Direct Rail Services (DRS) has celebrated its 30-year history and revolutionary work in the nuclear and rail freight industry.
Since its formation in 1995, DRS has grown from a niche freight operator into one of the country’s most versatile and respected rail freight companies, playing a pivotal role in supporting the UK’s energy, logistics, and infrastructure sectors.
Established to provide the safe, secure and reliable transport of nuclear materials, DRS’s early operations focused on specialist freight services, but the company quickly expanded into broader logistics, including intermodal and infrastructure support.
It has completed millions of miles in the safe transportation of nuclear material, running hundreds of specialist services a year – helping to keep the lights on for the UK.
Highlights in DRS’s history include:
- First nuclear service
- The Royal Train when HM Queen Elizabeth II visited Aberystwyth.
- Kosovo Train for Life
- First intermodal services
- Class 68s and 88s introduced
In 2005, DRS became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), aligning its operations with national priorities for safe and sustainable energy management.
In a ceremony held at the company’s Kingmoor depot in Carlisle, on Sunday 21 September, a “30 Years of DRS” locomotive wrap was unveiled on locomotive 68007. It was revealed by Rail Managing Director, Gottfried Eymer, and NDA CEO, David Peattie.
The new wrap celebrates the 30th anniversary, marking the event with a unique design and nameplate.
The naming was part of a special event, held for employees and their family and friends which gave guests an opportunity to celebrate the role DRS has played in supporting the nuclear decommissioning and rail freight sectors.
Gottfried Eymer, DRS Rail Managing Director, said: “DRS started with just seven employees, with the sole purpose of moving spent nuclear fuel, and has grown to a company of over 400 staff members and diversified into many different markets over the years.
“It now boasts some of the biggest names in retail as customers but remains committed to its core function of ensuring nuclear material is transported safely, securely and reliably.
“I was thrilled to be able to unveil this nameplate in the presence of everyone who makes this company such a fantastic place to work.”
David Peattie, NDA Group CEO, said: “It is a privilege to be with colleagues and their families to help mark Direct Rail Services’ anniversary and reflect on the many achievements of the last 30 years.
“DRS is central to the success of the NDA group’s mission to safely and securely manage the UK’s nuclear legacy. They are making a lasting and positive impact on the nation’s transport, energy and infrastructure landscape.”
As well as the DRS milestone, 2025 is year of anniversaries across the NDA group, including 20 years of the NDA itself, 50 years of Pacific Nuclear Transport Limited and 70 years of Dounreay.