Remember The Thumpers

A 2004 Online Video production looking at diesel electric multiple units commonly known as Thumpers which were introduced by British Rail in 1957 for use on Southern Region non electrified lines. We start with footage dating from 1969 with units operating shortly prior to closure of Swanage branch. Then we see operation from the mid 1980’s of 6 car units working the line between Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Hasting before it was electrified in May 1986. A jump to 1993 sees unit 1001 working in a 2 car formation on preserved Kent and East Sussex Railway. Further features include final day’s workings on East Grinstead line and Uckfield line including a journey between Crowborough and Uckfield. Thumpers are then shown in scenes dating 1998 and 2003 working between Ashford International and Hastings