Alex Coomber
A Class 438 (4TC) No. 8034. The Class 4TC Trailer Control were non powered 3 and 4 car units converted from locomotive hauled carriages during 1967/8 and in 1974. This was a cost effective solution to the problem of providing a service to Weymouth after the end of Southern Steam in 1967. When electrification through to Weymouth could not be justified. 1 or 2 such units would be propelled by a 3200 hp 4REP (Restaurant Electro Pneumatic) unit from London Waterloo to Bournemouth. At Bournemouth. 1 or 2 units would be detached and hauled forward to Weymouth by a Class 33/1 locomotive. On the return run. The units were propelled back to Bournemouth by the locomotive. The units were rendered surplus when the line to Weymouth was eventually electrified in 1988 and the units were withdrawn by 1991. No. 8034 is seen at London Waterloo in April 1987.
