Bristol to Salisbury

Bristol Temple Meads to Salisbury via Bath and Westbury

Bristol Temple Meads

Bristol 21st April 1976 as a Class 123 unit forming a Cardiff-Portsmouth Harbour stands at Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen

An honourable visitor pauses at Temple Meads in April 1986 Copyright Keith Jenkin

D1010 Western Campainer Departing Bristol for a railtour heading for Birmingham, Oxford , Mortimer, Yeovil Junction , Exeter and Plymouth . Copyright Roger Winnen The Westerns haven't long to go it's the 27th November 1976.

The remains of Bristol East Box can be seen in the distance as D1010 Western Campaigner departs. 27th November 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

Smart red Post Office sets pas the daylight hours at Bristol Barton Hill depot on the 3rd July 1999 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bristol East Junction A quarter mile from BTM

Bristol North Somerset Junction Approx three quarters of a mile from BTM

North Somerset Junction. 12th April 1999 Copyright Roger Winnen

Lifting the yard at Bristol East. Copyright Roger Winnen. In 2015 the yard on the left remains much modified. This fan of sidings was served off a hump located out of sight at the bottom of the photograph.

Bristol East Yard on the 27th October 1984 Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view on the 27th October 1984 shows in more detail the 47 on the head of an Engineers train. Copyright Roger Winnen

St Annes Park One and half miles from BTM

A down HST thunders past the site of St Annes Park Station. 27th October 1984 Copyright Roger Winnen

Shortly after St Annes is host to a down class 33 hauled service probably on a Portsmouth Harbour to Cardiff duty. 27th October 1984 Copyright Roger Winnen

The tunnel prior to St Annes Park seen from a down train 17th July 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

St Annes Park tunnel 17th July 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

Somerdale was a chocolate factory located in Keynsham near Bristol. It was closed by Kraft foods in 2011. It was the home of a Cadbury's plc production facility, which was was originally built by the Fry family when they expanded through consolidation of a number of existing facilities located in the centre of Bristol. The factory was served by a short branch line. This connection to Fry's chocolate factory was taken out of use on 26–27 July 1980.

The plans in progress include the demolition of 'block d' of the factory, to provide space for a rebuilt Fry Club. By August 2014 some of factory had been demolished and by September 2014 show homes were opened, and sales of houses began.

A view from an up train shortly before Keynsham station of the Frys factory. Seen on 10th November 1979. Copyright Roger Winnen

Keynsham and Somerdale Approx four and half miles from BTM

For the more senior of our viewers Keynsham will be remembered for Horace Cyril Batchelor (22 January 1898 – 8 January 1977) was notable in the United Kingdom during the late 1940s to early 1960s as an advertiser on Radio Luxembourg. He advertised a way to win money by predicting the results of football matches using his "Infra-Draw Method"

A down HST approaches Keysham. Note the Fry's Siding turning off on the left. 1st November 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

Keysham. The same train continues non stop on its way to Bristol Temple Meads 1st November 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 33 probably on a Portsmouth Harbour to Cardiff service arrives at Keynsham on the 10th November 1979. The former goods shed has found other uses now outside the fence. Copyright Roger Winnen

The chocolate Siding at Keynsham. 10th November 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

The chocolate Siding at Keynsham. 10th November 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen This connection to Fry's chocolate factory was officially taken out of use on 26th & 27th July 1980, though it doesn't look to have seen much use recently!!

Cadbury's Factory at Keynsham seen from after the station from an up train. 20th October 1996 Copyright Roger Winnen

Saltford Approx seven miles from BTM
Closed to passengers 5th January 1970 and to goods 1st September 1959

Twerton Tunnels

Above Twerton Tunnel looking towards Bristol. 24th February 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

Portal of Twerton Tunnel West End. 24th February 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

Detail of Tunnel Portal of Twerton Tunnel West End. 24th February 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 31 leaves Twerton Tunnel bound for Bristol. 24th February 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

Here we see an up HST service heading for the tunnel and London. Copyright Roger Winnen

Oldfield Park Approx ten and a quarter miles from BTM

Oldfield Park with Class 33s on trains to Bristol and Portsmouth Harbour 10th November 1979, Copyright Roger Winnen

Oldfield Park Station, Bath. 30th August 1996 Copyright Roger Winnen

Down loop and goods sidings formerly used for 'Bin Liner' trains. 791110 10th November 1979 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bath Spa Approx eleven and a quarter miles from BTM

A 158 unit crosses the River Avon at Bath on 19th April 2001 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 58 on the Avon Bin-liner Train. 27th June 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen

A pair of 37s pass 'light engine' through Bath. 27th June 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen

An HST for London runs into Bath. 27th June 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen

27th June 1995 an HST for London Paddington arrives at Bath Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Class 158 Sprinter at Bath Station, taken from Beecham Walk. The river Avon passes under the main line twice both before and after Bath Spa station. The Kennet and Avon Canal leaves the Avon under the bridge to the extreme right in this picture and then climbs through a series of lock to continue a course more or less parallel to the main line, but higher, as far as Bathampton Junction. 27th June 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen

A most interesting view of Bath Spa station taken in 1965 showing the centre road and the elevated signalbox. This picture is dated June 1965 and was taken by Mike Roach, Copyright. ---- Note features such as the semaphore signalling and the water column on the down platform. Tony Cooke advises that there were at one time two through sidings between the main up and down lines.One of which was removed in 1962, The trailing connection to the up line was taken out of use in November 1962 and removed the next month.

A closer view of that signalbox mounted above the platform canopy. June 1965 Copyright Mike Roach

Bath showing on the down canopy where the signal box once was and the generous space between the up and down lines for the two through sidings once there. was. Here in 1999 an up HST commences to pull away. Copyright Roger Winnen

Prototype HST at Bath on the 7th August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

Prototype HST departing Bath on the Weston Super Mare service. 7th August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

The fine frontage of Bath Station, up side. Seen on 28th December 1996 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 50 heads a London to Bristol service at Bath. 7th July 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

Timetable 18th June to 23rd September 1951

Sydney Gardens

An HST on a down service heads for Bath through Sydney Gardens. The tail end is still in Sydney Gardens East tunnel. 27th June 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen. Note the elegant railings on the bridge and the general ambiance of the area. Unfortunately recently it has proved necessary to provide higher fencing alongside the wall.

A Class 31 bound for Bath & Bristol and probably from Portsmouth Harbour passes Sydney Gardens. 2nd August 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

While we wait and see what is about here is a weight warning on one of the overbridges at Sydney Gardens. Pictured on the 2nd of August 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

Now here's something a bit different, a Turbo 166 unit passing through Sydney Gardens, Bath. 1st April 1991 Copyright Roger Winnen

Taken on 27th June 1995 Class 37's on a working on the Bristol Weymouth run were very popular with enthusiast. Here is one from Weymouth heading for Bristol. Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 158 probably on the Portsmouth Harbour - Cardiff shuttle at Bath Sydney Gardens. on the 27th June 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bathampton Approx thirteen and a half miles from BTM

On the 14th March 1981 a London bound HST rushes past the site of Bathampton station. This closed on the 3rd October 1963 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bathampton Junction

It's the 14th March 1981 as a Class 33 hauled train almost certainly from Portsmouth Harbour rounds the curve to joint the main Bristol to London line at Bathampton Junction. Yhe main line to Wotten Bassett, Swindon and London lies straight ahead, Box tunnel cuts through the distant hills. Copyright Roger Winnen

Again on the 14th March 1981. This time a Bristol bound HST rushes on towards its next stop at Bath. Copyright Roger Winnen

A real treat is in store for the passengers on this class 47 hauled train as it heads for Westbury up the beautiful Avon Valley 28th June 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

Dundas Aqueduct

The bridge, almost a tunnel, carrying the Kennet and Avon Canal across the railway, notice the single line arches under the canal section. Seen on a minibus excursion on the 28th June 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

A view across the Dundas Aqueduct before restoration of the Kennet and Avon Canal. 28th June 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

It is 1975 in fact the 8th of August as Roger views a pair of Southern Thumper units approaching Dundas Aquaduct from Bathampton. Copyright Roger Winnen

By the 4th June 1988 Dundas Aqueduct was looking more fit for puspose carrying 70' barges in addition to ducks!!. Copyright Roger Winnen

Camerton Branch The branch was served by a junction to the north of Limpley Stoke. It was closed to passengers 21st September 1925 survived as a goods branch until 1951. However the line has fame in the fact that it was used for the filming of the 'Titfield Thunderbolt'.

This is a view of the Camerton branch as it swings away from the main line to head towards Camerton. The junction with the main line was to the left. This view taken on the 10th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

This is a view of the Camerton branch trackbed taken on the 10th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Limpley Stoke Seventeen and a half miles from BTM

Limpley Stoke Station prior to preservation seen here on 2nd August 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

The station building at Limpley Stoke as seen from a close by level crossing in April 1986. Copyright Keith Jenkin. This station, once junction for the Camerton branch closed to passengers on the 3rd October 1966, it had previously closed to goods on the 4th January 1960. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Cornwall Railway Society visit to Limpley Stoke. On the 3rd July 1999 a CRS party were 'on tour' visiting various spots in the Westbury, Bristol, Bath area when we chanced to come across an open gate which led off the by road up some steps to the preserved building at Limpley Stoke station. One of us went to see if it might be possible to visit and met the owner who welcomed us up to his station and was very pleased to see a gathering of interested folk. Many thanks to whoever that gentleman was.

The very pleasant garden and train viewing area at Limpley Stoke station which we were privileged to visit on 3rd July 1999. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Things are a bit confined for viewing on the actual station but we were encouraged to look around. 3rd July 1999 Copyright Roger Winnen

The complete minibus party at Limpley Stoke on 3rd July 1999. For once Roger Winnen is in front of the camera - seen here to the extreme left. Roger has over many years organised the outdoor events for the CRS, a service for which we are extremely grateful. We are also grateful to the owner of the station who took this photograph using Rogers camera.

While at Limpley Stoke this Alphaline 158 passed through. 3rd July 1999 Copyright Roger Winnen

Freshford Eighteen and a half miles from BTM

Roger visited Freshford Station on the 7th August 1975. He was quick up the footbridge steps as you can still see his departing DMU. 7th August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

From this photograph, and by comparison with a following photograph you can see that this structure has been replaced. This early version also, at one time, had the luxury of a covered roof. 7th August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

General view of a tidy station. April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Freshford Halt. The old sign tastefully painted April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Freshford Station Gardens Memorial Plaque Photographed by Kevin Jenkin April 1986

The station has a tidy appearance with a variety of flowers announcing the spring. April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Looking along the Bath/Bristol platform towards Bradford on Avon April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Looking across at the platform for Westbury and looking in that direction. April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Pedestrian access to the south bound is by means of the footbridge. The level crossing is for use of walkers using a public footpath. April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Seen from the car park a class 66 thunders by with a freight bound for the Bristol area. April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

The best way to explore the Avon Valley is by using a collapsible bicycle, ride the train or the canal tow path. You takes your choice, however watch out , a train approaches! April 1986 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Avoncliff Nineteen and three quarter miles from BTM

Ever been to Avoncliff? It really is a delightful place, about a mile or so down stream from Bradford on Avon located on a cul-de-sac so very little traffic. Here you have the River Avon, and the Avoncliffe Aquaduct, passing canal traffic and of course trains - the end of the platform can just be seen to the left. So sit here for a while enjoy your sandwiches, or visit the pub just over to the right. There is a pleasant walk either way along the bank of the Kennet and Avon Canal. Roger sums up the scene in this deligtful photograph. 7th August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

Avoncliffe Apri 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

A heritage DMU approaching Avoncliff Halt from the Bath direction. The river Avon is on the left in the valley and the canal now bends to the left to follow the valley on the railway side. 7th August 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen

The heritage DMU seen above stops at Avoncliff Halt 7th August 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen

A diverted HST passes Avoncliff Halt. 10th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen N.B A reasonably clear early spring view up the Avon - you can also see the Mill buildings on the bank.

Avoncliff 1986 Copyright Keith Jenkin

A Swindon built four car class 123 which was built at Swindon in 1963. Info from RW. Unit is seen here at Avoncliff, next stop Bradford on Avon Note the weir to the right hand side of the picture. The date is 8th July 1986 Copyright Keith Jenkin

Underneath the arches (1) Class 47 approaches Avoncliff Halt. 10th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Underneath the arches (2) Avoncliff, from track level Apri 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Underneath the arches (3) A Class 33 heads through Avoncliff Halt. 4th June 1988 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 33 operating in 'push mode' at Avoncliff Halt. 4th June 1988 Copyright Roger Winnen

Avoncliff June 1967 Copyright Keith Jenkin

Bradford on Avon Twenty one and quarter miles from BTM

A heritage set rolls into Bradford on Avon 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford on Avon April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford on Avon 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford on Avon 2nd June 84 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford on Avon 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Our transport awaits - the CRS minibus, complete with headboard at Bradford on Avon 2nd June 84 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford on Avon as 33040 rolls in on a Bristol/Cardiff service in April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

33040 awaits the right away in the mid afternoon sun. April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

47277 provides entertainment for the CRS party as it passes through on the 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford on Avon April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Station exterior April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

47277 provides entertainment for the CRS party as it passes through on the 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

A heritage set rumbles in at Bradford on Avon the 2nd June 1984 Copyright Keith Jenkin

Bradford on Avon 2nd June 1984 Copyright Keith Jenkin

Preparing to catch an ordinary commuter train at Bradford on Avon. 7th August 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bradford tunnel 159 yards followed by Greenland Mill Half barrier crossing

Looking from Greenland level crossing at the tail end of a train standing at Bradford on Avon station. April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

An HST, Bristol bound, rushes over the last few feet of metals before Greenland Level Crossing and then the tunnel. 7th August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen.

A class 33 Bristol bound passes Grennland Wier before going over the minor road crossing to enter Bradford tunnel. April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Bradford Junctions
Some two miles south of Bradford on Avon lay a triangular junction known as Bradford Junctions. The junction joins the Wilts, Somerset and Weymouth railway to Westbury (O 1848) with the Westbury to Bath line (O 1857). A link line, the Bradford on Avon Loop opened in 1895, this being an early casualty closing in XXXXX. The individual junctions being named West, South and North. The North being at the junction of the lines from Bradford on Avon and those towards Melksham and Thingley. Each of these junctions had, at one time, an individual signalbox. The functions of these three boxes being taken over on the 2nd May 1933 by a single box called Bradford Junction located on the Thingley curve. It is recommended that you take a look at Google Earth at 50 deg 20' 20.49" North and 2 deg 12' 41.77 East which will bring you to the centre of the triangle and give an aerial view of no less that three trains. (Or simply 'key in' Trowbridge - the triangle is to the NW). Two passenger trains are on the Bradford Curve and one empty stone train waiting on the Thingley curve. Also visible is the empty trackbed of the Bradford on Avon Loop. The aqueduct which carries the Kennet and Avon Canal over the metals about a quarter of a mile south of the south junction provides a good observation point for some of the activities as can be seen below.

Bradford West Junction Twenty three and a quarter miles from BTM

Bradford South Junction Plus two chains on the west mileage

760421d Bradford South Junction on the 21st April 1976 with the line to Melksham and Thingley Junction. The 1930's signalbox alongside the Thingley line is clearly visible. The land to the right in this picture is now occupied with modern 'high rise' housing. Copyright Roger Winnen

This, over the fence view at Bradford South Junction taken on the 17th April 1981 shows a DMU approaching from the Bradford on Avon direction. Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view of Bradford South Junction looking along the then double track Thingley line on the 17th April 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen. (Taken with the camera held low out of the back of a train from Bristol to Westbury, it was not the signalbox on fire!!)

Now a telephoto shot from the Canal Aqueduct bridge of Bradford South Junction including a nice view of the signalbox taken on the 17th April 1981. The route straight ahead is not normally used by HST's - this must be a time of main line diversions. Copyright Roger Winnen

The down service has now joined the line from Bathampton Junction and will continue via Trowbridge and Westbury. Of the two bracket signals facing the phtographer the higher one indicates a higher line speed for the route towards Thingley Junction rather than that around the sharp curve towards Bradford on Avon and Bathampton. Copyright Roger Winnen.

This service is taking the Bathampton route and is easing off for the sharp curve 17th April 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen (Enjoy the semaphores, they're long gone now)

810417c A view of Bradford South Junction with the single line to Tingley Jct. Taken from a train from Westbury to Bath. 17th April 1991 Copyright Roger Winnen Junction singled in 11th March 1990

An autumnal picture of the current arrangement at Bradford South Junction, showing the crossover and single track connection, the main line towards Bath bearing away to the left. Copyright Chris Osment

Bradford Junction. Approx 108 miles 23 chains from London
The box and a diversion along to Thingley Junction

Bradford Junction Signal Box from the window of a HST which was from London then via Chippenham, Westbury and Salisbury to Penzance. 24th April 1983 Copyright Roger Winnen - N.B The box closed 17th March 1990

A corner of Bradford Junction Signal Box (Taken with signalmans consent) plus a diverted HST either coming or going. The line towards Bradford on Avon is just out of sight behind the low ground cover. 24th April 1983 Copyright Roger Winnen

We now divert to follow the route to Tingley Junction.
Staverton Halt 103 miles seventy three chains from London

A diverted HST passes Staverton Halt on the 17th of April 1981. Obviously the up platform has been removed but the HST would have been rather too long to have used the platform anyway!! This halt closed on the 18th April 1966 Copyright Roger Winnen

Holt Junction 102 miles 58 chains from London
Closed passengers 18th April 1966 Closed to goods 7th October 1963
Was the junction for a line through to Devizes and Patney & Chirton which closed along with Holt on the 18th April 1966.

Brougton Gifford 101miles 56 chains from London
Opened October 1905 Closed 7th February 1965

Melksham - on route to Thingley Junction. One hundred milesand fourteen chains from London

Courtesy Wilkipedia :- Melksham railway station serves the town of Melksham and It is on the a branch line from Thingley Jct to Trowbridge hat was originally part of the Wilts, Somerset and Weymouth railway absorbed in 1850 by the GWR
The station opened with the original section of the line between Thingley Junction and Westbury on 5th September 1848. British Rail closed the station in 1966 but reopened it in 1985. The station had a siding which gave access to the former Wiltshire United Dairies and creamery allowing access for milk trains. After its closure the dairy was converted into an industrial estate.

Melksham on a cold January day in 1968 Closed April 18th 1966. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Another view on the same bitter day. The signalbox which had opened in March 1903 closed 26th February 1967. The opposite platform seems to have been 'attacked', whether it was by somebody after a few free slabs or official we'll never, of course, know. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Melksham seen on 17th April 1981. The station had closed to passengers on the 18th April 1966 and to goods on 2nd November 1964. This view on 17th April 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

Passing Melksham Station on 6th May 1988 Copyright Roger Winnen (By this time the station had reopened)

Beanacre 98 miles 75 chains from London

Two photographs taken in January 1968 supposedly at Beanacre in January 1968 There certainly was a siding off to the right in this picture. In this case the Hymeck is coming from Melksham and heading towards Thingley. Copyright Keith Jenkin

A 'going away shot' from seemingly the same location. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Lacock 97 miles 12 chains from London

Lacock O Oct 1905 C 18th April 1966 Picture taken just before closure. (Somebody has already had a go at the letters on the sign!!) Copyright Keith Jenkin

Thingley Junction Junction with the main London - Bristol, via Bath line.

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Trowbridge (Back on our main route to Westbury) Twenty four miles from BTM

Trowbridge Station with the broad gauge goods shed. A class 33 sets out for Bath, Bristol and probably Cardiff. March the 31st 1978 was not a good day for sitting out, unless you enjoy the rain! Copyright Roger Winnen

780331f A close up of Trowbridge Goods Shed. Obviously the shed has found a use for mixed gauge rubber tyred stock!! 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Trowbridge Goods Shed taken from a train running in to the station and bound for Westbury and beyond. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Looks like a real railway station doesn't it? Covered footbridge and substantial buildings. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Trowbridge Station prior to alterations on this platform. The main station building is located here nowadays with considerable passanger traffic joining here for Bath and Bristol. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 31 arrives at Trowbridge on a Portsmouth Harbour service. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A Class 31 arrives at Trowbridge on a Portsmouth Harbour service. The buildings to the far right are part of a local bacon factory. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

It's 1988 and the 6th of May as a Metropolitan Cammel DMU based at Cardiff pauses at Trowbridge on route to Westbury and beyond. Copyright Roger Winnen

Trowbridge in all its glory, now the station building is a shadow of this structure. We're looking towards Westbury. However better things have happened on the other platform. 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach N.B. It is pleasing to note that this footbridge has found fresh use at Williton on the West Somerset. Quote Chris Osment.

Trowbridge platform 1 on the 2nd June 1984 Copyright Keith Jenkin

The nameplate on 33027 April 1986 Copyright Keith Jenkin

The new station takes shape, platforms on this side cut back. Copyright Roger Winnen

Nest stop Westbury for this unit. There is now an extensive car park to cater for commuter traffic. Copyright Roger Winnen,

Hawkeridge Junction

In all its glory, in lovely sunshine we see Hawkeridge Jct with six semaphores visible. The date is the 5th April 1980. The 31 approaches Westbury Station on route to Portsmouth Harbour. Copyright Roger Winnen

This could well be captioned 'Danger Men at Work' however one can be assured that these signalling technicians have taken every care. Hawkeridge Jct Hawkridge Junction looking towards Westbury straight ahead. 10th April 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Hawkeridge Jct 10th April 1980 A Bristol bound service passes by - the two technicians are still at work. The lines to the left enables a service to bypass Westbury Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Hawkeridge Jct The generator train Mk3's hauled by a Class 47 rounds the curve at Hawkridge Junction. The generator in the rear vehicle provided power for air conditioning in the coaches. 17th April 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

Diversions at Hawkridge Junctions with trains signalled on both directions on the diversion. An HST diversion was of interest. We've now moved on to 1982 - 10th April and the signalbox has about two years to go! Copyright Roger Winnen

In contrast to the HST above a train of the 'old order', a class 47 with mark one stock is seen here again on the 10th April 1982. Copyright Roger Winnen

Hawkeridge Signalbox in 1984 Copyright Chris Osment

The totally decommissioned box at Hawkeridge Junction. Seen here on the 2nd June 1984 Copyright Roger Winne

The stripped out signal box at Hawkridge Junction, a closer view. 2nd June 1984 Copyright Roger Winnen

Westbury Twenty eight miles from BTM

The modern image of the time as class 59 Yeoman Enterprise coming in from Heywood Road Junction passes the new signalling centre. 6th May 1988 Copyright Roger Winnen

What a colourful array. Semaphores at Westbury. Lines to the left go to Hawheridge Junction and thence to Trowbridge and Bath. Those to the right go to Heywood Road Junction and thence to Reading and London. 21st April 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

Westbury station frontage. Access is via an underpass, steps, and more recently lifts, being provided up to the two island platforms. Seen on a lovely sunny April day 21st April 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

Its the 21st April 1976 as a Western passes the North signalbox. Copyright Roger Winnen

Freight at Westbury heading towards the Middle Signalbox 31st March 1978 . Copyright Roger Winnen

The same freight but much nearer 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen,

Looking into Westbury stabling point - class 56's in evidence - used on the stone traffic at the time. 10th August 1990 Copyright Roger Winnen

A seasonal train - the weedkiller topped and tailed with class 20's at Westbury 20th August 1991 Copyright Roger Winnen

Westbury avoiding lines

In the Salisbury to Westbury line crosses over the Westbury avoiding line on the Berks Hants. A Western hauls a down service, next stop probably Taunton. The date 21st April 1976 N.B. the Westbury two and a quarter mile long avoiding line between Heywood Road junction (nearer London) and Fairwood Junction was opened in 1933. Copyright Roger Winnen

The white horse gazes down from his perch on the hills, in the foreground a freight train bound for Salisbury crosses over the west of England main line. The crescent shape, centre left of the picture over the trees is not an early Moon but a plume of steam from the cement works beyond Westbury. 21st April 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

Dilton Marsh Twenty nine and a quarter miles from BTM

Dilton as 33022 passes with a train for Westbury and Bristol 2nd June 1984 Copyright Roger Winnen

This picture clearly illustrates how the up and down platforms are staggered either side of the bridge by which the road passes underneath. 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

A closer view of the majority of the CRS party stand on the Westbury bound platform, 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

The steep approach to the platform at Dilton Marsh 2nd June 1984 Copyright Roger Winnen

A class 33 approaches with a service for Salisbury and Portsmouth. 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach.

Dilton Marsh as Mike Roach is framed himself by the way out board. 2nd June 1984. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Just passing through Dilton Marsh. 21st April 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

Just passing through Dilton Marsh. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Warminster Thirty two and three quarter miles from BTM

By April 2006 Trowbridge station has gained a covered bicycle shelter has been painted up and there are some nice hanging floral decorations. Copyright Chris Osment

Car parking is restricted on the right hand side by yellow lines but further car parking has been established on the 'Salisbury' side. This picture April 2006 Copyright Chris Osment.

Warminster 2nd June 84 Looking North Copyright Mike Roach

Another view at Warminster looking north towards Westbury as members of the minibus party sample and test the footbridge. 2nd June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

A view on the 5th April 1980 shows the loop still in but the sidings gone. Copyright Roger Winnen

Warminster at 19.06 on the 5th Aug 2014 as a service from Bristol which has terminated here crosses over to return to Bristol. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Warminster at 19.06 on the 5th Aug 2014 as a service from Bristol which has terminated here crosses over to return to Bristol. One would never know that there had ever been a goods yards or loop here! Copyright Keith Jenkin

Warminster at 19.06 on the 5th Aug 2014 as a service from Bristol which has terminated here crosses over to return to Bristol. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Warminster at 19.06 on the 5th Aug 2014 as a service from Bristol which has terminated here having over returns to Bristol. Copyright Keith Jenkin

A sign at Westbury. Copyright Mike Roach

How things change? Viewed from the platform as a Class 31 leaves Warminster Station heading for Salisbury and probably Portsmouth Harbour on the 5th April 1980 . Note all the sidings still present at that time. Copyright Roger Winnen

Warminster Station and signalbox from a departing train bound for Salisbury. The date is 2nd August 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

This time Roger was at the back of the train to get a better shot of the scene at Warminster Station. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

-- and thank heavens he continued to brave the cold winter air to get this more distant shot south of Warminster. A class 47 waits in the loop. Goods facilities were withdrawn from Warminster w.e.f. 2nd April 1973. This picture 31st March 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Heytesbury Thirty six and a half miles from BTM

A shot from the overbridge gives one some idea of the length of the platform - perhaps three or four coaches long. February 2005 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

A closer view at Heytesbury, the station building appears to be occupied on one side. February 2005 Copyright Kevin Jenkin

Upton Lovell Level Crossing

Upton Lovell (Crossing box) GF in 1975 Copyright Chris Osment

Codford Thirty eight and three quarter miles from BTM

Codford Signalbox in 1975 Copyright Chris Osment

Sherrington Level Crossing

Sherrington Signalbox in 1977 Copyright Chris Osment

Wylye Thirty eight miles from BTM

Wylye Signalbox 1971-72 Copyright Chris Osment

Wishford Forty seven miles from BTM

Wilton North (GW) Fifty miles from BTM

Class 33 with oil on the western line near Wilton. 10th April 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Wilton North, the GW station closed on the 19th September 1955, its neighbour on the Southern, just a quarter of a mile away, closed almost eleven years later on 7th March 1966. The GW station building and goods shed survive - the goods not being withdrawn until 6th September 1965. This view 10th April 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Quidhampton Quarry

It is owned by Imerys and produced chalk and china clay until its closure in 2009. Wilkipedia

Wilton Junction is the junction between the two main lines, that from Westbury in the foreground merging with the double track line from Yeovil and Exeter which can be seen at the right hand side of the picture. The crossover in the foreground was used for train accessing Quidhampton Quarry which was rail served via a siding off the main line to the left. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

We are looking back towards the connection with the National Network at Wilton Junction. The metals to the right lead into the quarry itself. A run round loop is visible which leads into a single track before the main line connection. This alignment was formerly the double track main line from Westbury leading from Wilton North direct to the GW terminal at Salisbury. This picture taken 31st March 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Looking towards Salisbury. All that remains of the former double track is this headshunt. 31st March 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Wilton Junction Class 31 Leaves Salisbury on the Western Line for Westbury etc. The southern line for Honiton and Exeter on the right hand side. 10th April 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Timetable 18th June to 23rd September 1951

Salisbury Fifty two and half miles from BTM

A class 47 heads the stone empties out of Salisbury making for the Mendips on the 31st March 1978. Something one never seems to see these days are the 'inside the fence' staff allotments. Note the white sighting board behind the home signal. Copyright Roger Winnen

Eight years later on the 25th October 1986 the allotments are still there and the crop looks healthy but the motive power has changed as a class 59 approaches with the stone empties. Another sign of modernisation, the semaphore signal has gone.Copyright Roger Winnen

Note from Chris Osment ;- The pictures below are of, in, or taken from the ex-GWR ‘C’ box at Salisbury. At the time the signalling controlled from it was being rationalised, with the lever-frame being reduced from 96 to 65 levers, with ‘work in progress’ during my visit, hence both the ‘old’ and (not yet in use) ‘new’ box diagrams on display.

Salisbury 'C' Box in 1972. Copyright Chris Osment

Salisbury C Signalbox i nterior (1) Note the new panel has tape across it marking it not ready for use!! Copyright Chris Osment

The old panel. Copyright Chris Osment

A close up of the old panel - apologies for the standard of editing but there was much light and reflections problems. Original Copyright Chris Osment

The west end of Salisbury in 1972. Copyright Chris Osment

One of Rogers 'out of the back window shots' from a train departing Salisbury on the 31st March 1978. Here one sees the area now occupied by the South West Trains depot. Indeed one can see right up to the GWR terminal buildings. The GWR station closed to passengers on the 12th September 1932. Copyright Roger Winnen

780331t The former Great Western Station at Salisbury. Seen from the end of the 'Southern station platform. 31st March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view of the former Great Western Station at Salisbury again on the 31st March 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

The exterior of Salisbury Station on 31st March 1978. The city centre and the cathedral are about half a mile away. Copyright Roger Winnen

It's 25th October 1986 as the driver of 33045 leans from his window awaiting departure west from Salisbury. Copyright Roger Winnen

Its the same day as above as 6998 Burton Agnes Hall stands, more or less opposite the class 33 pictured above awaiting its next turn of duty. Copyright Roger Winnen