The Birmingham and London divisions required a frequent service of four coach suburban trains. The Collett 60 feet length coaches were close coupled in semi-permanent B3-C-C-B3 formations with 2 diagram E141 composite coaches between 2 diagram D109 brake thirds. The short drawgear between the coaches helped reduce the overal length of the train close to a set of 4 older coaches to fit with existing platform lengths.
Usually motive power for mainline suburban services around both Birmingham and London were the members of the 5101 and 61xx class large prairies. (models announced by Heljan.) The more powerful 61xx type being built specifically for London suburban service where often 2 sets would be needed making an 8 coach train.
Several other classes were also regularly used in the Birmingham area including 57xx/8750 panniers (Dapol), 45xx small prairies (Lionheart Trains) and the 43xx 2-6-0 moguls (Heljan) were favoured on longer journeys due to the tenders' larger water capacity.