English, Welsh & Scottish railways new chief, Keith Heller's policy of making better use of the companies assets is certainly having an impact on the active locomotive fleet. Apparently the companies class 66 fleet is only working for some 40% of the time, leaving considerable slack in the system. However rumours are already circulating about traction shortages and cancelled trains.

The recent closure of Cardiff Canton has seen a flurry of activity as many stored locomotives are moved from Cardiff to Margam. The rear of the depot now contains no fewer than six stored members of the class 37.  Long term Margam regular 37403 has been joined by 37798, 37678, 37890 and 37419, the latter recently stood down with the return of 37402 from repairs at Toton. 37422 is also due back and has allowed EWS to store 37419. The outlook for the remaining class 37's also looks uncertain, with the number in active service hovering around 25. The company continues to need these venerable middleweights for seasonal leaf clearing duties for the time being. In fact 37717 was in the process of being re-instated in the main shed whilst these shots were being taken.