This website has been launched on 1st January 2006 to mark the 30th anniversary of British Rail abandoning the display of Headcodes on Locomotives and Multiple Units over most of the network on 1st January 1976.

The decision to cease the display of Headcodes was based mainly on grounds of cost, both of materials required in the shape of replacement blinds and the cost of maintenance including the time stock spent out of service on account of such maintenance.

In 1976 there was much negative comment made about the loss of Headcodes, as they were used extensively by photographers to identify trains, plus operating staff and crews made use of them. Many well-informed passengers also knew the Headcodes of trains relevant to themselves, despite the Traffic department's refusal to publish Headcodes in public timetables.

Headcodes were, however, deemed by the Traffic department to be simply an operating requirement and with the advent of more advanced signalling systems and signalling 'power boxes' where the signallers could not actually see the trains, the cost argument won the day.

As much interesting and historical information as possible, much of which will be of use to modellers, will be added to this website over time. Click on one of the Headcodes in the panel on the left or the description next to it to see more.

If you want to submit any relevant information or pictures, all of which are welcome, or use any information or pictures featured on this website, please contact me.