125 Heritage

125 Heritage is a preservation group at the Colne Valley Railway in Castle Hedingham, Essex, dedicated to keeping the Inter-City 125 (HST) alive in heritage service. Its operation focuses on public running days, displays, and special events. The group advertises HST rides, power cars on display, departures every 30 minutes during major celebrations, and occasional cab rides. This shows a practical, visitor-facing approach: the trains are preserved, but they are also operated for education and enjoyment.

A major part of that work is the Class 43 power car fleet. On its “Our Vehicles” page, 125 Heritage lists five operational power cars: 43023, 43071, 43073, 43082, and 43165. These are maintained for use and represent different stages of HST history. The page highlights technical variety too: 43071 is fitted with an MTU engine, while 43073 and 43082 are fitted with Paxman VP185 engines. It also notes that 43082 was the first power car started by the group and has been in regular operation since 2021. Alongside the power cars, 125 Heritage also preserves Mk3 trailer coaches, helping recreate an authentic HST set in rural Essex. Together, this fleet gives enthusiasts a chance to experience working HST traction and coaching stock up close.

The Fishplate playlist features a collection of videos centered around British Rail Class 43 HST power cars and related railway operations. Many of the videos focus on the Colne Valley Railway, where 125 Heritage operates preserved Inter-City 125 units for public running days and special events. Notable power cars featured include 43023, 43071, 43073, 43082, and 43165, with some videos highlighting their technical specifications, such as the different engine types fitted to certain units. The playlist also includes footage of these power cars in operation alongside Mk3 coaches, providing a glimpse into the historical HST sets.

In addition to heritage operations, the videos capture Class 43 units in service across various parts of the UK, including locations like Chesterfield, Doncaster, Meadowhall Interchange, and Dawlish Warren. Some footage includes multiple power cars from different operators, such as East Midlands Railway, Cross Country, and South West Trains. While not all videos specify exact dates or events, they collectively showcase the continued presence and variety of Class 43 units in both heritage and operational contexts. The playlist also occasionally features other locomotive classes and diesel multiple units, adding to the diversity of railway scenes presented.