April it emerged that the campaign was endorsed by Pete Waterman, one of the most notable individuals in the world of railway preservation and owner of several locomotives, including at one point No. 4472 ''Flying Scotsman''.[5] 69 is particularly notable for having worked the last Peace Train in 1995, an accolade which made it the subject of an episode of Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways in 2019.

90 and 752 left York Road for the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on 12 May 2018, and 69 and 749 joined them the next day.[6] It is planned that No. 69 will be named ''Mike Collins'' in honour of the railway's former chairman.[7] No. 69 was started for the first time in preservation on 26 May 2018. It ran for the first time under its own power on 23 June 2018, with a series of crew training and platform-gauging runs to Inch Abbey, Downpatrick Loop Platform, and Magnus Grave. Power car No. 90 was similarly started for the first time since it arrived at DCDR, on 7 July 2018. The same day, 69 and 749 entered the main platform at Downpatrick station, completing their gauging trials and thus enabling them to traverse the entire DCDR network.

69 and 749 put in a cameo appearance at the 2019 Irish Traction Group 30th anniversary diesel gala, but could not carry passengers due to ongoing floor repairs in 749. The pair were originally planned to enter service in May 2020, but their launch has been postponed until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 90 and 752 are much longer-term projects for full restoration, though 90 has successfully worked in multiple with 69 and 749 since arriving at DCDR.

Other

[edit]

One other 80 Class vehicles are preserved outside the DCDR. Power car 99 is at the East Lancashire Railway in England, having been purchased for spare parts for 207202. It is currently used as a workshop/storeroom.

Fleet details

[edit]
Class Operator Year built Cars per set Unit nos. Notes
80 Class Northern Ireland Railways 1974–1979 Varied in service, typically 3 or 4 67–69
81–99 		No. 69, 90, 99, 749 and 752 Preserved.

Status of 80 Class Units

[edit]
Scrapped
Preserved

Power cars

[edit]
Number Status Notes
67 Scrapped Was involved in the derailment at Downhill in Tuesday 4 June 2002, after colliding with a rockfall. Scrapped on Monday 6 December 2004.
68 Scrapped Removed from Adelaide Yard and scrapped on Friday 30 May 2008.
69 Preserved Underwent refurbishment by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England. Returned to York Road Works on Friday 18 September 2009. Part of Sandite train. 69 was withdrawn on Friday 9 December 2016, but returned to service during the 2017 sandite season to run alongside the new NIR MPV. Its final sandite run took place on Wednesday 22, November 2017. Repainted into original NIR livery (maroon and blue) before entering preservation at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on 13 May 2018.
81 Scrapped Named The Boys Brigade in 1988. A 21-year-old female passenger was killed on 81 in a bombing close to Moira. 81 was re-built two years later in 1978 and re-entered service the same year. Scrapped in January 2006.
82 Scrapped Badly damaged in the arson attack at Lurgan in Sunday 6 July 1997, but repaired in 1999. Returned after refurbishment by LH Services on Monday 15 September 2008. Returned to passenger service on Thursday 17 December 2009, after spending the last two years exclusively working on sandite duties. Engine block cracked. Cut up in Ballymena and Scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
83 Scrapped Damaged during 1992, rebuilt the following year in 1993 and finally scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
84 Scrapped Removed from Adelaide and scrapped in 2008.
85 Scrapped Removed from Adelaide and scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
86 Scrapped Named Glendun in 1992. Removed and scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
87 Scrapped Rebuilt in 1979 after being damaged by a bomb at Londonderry. Scrapped in January 2006.
88 Scrapped Scrapped after an accident at Hilden in Friday 25 March 1983. Equipment was re-used in power car 459, to make up the ninth 450 Class set.
89 Scrapped Refurbished by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England, and returned to York Road Works on Tuesday 8 July 2009. Re-entered service on Tuesday 26 January 2010. Engine block cracked. Cut at Ballymena and scrapped at Ahoghill on Thursday 2 February 2017.
90 Preserved Refurbished by LH Services at Barton under Needwood, England, and returned to Adelaide Yard on Sunday 14 December 2008. Formerly part of Sandite Train. Replaced 94 on the sandite train at the start of the 2015 season. 90 was withdrawn on Friday 9 December 2016 but returned to service during the 2017 sandite season to operate alongside the new NIR Multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Arrived at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway for preservation still carrying its 'Red Bull' livery on 12 May 2018.
91 Scrapped Scrapped Wednesday 28 May 2008.
92 Scrapped Scrapped during May 2009.
93 Scrapped Damaged at Finaghy in 1980, but rebuilt the following year in 1981. Returned after refurbishment by LH Services on Monday 12 May 2008. Electrical defect. Cut up in Ballymena and Scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
94 Scrapped Named Glenariff in 1989. Refurbished; returned on Wednesday 2 April 2008. This power car was removed from the sandite train at the end of the 2014 season following an engine failure and was replaced by power car No. 90. Cut up at York Road and scrapped at Ahoghill on 11 March 2017.
95 Scrapped Withdrawn after fire damage on 4 November 2000 and scrapped at Belfast Docks in December 2001.
96 Scrapped Named Glenshane in 1989. Scrapped in January 2006.
97 Scrapped Named Glenshesk in 1990. Suffered irreparable engine damage back in October 2009 and was hauled by two other power cars as part of the Sandite Unit. Final Sandite run took place on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Cut up at York Road and scrapped at Ahoghill on 8 June 2019.
98 Scrapped Named Glenoe in 1989. Scrapped by Clearways on Wednesday 28 May 2008.
99 Preserved Named Sir Myles Humphreys in 1978. Damaged in an attack in May 1993, but repaired during 1994. Converted to standard gauge and stored at the East Lancashire Railway in Bury, Greater Manchester, England (intended for spares for other trains, specifically the British Thumpers).

Intermediate Trailers

[edit]
Number Status Notes
761 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown
762 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
763 Scrapped Scrapped in May 2009.
764 Scrapped Removed from Adelaide Yard on Thursday 29 May 2008 and scrapped by Clearways.
765 Scrapped Removed from Adelaide Yard on Thursday 29 May 2008 and scrapped by Clearways.
766 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
767 Scrapped Destroyed by fire.
768 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 6 May 2005.
769 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown
770 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown.
771 Scrapped Purchased privately in May 2007 and sited at a Bed and Breakfast near Ballynure (closed 2013) cut up at Ballynure and scrapped on Sunday 14 May 2023.
772 Scrapped Destroyed by arson on Sunday 6 July 1997.
773 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown.
774 Scrapped Scrapped in May 2009.
775 Scrapped Scrapped in January 2006.
776 Scrapped Scrapped in May 2009.
777 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 6 May 2005.
778 Scrapped Destroyed by arson on Sunday 6 July 1997.
779 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
780 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.

Driving Trailers

[edit]
Number Status Notes
731 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown
732 Scrapped Scrapped in January 2006
733 Scrapped Refurbishment not completed. Cut up in Ballymena and scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
734 Scrapped Scrapped on Wednesday 28 May 2008
735 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown.
736 Scrapped Scrapped on Thursday 29 May 2008.
737 Scrapped Scrapped after an arson attack on Sunday 6 July 1997.
738 Scrapped Refurbishment not completed. Cut up in Ballymena and Scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
739 Scrapped Scrapped in January 2006.
740 Scrapped Destroyed by fire.
741 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown
742 Scrapped Scrapped by Clearways on Friday 30 May 2008.
743 Scrapped Scrapped in May 2009.
744 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 11 July 2008.
745 Scrapped Scrapped in May 2009.
746 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown
747 Scrapped Returned to service on Monday 3 November 2008. Cut up in Ballymena and scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
748 Scrapped Destroyed in a bomb attack at Crumlin on Friday 25 May 1979.[8]
749 Preserved Refurbished. Spare but unused driving trailer car for Sandite Train. Repainted into original NIR livery (maroon and blue) before entering preservation at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on 13 May 2018.
750 Scrapped Date of scrapping unknown
751 Scrapped Destroyed in an arson attack on Sunday 6 July 1997.
752 Preserved Refurbished. Part of sandite train until final sandite run on Wednesday 22 November 2017. Arrived at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway for preservation still carrying its all-over yellow sandite livery on 12 May 2018.
753 Scrapped Removed from Adelaide Yard on Thursday 29 May 2008 and scrapped by Clearways.
754 Scrapped Refurbished. Stopped on Thursday 16 December 2010. Cut up in Ballymena and scrapped in Ahoghill February 2012.
755 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 6 May 2005.
756 Scrapped Scrapped on Friday 6 May 2005.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Railcars". Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society. 16 (105): 360–1. February 1988.
  2. ^ Whistler, A.J. (January 1995). "Greystones Shuttle". Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society. 19 (127): 54–67.
  3. ^ Rail Vehicles for Disposal – Translink
  4. ^ "NIR-belfastslast". Preserved Thumpers. Retrieved 31 May 2018.
  5. ^ "Downpatrick and County Down Railway". Retrieved 10 April 2018 – via Facebook.
  6. ^ "Downpatrick and County Down Railway". Retrieved 10 April 2018 – via Facebook.
  7. ^ "Save an 80 class! | Downpatrick & County Down Railway". downrail.co.uk. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  8. ^ "Disused Stations: Crumlin Station".
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