Type 5 Alliance

The Type 5 Alliance is dedicated to preserving, operating, and celebrating some of Britain’s most powerful diesel locomotives. Our focus is on the three iconic heavy-haul classes that defined freight operations from the late 20th century onwards:

Class 60 – The last of the British-built heavy freight diesels, entering service in the 1990s. With immense power and modern systems, the Class 60 was built to haul the heaviest loads across the UK rail network.

Class 56 – Introduced in the 1970s, the “Grid” became a backbone of heavy freight, known for its distinctive growl and strength in hauling coal, steel, and bulk trains.

Class 58 – Nicknamed the “Bone,” this 1980s design brought a modern, modular approach to locomotive building, serving quarries, power stations, and beyond.

Class 60

Class 56

Class 58

Our Mission

The Alliance exists to safeguard these important locomotives for future generations. We aim to:

Restore and maintain locomotives to working condition.
Share knowledge and resources between preservation groups
Provide opportunities for enthusiasts and the public to experience these machines in action.
Highlight the engineering, history, and cultural importance of the Type 5 fleet.

Get Involved

We welcome anyone with a passion for Britain’s heavy diesel fleet. Whether you’re an enthusiast, volunteer, or supporter, your involvement helps us keep the Class 56, 58, and 60 locomotives alive on both heritage and mainline rails.