GREAT Western Railway named a Class 800 IET after two of Wales’ sporting greats. Set No. 800009 saw one driving car named after Leeds United and Juventus footballer John Charles in a ceremony at Cardiff on March 7.
![](https://www.mortonsdirect.co.uk/railwaymagazine/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2018/04/RM-April-p100.jpg)
Also displayed is his nickname, Il Gigante Buono – The Gentle Giant. The 6ft 2in Charles made 38 appearances for Wales during a career spanning 25 years.
The name was unveiled by Charles’ widow Glenda.
Monthly Subscription: Enjoy more Railway Magazine reading each month with free delivery to you door, and access to over 100 years in the archive, all for just £5.35 per month.
Click here to subscribe & save
The other end of the set was named by Wales rugby union legend Gareth Edwards, who made 53 appearances for his country in an 11-year span, including winning the Five Nations Championship seven times. Edwards added a personal touch by signing the side of the unit.
Set number 9 was chosen as this was the shirt number of both players.
Pictures: JACK BOSKETT/GWR
Read more News and Features in the April issue of The RM – on sale now!