GeoGraph - photograph every grid square

Willesden Junction - APT

In December 1981 the prototype version of the Advanced Passenger Train entered service on London to Glasgow expresses. It suffered numerous minor failures and was crucified by the press. Despite the setback, testing continued and in the summer of 1982 it returned to service. Although it now ran well and reliably, it was not placed into production - the political will had gone. Passengers would wait another 20 years for high speed tilting trains to enter service in the UK - the Pendolinos, made in Italy. Ironically the APT's tilt technology was sold to the Pendolino project and is now used successfully throughout the world! Another victory for consumers and British industry by the lions of Fleet Street. In the picture we see a test run in March 1982. In the background is Willesden Shed.