This area of the south coast of England has long been a popular -hotspot- for enthusiasts to sample the variety of traffic on offer on today-s railway. The area is home to one of the UK-s most significant ports as well as railway workshops that continue to see a variety of uses despite mounting competition from overseas. Interest is sustained by virtue of both Freightliner-s base on the outskirts of Southampton and GB Railfreight-s recent takeover of the yard at Eastleigh. In addition, both DB Cargo and Colas Rail locos are regular visitors to the area.In Trains Around Eastleigh and Southampton, John Jackson takes a look at the variety of traffic passing through the area. The freight traffic for both the railway industry-s external customers and its own Network Rail use is included. This area of Hampshire also serves as an important commuter catchment area for London and a popular destination for rail travel for leisure purposes. The modern-day rail picture is completed with a look at
