The Westerns were the Western Regions diesel hydraulic flagship. Designed for express passenger work, they were equally at home on heavy freight. D1010 is one of 74 locos built from 1961 to 1963. All locos were named, each name beginning with the word Western. Built at Swindon and Crewe works, the Westerns first appeared on the scene in late 1961. They were the last of the Diesel Hydraulic classes to be withdrawn from service, after being classified as non-standard. The last four examples (including D1010) disappeared from service in February 1977. Such was their popularity with enthusiasts, seven locos of the 74 built were saved for preservation and one of these, D1015 WESTERN CHAMPION has been mainline certified. D1010 is currently undergoing a bodywork and transmission overhaul, after which she will be returned to service wearing her original livery of BR maroon with yellow bufferbeam.