Although to many diesels will always be thought of as the machines that killed steam, there have been many notable diesel locomotives which have created their own followers and fans. Who can fail to be excited by the roar of a Deltic when the power is cranked up as its two massive engines release 3,300 horsepower and move a train up to 100 miles an hour? Or witness the seemingly-disconnected sound of the hydraulic powertrain of a Western or a Warship? Or thrill to the unique sound of the great English Electric type 4s - the Whistlers?

All these and more are amongst our Top 10 diesels, the others being class 33 Cromptons, class 35 Hymeks, class 37 Growlers, class 45 Peaks, class 50 Hoovers and the unique class 73 Electro-diesels. They are presented in their class numerical order so as not to hurt anyone's sensitivities!

These magnificent machines have all but disappeared from main line service as soulless all-powered-vehicle DMUs and EMUs now rule the rails. Nevertheless, many of these classic diesels still work on heritage railways and some even still run on special trains on the Network. You don't have to go anywhere to see them - just enjoy this programme!

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