125 Group Limited

Overview

125 Group Limited is a UK-based nonprofit organisation registered as a charity in England and Wales under the number 1167120. It is primarily known as the largest and oldest High Speed Train (HST) interest group and preservation organisation. The charity aims to advance public education through the preservation, operation, and exhibition of locomotives and rolling stock of historic and scientific importance[2][3].

History

Established in 1994, 125 Group originally began as a small information group focused on HST operations. Over time, it evolved into a full-fledged preservation group dedicated to preserving the legacy of the High Speed Train. Notable achievements include transforming the National Railway Museum's prototype HST power car into a working exhibit after thirty years of inactivity and recreating a prototype train that carried passengers on preserved lines for five years[3].

Activities

The organisation maintains a fleet of HST vehicles, including five power cars and nine trailers, along with some loco-hauled support vehicles. These are stored across two sites in the East Midlands, where they are kept operational and fit for use on Network Rail tracks. The group also operates a large collection of spare parts for all vehicle types and an archive of historic and technical details and photographs[3].

Charitable Objectives

125 Group's charitable objectives include promoting public education and awareness through the exhibition and operation of historic locomotives and rolling stock. They achieve this by participating in public events and services to preserve the heritage of the High Speed Train. The organisation publishes a quarterly magazine, One Two Five, which keeps members informed about the latest developments and news related to HSTs[2][3].

Corporate Structure

125 Group Limited is a private company limited by guarantee without share capital, incorporated on April 20, 2011. Initially known as High Speed Diesel Train Limited, it changed its name to 125 Group Limited on May 18, 2016[5]. It is classified under the Standard Industrial Classification code 49390 for other passenger land transport[5].

[1] https://www.125group.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5071497 [3] https://www.125group.org.uk/about-125-group/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/5071497/trustees [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07611121