E T V RLY + Part ONE of Articles

This section firstly provides a record of a visit by the Cornwall Railway Society to the Exeter & Teign Valley Railway followed by Colin Burges's Articles 1 to 30
Please scroll down to find the articles.

Exeter and Teign Valley Railway
at Doddiscombsleigh

On the 3rd June 2017 the Cornwall Railway Society paid a visit to the considerable railway collection of standard and narrow gauge railway at the site established in the former Christow Goods Yard by Colin Burges
For further reports on developments at Christow please scroll down.

Mike Hitchens report

.CRS Visit to the Teign Valley Railway 3rd June 2017 Mike Hitchens
12 members joined the 06.50 from Penzance at various stops throughout Cornwall which arrived at Exeter St Davids at 09.52. The journey was uneventful although some claimed to have seen a ghost passenger occupying a window seat at the end of carriage F.

We took the next service – the 10.16, up to Exeter Central and were able to look at the spacious station albeit now with only two tracks between the platforms. Where were banking engines and the ACE splitting into its various portions.
There was some time for short walk around the area until the departure of the aptly named ‘Country Bus’ 360. Now joined by a visiting enthusiast from Crewe, the almost full bus set off passed under St Thomas station and continued its journey along a network of narrow lanes, steep hills and sharp curves. There were some interesting encounters with other vehicles, cyclists and horse riders as we travelled.

A fellow passenger proved to be an ex B.R. track worker from Ide who had been involved in the demolition of the ‘Teign Valley line’. He lived in a cottage adjacent to the railway and one of his neighbours was a local driver and he related to me how they used to leave the 08 shunter and wagons outside their houses each night ready to start work again the next morning.
The bus driver dropped our party, now numbering 13, off at the approach road to the Exeter and Teign Valley site. Here we were welcomed by the owner Colin Burges who cleverly used some painted fire buckets to give us a brief introduction to the history of the line between Newton Abbot, Heathfield, to Alphington and Exeter.
We had already glimpsed narrow and standard gauge tracks together with various items of rolling stock, but first we had work to do – using a rope man (and woman) power were used to move a box van to the end of a siding.
This was followed by our first ride which was in a small 4 wheeled passenger ‘Jenny Wren’ Manumatic Inspection saloon. This began with rapid progress round a sharp bend and down a long straight assisted by gravity and ended with a change of direction on a small turntable and return by human power (Colin). This exhilaration was too much for some of our party who then had to take a rest in the ‘Toad’ a GW brakevan fitted out for overnight stays. There was also a childrens camper on the narrow gauge named ‘Tadpole’.
We the had trips in a Wickham Gangers Trolley which Colin had restored to a condition ‘better than new’. In the past this had been on holiday to the WSR where it had acquitted itself well over longer distances.
Our last ride was a short glide to the end of the siding in the Toad brakevan with Colin operating the brake.

This was followed by a fascinating demo using a pair of profiled but flangeless wheels which stayed on the track despite any curves.
All too soon it was time to leave and members were able to have a last look around and buy souvenire tickets and copies of Colin’s books and reports.
I noticed a Matisa Track Recording Trolley at the end of one siding and was interested to learn that that a couple of the narrow gauge tippers stabled at Christow were used in the International Mining Games organised by Camborne School of Mines in 2012 and held at King Edward Mine adjacent to where I live.

Colin is passionately pro railway and firmly believes that the reinstatement of Teign Valley line with long passing loops would provide a valuable additional link between Newton Abbot and Exeter. Seeing what he has achieved virtually single handedly so far, who knows.
We left the site and walked up to the nearby stone road bridge (With a built in footway) to look down at the platforms and buildings of the original Christow station which appear well cared for as a residence.

Our return bus driver didn’t appear too concerned when he rounded the corner to find a group of slightly damp people standing in the middle of nowhere and by the time we returned to Exeter Central the rain had stopped . We caught the 15.20 to Exmouth where there was time to explore the remains of the once extensive station, the harbour branch, the seatfront and the interior of the nearby fish and chip shop.
While we were at Exmouth a Spitfire and Hurricane flew over on their way home from the Torbay Air Show.
We returned on the 16.53 train to Exeter St Davids to change onto the 17.50 to Penzance – the ‘Palace on wheels’ – Totnes Castle plus 3 Night Riviera coaches which resulted in a pleasant journey back overtaking a long welded rail train at Plymouth – no doubt this was photographed by the person keeping a look out through the clear windows at the rear of the train.
Thank you, Roger for yet another enjoyable and successful day – he even had a ‘Plan B’ had the Christow bus being overloaded. Thanks also to Colin of the E & T VR for a very interesting visit. We wish you good luck with your efforts in the future.

170603g The 06.50 Penzance to Exeter and London Paddington passing the former Atmospheric Pumping Station at Starcross. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603h Is it a ghost aboard the train! True or False! Copyright Roger Winnen. A lady who boarded at St Erth remained covered throughout the journey!!

170603i Platform 1 at Exeter St David's for trains to Exeter Central. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603j A War Memorial in Northernhay Gardens adjacent to Exeter Central Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603k Arrival at Christow aboard the 360 service from Exeter Coach and Bus Station. Tony Brokenshire witnesses as Valerie Jenkin, John Quick and Mike Hitchens (Who wrote this write-up) leave the bus. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603l Colin Burges welcoming the party alongside some of the painted fire buckets. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603m Man and Woman power move the box van to the end of the siding. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603n Riding the 4 wheeled 'Jenny Wren' Manumatic Inspection saloon. Keith and Valerie Jenkin, a visitor from Crewe. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603o About to take off on the gravity railway,down the straight and around the bend at great speed. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603p The CRS Party on tour. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603q Back to human power as Colin pulls the vehicle to the turntable. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603r Turning the Manumatic Inspection saloon on the turntable. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603s Still on tow by Colin, after which it ran back on is own accord. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603t By this time some of the party had to take a rest in the GWR Toad 35410, now known as the Camping Van. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603u This was the Childrens Camper and Brake Van No 5210 on the narrow gauge named 'Tadpole' Copyright Roger Winnen

170603v Riding the Inspection and Gang Trolley built by D Wickham & Co, Ltd Ware in 1949 PWM2831 5009. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603w On tour once more aboard the Wickham Trolley. Copyright Roger Winnen

For proof that the Wickham trolley has been used elsewhere these pictures of the trolley from the WSR Archive They prove that Collins trolley did once work from Dunster to Blue Anchor and back. Try clicking below.

http://cgibin.wsr.org.uk/cgi-bin/gallery8a.cgi?h=Snapshot&p=2011/08/110811_3_rwi

http://cgibin.wsr.org.uk/cgi-bin/gallery8a.cgi?h=Snapshot&p=2011/08/110811_2_rwi

http://cgibin.wsr.org.uk/cgi-bin/gallery8a.cgi?h=Snapshot&p=2011/08/110811_1_rwi

Colin says "With the West Somerset gang on board, I was muttering to myself: "Don't you let me down now."

I remember putting my hand up and saying thank you to a motorist who had given way at Sea Lane Crossing.

Cheers, Colin

More interesting material

For other shots of an undentified Matisa at Goonbarrow and on the Carbis Branch:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/neptune.php

And I'm glad you spotted the trucks used at King Edward. There is a link here also:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/whats-new.php#Mining-Games

170603x Riding the narrow gauge through the sharp turnouts. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603y Passing through the van body. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603z Gaining the only remaining section of the Teign Valley at Alphington. From one of the many photographs in the museum.

170603za The Temporary Booking Office at Christow houses an interesting collection of railway artifacts. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zb Displays in the Temporary Booking Office at Christow. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zc Tickets in the racks at the Temporary Booking Office at Christow. Copyright Roger Winnen -

A ticket issued on the 3rd June 2017 giving one hour at the site - actually we stayed for almost two hours!

170603ze D2269 0-4-0 DM Drewey Car Co Ltd and Vulcan Foundry, formally at Gallions Jetty and Exmouth Junction C.C.D. Named Perseus. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zf Pv 620 Track Recording Trolley Neptune Material Industriel S.A. (Matisa) Lausanne, 1967

170603zg Side tipper wagons for the narrow gauge from the local Quarries. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zh More demonstrations with Colin. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zi Points to nowhere on the narrow gauge. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zk Colin carefully operates the brake as the 'Toad brakevan' with its compliment of CRS passengers rolls along the track. The Toad is now equipped as a camping van. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zl The Toad is carefully braked to a stand by the convenient steps. . Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zm Mains power is taken from a lineside box to operate a winch mounted on this end of a line of 'braked stock' to haul the Toad brakevan back up the slope. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zn The CRS Party and Colin Burgess (Third from the left). Photograph taken by our friend from Crewe.

170603zo At the end of the visit .Roger Winnen

170603zp With a few minutes to spare Colin demonstrates with a pair of flangeless wheels rolling along the narrow gauge track. These wheels with a three degree profile stayed on the track despite any curves. - Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zqq Christow Station from the preservation site . Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zq Looking down from the road overbridge on to Christow Station. The Exeter and Teign Valley Railway Preservation site is in the distance. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zr The CRS Party at Exmouth Station awaiting the arrival of the 16.53 to Exeter St David's. Nearest is Michael Hitchens who wrote the report on our days outing. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zs A Plaque at Exeter Central Station which celebrated the 150 years since the opening of the railway to Exmouth on 1st May,1861. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zt Welcome to Cornwall Tony Brokenshire holding his camera. Copyright Roger Winnen

170603zt 57605 Totnes Castle arrives back into Penzance on time with the 17.50 Exeter St David's to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter and Teign Valley Railway
Stock List as in February 2017
www.TEIGNRAIL.Com 25p
Locomotive Department.
D2269 2269 Shunting locomotive, 0-4-0DM. - Drewry Car Co., Ltd., and Gardner 6L3, - - 24 1993 Formerly at Gallions Jetty and
D98 Vulcan Foundry, 153 H.P. Exmouth Junction C.C.D.
Newton-le-Willows, 1949. Named 'Perseus'.

Carriage & Wagon Department
35410 * - Goods brake van, air & vac. piped. TOAD A B.R. (W.R.), Swindon, 1949. - 2099 AA23 18 1997 To be refitted as camping van.
78642 * - Covered goods wagon, 12-ton, vac. fitted. MINK Pressed Steel Co., 1962. - 3398 224 7 1986 ] Build cost:
78651 * - Covered goods wagon, 12-ton, vac. fitted. MINK Pressed Steel Co., 1962. - 3398 224 7 1993 ] £924 each.
9437 * - Covered carriage truck, 10-ton, vac. fitted. PYTHON B.R. (L.M.R.), Earlestown, 1959. - 30562 A816 17¼ 2002 To be refitted as living car.
889027 - R.I.V. motor-car van, 14-ton, air & vac. fitted. FERRYVAN B.R. (S.R.), Lancing, 1958. - 3022 291 14 2000 To be refitted as catering car.
BK58018 - Furniture container, end doors. BOX BK B.R. (S.R.), Eastleigh, 1957. - 3072 - 1¾ 1976 Condemned.
785259 - Covered goods wagon body, grounded. - Pressed Steel Co., 1961. - 3398 224 2 2004 Underframe broken up at
Barry Docks, 1977.

Engineering Department
620 PV620 Track recording trolley. NEPTUNE Materiel Industriel S.A. Leyland 370, - - 10 1997 (B.R. Plant No. DX 90011)
(Matisa), Lausanne, 1967. diesel.
PWM2831 5009 Inspection or gang trolley. GANGCAR D. Wickham & Co., Ltd., Ford E93A, - - ¾ 1997 ] (B.R. Plant No. DX 68004)
Ware, 1949. 10 H.P., petrol. ] Unit No.: GANGCAR 194
755 - Trolley trailer, flat. - D. Wickham & Co. - - - ¼ 1996 ]
6638 * SS5016 Secure cabin, portable WORKBOX Lydney Containers, 200? - - - 4 2009 Temporary Booking Office.
001944 * - ISO shipping container, insulated, 20 ft. WORKBOX 197? - - - 4 1991 Converted to transportable site
office for Building Department.

Narrow Gauge (2 ft. nominal) Rolling Stock.
2183 - End-tipper wagon, ½-ton. PRAWN - - - - ¼ 1989 ] Ex Watts, Blake, Bearne & Co., clay mines, Kingsteignton.
3067 - Bolster flat wagon, 1-ton. SHRIMP E. & T.V.R., Christow, 1993. - - - ¼ 1983 ]
6929 - Side-tipper wagon, “UV”-type, 1-ton. COCKLE E. & T.V.R., Christow, 1994. - - - ¼ 1983 ] Registered as underframes,
4768 - Open inspection/observation saloon. MUSSEL E. & T.V.R., Christow, 1995. (To be converted - - ¼ 1983 ] formerly with “V”-type
1521 - Side-tipper wagon, “UV”-type, 1-ton. COCKLE E. & T.V.R., Christow, 1997. to B.E. trolley - - ¼ 1983 ] side-tipper bodies.
6994 - Underframe. LIMPET - with 1½ H.P. - - ¼ 1983 ]
5210 - Brake and camping van. WHELK E. & T.V.R., Christow, 2003. B.K.B. traction (Named Tadpole) ¾ 1999 ] Registered as underframes ex
3422 - Flat wagon with stanchions, 1-ton. SHRIMP E. & T.V.R., Christow, 2004. motor) - - ¼ 1999 ] E.C.C. Ball Clays,
3425 - Bolster flat wagon with stanchions, 1-ton. SHRIMP E. & T.V.R., Christow, 2004. - - - ¼ 1999 ] Kingsteignton.
Underframes and “UV”-type, side-tipping wagons ex Watts, Blake, Bearne & Co. and E.C.C. Ball Clays, Ltd., Kingsteignton, awaiting registration: 12 (c. 3 tons).
Road Transport Department.
2247 - Autotruck, ½-ton, drop-sided open. BEE Piaggio & C., S.p.A., Piaggio, - - ½ 1982 Bodied by E. & T.V.R.,
Pontedera, Italy, 1981. 8 H.P., petrol. Christow, 1984.
2309 - Autotruck, ¾-ton, drop-sided open. BEE Piaggio & C., S.p.A., Lombardini, - - ½ 2007 Body modified by E. & T.V.R.,
Pontedera, Italy, 2007. 11 H.P. diesel. Christow, 2009.
11035 89749 Trailer, low-loader, 2-ton SCORPION E Indespension Ltd., 2010 - - - ¾ 2011
4943 - Trailer car, statical. WASP S A.B.I. Caravans, 1974. - - - 2 1985
0103 - Carrier bicycle. GNAT B Royal Enfield. - - - - 1984
0501 - Bicycle GNAT E Kona, U.S.A. - - - - 2010 Allocated to Hire Pool
0502 - Bicycle GNAT E Kona, U.S.A. - - - - 2010 “ “

For camparison two classic photographs of Christow taken by Sid Sponheimer not long after closure. Plus an earlier view by Cameron Allen.

An early view supplied by Cameron Allen. A young lad stands on the platform admiring the loco. Note in the distance the concrete bunkers from which stone delivered by an overhead cableway was loaded into wagons. Copyright

Part One of Articles written by Colin Burges.
Items 1 to 30

Articles by Colin Burges Number 1

*The Wickham Trolley Shed*
Yelverton to Christow
Colin Burges

It is 1961 and an auto-train departs Yelverton for Plymouth. The Wickham Trolley shed is visible on the extreme left hand side before the signalbox. Copyright Mike Roach

A smashing picture taken at Yelverton by Mike Roach. It shows 4555, an engine well known in Cornwall and still existing today running into the Launceston bound platform in November 1962 - Copyright Mike Roach. Of particular interest is the timber level crossing over the siding rails across which the Wickam Trolley shed would be manhandled into the shed which lay to the right.

Looking in to the remains of the Wickham Trolley Shed at Yelverton in 2012 Copyright Colin Burges

The shed at Yelverton, which as far as I know is the only one of which anything remains, was photographed with the kind permission of Lady Kitson, who also allowed me to measure it and take some parts.

The remains of the shed door at Yelverton. 2012 Copyright Colin Burges.

The platform at Yelverton, sadly overgrown. 2012. Copyright Colin Burges, Colin further comments - See what happens when you stop clipping a laurel hedge? I wonder if it was planted alongside the Princetown line at Yelverton to give some privacy to Elfordtown, the house in whose grounds the station was built and to which ownership returned upon closure. The accommodation bridge at the Horrabridge end of the station linked the severed estate.

In contemporary photographs of the Princetown platform at Yelverton, a neat laurel hedge can be seen beside the track. This is what it looks like today (above). But, being a coloniser, the laurel has suppressed almost all else, enabling many little finds, including footplate equipment and the prostrate concrete starting signal post. My own discovery was a 24V carriage light bulb which had the GWR roundel marked very faintly on the opal globe; I gave it to the G.W. Society. It must have lain where it was since a man changed one and tossed the dud out through a window.

At the end of the platform, the tapered wooden extension that was put up when the connection with the "main line" was altered can still be seen; it is evident in the first photograph of your Princetown gallery if you look carefully. C. B.

Here's the Wickham trolley shed from Yelverton re-erected at Christow:

The Wickham Trolley shed re-incarnated at the Exeter and Teign Valley Railway, Christow. Copyright Colin Burges

The 'Wickham' looking smart as a showmans engine ready for duty. Colin's Wickham is a type 27, much heavier at 3/4 ton than the type 17 which were more common. This type is fitted with a retractable turntable to make reversing direction or removal off the running lines at 'level crossings' more practical. Copyright Colin Burges

The front elevation of the shed which is sited down by the river at the south end. It was erected in September 2017. Copyright Colin Burges

Actually, the shed at Yelverton had three roads, whereas this one has two roads and a store. I am not sure whether the Princetown trolley was shedded at Yelverton. The hinges were made at Christow out of quarter-inch plate as I considered that "heavy duty" from the catalogue really didn't suit this application.

End elevation and stores door. Copyright Colin Burges

You'll be wanting to look inside, a nice work bench complete with vice. Copyright Colin Burges

Articles by Colin Burges Number 2

'Off Roading' by Colin Burges
- the delivery of a shunter to Christow

Perseus Part 1

Among some slides I have just had digitized are these recording the arrival of my diesel shunter at Christow in April, 1993.

There had been difficulty loading the loco at Exmouth Junction because the 55-ton crane booked for the job had failed and a 45-ton substitute was sent which was inadequate. At Christow this meant that the best that could be done was offloading the loco at the yard entrance.

A while later, when the ground had hardened, I had the bright idea of running the loco down the slope using short lengths of rail which would have to be picked up and taken forward after each short advance. Well, a combination of sloppy controls and my lack of conversancy led to this plan and the loco quickly derailing.

Seeing that that only the flanges sank into the roadway, I applied power and drove the loco on the dirt to the foot of the slope, where it lay gradually sinking until craned in the summer. But the first lift only repositioned it so that I could again drive it along the ground to where the crane could rerail it.

This "off-road" driving had precedent as anyone who has seen the concrete outside St. Blazey shed will know.

Christow 1 April 1993 The locomotive is lifted from the low loader. Copyright Colin Burges

Christow 2 April 1993 'Steady as it goes'. Copyright Colin Burges

Christow 1 April 1993 'Made it' Copyright Colin Burges

Christow 4 April 1993 'Complete with a Cautionary Note'. Copyright Colin Burges

Perseus Part 2

Rerailing Perseus came at the end of an exhausting day in August, 1993. In a complex operation - perhaps a yarn for another time - the feed store from Ivybridge had first been brought in one piece to Christow, demolishing the parapet walls of a bridge on the valley road in the course of its Police-escorted journey.

It was essential to start the engine because the loco had to be driven along the ground again. The old six-volt batteries were nearly flat but using the decompression levers allowed the six-cylinder Gardner to be cranked.

The crane swung the loco through half a turn and placed it so that it could be driven about thirty yards to the end of the line as it was then. This went as planned but then the crane got stuck in the ballast and the driver had great difficulty positioning himself close enough to the loco to be able to lift it. He wrestled with the controls but finally stopped and folded his arms in despair. "What about draining the fuel?" he said. The lads at Western Fuels had filled the 125-gallon tank for me.

Draining wasn't necessary and I can't remember what was done, only that the loco did get rerailed and two old boys who had come to watch, who had both travelled on the branch, were like kids again. Jerry, the one in the cab, remembered going off to start his National Service in the winter of 1947 when only the trains were moving.

Some shots went off under the wheels to celebrate the first loco at Christow in over thirty years and the first ever diesel.

Re-railing Perseus - 1 Copyright Colin Burges

Re-railing Perseus 2 Copyright Colin Burges

Re-railing Perseus - 3 Copyright Colin Burges

Re-railing Perseus - 4 Colin Burges

Colin writes :- To inaugurate TVTV (Teign Valley Television) I have posted two videos on YouTube:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/whats-new.php#exeterrailwayjunction

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/whats-new.php#newquaybranch

The little piece I have written about the "63s" may also interest you. Two salient facts illustrate the muddled thinking of the time:
Because the work was wanted for home manufacturers, small versions of reliable American locomotives (a course taken 30 years later) were shunned, yet North British chose the German M.A.N. engine, from the firm that had powered the U-boats, for the "63" and other locos.

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/whats-new.php#d6331

Cheers, Colin. Many thanks Colin.
N.B. These above videos are well worth looking at with masses of interesting information.

No trains today - Christow, Exeter and Teign Valley Railway 2nd March 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Please note - there are many items in this section please SCROLL DOWN to find the most recent. Thank you.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 3

The Exe Valley Explored by bicycle. Colin Burges

A circuit I used to ride regularly from Exeter, but had not done for many years, went over the Southern main line near Cowley, under the Exe Valley Branch at Thorverton and across the Great Western main line at Stoke Canon. It was a pleasant afternoon last Thursday when I left the bus station caff to push into the wind.

Lonely Fortescue Crossing, beside the river between Brampford Speke and Thorverton, appeared to give access to pasture, but there was a ford leading to Nether Exe. As I walked to the river bank, I heard a train on the main line and just had time to zoom in.

Leaving Stoke Canon, the main line appears to follow the Exe Valley, but shortly dives beneath the turnpike on a rise to trace the River Culm. Copyright Colin Burges.

Doing an about turn on the same spot, the keeper's cottage at Fortescue is seen.

Fortesque Level Crossing Modernised crossing keeper's cottage is nearest. The course of branch can be seen at centre left and on the river bank at right. Copyright Colin Burges.

It's not the time of year to be fording the river carrying a bike. The course of the branch is between the river and the shed seen at the centre. Copyright Colin Burges.

One of the gateposts can be seen next to my bike, where there is a new garage beside the keepers cottage. Copyright Colin Burges.

The course of the branch looking back towards Brampford Speke is marked by the fence. The cottage is at left. Copyright Colin Burges

Hulk Lane which joins the village road at Thorverton Station, has been closed to motor trafficbecause of a landslip and is now a bridleway. Here it skirts the railway's embankment (right). My bike is leaning on the boundary fence. Copyright Colin Burges.

The Exe Valley's structures were beautifully and substantially built. Here Hulk Lane passes beneath the bridge which carried the loop points to the south of Thorverton Station. Copyright Colin Burges.

'EVR' can just be made out on the stonework above my bike. Copyright Colin Burges.

It was clouding over by the time I got to Paddleford Bridge at Rewe, where one of Devon's longest straights can be viewed heading towards Silverton. It's about a mile and three quarters. The rear power car of this HST is about to pass a H.A.B.D. (Hot axle box detector. Copyright Colin Burges

The road here shortly passes over the older Paddleford Bridge across the Culm, off picture at right, whose valley the railway follows.

When I came off late turn at St. David's, I would ride the Exe Valley in the dark, often as far as Tiverton, just for fun. I still remember being on this bridge on a still evening and hearing the milk accelerating away from Cowley behind a thousand. The closely, almost uniformly, spaced axles of miltas gave the trains an unmistakable sound. Even on C.W.R., a slightly inaccurate weld would have the same effect as a joint. Seeing the 1640 St. Erth or the 1730 Lostwithiel (there were two trains some evenings) pass here at 60 m.p.h., with West Country milk for London breakfast tables, gave a young lad the feeling that he belonged to an industry that was doing something useful. It was one of my jobs to advise the Milk Controller at Paddington the formation leaving Exeter, where portions from Chard, Torrington, Lapford and Hemyock may been attached to tanks already picked up at Totnes.

Paddleford Bridge has a distorted arch, but this should not worry passengers as a three-tonne restriction has been imposed. The drivers of the three five-ton tractors, with trailers, which belted past in the short time I was there clearly have not read the signs. It is a very long way round if they do not go this way.

In my campaign against the demolition of a bridge on the Teign Valley route, I drew attention to Paddleford as an example of real risk. This letter has a view of the distorted arch.

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/pdfs/campaign%20appendix%207.pdf

The site of the H.A.B.D. just north of Paddlefrod. I don't know how many alarms the detectors send now. Certainly plain bearings kept them busy. However most of the alarms were false if I remember correctly, or were triggered by loco traction motors. Even rollers can get quite warm though, especially if overpacked. Copyright Colin Burges.

Detail of sign. Copyright Colin Burges

Articles by Colin Burges Number 4

Around Exeter another bike ride by Colin Burges

Further to my last one, yesterday I took the same road as far as Brampford Speke, this time turning east to cross the G.W. main line at Stafford Bridge.

The Southern Main Line looking from Pynes Bridge back towards Cowley Bridge Junction. This was still double line when I rode this route regularly. Copyright Colin Burges.

An Up train about to cross Stafford Bridge, seen from the bridleway below Woodrow Barton. Copyright Colin Burges.

Looking the other way towards North Devon. I imagined the L & SW Ocean Mail being checked here by Cowley's distant, as the G.W. Train sped on its way. Copyright Colin Burges

An up Cross Country HST accelerating away from a PRS at Cowley about to cross Stafford Bridge.

On the bridge I met the farmer at Woodrow doing his rounds. He asked me if anything special was due, as that is the only time he sees anyone lingering on the bridge. We talked about grassland, milk production, flooding, Network Rail and farming in general. He told me that his pasture had been flooded twice this year and that he had to walk over it each time to pick up debris washed down river. He told me a lot of damage can be done to a forage harvester by a metal can. He had complained to Network Rail about the state of the occupation crossing. He told me that he once phoned to ask for three minutes to get his herd across, only for a cow get a hoof caught in the timbers (at long last replaced by rubber units). Trying to extract it, he could hear the phones ringing - the signalman asking for "line clear."

After lunch in the community-run Stoke Canon Inn, I rode over the hill to Pinhoe where again I crossed the Southern main line by Tony Speller's station. From here can be seen traffic on the M5, which crossed the railway on a bridge built for a single line when a double line structure would have been marginally more expensive. Remember that the motoway builders were going to build a bridge over the Hemyock Branch at Tiverton Junction.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 5

Another bike trip - this time
Crediton to Barnstaple
Many thanks to Colin Burges for his 'off tarmac roads' biking records.

On Wednesday 23rd May 2018, my spring loosening ride up to North Devon was as joyous as previous years. Beyond Copplestone, the road seems to have been detrafficked and I can only assume that satnavs send the slaves via Tiverton. At Colleton Mills, between Eggesford and King's Nympton, the River Taw has recently been diverted away from the railway and although the project is complete, I was fortunate to find the project manager waiting there for someone and he was able to sate my interest. I clocked 42 miles so I'm ready to conquer new country.

The bridleway leading up to Chenson Crossing between Lapford and Eggesford. 23rdMay 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The view from Chenson Level Crossing. 23rd May 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

The Diverted River Taw, back on the course it is thought to have followed 200 year ago. The North Devon Railway is just out of sight to the right. 23rd May 2018 Copyright Colin Burges. Perfectly calm water note the sky reflections.

For a short article on the river diversion please click below

https://www.railengineer.uk/2018/01/09/a-short-story-of-a-railway-and-its-river/

Until last year the river was undermining this wall. The experts predicted it would not last another year. 23rd May 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

At this point the course of the river has been left as a creek. The railway is behind me. Copyright Colin Burges 23rd May 2018

In this view the railway is to the left and the course of the river filled in. 23rd May 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The ever growing Barnstable. The former railway bridge over the Taw to Victoria Junction can be seen. 23rd May 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

Barnstaple, seen from Bishop's Tawton Road at the edge of the village. After the pleasant ride from Crediton, during which I saw only three other cyclists, I entered the traffic chaos of Barnstaple, which, as always, new road building has not solved. The railways can be positioned by the Victoria Road - Junction loop bridge, and by the civic centre tower block, near the former Town station and on part of the L. & B. line. The North Devon line can barely be seen just above the red and white truck.

Pilton Yard, on the Lynton to Barnstable, site of. 23rd May 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

Can you spot the tops of the gate posts at the former level crossing? Beyond, where the cars are parked, was the long side of the triangle at Pilton Works. I went in this yard in the early 'seventies; Dad asked in the office if we could look round. The buildings were all still there, with their two-foot inspection pits. I am convinced that at the Lynton point of the triangle, which was fenced off, the sleeper impressions were still there in the ballast, but it hardly seems possible when I think about it now.

Many thanks Colin, 'Power to your pedals'.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 6

Sampford Peverell alais Tiverton Parkway Colin Burges

A couple of my recent rides have started and, or, finished at what today is called Tiverton Parkway.

Behind the down platform at Tiverton Parkway lies the down platform of the former Sampford Peverell Halt - this closed in October 1964. Copyright Colin Burges

Another view behind the down platform at Tiverton Parkway - an elaborate walkway has been created to service the lighting standards. 2018 Copyright Colin Burges.

Colin Burges thinks - 'Methinks Network Rail has borrowed my line'!. Copyright Colin Burges

Colin comments - 'I should say that my dreams are very much more ambitious than the track authority's!. Copyright Colin Burges.

Many thanks Colin for your pictures and comments.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 7

Pugham Crossing

The road crossing at Pugham, between Burlescombe and Sampford Peverell, was closed in 1974 and the cottage, signal hut and gates removed. It is now used infrequently by pedestrians.

It was never a block post, having only repeater bells, latterly from Whiteball and Tiverton Junction.

Pugham Crossing. 1 25th June 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

From the road junction, the lane still leads as far as the crossing. A split second later and an Up H.S.T. would have shot across; blue can just be seen through the building.

Pugham Crossing. 2 25th June 2018 Copyright Colin Burges - A Cross Country trains flashes past.

Pugham Crossing. 3 25th June 2018 Copyright Colin Burges The old B & E - looking towards Exeter.

Many thanks Colin

8Articles by Colin Burges Number 7

Axminster Tank Trap - on the Southern

A tank trap spotted on the Southern just east of Axminster. July 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

Articles by Colin Burges Number 9

More on the Taunton Stop Line
Colin Burges shows us what he found the way of WW2 fortifications on the Chard Branch,
Take a look and enjoy his findings

Further to my piece about what I thought was a tank trap near Axminster, I attach some shots I took in 2012 of the fortifications on the Chard Branch, which formed part of the Taunton Stop Line.

The tank trap between Chard Central and Ilminster. The pillar I glimpsed beside the line outside Axminster was very like these. The slots can be seen into to which a beam would have been inserted when the balloon went up. Copyright Colin Burges

Concrete anti-tank obstacles flank the line. Copyright Colin Burges

The gun emplacement tucked into the approach embankment of Knowles Lane where it passes over the branch between Chard and Ilminster. Copyright Colin Burges

Part of the line of anti-tank obstacles at Donyatt Halt can be seen at top right. Colin's bike rests a while! Copyright Colin Burges

On Donyatt platform. I think the sculptor has captured this evacuee's innocence and fear perfectly, with her suitcase and gas mask. Copyright Colin Burges

Since you say on the occasion of a C.R.S. visit you did not receive a warm welcome, I include some shots of Ilminster. At the time we were told to Buzz off not too politely!. Glad you didn't suffer the same fate. Copyright Colin Burges

Around the back at IIminster. Copyright Colin Burges

Ilminster Station . Copyright Colin Burges

Ilton Halt - two storey Pillbox. Copyright Colin Burges

Hatch Station - with kind permission of the owner. Copyright Colin Burges

Many thanks Colin for your article
For additional coverage of the Chard Branch please
click here .

Articles by Colin Burges Number 10

Honiton to Lyme Regis - Cycle ride

When this was still a proper main line, I well remember going to Waterloo behind an 800, being served breakfast by a liveried steward at a real table with a white cover, while watching the East Devon countryside flash by. I remember as a lad looking out for the signs which began with: "You will soon be entering Strong country."

Monday 9th July 2018 Monday's ride started with route learning, following the A35 eastward from Honiton. Some respite from the busy main road was found on an empty section of bypassed turnpike, from where the town and the Blackdowns could be viewed. There is a road equivalent of Honiton bank and I clocked 38 m.p.h. descending it. Just after Wilmington I put the brake in, turned and climbed up to Ivy Bridge.

The 1025 Exeter has just passed Ivy Bridge and is descending towards Seaton Junction. The lineside, recently flailed, has a more cared-for look than many, although it is a very long way from the high standards of the past. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Black Sand Bridge, the next one along, carries the A35. The original caused a dog leg in the road which has been straightened by this replacement. It is I would say not a skew bridge; the line, as can be seen, passes through a hollow central pier formed by the steel girders. The abutments of the original bridge can be seen from the train. This is the 0820 Waterloo which had crossed the Up at Axminster. 9th July 2018 Colin Burges

The public footpath bridge at Seaton Junction spanned the Express Dairy Milk & Egg Depot, three platforms, five running lines (including the Seaton Branch) and a siding. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

If you're standing on the footbridge, you can just see the Seaton Branch platform beneath. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The station footbridge from the footpath bridge, looking towards Axminster. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

On the Lyme Regis Branch, Trinity Hill Bridge, just along from Combpyne Station, is a concrete structure with chert spandrels and parapets. One of the concrete capstones at the other end has been dislodged, presumably by a vehicle. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

As is the practice today, the masonry was built in segments to allow for expansion and movement. The joints would today be filled with mastic. The Lyme branch opened later the same year as my own little line, the Exeter Railway, linking Christow with Exeter, but its structures were all of traditional construction. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The approach to Cannington Viaduct from Combpyne. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Cannington viaduct 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The jack arches built to arrest the distortion caused by the neighbouring embankment at the time of construction. 9th July 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Colin says :- I'm behaving myself, Keith: I'm on a public footpath. Copyright Colin Burges

Or "Department for No Transport," in this case!! Colins transport rests against the viaduct!! 9th July 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

Many thanks for your notes and pictures - it takes a fit person to do what you've done - keep it up.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 11

It's in the box

My contributions box is one of the tool boxes which used to sit on the side tanks of "Metro" 2-4-0T No. 3587, turned out of Wolverhampton in 1898.

This was shedded at Newton Abbot from about 1938 and was withdrawn in 1944. I found the box years ago by the sand-drying oven in the old running shed. The number could just be made out on the lid.

It's just about to go for blasting and spraying after repairs to the riveted seams, which were bursting in places. The fellow who made it would have been fascinated to see an electric welder at work.

Under the lid when I found it were quite large areas of green paint, possibly from when it was new. These have mostly flaked off and will soon be lost altogether. There can't be many examples of original paintwork left.

Colins Donation Box. Copyright Colin Burges

Articles by Colin Burges Number 12

Biking along part of the Kingswear branch - Colin Burges

The 1615 Paignton follows the curve to cross Hookhills Viaduct on the climb from Goodrington to Churston. Copyright Colin Burges

The same train crosses the viaduct above the road leading down to Broadsands. The road doesn't appear on the O.S. until 1938. I dropped down to the sands just for the exercise in climbing back up, before going through Galmpton and taking the road to Greenway Quay. 5th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

75014 emerges from the 495 yard Greenway Tunnel 17.59 5th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Articles by Colin Burges Number 13

Corfe Colin Burges

There was a change of plan on Tuesday 7th August 2018. When I got to Yeovil Junction on the 0510 St. David's, the pleasant buffet was closed for the day (proprietors attending a funeral) and so I rode into town in search of brekka. There was none to be found and so I went down to Pen Mill where I remembered that there was a Co-op filling station nearby. After riding with my Costa coffee and all-day breakfast sandwich back to the station I sat in the sun waiting for the train that I had meant to catch from Thornford. After changing at Dorchester for the bliss of a Siemens's Austrian-built Desiro, I rode from Wareham and was in Corfe well before the 1000 Norden departed.

Wanting these loiterers out of the shot, I nearly asked them to move away for safety. Swanage drivers must be used to seeing this lack of awareness. Later I was in the ruins of Corfe Castle, "slighted" (razed) after it was held against the Parliamentarians during the Civil War. 7th August 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

The train passes through one of the gaps in the Purbeck Hills that the castle was meant to dominate. 7th August 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

When I got to Swanage, instead of riding east and catching the ferry for Sandbanks, I went back to Corfe to view the station museum. The tea was so good from the catering truck that I enquired about it, as they said many people do. "Dorset Tea" can be found in Central convenience stores, or in Waitrose where I picked up a box today. Decent tea is essential to railway operation and it may be the reason why the Swanage has been so successful.

Then I hopped on the train for Norden and spent an hour or so in the mining museum which doesn't open until late morning. In the early '90s, thanks to the resident mining engineer, I was fortunate to be allowed down one of the Kingsteignton adits in the Bovey Basin so much of what I saw at Norden was familiar. Underground mining was given up in Purbeck, as in Devon, around the turn of the century. I was surprised to learn that the Purbeck deposits came from Devon and Cornwall in ancient times, there being no granite in Dorset.

When I chatted to the lady on the gate, she took it that my memory was of Cornish clay mining, which goes to show that the Devon operations are often overlooked. You have your museum at Carthew but there is little celebration of Devon ball clay mining.

This 1865 wagon I thought deserved a snap, making C.R.S. members seem like youngsters. Note the sprung buffers at one end and dumb buffers at the other, and a brake that acts on the wheel tread or the rail. 7th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

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Articles by Colin Burges Number 14

Whiteball Colin Burges

On Thursday I rode to Taunton by way of the centre of Exeter, the pre-bypass route being High Street. After buying lunch at the little buffet at Sampford Peverell, I thought I would follow a green lane from Pugham Crossing but this came to an abrupt end at the M5 fence. So I skirted round to Burlescombe and followed the lane the signalmen would once have taken to rejoin the old A38 near the summit.

Until later in the last century, these were "Tunnel Cottages," built not far from the line of Whiteball Tunnel. The old A38, still with its "cat's-eyes," is now used for access and is stopped up beyond the red van. The early 1970s diversion lies on the other side of the cottages. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

For some reason, these are now "Redhill Cottages," named after a nearby farm. This would once have been on the climb to the summit of the A38. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Conveniently, a footpath leads from "Railway Cottages" across to "Marlands," at the other end of the tunnel. This is the area still known as "The Tippings," after spoil from some of the 14 construction shafts was spread here. The Wellington Monument can be seen standing guard over the Blackdowns. In the middle distance is the M5 motorway, which took a very different course from the A38. The trees at left stand on the Devon-Somerset border. The tunnel lies beneath the immediate foreground. It is this landscape which was said to have sustained the allied agent, Odette, when in German captivity; she had moved here to be near her mother. 9th August 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

The footpath brings the walker to the rim of the massive approach cutting, the other side of which can be seen. Still in full sun, the Quantocks can be seen in the distance. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The classic shot of Whiteball, with "Werescote" towering above. The rails don't sing to announce an Up train: they just burst out of the tunnel. I thought I heard something so had my camera ready. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

N.B. If you decide to post my piece on Whiteball, I wonder if you could include this extract from the inspection reports for Perridge Tunnel on the Teign Valley Branch, which I meant to include.

16.10.1949 As all available masons were engaged on the relining of Whiteball Tunnel it has not been possible to programme the repairs required in this tunnel.

It is clear that both Whiteball and Perridge were troublesome tunnels.

Cheers, Colin

"Marlands Bridge," the last before the tunnel, appears to have its beams aligned to the gradient. Appropriately, the lady who lives at "Marlands" came along while I was here and we chatted. She was met by another lady who appeared from the lane up to White Ball. After meeting the lady doing the flowers in Sampford Arundel church, no doubt the handsome stranger on his bike will be the talk at the next coffee morning. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The road to the right is the original turnpike through White Ball. Up this the horses would have slogged with coaches of passengers going from the temporary Beam Bridge railhead to Burlescombe while the tunnel was under construction. The "White Ball Diversion" was made in the 1920s and much widened in later years. It is still busy and the traffic goes very fast. The tipper racing downhill to Beam Bridge will have come from Westleigh Quarry with stone that might once have gone through the tunnel. Before the M5 was built, I used to cycle this road in the dark for fun!! 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

As usual, lineside detail is lost in the foliage. This is taken from "New Beam Overbridge," built in 1973 at the foot of the "White Ball Diversion," looking towards the tunnel. At middle is the old "Beam Bridge" and at right is the Beam Bridge Inn. A little beyond, between the railway and the old turnpike, was once a row of eight cottages. Marked on the O.S. as "Beam Bridge Cottages," they were also known as "Railway Cottages." At left lies the truncated old road and beyond the village of Sampford Arundel, the first or last village in Somerset. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

From Westford foot crossing, between Wellington and Beam Bridge, can be glimpsed M.P. 170 3/4. The next one, M.P. 171, is where Rous-Marten's stop watch recorded a quarter-mile covered in 8.8 seconds, an event later to become a legend. This crossing today has warning lights and a klaxon, there being curves in both directions. I would think that the driver of the mail train was sounding his whistle profusely. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

There can't be many loading gauges still in situ. This one is in the poor old goods shed at Wellington. 9th August 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

After this I rode from the centre of Wellington to the centre of Taunton in 22 minutes. It would have been quicker without the cars and traffic lights.

Cheers, Colin. Many thanks Colin - where will your faithful chariot take you next??

Many thanks Colin for your record of a most interesting cycle ride.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 15

A Quiz from Colin

Here's a puzzle for your readers:

Where is it? 31st May 2012 Copyright Colin Burges

Which station did it serve. The line crossed the valley and having passed under the distant road bridge plunged into a tunnel. Copyright Colin Burges

(The answer is on the former L. & S.W.R. between Camel's Head Halt and Ford).

Taken from Mount Pleasant Recreation Ground. Copyright Colin Burges

The remaining stump of St Leven Road. Copyright Colin Burges

The plaque on the remaining pier. Copyright Colin Burges.

Many thanks for this teaser Colin - we look forward to more of your bicycle wanderings.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 16

More Exhibits at Christow

The Refurbished huts at Christow - photographed in May 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

Finished in May were two buildings of which there must once have been thousands around the railway system in various sizes and shapes.

The small Samuel Taylor lamp hut came from Teignbridge Crossing and the Joseph Ash hut stood above the well here at Christow.

The Pumphouse is to be the annex of the exhibition for those items not needing to be kept warm and dry.

The explanatory label to the left of the poster board is available in the PDF below.

The blurb on the poster board, including the reproduction Teign Valley closure notice and a map of what an extensive local public transport system looks like, can be found a little way down on the E. & T.V.R. "The Railway" pages:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/the-railway.php

Some pictures of the Pumphouse being erected can be seen here:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/production.php#1928

Cheers, Colin Many thanks indeed Colin

Articles by Colin Burges Number 17

Route Refresher - Colin Burges uses pedal power to explore much of
The West Somerset
Minerals Railway
Many thanks for your article and photographs

Links to useful websites. The upper link gives details of the Winding house including drawings. The lower link gives general views of the incline.
http://www.westsomersetmineralrailway.org.uk/explore-incline-winding-house.php
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=Comberow+Incline&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=rUdbiwrK4G8daM

A ride which marks the end of the season has for several years been over the hills to the north coast. On Tuesday I detrained at Sampford Peverell * and took a quiet road through Huntsham and on to Morebath, where I crossed the former Devon & Somerset. * Tiverton Parkway to most of us!!

The approach to Morebath Station, now a number of homes. I passed here on a route refresher in summer, 25th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

The station bridge at Morebath has piers which look as if they carried a platform extension. Having had a fairly easy ride I now started to climb. Copyright Colin Burges

The pier mentioned above. Copyright Colin Burges

Having climbed appreciably, I stopped to take in the view. The line of pylons shadows the Devon & Somerset, here between Venn Cross and Morebath. The above and below views. Copyright Colin Burges

The winding house flanked by the embankment at the head of Comberow Incline. This elevation was the engineer's cottage, next to the massive cable drums. Copyright Golin Burges

At left is the former Brendon Hill village shop; the station lay beyond this. At right is an abutment of the bridge which once carried the line on from the head of the incline to Gupworthy. Copyright Colin Burges

The "cottage" end of the winder house, with the chimney breasts at each side. Copyright Colin Burges

The upper link gives details of the Winding house including drawings. The lower link gives general views of the incline.
http://www.westsomersetmineralrailway.org.uk/explore-incline-winding-house.php
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=Comberow+Incline&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=rUdbiwrK4G8daM

This had fallen into worse ruin and was rebuilt by a farmer. Copyright Colin Burges

The engineer's cottage was indeed incorporated within the winding house; obviously the dividing wall has long gone. While there was ore being sent down to Watchet, the incline was self-actuating. When the mines closed, an engine was installed to lift loaded wagons from Comberow, but I doubt that this was a substantial affair, there being not much of a future for the railway. CB

One of the tunnels which took the winding cable to the surface at the head of the incline. Copyright Colin Burges

Looking down the incline from the summit. Copyright Colin Burges.

When I was last here, ten years ago, Exmoor National Park Authority were about to start clearing the incline and making access easier. I would say that it is now in about the same condition as it was in then. I observed the "Incline Instructions" and pinned down the front brake on my bike for the 1:4 descent!

Looking back at the summit. It is impossible to show the grade here as there is nothing to compare it with. Copyright Colin Burges.

A gradient post about half way down. Copyright Colin Burges.

If you didn't know better, you would take this as being a normal disused double line railway. Copyright Colin Burges.

This massive retaining wall was being surveyed by a team on behalf of Exmoor National Park. I chatted to the lady and two chaps about their work and remarked that Exmoor must be concerned about allowing public access, of which there does not appear to be much. "How many walkers have you seen today?" I asked. "Just you," they replied! Copyright Colin Burges

Last time I was here, I tumbled down from the embankment on the other side of this bridge and dislodged the saddle, making my onward journey rather uncomfortable. Since then, the park authority has installed these steps. The foot of the incline is a little to the left. Copyright Colin Burges.

At Comberow, somehow I failed to pick up the course of the railway, possibly because of forestry operations, and took a circuitous route before joining the line again shortly before it becomes a public road. Here is the end of it in Roadwater, where there was once a level crossing. Note the sign pointing to the "Mineral Line." Copyright Colin Burges.

On the opposite side, one of the four crossing gates lies in a garden. Copyright Colin Burges.

Just right of the previous shot, the railway crossed the Washford River and a little further on can be glimpsed the extension of the former Roadwater Station. Copyright Colin Burges 25th September 2018

The end of the mineral line at Watchet harbour. We are told that in the distance midway across the estuary lies Steep Holme which of course once boasted its own railway. Copyright Colin Burges.

That's it Colin and his faithful bicycle have made it all the way - this is the waterside terminus of the lines. Colin Burges.

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Articles by Colin Burges Number 19

Bristol cyclo-ramble
Colin Burgess

The weather is not a determinant for me in choosing to go to Bristol so it was a bonus at the end of September to have a full day of sunshine. I caught the train from Newton so as to take in the sea wall and after Exeter the guard kindly put me in first class, which at weekends is full of the same riff-raff found in second.

After a quick look at the Bath Road site, with its new road bridge, I headed off along the Midland route.

Bristol Cycle Ramble From the Midland bridge at Lawrence Hill, looking towards Stapleton Road. 29th September 2018 Colin Burges

The new bridge at Stapleton Road carrying the additional running lines is made from corten steel, which will not need painting. Some might say this is just as well since bridges are seldom painted anyway these days. 29th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Bristol Cycle Ramble. Stapleton Road Station Approach. On my previous visits I had used the path at the other end of the station and had not seen this entrance. 29th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Bristol Cycle Ramble. M23. The rail bridge supports the blue sign. 29th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges N.B. The M23 is built on the course of the River Frome.

Bristol Cycle Ramble. This is the site of Ashley Hill Jct. This bridge carried the lines converging on Ashley Hill Junction which was to the left. This location is on Mina Road. Seen on the 29th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Bristol Cycle Ramble. Ashley Hill Jct. road tunnel. 29th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges (Colin reports that Bristol City, anxious to be hip, looks to be "responsible" for the artwork, which, although not to my taste, is distinguished from regular daubings. N.B. If you look at Google Earth for this location there are more views of the extensive 'Art work' on the walls and roof of this bridge.

From the pedestrian bridge at Narroways, the quadrupling can be seen continuing on towards Stapleton Road and Bristol Temple Meads. The singled line leading off to the right is to Avonmouth and eventually Severn Beach. 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges..

Now looking up the bank towards Filton from the pedestrian bridge at Narroways. Old Midland line bridge parapets can be seen to the left, the Midland used this route to access Avonmouth Docks - the line from the right came from Kingswood Junction and proceeded to the left to Ashley Hill Junction. 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges. N.B. Colin makes a point that judging from the height of the brick abutment the main line must be 2-3 feet higher than it once was.

This is a view looking east through the cutting through which the Midlands Extension line passed.. The site of the bridge over the GW line is just beyond the fence. Behind the photographer lay Ashley Hill Junction where the Midland Railway's joined the GW line towards Avonmouth. Looking ahead, after crossing the GW line, the line headed for Mangotsfield. It merged with the Midland line from Bristol St Phillips Marsh and Temple Meads at Kingswoor Junction. This route closed on 14th June 1965 with the Asley Hill signal box following on 27th February 1966. Copyright Colin Burges. 29th September 2018.

Another view of the Midland line cutting looking east. 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

Roygate Hill Viaduct 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges. It's hard to believe that this is in the middle of Bristol. Royate Hill Viaduct, a parapet of which can be glimpsed at left, is now a nature reserve and possibly the city's least used cycle path. For further info see https://quercus.livejournal.com/305693.html

The road is reduced to a single lane beneath Roygate Hill Viaduct, causing tailbacks in each direction' 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges

On the course of the siding serving Brandy Bottom Colliery, between Mangotsfield and Yate. The former Midland main line is to the right. 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges. For further info Google Brandy Bottom Colliery - masses of gen.

Old Midland line 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges. It is It's a surprise when the cyclist comes upon the double line of the Midland route lurking beneath the M4 bridge.

Old Midland Milepost. 29th September 2018 Copyright Colin Buges. Question - If the Midland placed them on the up side - is this the distance from Derby?

Tamper on old Midland line - is this up or down? 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

A view from Westerleigh Road of the bridges carrying the diverging lines at Westerleigh. 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

The spec, I think, for G.W. electrification was for a monorail!! 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

South Wales direct line looking towards Winterbourne. 29th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges.

High and low level lines seen from the overbridge at Patchway. Copyright Colin Burges

Loog towards Patchway from the overbridge. With Parkway closed to allow for electrification work Patcway is handling all the exchanges - there are adequate staff available. Copyright Colin Burges

Looking towards the new Hitachi Depot.The wretched Hitachi depot in the fork of the junction, seen from Patchway. Am I the only person who thinks it a sin that a nation with a near 200-year history of building railways and trains has been reduced to having Government impose trains made and maintained by the Japanese? And are these trains a 40-year advance on the H.S.T.? Comment from Colin is applauded. Copyright Colin Burges. Copyright Colin Burges.

Hoping to get a shot from the embankment at Cogload of the 1703 Paddington overtaking the 1633, the Torbay, I had booked on the latter from Bristol. This was going to be the last time there would be enough light at nearly seven. Two weeks earlier, the 1633 preceded the late running 1703. A week earlier, the working was as booked, but it was pouring with rain and the light would have been poor. As if there were a conspiracy against me, when I returned to Temple Meads I found that the 1633 was cancelled and so I sat on the vestibule floor of the next Toyager. Determined at least to have what might be my last run along the sea wall in the dark standing at an open window, I took my chances and got off at St. David's. Luckily, the delayed 1703, the one I had planned to see at Cogload, was right behind.

Summer is now but a memory. I've got a cold and can scarcely find the strength to get on my bike.

Cheers,

Colin

N.B. This much appreciated article was written in Mid October 2018 - one hopes that Colin's cold swiftly disappeared!!

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Articles by Colin Burges Number 19

Bus Circuits
Colin Burges

Dear Keith,

Among my bits I found this. It would have been displayed in a standard G.W.R. frame beside one of the phones on the named omnibus circuit.

On such simple circuits, all the phones were connected and all the bells rang, so it was up to the station to listen for the code, which was in practice quite instinctive. Others would pick up just to hear what was going on, often joining in and doing what today would be called "teleconferencing."

The instruction was "Listen before Ringing," because if the ringer were pressed while someone was talking, he would be interrupted by a screech. I remember the old boys bellowing down the receiver: "Anyone on?!"

The sets could be the familiar wooden-cased type seen on the walls of signal boxes, made by Ericsson, or more modern plastic desktop models with buttons instead of a dial. Long distance sets had relays so that the battery at one end triggered the bell at the other. In the simple box-to-box variety, the battery at one end powered the bell at the other.

It was a phone like this that the signalman in Night Mail used, when he spoke close into the transmitter: "That you, Harry? You'll have to shunt the local - I've got the postal on."

When I worked on the St. David's exchange, the insulation was so bad on the circuit to Barnstaple that when it rained and the line was crackling the best that could be done was getting Eggesford to pass on a message, which may have resulted in a woman who'd lost her shopping bag having a seat reserved.

As had been done from the beginning on the telegraph or block, the 11.0 a.m. time signal was sent to all points using a piece of wood to give 8-5-5 on a row of bus circuit buttons.

By my reckoning, only six out of 22 locations on this Cornish circuit remain.
Many thanks Colin

From the Colin Burges Collection

More on Bus Circuits

Dear Keith,
Not to outdo Tony, but merely to add to my piece, I attach illustrations of old and newer telephones that reside in my little exhibition at Christow.

The button at right was used to ring the code and the red "special" key got the exchange; I think the polarity was reversed to bring up the light on the board. If you kept ringing, someone would pick up out of curiosity, April 2019. Copyright Colin Burges/

To most moderns, a telephone with a dial is antique enough; would they know what to do with two buttons? As can be seen, there was room for two more buttons, usually different colours and for a direct line. The "automatic" has a standard connector and can still be used, although it would be no good having them all around the house because it has a "ringer equivalence" of one and B.T. only allows four on a line; modern phones are far less demanding. The old phones sound hollow now. I remember the technician unscrewing the earpiece and gently sliding in a new steel diaphragm when the old one had lost its springiness. April 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Tony will recall when the engineering notice would include "telephone to be provided at (mileage)." A box with phone and batteries would be left and the lineman would shin up the pole and attach two wires to the bus circuit line.

So there we are: teleconferencing and mobile phones, nothing new.

Colin Many thanks Colin.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 20

Some very interesting notes on the filming of a British Transport Film on the operation of TOPS. An article by Colin Burges

As an avid viewer of British Transport Films' work, I have often wondered whether the one I saw being made would ever come to light. I can still well remember the morning the film crew arrived unannounced and set up their bulky cameras and lamps to shoot a scene for a documentary following a consignment from Truro. It must have been one of the last productions as the unit was disbanded in 1982, although the occasional film was made thereafter.

Only yesterday, 41 years later, I saw "Using TOPS" for the first time. The 25 seconds of what was shot at Exeter Riverside that morning (actually, the crew was still at work when I went off duty at 1400), concluding with the train leaving the yard, can be seen from 11m. 47s. Arthur Harris is on the phone in the East ("Top") End Chargeman's cabin. I remember him rolling up his trouser leg to show us his wound, sustained in Italy: "All of us caught one and the Captain was killed." Receiving his call in the TOPS Office is Clerical Officer Stefan Wasniowski, who left B.R. with me in 1995. His father had come over with the Polish air force at the start of the war. "Charlie" is "B" Supervisor Charlie Holmes. Unusually, he left the railway not long afterwards. He had a knack for organization and would put down the phone after effortlessly arranging the day's trip working to talk about the next dance he was putting on. I made posters for one of these and was rewarded with his 1890 G.W.R. rule book, with its special provisions for working west of Exeter.

The director told me to keep my back to the camera because I was too pretty. I expect the instruction would be the same today, but for a different reason. In fact, I don't appear at all. But I was there.

The film depicts a vanished world, not least at Truro and St. Blazey. I wonder if any faces in the Cornish scenes can be identified by your members.

"Using TOPS" can be watched on the B.F.I. page:

https://player.bfi.org.uk/free/film/watch-using-tops-1978-online

This one has some comments, many of them deriding the railway operation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-yY8nRu3RA&t=757s

Who'd have thought in 1978 that one day anyone would be able to shoot a film in high definition using a phone and post it instanter on the worldwide cesspit?

Cheers, Colin. Many thanks indeed Colin.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 21

Marland and Dawlish
Colin Burges

The private siding diverged to the left. My bike is leaning against one of the very large concrete gate posts, covered in ivy. At this spot 37 years before, I had jumped down from the Class 31 sent to collect empty "Clayliner" trucks which were not to be loaded, the rail traffic having been lost; it had been decided not to use the air-braked bogie hoppers as these required special loading facilities. Picture taken on 14th July 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Even less likely to be seen in passing are the rail posts which must once have carried a sign proclaiming "North Devon Clays" to train passengers. 14th July 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Work on the sea wall at Dawlish. 14th July 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

It should be remembered that this wall is not the original and problems developed on the beach after it was built in 1902, the year Edward VII was crowned king, hence the name. The wall was built without a wave return curve because of the sand cover. However, the wall being further out caused wave rebound to scour the sand, meaning that even a mild sea will throw up spray over the promenade and tracks at high tide. The wall was part of the doubling of the line between here and Parson's Tunnel (incl.), completed in 1905. The spring tide meant that when I got to Starcross for the ferry, the 1310 sailing was cancelled due to low water. 14th July 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

This publicity concerns this vital link to the South West. I am sure that Colin Burges who took the photograph and who owns the bicycle would like to point out that there could be alternative routes to the South West!! Photo 14th July 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Many thanks to Colin for this very interesting article.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 22

Matisa Track Machine at Exmouth
Colin Burges and Stephen Derek

The movement of trolleys was always shown on notices, along with the special conditions which took account of the trolleys’ characteristics, whether recording or running “light.”
When Tony Hill asked his old pals if any of them had kept such a notice, Stephen Derek, a former B.R. manager, was prompted to reply: “On reading this, I recalled an early photo I’d taken of a ‘Swiss Matisa Track Recording Machine’ leaving Exmouth, for Exeter, on Sunday 8th May, 1960, a few months following my transfer to the Trains Office at Exeter Central.”
The photograph is reproduced here with Stephen’s kind permission.
If Stephen were to take up that same position today, he would be standing in the middle of Marine Way, part of the road expansion works that necessitated the virtual destruction of the station. But, in 1960, looking at the Southern’s grand rail gateway to Exmouth of 1924, few could have guessed what the future held.
The trolley is leaving Platform One in full recording mode, with probably an Exmouth Junction Driver acting as Pilotman standing at the door; being a steam man, he may have found the cab too confined.
The line in the foreground served Platform Two, part of which forms the pocket station in use today.
To the left were Platforms Three and Four. There was a space between the lines serving Platforms Two and Three which must have been left for an engine release road, but this was filled with beds containing flowers and shrubs. The space was wider still immediately in front of the camera to allow for the box (right of camera), with its “bridge” where the signalmen gave and received the tokens for the two single line branches.
At the end of each platform were lattice-work bracket signals which, as in the one seen, could allow a train to proceed from each platform to either the main (Exeter) or branch (Budleigh).
In the background can be seen the goods shed, while out of sight are the loco shed, platform canopies and fine frontage, and the harbour branch.

Actually, I was wrong and will have to amend the caption: Stephen was standing at the boundary fence beyond what is today Marine Way.
About here, I would say:

If Stephen were to take up that same position today, he would be standing in the middle of Marine Way, part of the road expansion works that necessitated the virtual destruction of the station. But, in 1960, looking at the Southern’s grand rail gateway to Exmouth of 1924, few could have guessed what the future held. The trolley is leaving Platform One in full recording mode, with probably an Exmouth Junction Driver acting as Pilotman standing at the door; being a steam man, he may have found the cab too confined. The line in the foreground served Platform Two, part of which forms the pocket station in use today. To the left were Platforms Three and Four. There was a space between the lines serving Platforms Two and Three which must have been left for an engine release road, but this was filled with beds containing flowers and shrubs. The space was wider still immediately in front of the camera to allow for the box (right of camera), with its “bridge” where the signalmen gave and received the tokens for the two single line branches. At the end of each platform were lattice-work bracket signals which, as in the one seen, could allow a train to proceed from each platform to either the main (Exeter) or branch (Budleigh). In the background can be seen the goods shed, while out of sight are the loco shed, platform canopies and fine frontage, and the harbour branch. 8th May 1960. Copyright Stephen Derek.

Stephen was standing at the boundary fence beyond what is today (2019) Marine Way. About here, I would say. Copyright Colin Burges.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 23

Route Learning the S and D.
Colin Burges retraces the Somerset and Dorset Route in 2019

After a long series of unhurried outings, I have completed my route learning between Bath (Green Park) and Bournemouth (West).

At the beginning of the month, I did the short section between Poole and the convergence of lines near Broadstone, passing the site of Creekmoor Halt. I had made my usual 04.30 start from Christow to catch the 05.10 to Yeovil Junction. After a cooked breakfast in the lovely buffet there, which opens at six despite there being hardly a soul about, I rode over to Thornford to stop the train for Dorchester. Usually, I go straight over to South Station for the 08.33, but not wanting to be too early for the Swanage, I rode up to Poundbury, the Duchy's model urban extension, to experience again the strange atmosphere of what at times can seem like a film set.

Queen Mother's Square, Poundbury. Poundbury Tunnel, north of Dorchester (West), was built to avoid destroying the ancient camp. Copyright Colin Burges

I saw this used in a film scene. Through the gap in the buildings, Maiden Castle can be glimpsed, new 2,000 years ago. Copyright Colin Burges.

Then I headed back to town for the 09.33 to Wareham, whence I rode to Corfe Castle. Not being one to photograph the ordinary when there is something more interesting, I made the coal yard my subject. How many working coal yards can still be found beside stations?

A working coal yard and ramshackle buildings at Corfe Castle Station on the Swanage Branch., Copyright Colin Burges.

At Swanage I had a coffee and bun in the carriage cafe before walking along the front and riding over to catch the ferry for Sandbanks.

Sandbanks Ferry, Poole Harbour. Copyright Colin Burges.

If I were in a position to choose, I would have a place on Restronguet Creek, I believe Cornwall's most expensive spot, but wouldn't give tuppence for one on Sandbanks. Poole has a magnificent expanse of water frontage and riding it was a pleasure. Eventually, I came to the old town and followed the course of the harbour tramway to the station. After going part way to Broadstone and back, I went through from Poole to Weymouth. Fearful of the crush for the 17.30 to Cary, I took the 16.54 to Yeovil Junction a through service to Waterloo, which was only lightly loaded.

Last Saturday, it was the same routine, but going to Pen Mill instead of Thornford. Arriving at Hamworthy Junction, I quickly found where to join the formation of the original line and followed it most of the way to Broadstone, looking down on the point I had reached on the previous occasion.

The Railway Hotel can be seen in one of your gallery pictures, placing it in relation to the station. Copyright Colin Burges.

Note the 'Goods yard' sign. Copyright Colin Burges.

"Join us @ The Junction," it says on the sign attached to the building standing on the station site. I chose to get on my own "exercise bike" with the real scenery and open air. Copyright Colin Burges.

The path goes beside the building to the left and takes the S. & D. route for a short distance at the junction. It then detours to rejoin the Southampton line, but I went through some rough to find the road and Corfe Mullen Halt.

"Corfe Halt Close" confirms the site. Copyright Colin Burges.

From this bridge whose mileage mark I could not find, the junction (Corfe Mullen) of the lines to Wimborne and Broadstone would once have been seen ahead. Copyright Colin Burges.

Then it was on to Bailey Gate Crossing, where I thought that a bobby putting the gates across the road today would not be a popular fellow. I'm not shy in crossing busy roads but this one had me waiting to leap for what seemed like ages. I'm very glad that I didn't have to go far on the A31 before turning for Sturminster Marshall.

Looking towards Blandford, one of a line of bullhead rail posts can be seen on the opposite side. Copyright Colin Burges.

Looking back to Corfe Mullen. Copyright Colin Burges.

There was nothing left of Bailey Gate Station. A few miles further on, I joined the formation and rode into Spetisbury.

Spetisbury complete with sign, but alas no track and no trains! Copyright Colin Burges.

The steps down to the road from Spetisbury Station. Copyright Colin Burges.

One always reflects on the moment works like this ceased to be used. One week, they were busy with people - children rushing, old folks taking the steps one at a time - and the next they were silent, thanks to a man signing a document. Copyright Colin Burges.

If only it were the real thing! Copyright Colin Burges,

Charlton Marshall Halt. Copyright Colin Burges.

Blandford Forum is a beautiful town ruined by road traffic. I rode around for a bit and then headed uphill as if I knew where to find the Co-op. I bought my lunch and planned to stop at the first place there was a decent view. Just beyond the Co-op was a railway bridge and I dropped down to join the line. At Stourpaine, I clambered up the bank to photograph the halt.

Stourpaine & Durweston Halt. Copyright Colin Burges.

Moments later, I spied my lunch spot.

DSC00291.JPG Holy Trinity Church, Stourpaine, where I took lunch with a view of the S. & D. Years ago, a man may have sat there and only glanced at a standard nine on the "Pines." Copyright Colin Burges.

The S. & D. embankment runs across the picture. The halt is in the trees at left. Copyright Colin Burges.

Looking back to Stourpaine. The path became a climb and it was obvious that thousands of tons of material had blocked a cutting. Copyright Colin Burges.

And at the top of the climb, a long, lone parapet wall is all that's left above ground of a bridge that must once have stood tall over the railway. Copyright Colin Burges.

Shillingstone has come on noticeably since I was last here. A name on a board told who was in charge on this day, a reminder that even little projects like this must now have exhaustive safety cases stuffed in ring binders.

Shillingstone station. Copyright Colin Burges,

Things that catch my eye: a flat bottom Thermit mould used to weld two bullhead rails in a pile at Shillingstone. Copyright Colin Burges.

Gold Hill at Shaftsbury. It gets steeper as you get older. Copyright Colin Burges.

Then I took the same roads as two years ago to Shaftesbury, where I tried climbing Gold Hill. I could say that it was because of my bald tyres that I only managed three yards.

Then it was down the hill to Gillingham in bags of time for the 17.17 train to Central. That was 51 miles riding.

So, Poole ticked off all the operational stations in Dorset. Now I only have to visit West Moors, Wimborne, Daggons Road and Verwood of the dead ones.

Cheers,

Colin

Articles by Colin Burges Number 24

Honiton to Taunton
A bike ride by
Colin Burges

On Wednesday I caught the train to Honiton and after immersing myself in an old-fashioned hardware store on High Street, I climbed out of the town along a quiet back lane onto the plateau.

At Dunkeswell Aerodrome, opened as R.A.F. Dunkeswell in 1943, I came upon a raft of grounded banana vans.

Grounded banana van bodies at Dunkeswell. Did the yellow "spot" indicate banana van, insulated or steam-heated, or all three? The non-cryptic telegraphic code was BANANA. Note the space for a ventilator on the end pressing. 21st August 2019 Copyright Colin Burges

A wonderful view of the Culm Valley is had before hurtling down the hill into Hemyock, where I ate lunch while watching a bowling team setting up for a match. The station site was closed, the purpose of which was unclear. However, locals were using the riverside path so I followed them in.

Hemyock Station site with concrete sleepers strewn about. Lines into the dairy once crossed the public road on either side of the camera. 21st August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges

Noticing the brick column I wondered if it was once part of the platform. However only the far end of the platform was brick faced so I think not. I also include the classic photograph by Mike Roach taken many years ago from more or less the same location.

Hemyock 7th Sept 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

Hemyock Station. Looking across the station site towards the former dairy. 21st August 2019 Colin Burges

Milk Factory Hemyock. The remaining dairy building, housing the offices now used by the Blackdown Hills A.O.N.B. Partnership, still carries a steel frame in the shape of the St. Ivel badge. One line passed across the road and ran to the right of this building; another crossed the road further to the right; I remember seeing them in 1974 or '75, before the branch was closed. St. Ivel Gold and Utterly-Butterly were once produced here. One of the area's most famous sons is Amyas Crump, the well-known railway historian. His father was manager here for many years and resided in this building. Among Amyas's many remarkable finds was the original Hemyock engine shed. 21st August 2019 Colin Burges

Then I climbed up to the Blackdown ridge from where a great expanse of Tone Vale can be seen.

View from Blackdown Ridge. This is only a bit of what is revealed by the trees at one viewing point. Wellington lies to the left. The Quantocks going right hide Bridgwater Bay. In reaching them, three lines of railway would be crossed: the G.W. main line and the Barnstaple and Minehead branches. Just behind the camera is the Devon and Somerset border. 21st August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges

Then I meandered through Wellington, Poole and the back lanes via Victory Crossing into Taunton (43 miles), where I was robbed of £4.45 for a cup of tea and a marshmallow in the wretched Upside Starbucks. My first ride in a Hitachi followed, about which I have nothing to say.

Cheers,

Colin Many thanks Colin for your record of a good day out.

Please note - there are many items in this section please SCROLL DOWN to find the most recent. Thank you.

Articles by Colin Burges Number 25

Eggesford to Lapford - by bike.
Colin Burges

Yesterday (Wednesday 4th September 2019) I thought I may catch the train after loading in Crediton, but being just too late after parking at the station I rode off through town towards Eggesford, calling in at "my" bookshop on the way. A stiff northerly weakened me and I turned into Copplestone just in time for the next one, which got me to Eggesford for lunch in the cafe where there is splendid grub on offer.

Then I rode up the hill and followed the drive to Eggesford Barton.

Seen from Thorn Park above Eggesford Church, my train returns as the 13.43 Barum to Exmouth. Eggesford parish has a church but no village. Even the things that might be associated with Eggesford - the station, the hunt and the hotel - lie outside the parish. All Saints Church has some imposing memorials to the Chichesters. The lady doing the flowers told me that it sees the biggest congregation at the Christmas Eve candlelit service. Copyright Colin Burges.

Like the church, I have spied a ruined bridge from the train many times and thought that I should go and have a closer look. Not many years ago, the track down from the church crossed the railway and the river but the residual pedestrian right has now been extinguished and the path diverted. Copyright Colin Burges.

Like its C18 neighbour, the railway bridge may also be "Homeland." The "new" work of 1910 is obvious. Colin Burges.

Built but never used but at least allowing for the interesting diversion of a footpath. What would Network Rail make of a proposal today to double the line. Copyright Colin Burges.

The "new" work is dated by this plate. Copyright Colin Burges.

The ruined neighbour is glimpsed downstream of the railway bridge. Copyright Colin Burges.

A little further on the path now goes beneath the railway using one of three spans of an accommodation or floodwater bridge, also dated by this plate. Copyright Colin Burges.

The "new" deck on the right is strapped to the original. Copyright Colin Burges.

The path led around to the other side of the ruined Homeland Bridge. Copyright Colin Burges.

Although Grade II listed, I wonder what future there is for this collapsing old structure. Copyright Colin Burges.

This is much the same as the glimpse that is got from the train. Copyright Colin Burges.

The 14.43 Barum to Exmouth leaves Eggesford. Copyright Colin Burges.

The new from the old: the same train crosses the Taw on what may have been a double line bridge. Copyright Colin Burges.

If anyone thinks that a pleasant couple of hours can't be spent at Eggesford, try going for a bite of lunch at the excellent little goods shed cafe before taking a short circular walk past the church and the river bridges, returning to the station along the not too busy turnpike.

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g967867-d15208363-Reviews-Eggesford_Crossing_Cafe-Chulmleigh_Devon_England.html

On the way back to Lapford, this nationally significant memorial is passed as well as the milestone marking the half way point on the turnpike between Exeter and Barnstaple. Exeter 20; Barnstaple 20.

At Lapford, I went up into the village and over the hills via Morchard Bishop back to Crediton.

Who remembers the isolated "island" Down platform at Lapford? It lay between the river bridge and the station bridge beyond. Note the foliage about to meet in the middle. Copyright Colin Burges.

Many thanks for your article Colin - where will he go next?

Articles by Colin Burges Number 26

Teign and Wray valleys
Colin Burges

On Saturday 7th September 2019 I had a ride around my own back yard, East Dartmoor.

Hennock, perched on the high ground between the two valleys, was home to Great Rock Mine. Its closure in 1969 marked the end of metalliferous mining in Devon. My great pal, Bob Le Marchant came upon it still working when he was a lad and never forgot the experience. He eventually graduated from the Camborne School of Mines.

Bob had a hand in placing this side-tipping truck in the centre of Hennock to remind villagers of their mining heritage. Copyright Colin Burges.

Ferrubron also ran the neighbouring Kelly Mine in the Wray Valley, today the home of a preservation society in which Bob is heavily involved. Copyright Colin Burges.

Micaceous hematite is easily identified. Rub this with a finger and it will glisten, hence the colloquial name "shiny ore." Look at any old railway bridge painted "battleship grey" and the pigment will be micaceous hematite. The platelets of this mineral form an anti-corrosive coating superior to paints with a granular pigment. Copyright Colin Burges.

A little way up the hill, I stopped to take in the view. At centre right can be seen the face of Whetcombe Quarry. The Teign Valley Branch ran beside the quarry, which had a private siding. On the skyline can be seen the Haldon Belvedere or Lawrence Castle. Copyright Colin Burges.

Standing on the Haldon ridge, the same landmark can be seen from the main line and from much of East Devon. Copyright Colin Burges.

Dropping into Bovey, I picked up the Moretonhampstead Branch at this bridge.

A new concrete span in place of the steel that the scappies had away. The bitty "Wray Valley Trail" now goes as far as the next bridge. Copyright Colin Burges.

The next bridge, typical of the fine structures on the Moreton Branch, is not part of the trail. Beyond the bridge the path can be seen joining the road, which follows the line past Pullabrook Halt. I do not know whether the quiet road will form part of the trail or negotiations are in hand with landowners. Copyright Colin Burges.

A short section of the trail has been completed beyond Lustleigh Station bridge but is not yet in use. Copyright Colin Burges.

The trail uses the old line between two underbridges with new spans, then skirts Moretonhampstead Station, now occupied by the infidel. Copyright Colin Burges.

It was unfair to subsidize the railways, we were told, but its now all right to provide a massive hidden subsidy to road freight. Copyright Colin Burges.

The station entrance. This part of the old terminus is now not needed by the road haulier, who has applied to build an estate of 40 homes. The Teign Valley scribe has objected on the grounds that the railway will be needed in the future. The South West branch of Railfuture has also objected. Picture copyright Colin Burges.

The cyclist at the next table in Central Cafe was served ham, egg and chips, but I was going to have ribeye, mushrooms, peas and chips for dinner and so settled for a sandwich. Afterwards, I visited the Moretonhampstead Motor Museum. I hate the wretched things but am interested in how cars are put together.

I took this for the Webmaster, who I believe once drove one of these. Copyright Colin Burges.

This is not a motoring website, however I think it best to put it on record that we did own a Bond Minicar but not the exclusive model which I believe NWY298K above is. Ours was a Bond minicar Mark F. Rather like the one below - our registration was SCT44 which we used to call it 'Super Climbing Tricycle'. Top speed was of the order of 40 MPH or 55 coasting out of gear down a steep hill! We had it from 1960 to 1965 covering around about 50,000 miles - the engine was a Villiers 250cc. The brakes, rod and cable operated were very poor pulling to one side or the other depending on the load. The front wheel and the engine pivoted under the bonnet and turned through ninety degrees either way - thus the Bond could turn within the width of a narrow road. The front wheel drive was handy in snowy conditions - it often got me to work through blizzards. If a snow drift stopped one -it was possible to clear the drift by a sweeping motion! It often got me to work when other cars failed. There was no heater, through a paraffin sump heater left on all day and night kept the windscreen clear of ice and heated the underside of ones legs!! The run from Peterborough to Cornwall took 13 hours minimum. I understand that one of these completed the Monte-Carlo rally - I don't think it won!! KJ.

Rather a poor image but this is a Bond Minicar 'F'.

With respect, since you included a history of an early Jenkins' staff car, you might have added the background of the motor museum in Moreton.

Dear Keith,
Tony Hill has pointed out to me that I was remiss in not mentioning that the Motor Museum is housed in the former Devon General bus garage.
The only reason I mentioned it was because of the Bond Bug, but as I did, and it is of public transport interest, here is a short history.
The Great Western brought motor buses to the town in 1906 to replace the horse-drawn service between there and Chagford. The L. & S.W.R. later ran an Exeter (Queen Street) to Chagford service. In 1912, a G.W. summer service to Princetown began.
Devon Motor Transport Ltd. began running services in the area in 1919 and its Exeter to Moreton route was taken over by Devon General Omnibus & Touring Co. in 1924, which firm later extended its services.
The railway continued to run its service to Chagford until 1929, when it was taken over by Western National Omnibus Co. The railway's buses were shedded at the station.
In 1931, an art deco depot was built in Court Street, large enough for double deckers. Seven buses were allocated here in summer. There were facilities for drivers and conductors.
The depot closed in 1971 and became a car garage. Buses were kept overnight in the public car park in Court Street, a practice which continued until 1992, when bus allocation to the town ceased.

Cheers, Colin. Thanks Colin

For a change, I took the very steep pre-turnpike road (now a bridleway) out of town and stopped at a gate to look back. The red monsters at left position the station. Beyond the town can be seen Fernworthy Forest. Copyright Colin Burges.

The steak and chips went down well later. Cheers, Colin.
Well deserved and thanks for your article - now 'One yer Bike'!

Articles by Colin Burges Number 27

Weymouth and Portland
Colin Burges

On Saturday, 14th September 2019, I joined the Okehampton to Weymouth charter at St. David's and put my bike in the van. I hadn't booked and so handed a cheque to the OkeRail organizer, Kevin Ball.

On arrival, I took in the atmosphere on the front, went to Quay Station and followed the tramway as far as Town Bridge, then joined the path along the former branch at Westham Halt. For a change, at Fortuneswell I took Old Road up to the summit, a very severe climb; I could see why New Road was needed. After gazing in wonder at Chesil Beach and the Dorset coastline, I found a gap in a wall along Grove Road where the unmarked Incline Road started. This led to the head of the incline where stands a fine old engine shed.

Here is all about - superb descriptive plaque concerning the railway and the engine shed. Copy Colin Burges.

Details of the future use of the engine shed. Photographed on the 14th September 2019. Colin Burges.

Next to this is the Young Offenders' pen, surrounded by razor wire. The old name is given away by the Borstal Officers' Club in Grove Road. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

I'd been very near here before when descended the cliff and joined the course of the branch to Easton. Tony Hill and two friends from Dartmoor Railway had taken the open-topped bus to Easton and done my route the other way, passing this spot on the way back to the main road. Tom Baxter found this link to the open day that was held here.

https://www.portland-port.co.uk/news/61/Portland+Port+Open+Day+The+Old+Engine+Shed

I had thought that I may have got into the harbour complex but this is what I met half way down the incline, which had three winding drums.

Looking up part of the incline which once connected the many workings on the "island" to the Portland Branch. The lines were "Dartmoor gauge," 4ft. 6in. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

A view south of the route taken by the Portland Branch to Easton. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

A stone set in a wall near the engine shed carries a verse by local poet, Skylark Durston, lamenting the decline of quarrying. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

What happened to the quarry bells
that rang each working day?
For many years I haven't heard
a single roundelay.
I heard them on the way to school
I heard them coming home.
I knew the men that made them ring
in galleries of stone.

From the top of the cliff by the engine shed part of the massive breakwater, whose stones must all have descended the inclines, can be seen. The O.S. reveals that even the isolated part of the breakwater had a tramway from end to end. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

From the head of the incline, I went to the rather forbidding back door of the Verne citadel, now a Category C men's prison rumoured to be the home of Gary Glitter.

Just below the fortifications can be seen the course of the Merchant's Railway, the first in Dorset, leading to the head of the incline down to Castletown. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Nearby, well hidden, are the remains of the High Angle Battery. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

What may be the only rails left on the island are in one of the two earth-covered magazines. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

The tramway (18in. I think) led to ramps up to the loading platform. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

The canon were muzzle-loaded with shells which might have rained down on the decks of an enemy's ships. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

On the walk down to South Pier, I spotted a wagon wheel which looks like it has become an anchor. It's not often they're seen detached from their axles. 14th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

From South Pier, where I sat in glorious sunshine and ate my lunch, both stations could be seen but I didn't think it would make much of a photograph.

This was a great day out made possible by OkeRail. Being honest, I was looking forward to experiencing an open window, just as I'd done three years ago on the Weymouth Wizard, but those days have gone: at the insistence of Network Rail (and we all know why), there were stewards in every vestibule.

Cheers,

Colin

Many thanks Colin for your record of your very interesting exploration of a part of Portland little known to most of us - you have proved it to be well worth a visit when in the area. There is a good bus service from Weymouth to Portland and the summit of the very steep sided hill. If you haven't a bike but have a very strong pair of legs and a map it is well worth the trouble of doing a bit of 'Looking around'.

Two recommended videos.

Further to his article Colin recommends two videos - and thanks Tom Baxter of the Dartmoor Railway who sent him the following him the links to the 'Last Train to Portland' and the Portland Section of Railway Walks'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF_GIGvPNHY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us_M5WI10v8

Articles by Colin Burges Number 28
Britannia Crossing
& Noss Yard

On 18th of last month (September 2019) , I went for a ride round Torbay and carried on over the hill to Britannia Crossing.

The road goes past the entrance to Noss Yard, the former home of Philip & Sons, shipbuilders. It had all changed since Crump, Le Marchant and I poked around not that long ago looking for remains of the extensive rail layout. The bridge over the Kingswear Branch has been widened and a pedestrian bridge installed beside it. The yard, birthplace of P.S. "Kingswear Castle," alive on the river, and P.S. "Compton Castle," immured at Truro, is about to be transformed into a rich man's playpen and is now mostly fenced off.

This line was once within a building and was unseen by the three of us last time. 18th Sept 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

The Kingswear Branch originally ran through the yard; two wooden viaducts crossed the creeks on either side. The branch was diverted inland in 1923; the divergences at each end can still be seen from the train. I wonder if these wooden piles were part of the viaducts. 18th Sept 2019 Copyright Colin Burges

Note: Noss Yard is private property but everyone comes and goes as they please. Staff didn't seem bothered that I was photographing the siding.

Noss yard 1 The Kingswear branch on its original alignment about 1906.

And here is the diversion of 1923 showing the abandoned earthworks, the expanded yard and the private siding connection of 1929 The private siding gate can still be seen from the train.

From the turning to the yard, it's not far down the hill to the crossing and Higher Ferry, where I spent an hour or so watching the comings and goings.

Both now owned by the same company, loco and paddle steamer exchange whistles when in sight of each other. 18th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

P.S. "Kingswear Castle" sails up river on a short cruise, passing the yard of its birth on the way. 18th September 2019 Copyright Colin Burges.

Paignton (Queen's Park) to Kingswear is controlled by the panel in Britannia Crossing Box. The signalman handed me a copy of a pamphlet describing the development of signalling on the private railway. The halt lay just here. 18th September 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Leaving Britannia, I ambled along the path enjoying the late summer sun. Looking down from the footbridge at Kingswear, I wondered what was under the plastic cover on a bogie flat. I find it was the engine from P.S. "Compton Castle," bought as a spare.

https://www.paddlesteamers.org/news/national/compton-castle-engine-move/

It appears in Martin Scane's picture on the September pages, the engine in question is under the polythene sheeting behind 4110. (Clicking on the above link will be very rewarding)

18th Sept 19 Courtesy Martin Scane Copyright

I will label this as Article 29 as it has connections and mentions the CRS    and refers to Colin's article on Brittania Crossing and Noss Yard.

Dear Keith,

The engine lying on a WARFLAT in a siding at Kingswear is a tenuous excuse to expand on the fate of the vessel over the years.

My old pal, Bob Le Marchant, graduate of the Camborne School of Mines, hero of the Festiniog, originator of the mine train at Morwellham, was brought up in Paignton and knows the area well. He remembers the colliers offloading at Kingswear for Torquay Gas Works and the lightships tied up at Philips's yard on the Dart.

Sending him my piece on Britannia Xing, I asked him if he'd noticed the polythene-covered load at Kingswear when he was there recently. He came back with this:-

I remember my efforts to save the Compton Castle, and base it at Morwellham. I had a promise of the money to buy the vessel from the Transport Trust, but not the money to repair it. That was when I bought my first welder and taught myself to weld. But the Trustees did not share my vision. Then it was bought by a publican in Looe, and towed there. Cut off the superstructure to get it under Looe Bridge. Placed it on a custom built slip up the West Looe boat yard ( there was a rail system there). But the boiler was cut up and thrown out of a hole cut in the bottom. At about this time I gave up interest, and the engines were taken out for a museum " - in the Isle of Wight", and she was towed to Truro. Makes. me sad to see her there.

Asked if he minded my sharing this with the C.R.S., he replied:-

Yes, share my writing by all means. I still have builders plans somewhere - donated by the PSPS. I went with my Dad to Kingsbridge to look over the Compton Castle when I heard that it was under a daily penalty by the Council to have it removed. Looking in the porthole to the engine room, all was bright and shiny, with a carpet on the engine room floor. I had visions of running it from Morwellham with a three piece musical combo (my Grandpa was a band leader), and cut glass sundae dishes. I knew I could really do the thing others couldn't!! It is all about doing it with passion, and keeping the woman in a business suit well away.

Then I asked him what his particular interest was in the vessel. Was it the steam, the age, the origin on the Dart or the paddles? You will know that Morwellham is the highest practicable navigation on the Tamar, although it is tidal as far as Gunnislake Weir, and paddle-driven vessels are better for shallow drafts (I think). He replied:-
Paddles are good, but it was the whole package: -
Steam engine in good working condition ( in my book certainly, though not in others opinion. My good friend Roger Pridham (boiler makers) could have easily re-tubed the existing boiler),
Beautiful boat,
Local boat (I can just remember them on the Dart),
Having a dock at Morwellham to keep it in,
Needing something to put in the dock to give the Quay 'life',
Having just built a big slipway at Morwellham that would enable all repairs to be done in house,
My love of the best of the Edwardian lifestyle (promenades, decent clothing, seaside culture, children in secure family groups (don't get me going on that one!!!),
Something exciting that would fulfil my life for the rest of my life ( I would still be driving it today if it had been done).

And so on. I know/think I could even have made it all pay quite well - if you could have kept it ENGINEER/MANAGER, rather than woman in business suit/manager. But paddles certainly makes the whole thing a public spectacle, - as the Kingsweir Castle is now.

So, when I visit the sad remains of the Compton Castle in Truro, I ponder all these things, and come to the conclusion that have spent much of my life "swimming against the tide", as I am sure you feel sometimes.

Valuable insight though this is, it's probably too much for your pages with such a tenuous connection to railways. If you don't post it, then I hope it will have been of interest to you. And you may know a few chaps who would also like to read Bob's words.

Cheers, Colin.
      Thanks Colin - now I know a bit about 'Compton Castle' lying in the mud outside Truro's M & S.

Articles by Colin Burges. Number 30.
The Dawlish Sea Wall Work in October 2019
A report and video link.

When does heavy mist become rain? For a short while on the trading estate at Sowton yesterday it looked like brightening up but by the time I left the N.F.U. offices (where you can still speak face to face with an insuranceman) it was drizzling again. I rode along the canal and estuary, past the Turf Hotel, now boarded up for the winter. There was hardly a soul about. At Starcross, I could see from the indicator that a stopper was due and being wet through I joined it for the short ride to Dawlish.

As if to make a point, the sea has moved the resilience programme's information hut. 31st October 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

The outfall of Dawlish Water from beneath Colonnade Viaduct. 31st October 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Moments after I shot this from the footbridge, the cement empties burst out of Kennaway Tunnel. A BAM man I spoke to assured me that the foundations for the new wall are in but that the sea keeps covering them with sand. He thought work would be complete by the end of February. It should be understood that the wall will be made of precast segments, meaning that progress should be very swift once a start is made on positioning them. 31st October 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

If anyone is unsure about the height of the new wall, a useful mock-up has been done by Dawlish Beach Cams.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIilklOiGBo

A great many people can't interpret drawings so I think that the finished wall is going to be quite shocking to Dawlish folk and to the many visitors who love King's Walk. It can only strengthen the resolve of the campaign groups presently mobilizing in Holcombe and Teignmouth, concerned at what is proposed for their length of the wall.

As a champion of diversionary routes, I have to say that slightly better resilience - or no better if conditions worsen - is being bought at too high a price.

Cheers,

Colin.
Many thanks Colin - the youtube video link is very worthwhile watching.