The end of an era comes with the final runs in May 2010 of slam-door Mk1 carriages on Britain's main line rail system.

British Railways introduced the Mk 1 carriage design in 1952. Featuring all-steel welded construction with wood veneered interiors, gangways between coaches and slam doors at the carriage centres and ends, the basic design was perpetuated for loco-hauled trains until 1964 and, surprisingly, in electric sets for the Southern Region as late as 1972. The strength of the basic design is reflected in these carriages becoming a staple of many heritage steam railways.

The electric sets were a familiar sight south of London until the early 2000s, operating to the Kent Coast, Sussex and Hampshire. Concern over the safety of passenger operated doors and the lack of provision for disabled travellers caused their fall from favour and most were withdrawn in 2001-03. The last two 3-car sets have been working under special dispensation between Brockenhurst and Lymington but 22 May 2010 is scheduled as their last running day.

A few SR electric trains have been preserved, so it will still be possible to see and ride on these trains at the East Kent, Eden Valley and Great Central railways - pulled or pushed by a diesel, of course! And our thanks to one of these units for the donation of its traction equipment to the 5 Bel project.