Features January to early June 2019

Features January to early June 2019

List of items:-
1901 Major Works at Cowley Bridge Junction - Cowley Bridge Replacement Richard Watts.
1902    St Austell Footbridge Notes & Comparisons - Guy Vincent
1903    Exeter West Signalbox moves to Crewe - Peter Jordan
1904    The 'Looe Brush Railtour' 3rd February 2019
1905    Some reflections on the Dawlish Diversion - Roy Hart
1906    The 'Terminator Railtour' 23rd March 2019
1907 Long Rock Open day 13th April 2019 & The Springtime Cornishman railtour in conjunction with the Long Rock Open Day 13th April 2019
1908 A Visit to the Bovey Tracey Station and Heritage Museum 25th April 2019
1909 A visit to Exeter Power Box 4th May 2019
1910 A visit to the Moseley Heritage Museum, Tumbly Down. 11th May 2019
1911 Major Changes to St Erth Station May 2019
1912 Last Day of the HST's 18th May 2019
1913 HST Memorabilia - Guy Vincent
1914 'The Flying Banana' David Field rides the last HST special on 1st June 2019

1914 'The Flying Banana',
David Field rides the last HST special on 1st June 2019

On Saturday 1st June 2019 I was fortunate enough to travel on all four legs of the Flying Banana railtour, which was billed as the last HST on the Great Western Railway (according to the coach window stickers). The railtour started from Bristol Temple Meads at 0524, and finished in Plymouth at 2200, a mere 873 miles later!

It was a marvellous day, a celebration of the wonderful service these trains have provided for nearly 43 years, which took in the majority of the routes and locations they have served in the West Country, Cotswolds, and South Wales to name but a few.

GWR did a really good job of making the day a memorable one, everyone one on board received a commemorative window sticker, a reservation label showing a different liveried class 43 for each coach, and a GWR Tote Bag containing a reproduction of the two 1976 BR official publications, "Inter-City 125 - It's the Changing Shape of Rail" and "Rail 125", along with a reproduction postcard featuring an Inter-City 125 set in Sonning Cutting in the 1970's. The best however, was a GWR booklet celebrating 18 May 19 the last day of service of the GWR HST's, with pictures taken throughout the day across the GWR network. It really was a lovely touch.

The timings were largely kept throughout the day until approaching Worcester Shrub Hill where a track fault caused 20 minutes of delays. Time was made up by restricting access to the platforms for photographs, and it enabled the schedule to be recovered.

The four legs for the day were:

1Z22 0524 Bristol Temple Meads to London Paddington via Bath Spa, Chippenham, Swindon, Didcot Parkway and Reading - Arrived on time at London Paddington at 0706.
1Z23 0737 London Paddington to Carmarthen via Reading, Didcot Parkway, Oxford, Charlbury, Moreton in Marsh, Worcester Shrub Hill, Hereford, Newport, Cardiff Central, Port Talbot Parkway and Llanelli) - Arrived 13 minutes late at Camarthen at 1343.
1Z24 1349 Camarthen to London Paddington via Swansea, Cardiff Central, Gloucester, Swindon, Didcot Parkway and Reading - Arrived 5 minutes early into Paddington at 1830.
1Z25 1857 London Paddington to Plymouth (non-stop) - Arrived 3 minutes early at 2200.

Notably the train achieving 127mph between Swindon and Didcot on the 1Z22 leg, with 43198 leading into Paddington.

Unfortunately, 43002 "Sir Kenneth Grange" developed an overheating alternator on the latter stages of the run back to Paddington from Camarthen, and was shutdown between Reading and Paddington, leaving 43198 to do all the work from the rear. We still attained 104mph on the run in to Paddington though.

On leaving London Paddington for the final time at 1859 (2 minutes late) we were on two power cars, but an announcement was made that we would be stopping at Taunton to enable an assessment of 43002's condition to be made. As a precaution the two standby power cars from Bristol St Phillips Marsh were being sent to Taunton, where a decision whether to couple them on and travel to Plymouth with 4 power cars would be made. Although a disappointment to break the non-stop aspect of the trip, a return to Plymouth with 4 power cars was an interesting prospect.

This leg also saw the final Pullman Dining service on an HST, which was fairly well patronised, and a chance too good to miss.

In the end, 43002 behaved, the spare power cars were not required, and we travelled non-stop for the entire journey, arriving at Plymouth (Platform 5) 3 minutes early at 2200, a run of 3 hours 1 minute.

Finally, after a brief stop at Plymouth, the empty coaching stock was hauled off to Laira, with the 5Z25 2241 Plymouth to Laira T&RSMD leaving 16 minutes early at 2224. As the set left for the last time, the people gathered to watch gave a round of applause...a fitting send off.

It truly was a wonderful day, and one I feel very privileged to have experienced.

Hopefully the photos attached will be of interest to your members and followers of the website. Needless to say these are just a small number of the several hundred I took on the day!!

Kind Regards.

Dave Field Many thanks David for your very detailed record of a nostalgic day out.

Flying Banana Railtour - Personal Ticket, Window Poster and Seat Reservation. 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

It's 05.18 at Bristol Temple Meads as David Field takes a shot of 43198 under the dawn sky. It waits to leave with the 1Z22 05.24 Temple Meads to London Paddington. 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43002 at the rear of 1Z22 0524 Bristol TM to London Paddington Flying Banana Railtour at 0518 on the 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43198 at Paddington having arrived with 1Z22 the 05.24 Bristol to Paddington 07.19 1st June 2019 Copyright David Field

43002 pauses at Didcot Parkway with the 1Z23 07.37 Paddington to Carmarthen. It's 08.23 1st June 2019 Copyright David Field

43002 has the road at Worcester Shrub Hil with the 1Z23 Paddington to Carmarthen. It's 10.16 on the 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43002 stops briefly at Newport on 1Z23 07.37 Paddington to Carmarthen leg of the Flying Banana railtour. It is 11.43 on the 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43002 stands at Carmarthen. Alongside is Transport for Wales 150251. 13.47 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field

Passengers waiting for the service train watch as the Flying Banana railtour pulls away from Carmarthen. 13.54 1st of June 2019. Copyright David Field

43198 reaches the terminus at Swansea 14.38 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43002 on 1Z24 1349 Carmarthen - Paddington Flying Banana Railtour at Cardiff Central for the final time 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

Again, just as in the morning an interesting sky. 43002 stops at Gloucester with the 13.47 Carmarthen to Paddington. It is 16.38 on the 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43002 stands at Paddington attracting a crowd at 18.34 on the 1st June 2019. The train departed as 1Z25 - the 18.56 Paddington to Plymouth. Copyright David Field.

A final opportunity to sample HST Pullman Dining on the 18.56 to Plymouth. 18.47 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

A dramatic picture of 43002 following arrival at Plymouth for the last time on 1Z25 1856 Paddington to London Flying Banana railtour. 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

The familiar Plymouth station 'skyscraper' is the back drop in this picture of the 18.56 train from London Paddington. 1st June 2o19. Copyright David Field.

The end of the line. The driver's view from 43198 following arrival at Plymouth on 1Z25 Flying Banana from London Paddington. 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

Looking as good as new. 43002 waits to depart from Platform 5 at Ply with 2241 5Z25 Plymouth to Laira T&RSMD for the final time. 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

43002 departs Ply 16 mins early on the 2241 5Z25 Plymouth to Laira T&RSMD. Farewell to a faithful servant. 1st June 2019. Copyright David Field.

With many thanks indeed to David Field for his excellent coverage of this very memorable occasion - as he says - 'Farewell Old Friend'.

P.S. Sorry folks but we do not have space for any more contributions on this subject.

1913 HST Memorabilia - Guy Vincent

From the Guy Vincent Collection.

Inter City 125 1977 Guy Vincent Collection

Inter City 125 1977-78 Guy Vincent Collection

Guy Vincent collection

Guy Vincent Collection

Inter City 125 1981-82 Guy Vincent Collection

Guy Vincent Collection

Inter City London to Avon 1986-87 Guy Vincent Collection

GWR Modernisation 2016-17 Guy Vincent Collection

Inter City Express Train 2018 Guy Vincent collection

1912 Last Day of the HST's 18th May 2019

Due to the sheer volume of entries these will be put on line as and when received and not in any other order. Thank you all for your entries

Camborne - Copyright Tim Mowbray

Camborne Copyright Tim Mowbray

43002 06.57 Plymouth - Paddington Saturday 18th May 2019 seen at Ivybridge 18th May 2019 Copyright Clive Smith

43002 06.57 Plymouth - Paddington Saturday 18th May 2019 seen at Exminster 18th May 2019 Copyright David Tozer

Redruth. The Sleeper 'reflects' on the passing of the HST. 07.18 18th May 2019. Copyright Martin Scane.

It's 07.20 aboard the last HST at Redruth. Time to reflect on the luxury of the good old 'low backed' seats and panoramic views we used to enjoy!. 18th May 2019. Copyright Martin Scane.

Martin Scane views the scene at Bodmin Parkway as the last up HST prepares to leave - it's perhaps a few minutes late on its booked time of 08.10. Copyright Martin Scane

The scene at Silverton captured by David Tozer, a dull day but an HST looks fine. 18th May 2019. Copyright David Tozer.

Seconds later as the train is about to dash under the bridge and past the old station site. 18th May 2019. Copyright David Tozer.

190518a The !A 78 06.50 Penzance to Paddington service stands at Platform 1 working the last HST service out of Cornwall Copyright Roger Salter

190518b The Welshman at the rear of the 06.50 to London Paddington. Copyright Roger Salter

190518c The 1A 78 awaits departure from Penzance hauled by 43093 Old Oak Common HST Depot 1976 to 190518d The HST awaits departure from Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

190518d The HST awaits departure from Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

190518e Roger Winnen stands in the doorway prior to departure. Copyright Roger Salter

190518f The buffet with the shutters down. Copyright Roger Salter

190518g Eighty miles have been covered on its run to Paddington with 225 niles still to go. Copyright Roger Salter

DSC_1364 Open for refreshment the last time we shall be able to purchase food standing up! Its now a Health and Safety issue. Copyright Roger Salter

Martin Duffs Collection. Copyright Martin Duff.

Locomotive nameplate Copyright Martin Duff.

190518a A mirror image abord the HST Power Car. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518a The last day of operation of the GWR HST Fleet. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518b Roger Salter stands in the doorway of the HST coach prior to departure from Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518c We pull out of the terminus at 06.50 hours. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518d Breathing in the fresh air on crossing Hayle Viaduct, Copyright Roger Winnen

190518e We enter Redruth crossing on the large viaduct built in two halves in the 1880s. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518f Keith Jenkin waves his arm as he stands on Redruth Station Footbridge with the passenger beneath joining the train. Copyright Roger Winnen

Keith Jenkin stands at Redruth Station. Copyright Roger Salter

190518g getting refreshed at the buffet. Copyright Roger Winnen

18th May 2019 1A78 arriving at Par. Copyright Craig Munday

190518h Crossing Coombe by Saltash Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518i Crossing the border with the postal order, the last HST leaves the Royal Duchy . Copyright Roger Winnen

190518j Passing Laira Depot one could see a number of HST sets. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518k Trains in the sidings. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518l Laira Depot as the IETs take over. Copyright Roger Winnen

Totnes 18th January 2019. Copyright Jon Morley

190518m The last chance to savour Torbay through the carriage window. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518o Having passed through the five tunnels we enter Dawlish Statiom. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518oo Approaching Dawlish Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

190518p The train departs Platform 5 at Exeter St David's for London Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

On the way back - the Train indicator at Newton Abbot. 18th May 2019. Copyright Nick Kiszczuk

The Final at Plymouth

Passengers transfer from the last HST to a new IET at Plymouth. 18th May 2019. Copyright Nick Kiszczuk.

43093 rests at the end of a very long day - what of the future? 18th May 2019. Copyright Jon Morley

A poignant Red Light. No going on to Penzance this time. Plymouth 18th July 2019. Copyright Clive Smith.

Brilliant art work on the livery. Copyright Jon Morley 18th July 2019

Just a few enthusiasts to greet the final operations. Copyright Clive Smith,

Further afield during the last day of HST Operations.

Chippenham 43002 rear 1C26 1830 PAD-TAU Copyright Guy Vincent

Westbury Avoider Last Up HST 43002 1A76 0655 PLY-PAD 18.05.2019 IMG_9942 Guy Vincent

The last full length HST to stop at Westbury 18th May 2019 43093 1A78 Copyright Guy Vincent

Berkley Marsh 43188 & 43093 1C92 1803 PAD-PLY 18th May 2019 Copyright Guy Vincent

1911 Major changes to St Erth Station May 2019

Thursday 30th May 2019

190530b The orange army at work finishing off St Erth Station prior to its completion by 1st June 2019. Copyright Roger Winnen

190530c Many hands make light work. Copyright Roger Winnen

190530d Installation of new paving slabs on the widened platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

190530e The enlarged passenger circulating area at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

Saturday 1st June 2019 Reopening of the St Ives Bay Platform

190601a The new St Erth on the reopening of the St Ives Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

190601b The much widened platform with the 09.45 service to St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

190601c A new indicator attached to the St Ives Branch signal SE 63 is pulled off. Copyright Roger Winnen

190601d The new arrangement at the eastern end of the platform with the original line which went into Platform 4 made into a short siding for track maintenance vehicles. Copyright Roger Winnen

190601e The station was very busy today as a Park and Ride Bus was operating from the South Side Car Park to the Station Approach conveying passengers who found difficulty in crossing the line by the footbridge. Reports suggest that a new footbridge with lifts will be installed during the next two years. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Signalmans view - at St Erth
Craig Munday shows us the views of the redeveloped bay platform at St Erth

The recent enhancement works on the Bay platform are now largely complete. The new curved platform is exaggerated through a telephoto lens as the four car train awaits departure, still controlled by semaphore signals. The new high density platform and car park spaces has resulted in the Park and Ride station at Lelant Saltings being effectively closed. Only one train a day now stops there. Lelant Saltings opened in 1977 and revolutionized day trips to the road congested resort. An improved journey time of 11 minutes now applies without the Saltings call.

Also of note is the still extant, though shortened Bay Siding to the right hand side.

Kind regards, Craig Munday Many thanks Craig

A) The signalmans view from the signalbox at St Erth 16th June 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

B) The signalmans view from the signalbox at St Erth 16th June 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

C) The signalmans view from the signalbox at St Erth 16th June 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

1910 A visit to the Moseley Heritage Museum,
Tumbly Down. 11th May 2019

CRS has visited the museum before but has not travelled on the new extended track layout this also includes the new station that is now on the level and has a three line passing loop setup. The weather was on our side for the visit as you will see by the photos. Our thanks go out to all of you that visited and all of our staff.
Words and Images by Roger Winnen & Mick House.

190511a Mixed Gauge Track Barlow Rail at the Tumblydown Museum. The Coal Mine feature is in the background. Copyright Roger Winnen

All set ready for the first of our CRS members to turn up. Copyright Mick House.

190511aa Colin Saxton left Mick House and Dan Harris with trains at the terminus. Copyright Roger Winnen

First train of the day, laden with the first of the CRS members, departs our new station, the old station was on the raised section to the right of the train. Copyright Mick House.

The train is about to enter the new section of track between the overflow car park and the main sand school car park, to the left of the photo. Copyright Mick House.

First train is on its way back to the station. Copyright Mick House.

At the first loop a demonstration freight train passes the passenger train. Copyright Mick House.

190511b Passing the mineral train in the loop. Copyright Roger Winnen

The demonstration freight stands at the top loop ready for the passenger train to pass. Copyright Mick House.

190511bb The backdrop of Carn Brea in the distance as we skirt around the edges of the fields. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511c Dan Harris is seen driving the Simplex Locomotive. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511d Lady Di rounds the sharp bend into the terminus. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511dd Activity in the station throat at Tumblydown. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511e Various mining engines seen inside the shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511g Smelter under reconstruction in the workshop. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Passenger Train on its way to pass the freight. Copyright Mick House.

Roger Winnen taking a photo of the freight in the loop off to the right. Copyright Mick House.

Having passed the freight train, the passenger train has rounded the mound at the end of the line and is on its way back. Copyright Mick House.

The freight now follows the passenger train back. Copyright Mick House.

Heading towards the new section on the way back to the station. Copyright Mick House.

Entering the new section. Copyright Mick House.

Dan Harris also one of our CRS members driving the freight with our 20/28HP Motor Rail, Simplex weighing in at around 2 ½ ton. Copyright Mick House.

Dan also had his beloved Land Rover Fire Truck, (formally at Lostwithiel fire station) on display. Copyright Mick House.

Now with the lines two enclosed passenger coaches the train heads up the bank on another outward run. Copyright Mick House.

Coming through the middle loop. Copyright Mick House.

I even had a drive and took some of our CRS members around. Copyright Mick House.

190511gg The two four wheel coaches giving panoramic views for the public riding the railway. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511h Colin Saxton seated talks to Peter Bragg CRS President and Ken Wood from the Helston Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen

190511i Mike Hitchens in control of the Hornby Railway as Keith Jenkin looks on. Copyright Roger Winnen -

190511j Remember the Hornby 'O' tinplate gauge. Roger Winnen

190511k Mick House and Dan Harris who helped tremendously during the day with the smooth operation of the line of which we express our grateful thanks. Copyright Roger Winnen

1909 A visit to Exeter Power Box 4th May 2019

HST Power Car 43162 Exeter Panel Signal Box arrives at Exeter St David's on the 10.00 Penzance to Paddington service on 4th May 2019 Copyright Roger Winnen

At the commencement of our visit the Panel Box Dennis Flood, our Chairman kindly handed out the following information regarding the 'Safe Working of Trains' - this was much appreciated - many thanks Dennis.

The Cornwall Railway Society Group Photo inside the Panel Box. Left to Right - Tony Wright, Mike Boiko, Dennis Flood (Chairman) , Nick Kiszczuk, Neil Gay, Mr Cash, Keith Jenkin, Kevin Salisbury, Tony Brokenshire, Roger Salter, Peter Bragg (President), and Roger Winnen (Outdoor events secretary). 4th May 2019

Good old semaphone signals decorate the wall of the stairway leading to the operational floor of Exeter Panel Box. Copyright Roger Salter

12 The plaque commemorating the opening of the Exeter Signalling Centre on 13th April 1988. Copyright Roger Winnen

Inside the Exeter Panel Copyright by Roger Salter

1 The Cornwall Railway Society members studying the complex of lines seen on the display. Copyright Roger Winnen

2 The CRS members viewing the operation. Copyright Roger Winnen

6 Top Newton Abbot to Teignmouth Bottom Plymouth Panel to Totnes and Ashburton Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

3 Top Dawlish Starcross Bottom Ashburton Junction to Newton Abbot and Torquay to Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

4 Top Dawlish Warren to Exminster Bottom Dainton Tunnel to Newton Abbot and Torre to Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

5 Top display Dawlish Warren - Starcross Bottom display Dainton Tunnel to Newton Abbot and Torquay to Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Exeter Panel showing Exeter St David's and the line To Exeter Central. Copyright Roger Winnen

190504x Red Cow Crossing T.V. Monitor. Copyright Roger Salter

7 Top Tiverton Junction Bottom Taunton. Copyright Roger Winnen

In control of operations in the panal box. Cowley Bridge to Newton St Cyres and eastwards pass Wellington. . Copyright Roger Winnen

7.5Cogload Junction showing the Bristol line and the Berks and Hants. Copyright Roger Winnen

8 Staff live at CIS Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

9 Track Diagrams in the South West. Copyright Roger Winnen

10 The Southern Track diagrams from Exeter. Copyright Roger Winnen

11 The Southern track diagrams in the Yeovil area. Copyright Roger Winnen

More Pictures taken on the CRS Visit by Dennis Flood - our Chairman

A general view of the floor as party members discuss and learn. 4th May 2019. Copyright Dennis Flood.

One member of our party, outdoor events secretary, Roger Winnen, was severely incapacitated by a knee problem and had to rest for much of time.

Peter Bragg our President stands by the control console. 4th May 2019. Copyright Dennis Flood.

Keith Jenkin poses at the command of our Chairman. 4th May 2019. Copyright Dennis Flood.

1908 A Visit to the Bovey Tracey Station and Heritage Museum 25th April 2019

Despite a dreadful forecast for heavy thundery showers this event went ahead blessed, as it turned out, by very reasonable weather. Our day out was skilfully planned as usual, by our Outdoor Events Secretary Roger Winnen. We had the luxury of HST travel to Plymouth followed by a Cross Country Voyager to Newton Abbot where we arrived on time at 12.01 Bus travel then on. Service 12 to the bus station where a swift transfer was made to a route 39 bus to Dolphin Square, Bovey Tracey. It was then but a short walk to the Bovey Tracey station, now a very interesting museum where we were greeted by the Heritage Site Treasurer Mike Lang. A very pleasant hour was spent examining the many photographs and relics of the station and branch. Two detailed and immaculate models of the stations at Bovey and Moretonhampstead are housed in the station and a Toad brakevan respectively. A short sharp shower while we were in the brakevan was the only precipitation we experienced during the day. After thanking Mike Lang for the tour and tea we returned by bus to Newton Abbot.
At Newton Abbot a quick change of plan was made whereby instead of going for an almost two hour stay at Dawlish we went to the sheltered location of Exeter St Davids. Fortunately it stayed dry and from Exeter the party returned to Newton Abbot by trains of their own choosing. to stop off at intermediate stations of their choice. The return journey was by means of the 17.56 HST from Newton Abbot.
A very sincere thanks is offered to Roger Winnen for all his careful planning and escort duties despite the fact that he was obviously in quite a deal of pain from his knees. Many many thanks to Roger quite what we'd do without him I don't know? K.J.

190425e The station frontage of Bovey Tracey Railway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425f Inside the station building we see a very nice model of the station layout Copyright Roger Winnen

On the walls of the Museum were many fine paintings of railway subjects.

190425ff Model details of Bovey Tracey. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425g Looking around the museum with many things of interest. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425hh Our party exploring the many things of railway interest. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425i A Great Western blue enamel sign of Bovey together with a Station Masters uniform. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425i Paintings of the once glorious days of steam. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425j The School Bell - Copyright Roger Winnen

190425k The story of Bovey Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425l The party aboard a Great Western Toad brake van during a heavy shower. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425m The 'Jolly Roger' at Bovey Tracey. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425n Bovey Tracey goods shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

190425p A party photograph l to r Mike Hitchens Keith and Valerie Jenkin, Richard Horwood, Mike Laing - Treasurer of the Heritage Museum. Christine Simmons. Tony Brokenshire. John Quick , and Roger Winnen.

190425r A view through Station Court to the Railway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

1907 The Long Rock Open Day
13th April 2019

Leading up to the open day.

In the days leading up to the open day, I was very privileged to be given the opportunity to photograph at Long Rock with the proviso that no images were shown before the general public had been allowed in. My personal thanks go to Patrick Grobbelaar and all of his staff for not only letting me in, but also organising and putting on the open day. By Mick House.

Patrick Grobbelaar - Long Rock Depot Manager.

08 645 and its repaint with the St. Piran flag and name.

Patrick Grobbelaar with one of the new name plates. Copyright Mick House.

The finishing off the paint job. Copyright Mick House.

Exhibits on route

FIRST ARRIVAL
3205

First of the main exhibits to arrive at Long Rock is 3205 built by the GWR in 1946 and is the sole surviving member of the 120 strong 2251 class of locomotives designed by C B Collett.
Prior to preservation she has never ventured this far before the nearest was when she was at Exmouth Junction shed in 1963.
Captured on its way down the A30 passing Redruth. The first sighting was by Mick House. Many thanks Mick.

190411a 3205 nears the end of its journey at Whitecross near Crowlas. Copyright Roger Winnen

190411b 3205 aboard the low loader from Biggleswade. Copyright Roger Winnen

190411c 3205 stabled on the old A30 road at Long Rock prior to entering the depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

3205 Has arrived by road at Long Rock Depot. Copyright Roger Salter

3205 Chains off and ready to roll. Copyright Mick House.

Ready to roll. Copyright Mick House.

3205 arrives on Cornish soil at Long Rock depot. Copyright Roger Salter

Mick House is seen here behind the very fine model layout provided by the Redruth Model Railway Club. Mick was the 'go-between' between Long Rock Management and staff and the Cornwall Railway Society and the Redruth Model Railway Club. He visited the depot many times in the weeks preceding the event to ensure that our stand and layouts fitted in to so well into what was a grand occasion. Many thanks Mick. Picture by Roger Winnen.

The activities on the 12th April 2019

Port of Par 'Alfred' Built by Bagnells 1953 and 4612 from The Bodmin & Wenford. Roger Salter

Little and Large at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Salter

3205 parked on display. Copyright Mick House.

4612 parked on display. Copyright Mick House.

Alfred parked on display. Copyright Mick House.

DRS 57306 heading for Bodmin Parkway working 10.28 Longrock TMD-Bodmin siding passing Marazion. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Heading up to Bodmin with the 0Z88 from Penzance T & R, S, M, D (4 late at 10.32) 57 306, passing Apex Bridge (10.54) on its way to pickup 50 042 and 47 306, then to bring them back to Long Rock. Copyright Mick House.

190412a The Bodmin Convoy at the Exchange Siding being passed by the Burngullow to Exeter Riverside stone train. Copyright Roger Winnen

190412c Contrast between the Classes 57 50 and 47 at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

190412c Contrast between the Class 57 and 47 at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Bodmin trio awaits departure to Penzance via Liskeard. Copyright Roger Salter

The trio is seen departing Bodmin Parkway for Penzance via Liskeard. Copyright Roger Salter

The Bodmin Trio crosses Largin Viaduct on its Bodmin Siding to Penzance run via Liskeard. Copyright Craig Munday

190412d The Bodmin convoy at Respryn on route to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

The 12.20 Bodmin Siding via Liskeard to Penzance passes Respryn behind 57306 50042 &47306. Copyright Roger Salter

The Bodmin convoy heads west passing the site of Burngullow Signal Box. Copyright Jon Hird

Photograph of the train from Bodmin at Hallenbeagle at 14.00 this afternoon. Copyright Martin Scane

Attached at Apex Summit on way to Long Rock. Roger Aston points out 'That's my brother, Brian Aston hanging out of "The Sapper's" back cab'. Copyright Roger Aston.

The convoy from Bodmin in Burncoose Cutting. at 14.15 on the 12th April 2019. Copyright Keith Jenkin

. The 0Z89 the 12.20 Bodmin siding-Longrock TMD with 57306 hauling 50042 and 47306 nearing Marazion. Copyright Andrew Triggs

57 306 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

50 042 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

47 306 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

All three running passed the depot. Copyright Mick House.

11) The 57, 50 & 47 arrive on depot and the shunter briefs the driver before splitting the train. Copyright Mick House.

802 019 passing 47 306 on the old depot fuel road. Copyright Mick House.

The Bodmin pair crosses the double slip inside the depot complex, with 08 410 in view. Copyright Mick House.

The Cornish Convoy passes Exminster.12.20 12th April 2019. Copyright David Tozer

A glorious sunny day on the sea wall and a chance to photo a very special cavalcade of locomotives heading for the Open Day at Long Rock. The 0Z50 08.10 Eastleigh Works - Penzance GBRF consist led by 66714 hauling 73107, 50049 and 50007 emerges from Parsons Tunnel between Dawlish and Teignmouth on the 12th of April 2019. Copyright Clive Smith

190412f Going away towards Teignmouth and the west. Copyright Clive Smith

The Eastleigh quartet is seen crossing Largin Viaduct on route to Long Rock.. Copyright Craig Munday

Here’s the Eastleigh contingent at Redruth this afternoon. 12th April 2019 Copyright Martin Scane

Here’s the Eastleigh contingent at Redruth this afternoon. Copyright Martin Scane.

190412e 66714 Cromer Lifeboat hauls the Eastleigh Penzance loco stock move for the open day. Copyright Roger Winnen

190412f Another first for the county being a Class 73 Electro Diesel built for the Southern Region seen at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

190412g 50007 Tails the convoy through St Erth Station on its last 5.75 miles to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

66 714 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

73 107 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

50 049 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

50 007 passing the depot. Copyright Mick House.

All four running passed the depot. Copyright Mick House.

0Z50 08.10 Eastleigh Works GBRf-Longrock TMD approaching Penzance with 66714 hauling 73107/50049 & 50007. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The 08.10 Eastleigh tp Penzance TMD arrives at Penzance Station. Copyright Roger Salter

The gang of four arrival at Penzance Station from Eastleigh .Copyright Roger Salter

Veteran 08410 hauling the GBRf locos away from Penzance to Longrock TMD. Copyright Andrew Triggs

08410 Couples to the stock for the move to the depot. Copyright Roger Salter

Please take note :- We will try to get as many of your pictures on the website as possible, however we are all ready in possession of quite a few pictures - thank you for all these. We obviously cannot use them all - some are duplicates. There are just three of us to sort the pictures which will take some editing - all three of us are quite heavily committed over this weekend so please be patient. If your pictures doesn't appear it may have been they are duplicates.
With regard to the Open Day itself certain privileged people may well get in before the main gate is open to the general public and they will obviously have the best chances of getting pictures without people in them - so again we ask for your understanding if your pictures don't appear.

One of the former Western National Double Deckers LFJ 844 W new to Western National in 1980 forming one of the shuttle service from Penzance Bus Station to Long Rock Depot. 83G Intercity Service. Copyright Steve Widdowson

The display:- Prior to the opening

13th Long Rock open day 50042 Triumph from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Copyright Craig Munday

47306 The Sapper from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Copyright Craig Munday

Long Rock open day 66714 Cromer Lifeboat. Copyright Craig Munday

Long Rock open day 57605 Totnes Castle a resident of Long Rock Depot for the Night Riviera Service. Copyright Craig Munday

13th Long Rock 57604 Pendennis Castle at the open day. Copyright Craig Munday

13th Long Rock open day Electro Diesel 73107. Copyright Craig Munday

The two class 50s 50007 Warspite and 50049 Defiance stand together at the open day. Copyright Craig Munday

The Gates have opened to the general public on a bright but very windy day

190413h The gates are flung open to the public after a slight delay with engine movements. Copyright Roger Winnen

Named at the Open Day 08645 St Piran in the black and white cross livery of the Cornish Emblem looks very smart indeed. Copyright Martin Scane

08645 St Piran at Long Rock 130419 Copyright S Widdowson

802008 The Naming Ceremony of Rick Rescorla who was born at Hayle, saved thousands of lives after the attack on the World Trade Centre in New York on 11th September 2001. Mrs. Rescorla stands to the right. Copyright Steve Widdowson

Inside the depot we see the Night Riviera stabled for the visiting public to view inside and out. Copyright S Widdowson

50049 Defiance at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Salter

190413j 08410 A vintage 08 shunter based at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413g Sir Kenneth Grange was the designer of the HSTs plus many more objects which included the instamic camera. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413k Alfred built in 1953 for the Port of Par stands at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413m 47306 The Sapper from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen

4612 from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway stands alongside of 50042 Triumph at the display. Copyright Martin Scane

Crowds viewing the HST 43001 at Long Rock 13th April 2019 Copyright S Widdowson

47306 The Sapper from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway graces the Long Rock Open Day. Copyright S Widdowson

The pair of Class 50s in GBRF Livery returns to Cornwall after running the Terminator Railtour only a few weeks earlier. Copyright Steve Widdowson

190413n The crowds are about, now very difficult for photographs. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413nn 50007 Warspite formerly named Hercules and Sir Edward Elgar stands only a mile from where H.M.S Warspite was scrapped in the 1950s. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413r The only known Class 73 which has ever come to the Royal Duchy graced its presence at the depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413s 66714 in GBRF Livery adds brightness to the gala. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413t 66714 Cromer Lifeboat supporting the naming of the other IET Solomon Brown the Penlee Lifeboat lost with all hands in the weeks leading up to Christmas 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen

You raided me up! 57602 on the jacks at Long Rock Copyright S Widdowson

Lifted up 57602 Long Rock 130419 Copyright S Widdowson

57605 Totnes Castle stands on the depot. Copyright S Widdowson

3205 from The South Devon Railway built in 1946 is believed to be the only Class 2251 locomotive to reach Cornwall. Copyright S Widdowson

190413u Visiting the HST Power Cars. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413w 3205 Built in 1946 stands at the end of the yard sidplaying 50 Years of The South Devon Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413v Approaching the end of the day at Long Rock, this was the IET named Rick Roscorla on the other side earlier in the day. Copyright Roger Winnen

190413v The crowds are gone home for tea after a beautiful fine and a very windy day. Copyright Roger Winnen

Viewing the Open Day earlier in the day from the coastal path. Copyright Roger Salter

190413x The Show is over as seen through the window of the 16.44 158 service Penzance to Exeter St David's. Copyright Roger Winnen

Sunday Morning 14th April 2019 The convoy departs for Bodmin Siding

Sunday morning at 08.36 where the convey prepars to depart for the Bodmin & Wenford Railway.. Copyright Roger Salter

Rounding the bend at Long Rock the 08.49 heads for Bodmin Sidings on a miserable Sunday morning. Copyright Roger Salter

169a The sidings are full at Bodmin Parkway as the convoy arrives from Penzance. Copyright Will Kilner

169b Three Class 50a and a 47 at Bodmin Exchange sidings.-Copyright-Will-Kilner

169c-Bodmin Parkway -14th-April-2019-Copyright-Will-Kilner_

169d-Bodmin-General 14th-April-2019-With 37142 & 66714 Cromer Lifeboat. Copyright-Will-Kilner

Monday 15th April 2019 The Convoy is seen at Ivybridge on its return run from Bodmin Sidings to Bristol Temple Meads

165A Return Cavalcade 15th April 2019 Copyright Clive Smith

165B Return Cavalcade at Ivybridge 15th April 2019. Copyright Clive Smith

The Springtime Cornishman in conjunction with the Long Rock Open Day

161a-88003-and-68034-pass-though-exeter-st-thomas-with-the-04-45-tame-bridge-parkway-penzance-tour_orig[1]

-88003-68034-exminster-13th-April-2019-Copyright-David-Tozer

App Scorrier -Apex-Bridge down-railtour-13th-April-2019-Copyright-Roger-Aston

The Springtime Cornishman passes the remains of Ponsandane Signal Box as she enters the terminus. Copyright Andrew Triggs

88003 & 68034 Long Rock, Penzance { 0445 Tame Bridge _ Penzance} 130419 Copyright S Widdowson (1)

163a-The-railtours-arrival-at-Penzance-13th-April-2019-Copyright-Martin-Scane_

The Springtime Cornishman at the buffer stops. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Class 68 & 88 running around its train at Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

68034 & 88003 Penzance { run round } 130419 Copyright S Widdowson

88003 & 68034 Long Rock, Penzance { run round } 130419 Copyright S Widdowson

68034 & 88003 Penzance { run round } 130419 Copyright S Widdowson

The Class 68 & 88 Running around at Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Class 68 & 88 Couples to its train in sloopers siding. Copyright Roger Salter

These two engines return to sloopers siding. Copyright Roger Salter

Picture 1 is at Penzance awaiting departure. The locos were lower on fuel than expected and so additional time was required at Plymouth for refuelling. Copyright Clive Smith

The returning Springtime Cornishman heads through the former Marazion Station. Copyright Andrew Triggs

68034 & 88003 Scorrier, Redruth { PT 1535 Penzance _ Tame Bridge } Copyright S Widdowson

160a-Returning-Springtime-Cornishman-at-black-bridge-near-Moorswater13th-April-2019-Copyright-Peter-Murnaghan

160ab-Springtime-Cornishman-on-the-Moorswater-Viaduct 13th-April-2019-Copyright-Peter-Murnaghan

Picture 2 is of the locos returning to Plymouth station from Laira after refuelling. Copyright Clive Smith

Picture 3 shows 68034 & 88003 leaving Plymouth with the 15.35 Penzance - Tame Bridge Parkway return Pathfinders' Springtime Cornishman railtour. The train was 35 minutes late departing . The booked 33 minute stop ended up being 67 minutes. Copyright Clive Smith

162a-68034-88003-13th-April-2019- Leaving Exeter St David's Copyright-David-Tozer

162b-68034-88003-13th-April-2019- Departs Exeter St David's Copyright David Tozer

162c-68034-88003-Departure from Exeter St David's. Copyright David Tozer

1906 The 'Terminator Railtour'
23rd March 2019

We are most grateful for the photographs received from the following people
Paul Barlow, Leslie Curnow, Nick Dyke, Jon Hird, Mick House, Keith Jenkin, Mark Lynam, Roger Salter. Clive Smith. Martin Scane. Ollie Turrell. Andrew Triggs. David Tozer. and Roger Winnen which are Copyright

The journey down

Paul Barlow catches 'The Terninator' at Exeter St Thomas. 23rd March 2019. Copyright.

The Terminator with 50049 & 50007 at Powderham Copyright David Tozerr

(1) Newly GBRf liveried 50049 and 50007 reach Rattery summit in miserable drizzly weather with the 07.08 Paddington - Penzance Pathfinders' railtour recreating the final class 50 tour from 25 years ago. The vacs were making quite a sound as they thrashed up the bank. This spot is now fantastic for photography depending on the time of day and weather. A marked contrast from not so long ago when the location was overgrown with trees which were thankfully cut down a couple of years ago. 23rd March 2019. Copyright Clive Smith

The Terminator at Plymouth Station with 11 coaches. Copyright Leslie Curnow

190323a The Terminator Railtour approaches Trerulefoot on a misty Saturday morming. Copyright Roger Winnen

190323b Racing the train as it threads its way through the Glyn Valley. Copyright Roger Winnen

Hi guys, hope you're all doing well. I thought I'd send you some photos of the 50s from today, as if you've not already had enough! There are 2 photos attached, on the down approaching Milltown Viaduct.
Keep up the great work with the website! Copyright Jon Hird
Kind regards, Jon Hird

The 'Terminator' arriving at Lostwithiel. 23th March 2019 Copyright Craig Munday.

The Terminator seen at Holmbush. 23rd March 2019. Copyright Julian Stephens

The Terminator Railtour seen at Holmbush. St Austell. Copyright Nick Dyke

190323c Climbing out of Chacewater seen nearing the summit at Smokey Joe's. Copyright Roger Winnen

190323d 50007 Named Hercules on this side. Copyright Roger Winnen

A dramatic shot as 50049 Defiance and 50007 Hercules pass Hallenbeagle Mine on the downward run of the 'Terminator'. Copyright Mick House.

I’m sure you’ll get lots of photos but this is the down train at Redruth running 5 minutes late.
And very smart they look too.
Copyright Martin Scane

190323x The Terminator is seen crossing Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Salter

50049 leads the way through St. Erth. Copyright Ollie Turrell

1. 1Z50 at Ponsandane with 50049 leading 50007 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The 'Terminator' rolls the last few yards into platform one. Copyright Keith Jenkin

The GBRF Crew have a Photo with 50049 Copyright Ollie Turrell

The crowds jostle for a position for a photograph of the rare occasion. Meanwhile the 14.00 IET for London Paddington is preparing to leave. 23rd March 2019 Copyright Keith Jenkin.

190323e The railtour is seen backing out of Platform 1 at Penzance for Slopers. Copyright Roger Winnen

A platform end view of the 'Terminator' backing out. 23rd March 2019. Copyright Keith Jenkin.

190323y The 50s are seen pushing its train into slopers at Chyandour. Copyright Roger Salter

50007 runs around the train at Penzance. Copyright Ollie Turrell

50007 with St. Michaels Mount in the background. H.M.S. Warspite ended her days beached alongside St Michaels Mount in the early 1950s, being scrapped on site. Copyright Ollie Turrell

At Longrock reception line with the 2+5 HST beside. Copyright Mark Lynam

Heading back to rejoin the stock after passing through the washplant. Copyright Mark Lynam

190323z The pair of 50s outside Long Rock depot. Copyright Roger Salter

2. Later at Longrock TMD, the train crew pose for the traditional staff photo. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The journey back

In slopers siding. Copyright Mark Lynam

Reversing back into the station. Copyright Mark Lynam

Awaiting departure with 802103 beside. Copyright Mark Lynam

In Platform 1 at Penzance Station. Copyright Mark Lynam

3. The return 1Z53 at Marazion, in the mizzle, 50007 now leading 50049, Copyright Andrew Triggs

4. Heading up the Marsh, as the rain gets heavier. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The tour thunders across Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Ollie Turrell

190323g Climbing out of Hayle, viewed from Nanpusker Bridge, Angarrack. Copyright Roger Winnen

In dull but dry conditons the return 'Terminator' coasts through Redruth. 23rd March 2019. Copyright Keith Jenkin.

190323h Looking towards the famous engine house at Wheal Busy with the special rounding the curve. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Terminator at Crugwallins. Copyright Julian Stephens

The returning railtour passes St Austell Station. Copyright Nick Dyke

The two Class 50s in the Glyn Valley. Copyright Jon Hird

190323i The Terminator has just crossed Bolitho Vaiduct at Liskeard on its non stop run through the County. Copyright Roger Winnen

50007 and 50049 emerge from Mutley Tunnel east of Plymouth with the Pathfinders' railtour 15.30 Penzance - Waterloo. Despite the fading light at 17.22 the colourful vacs brighten up the scene. Despite initial scepticism I admit to being won over with this colour scheme. This location has been blighted by overgrown vegetation for many years and has only been cleared of trees in recent weeks. Great to have my favourite location back and to be adorned with such classic traction. 23rd March 2019 Copyright Clive Smith

190323j The leading engine on this side is 50014 and named Warspite, seen climbing Hemerdon Bank. We made this location with one minute to spare. - Copyright Roger Winnen

1905 Some reflections on the Dawlish Diversion - Roy Hart

The closure of the Great Western main line at Dawlish in 2014 served to wake everyone up about the need for action when, inevitably, the same or worse occurred again. We have heard and read of a number of schemes to solve the problem:
1. A new deviation on the seaward side in the Dawlish area. This has been seriously discussed by some authorities. My first reaction is to think of the Tay Bridge, 1879. Can they be serious? This would probably be the cheapest option and therefore the most appealing to the Treasury; the arguments against scream so loud that I will insult no-one’s intelligence by enumerating them.
2 . An inland route avoiding Dawlish altogether.

Most would agree that option 2 is the only starter, but which route?
(a) The Teign Valley line. This quiet branch line was opened in 1882 as a standard gauge affair, running from Heathfield to a spot known as Teign House, near Christow (Teign House is a pub –still open today).
The line was built to serve local mines and quarries and the company owned and operated a single passenger train. Unfortunately, the TV was standard gauge and its only outlet to the world –the Moretonhampstead branch –was broad gauge. An extension to Exeter (City Basin Junction) was opened by the GWR in 1903. The line closed to all traffic in stages from 1958 till 1967.
The 1903 section contained two tunnels –Perridge and Culver, on either side of Longdown station. It is often said that the poor state of at least one of the tunnels would prevent a reopening of the line. Not so. Both tunnels were bored at the behest of the owner of the Culver estate, who did not want to see passing trains (or perhaps for the passengers to see him) and they could be opened out without difficulty.
The Teign Valley line became a low-grade diversion route during World War Two: a double junction was installed at Heathfield, crossing loops were extended at Trusham and Christow and an emergency crossing loop (unused under normal circumstances) provided at Longdown.
Following closure (n.b. Trusham to Christow closed because of floods, in 1961) two miles or so near Chudleigh are buried under the A38. The trackbed through the Culver estate (Longdown station was entirely within the estate) was re-acquired by the estate per the original act of parliament, after the line closed. Any re-opening would require several stretches of new formation, particularly around Chudleigh and around Heathfield, where the old junction between the two lines was on a sharp curve and not suitable for trains at speed.
The disadvantages are that the old route was single, prone to flooding in places and any reopening would need the purchase of a lot of land.

Longdowns. Perridge Tunnel 836 yards - Copyright The late Sid Sponheimer

The following two images were taken after a visit to Culver House where the lady at the house kindly gave us permission to visit the station but not to enter either tunnel And we didn't!

Longdowns station Culver tunnel 248 yards long. 14th February 1998. Copyright Roger Winnen

(b)   The Great Western proposed inland diversion of 1930-39 period.
The GWR was well aware of the Dawlish coastal problem and had developed a plan in the 1930s.
The plan evolved in three stages, based on two acts of parliament passed in 1936.
The first draft of the plan comprised a new inland line diverging just south of Exminster at the eastern end, tunneling under Holcombe down (a long tunnel of 2624 yards and 3 shorter ones) and regaining the existing main line near Bishopsteignton, on the banks of the Teign just east of Newton Abbot. 16 miles. The existing coastal line would remain as a secondary local route.
A shorter version of this had the new line diverging inland at Cockwood and rejoining at Hackney sidings, Newton Abbot. This version would be 8 miles long.
The final version was closer to the first option (Exminster to NA) and land purchases began. Surveyors were still at work when war came in 1939.
The Western Region sold off the land that they had in the 1950s and the acts of parliament lapsed at the end of the 20th century.
Any revival of this plan would provide a clean, fast route to the west, but costs would surely be very high.

(c)    The former Southern Railway main line Cowley Bridge-Okehampton-Tavistock-Plymouth.
The LSWR completed this route in 1891, double track all the way. The route was severed in 1968, leaving
1.      A single line stub from St Budeaux to Bere Alston, also serving the Gunnislake branch.
2.      A 5.5 mile stretch from Bere Alston to Tavistock, likely to be rebuilt in coming years.
3.      14 miles of former trackbed, some having reverted to farming,plus a few building developments, running from Tavistock through Lydford, to Meldon.
4.      Extant railway (the Dartmoor Railway and Network Rail), all in good order.
Being a former double-track main line, the revival of the route as a main line diversionary route is made somewhat easier. Ideas so far published envisage a single line route throughout, with long loops (i.e. intermittent stretches of double track).
Devon County Council enthusiastically supports the Bere Alston to Tavistock revival, which is going ahead separately from the grander scheme.
DCC intigated a survey of public opinion about the Tavistock scheme in 2013. It explained to people that the scheme involved the construction of 750 new homes and a school at Tavistock, constructed by Bovis, the developer which would finance much of the railway revival. 1250 people, all living within 500 metres of the railway route and all landowners were asked what they thought: 62% of the total either ‘strongly supported’ or ‘supported’ the railway. Of the remaining 38% (neutral, against, very opposed) no less than 68% of the ‘opposed’ and ‘very opposed’ were because of the large housing development and its feared effects, not because of the railway per se.
I am being selective here, of course. Those interested should consult ‘The Tavistock to Bere Alston railway and trail project’ published by DCC.
The popularity of the Dartmoor Railway project and the responses of the denizens of Tavistock paint an encouraging picture.
The greatest obstacle in the rebuilding of this route (other than political inertia) is, of course, the ‘missing link’. Fortunately, this is mostly farmland (not of the highest quality) and open moor. Some stations have been converted into charming dwellings. Some trackbed has been re-absorbed into the farmland from which it came, yet other stretches are simply returning to the wild.
Both Meldon viaducts (for Meldon is in fact two trestles interlaced) are considered beyond any future use, so a new viaduct at Meldon would probably form the most expensive part of this particular route revival.

34066 Spitfire crossing Meldon Viaduct in August 1962. Copyright The late Sid Sponheimer

Bridestowe station. 21st September 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

Brentor station. 21st September 1975. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Conclusion: The ‘seaward’ scheme would still fail or have to close in storm conditions. Best forgotten. The Teign valley is, despite the ghastliness of the ‘Devon Expressway’ still a very pretty part of the world. One envisions heavy NIMBYISM on the scale of what has happened (and is still happening) as the HS2 comes closer to crossing the’Midsomer Murders’ area of Buckinghamshire.
The GW inter-war scheme, with its heavy tunneling, will be very expensive indeed.
Which leaves us with the Southern main line via Okehampton. If the Tavistock plan succeeds in coming years, then a further revival stands a chance. The economic benefits for mid- and north Devon will be considerable, for a diversionary route for Dawlish would only be a small part of the benefits of putting Okehampton , Lydford and Tavistock back on the railway map and the putting of Bude, Holsworthy and the north devon coast within easy reach of a railway.
President Trump comments that the bitingly cold weather at present afflicting the USA contradicts the whole concept of global warming: let him come to Dawlish!

Please note that this item from Roy Hart was received hours before an announcement on the 4th February 2019 concerning the strengthening of the walls at Dawlish to keep this route open. Many thanks to Roy Hart.

Postscript - From a letter received from Roy Hart this morning (6th February 2019) concerning the Dawlish problem 'I looked at the NR plan: 300 metres of new sea wall and a bit of tinkering at Parsons Tunnel. This will not stop line closures from crumbling cliffs and violent storms. It will make some Dawlish residents happy but make little difference to the big picture, which remains the same: the need for a decent diversionary route. Roy'

1904 The 'Looe Brush Railtour'
3rd February 2019
A compilation of the many photographs received.

Running twenty late 47 772 heads the 1Z47 0810 Bristol-Looe passing Marsh Barton 3rd February 2019 Copyright Paul Barlow

47826 on rear of 0810 Bristol-Looe passing Marsh Barton Exeter Copyright Paul Barlow

190203l The special crosses Liskeard Viaduct. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203a The Looe Brush Railtour arrives at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Salter

190203l Arrival of The Looe Brush at Liskeard. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

190203za The large crowd viewing the arrival of the Looe Brush at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zb - Snow still in evidence as the train runs into the up main. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203m Crossing over from the down to the up main at Liskeard. Copyright Mark Lynam

To the delight of all the train continued on to the Looe Branch using the connecting curve normally not passed for loaded passenger trains.

190203zc Around the bend she goes. Copyright Roger Winnen

A unique occurrence at Liskeard "Passengers going around the bend"

190203k A unique occurrence at Liskeard 'passengers going around the bend' Copyright Peter Murnaghan

190203o Arrival at Coombe Junction, 47772 leads. Copyright Mark Lynham

190203zd -The 47 opens up for the short run to Moorswater. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203b Departing Coombe Junction Platform for Moorswater. Copyright Roger Salter

190203z Awaiting departure for Plymouth and Buckfastleigh. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203d Having left Coombe Junction we see the train on route to Moorswater. Copyright Roger Salter

190203ze - Crossing the crossing at Moorswater. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203g The Branch Line Society 'The Looe Brush' Copyright Peter Murnaghan.

190203h - The Looe Brush enters Moorswater. Copyright Peter Murnaghan.

190203zf - The tight clearance at Moorswater prior to entering Tarmac Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zg - Entering Moorswater Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zh - The limit of the train in the depot owing to the tight curvature of the line. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zj - The train departing from Moorswater. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203c Departing Moorswater for Looe. Copyright Roger Salter

190203f Uncliping the catch point at Coombe Junction. Copyright Roger Salter

190203zk - Waiting departure from Coombe Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203r Awaiting departure from Coombe Junction. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203s Approaching the crossing after leaving Coombe Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zl -Approaching Lodge Hill Crossing after leaving Coombe Jct. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zll - 47826 Tailing heads away to St Keyne. Copyright Roger Winnen

Watched by Peter Jenkin 47 772 comes steadily under the bridge to run through the attractive station of Sandplace. The Looe river, still little more than a stream, runs alongside. 3rd February 2019. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Peace and quiet descends on Sandplace as the train, leaving behind nicely polished metals, heads for Terras Crossing. 47 826 brings up the rear. 3rd February 2019. Copyright Keith Jenkin.

190203i Heading for Looe above Terras Crossing. Copyright Peter Murnaghan.

190203t A nicely lit photograph of the train at Looe. Copyright Mark Lynham

190203zm Lookin down on the train at Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zn - The special is stabled at Looe for its lunch break. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203u Near the buffer stop at Looe Station. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203zo - Carnforth TMD at Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zp Railtour participants at Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

With the tide drifting in to cover the mud flats 47 826 makes a little smoke as it drags its hefty load away from its just over an hour long stop at Looe. 3rd February 2019. Copyright Keith Jenkin.

190203zq Terras Crossing with the photographers in wait. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203j -The return working from Looe taken from Trenant Wood at 14.30hrs. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

190203v Approaching Terras Crossing on the return run. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203zr 47826 Approaches the crossing. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203w Heading into the Looe Bay at Liskeard. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203zs Arrival back into Liskeard Branch Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zt 47772 Near the buffer stops at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203zv The railtour comes back into Liskeard up main platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

190203y Rounding the bend into Liskeard up main platform. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203z Awaiting departure for Plymouth and Buckfastleigh. Copyright Mark Lynam

190203zv The train awaits departure from Liskeard as Roger Matthews walks up the platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

1903 Exeter West Signalbox moves to Crewe
- Peter Jordan

1. Exeter West in 1980, shortly before the MAS scheme began in earnest. This is Exeter West Signalbox in 1980 Copyright Peter Jordan.

2. The box being dismantled in the early summer of 1985. Copyright Peter Jordan

EXETER WEST BOX IN PRESERVATION
- Peter Jordan
In 1982 Peter Jordan and some friends from the Severn Valley Railway came up with the idea of preserving a big mechanical signal box, making it fully operational and opening it to the public so that visitors could experience life as it had been in a big, busy signal box – they were disappearing fast, and if nothing was done to preserve one, they would soon be just a memory.
Exeter West was chosen as the box to preserve for three reasons: firstly, it was Great Western, and experience showed that GW projects had greater appeal to the enthusiast fraternity. Secondly it was an all-timber structure, so could be taken away from its site in its entirety. Finally in steam days the traffic working at Exeter was extremely interesting, and would be fascinating to simulate.
The ‘Exeter West Group’ was formed and spent from 1982 to 1985 raising funds and liaising with BR regarding the purchase of the box. After it closed at the beginning of May 1985 Group members began dismantling, and the final components were moved off-site during an overnight occupation on July 13/14 1985.
Unfortunately, despite the Group’s original intentions, a home could not be found for the box on the SVR, and the Group now entered a rather troubled period when homes at Bristol and Swindon (and a possible home with the GWS at Didcot) failed to come to fruition. Fortunately restoration work had been maintained during this period, and the box was finally offered a home at the Heritage Centre in Crewe. All components of the box were moved by rail from Swindon to Crewe at Easter 1991: the first components were erected on the new site at the beginning of May 1991 and the completed box was opened to the public at the May Day holiday weekend in 1993. In 1995 it won the ‘Westinghouse Award’ in the Ian Allan National Railway Heritage Awards competition.
Since 1993 the box has been regularly demonstrated to visitors to the Heritage Centre, at first using a manual simulator panel but now accompanied by a computer-based system. The simulations given are accurate reproductions, being based on the working timetables for the summer of 1960. As well as providing the authentic experience the box also houses additional displays that explain something of the technicalities of manual signalling as well as the history of the railways in Exeter and the various other signal boxes in the area.
The ‘Exeter West Group’ have a website: www.exeterwest.org.uk and a ‘Facebook’ page: @ewsignalbox. Details of the opening times of Crewe Heritage Centre can be found at: https://crewehc.org/
Various video clips of the box in operation at Crewe can be found on ‘YouTube.’ Search for ‘Exeter West Signal box.’

3. Rebuilding on the Crewe site, autumn 1992. Copyright Peter Jordan

4. The exterior of the restored building. Copyright Peter Jordan.

5. The impressive interior of the box with its 131-lever frame. Copyright Peter Jordan.

With many thanks to Peter Jordan who very kindly provided us with the history of the move and the five photographs. An excellent project, very well executed.

We now continue with two pictures taken before the move, one by Chris Osment and one by Roger Winnen. These are followed by a sequence of pictures taken by Roger Wnnen during a visit to the box at Crewe in 2012.

A photograph taken by Chris Osment during an official visit in 1971. Many thanks Chris - Copyright.

A slightly more recent view of Exeter West Signalbox taken long before the move was contemplated. 1st April 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen.

In July 2012 a Cornwall Railway Society party visited the re-sited Exeter West Box at the Crewe site.

The locking frame as installed in the re-sited Exeter West Box. 12th July 2012. Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter West Track diagram (A certain amount of editing has been carried out to reduce the effects of reflections). 12th July 2012. Copyright Roger Winnen.

N.B. The Exeter West Group’ will be staging a ‘signalling gala’ at Crewe Heritage Centre on the weekend of June 15th & 16th 2019.

1902   St Austell Footbridge Notes and Comparisons - Guy Vincent

The recent feature regarding the imminent removal of the original GWR footbridge from St Austell station caught my eye and, although regrettable it is good to learn that the bridge is to see further use on the Helston Railway. The St Austell bridge dates from 1882 and fortunately retains the old GWR monogram and scrolled date that was relentlessly hacked away from many other similar structures as part of British Rail's modernisation programme in the 1960s and 1970s. Maybe the gang responsible for this pointless atrocity never reached Cornwall?

Similar bridges to the St Austell example still survive in daily use at Warminster and Upwey stations and in a Victorian suburb of Trowbridge where a public footpath crosses the line. The first two have long since lost their ornate GWR identities (and roofs) although it is sometimes possible to see the outline of the missing metalwork, especially after overnight frost. The Trowbridge example has remnants of the date left (188?) plus the outline of the GWR monogram. A fresh coat of paint (highly unlikely to ever materialise!) will hide this evidence. Also note the metal cage that was added in 2009 due to repeated acts of vandalism taking place on the bridge. Finally, an Edwardian view of the structure, taken from the opposite side of the line, when values and general standards in society were far, far higher than those we experience today.

   Regards, Guy Vincent Many thanks Guy

Lower Studley Footbridge Detail Trowbridge 24th September 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent

Trowbridge, Lower Studley Railway Footbridge c1905 A charming picture from the Guy Vincent Collection

1901
COWLEY BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
CONSTRUCTION OF NEW RIVER BRIDGES ON NORTH DEVON LINE, 1965-6
CONSTRUCTION NOTES By Richard Watts

COWLEY BRIDGE JUNCTION
CONSTRUCTION OF NEW RIVER BRIDGES ON NORTH DEVON LINE, 1965-6
CONSTRUCTION NOTES

When the Western Region main line to Plymouth was built by the Bristol & Exeter Railway Company between 1841 & 1844, the River Exe was diverted north of Cowley Bridge to run parallel with the line on the Up side for a length of about 1km. This avoided building two extra bridges over meanders in the River Exe. Culverts under the line were provided above and below Cowley Weir, but these proved insufficient to prevent overtopping of the embankment when flood waters reverted to the original course of the Exe in times of extreme rainfall.

On the 1900s OS mapping the course of the Exe in the Cowley Bridge area before the advent of the railways can clearly be traced by following the dotted line of the then administrative boundary. The river had originally turned north and snaked across the flood plain to be joined by the Creedy east of Cowley village. From there the Exe turned south to pass under the 3-span 1813/14 Cowley Bridge carrying the Crediton Road. The B&E Company therefore not only diverted the Exe above what was to become Cowley Bridge Junction, but they also constructed Cowley Weir, a “balancing channel” running from above the weir to the original Exe, a new Exe channel running south-west to join the original main river, and the Brunel arch bridge which carries the Crediton Road over it. The old course of the Exe across the flood plain became a secondary channel providing flood relief and an outlet (or Mill Leat) from the water works.

The Southern Region North Devon line from Cowley Bridge was originally opened as a single line by the Exeter & Crediton Railway after a delay of some years in 1851. It crossed the Exe immediately north of Cowley Bridge Junction on a curved, flat skew multi-span wrought iron bridge (no.534) 75 metres long, widened to two tracks in 1879. North of this, across the flood plain, were three other bridges: no.535, flood opening built 1890s, the adjacent no.536, minor water course built 1880s, and no.537, Mill Leat Bridge approx.650 metres north of the junction built 1870s. All were strengthened at various times into the 20th century.

In the early 1960s the four underline bridges north of Cowley Bridge Junction required reconstruction or replacement. A joint scheme was developed by the then BR Southern Region Chief Civil Engineer’s Office and the Devon River Board for two new bridges to replace the existing four bridges and to divert the River Exe and the Mill Leat which provided the outlet from the turbines at the East Devon Water Board’s water works. The proposal would improve flows of the Rivers Exe & Creedy in conjunction with the River Board’s Exeter City flood relief scheme. At the same time the line would be singled on the Down line alignment for approx.500 metres from the junction.

Consultants Mott, Hay & Anderson were appointed to carry out the detail design for a two span River Exe bridge north of the existing bridge, and a two span Mill Leat bridge just north of bridges 535 & 536. Design work included river and water course diversions with farm accommodation bridges over the new channels, infilling of redundant water courses, and diversions of twin 450mm dia. water mains and buried 6.6kv electricity cables. (See plan, photographs image 37).

Following the 1963 Beeching Report and the subsequent transfer of the ex-LSWR North Devon Lines to the Western Region, the Cowley Bridges replacement scheme was put on hold pending a review of the cost (then estimated at over £300k, £6m plus at 2018 prices) in view of the proposed closure of all the North Devon lines. Eventually this was vetoed by Government, tenders were invited and a contract let to Kier Construction in 1965. The work was carried out under the supervision of Mott, Hay’s Resident Engineer for overall contractual matters, with a BR Western Region Resident Engineer responsible for the railway-specific engineering and operating aspects.

For construction purposes, in late 1965 the line was singled for 800 metres on the Up line alignment and the junction arrangements altered accordingly. A ground frame was installed just north of Upton Pyne overbridge to control the temporary double/single line connection, retaining connections into the disused Down line at both ends to provide a contractor’s siding. The track was spread to rail level with stone dust, delivered by rail from Meldon Quarry, to provide vehicular access throughout the site from the contractor’s compound in the field next to Upton Pyne Hill.

Work started with night track possession driving steel sheet piling cofferdams for the new bridge abutments and piers, but after noise complaints it was changed to weekend daytime possessions and weekday between-trains working with a 5mph speed restriction. Some of the cofferdam piles were so close to the track that the ends of the timber sleepers needed to be trimmed off. Excavated material was stockpiled for infilling redundant river channels. Concrete for the new substructures was brought from the mixing plant in the site compound by dumper trucks via the access road on the temporary siding. Vehicles would stop when trains were passing.

Bridge steelwork was fabricated by Redheugh Engineering whose works were situated on the Down side north of St Davids station. Delivery was originally planned by rail, but for various reasons road transport was used instead. Once the new bridge decks had been concreted and waterproofed and bridges 535 & 536 removed and filled in, the new single line was laid in from the old Exe bridge up to the new single/double line connection approx.30 metres north of the new Mill Leat bridge. From there the line reverted temporarily to the Up line.

The new river channels could now be completed, following which the old channels were filled in and the remaining redundant bridge superstructures removed. The channel under Down half of the old Exe bridge, which was carrying the single line, was filled in by taking up the timber bridge decking and discharging stone dust into the water from 40 ton Walrus bogie hopper wagons and Mermaid side tippers during night track possessions late in 1966. The rails, longitudinal rail bearers and cross girders were then removed and plain line track laid, after which the main girders were removed and loaded away by rail. Finally the ground frame at Upton Pyne was removed and the Down line re-laid north of the new single/double line connection which was then controlled from Cowley Bridge Junction Signal Box.

The Civil Engineering site staff engaged on the project included:
Mott, Hay & Anderson: Resident Engineer, John Pryce; Clerk of Works, Tom Dixon.
Kier Construction: Site Agent, Ivan Osborne; Site Engineer, Barry Papenfus; General Foreman, ? Stevens.
British Railways: Resident Engineer, Richard Watts; P.Way Inspectors, Jack Oaten (Exeter St.Davids), Horace Drew (Crediton).
.
Corollary:
Subsequently the North Devon route to Plymouth was closed and the remaining line to Barnstaple singled. The river channel connections have been altered and widened and the farm accommodation bridges removed. Also, following recent severe flooding, a new twin box culvert with an 8 metre opening width has been constructed through the Great Western Main Line embankment north of the junction, completed in June 2018.

This map serves to illustrate the several water courses across this plain area of land at the confluence of two valleys. Note the whole area was marked, even then, as 'liable to flooding'. The 'New' River Exe channel runs alongside the Great Western alignment - the original course of the Exe, pre-railway was to the east of the valley.

Site plan after major works. 'New Channels' coloured blue, Channels Filled in' coloured brown.

December 1965 Photographs

01 Cowley Bridge Junction. December 1965 Copyright Richard Watts

02 Downstream Culvert December 1965 Copyright Richard Watts

03 Cowley Weir December 1965 Copyright Richard Watts

04 River Exe Bridge and Cowley Bridge Junction. December 1965. Copyright Richard Watts

05 The North Devon line looking towards the Junction. R. Exe bridge 534 in distance. The closed Down line track filled with stone dust to provide temporary access and a siding. December 1965. Copyright Richard Watts

06 Looking towards Upton Pyne, bridges 535 and 536 in mid ground. Copyright Richard Watts

07 Looking towards Upton Pyne, bridges 535 and 536. Copyright Richard Watts.

1966 Photographs

08 Warship class heading a Plymouth to Brighton train on the singled up line on existing R Exe bridge, Copyright Richard Watts.

09 Sheet Piling for new R Exe Bridge abutments and pier coffer dams. Copyright Richard Watts.

10 Excavating cofferdam. Copyright Richard Watts.

11 New R Exe bridge abutments and pier cofferdams. Copyright Richard Watts.

12 View of passing DMU taken from bottom of completed cofferdam. Copyright Richard Watts.

13 Steelwork delivery.Copyright Richard Watts.

14 Steelwork for the new R. Exe bridge in foreground, temporary level crossing in mid-ground, steelwork for new Mill Leat bridge with a Hymek heading ballast train from Meldon Quarry in distance. Copyright Richard Watts.

15 Down side of bridge 535 part demolished; new Mill Leat bridge steelwork beyond. Copyright Richard Watts.

16 Erecting steelwork for new Mill Leat bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

17 Concreting new R. Exe bridge deck (A) Copyright Richard Watts.

18 Concreting new R.Exe bridge deck (B) Copyright Richard Watts.

19 Concreting new R.Exe bridge deck (B) Copyright Richard Watts.

20 Formation for new single line north of existing R.Exe bridge 534. Copyright Richard Watts.

21 New R.Exe bridge and formation for single line. Copyright Richard Watts.

22 Formation for single line north of new R.Exe bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

23 North end of new Mill Leat bridge and new single to double line turnout. Copyright Richard Watts.

24 Unloading track ballast from Dogfish hoppers for the new single line. Copyright Richard Watts.

25 New single line on old Down line alignment open; Up line track removed. Copyright Richard Watts.

26 Culvert for water mains at site of demolished flood opening, bridge 535 Copyright Richard Watts.

27 Excavating Mill Leat channel. Copyright Richard Watts.

28 Ditto under new Mill Leat bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

29 Trimming new channel side slopes. Copyright Richard Watts.

30 Removing cofferdam sheet piling under the new 'Mill Leat' bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

31 New channel and stone for pitching to side slopes, west side of new R.Exe bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

32 North end of existing R.Exe bridge 534 before removal of track & superstructure. Copyright Richard Watts.

33 Excavation for new channel, east side of new R.Exe bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

34 New Exe channel opened; filling old Exe bridge 534 started. Copyright Richard Watts.

35 Filling old Exe channel and demolishing Up side of old Exe bridge 534. Copyright Richard Watts.

36 Temporary Bailey Bridge over Mill Leat to provide access for infilling redundant river channels. Copyright Richard Watts.

37 Warship class on Brighton to Plymouth service crossing Mill Leat bridge. Copyright Richard Watts.

38 Site plan after major works. 'New Channels' coloured blue, Channels Filled in' coloured brown.

More detail on Richard's most interesting career with British Rail.

My role on the project (Cowley Bridge Junction) was as Resident Engineer for BR Western Region. Mott Hay & Anderson, the consultants appointed by the Southern Region before the boundary changes, had their own Resident Engineer responsible for overseeing the work designed by them and dealing with contractual matters such as payments. This was an unusual arrangement but we shared the same site offices and worked closely together. Concurrently I supervised a contract for the extension of Exeter Riverside Yard. "Resident Engineer" is the formal title given to the Engineer representing the client on Civil Engineering works and has considerable delegated powers under the terms of the Contract.

I spent about 5 years as a site engineer before returning to the Design Office in 1968, my last site job being a new branch line to an oil refinery in Pembrokeshire. It's a long way off your patch but you might be interested in an article on Google under the title of "The Gulf Oil Refinery Branch Line". https://www.thepwi.org/technical_hub_journal_technical_articles/pwi_journal_april_2018_vol_136_part_2/pwi_journal_0418_vol136_pt2_-_building_a_railway_50_years_ago_-_the_gulf_oil_refinery_branch_line It illustrates the sorts of things we got up to in BR days. There is also a half hour video on YouTube under the same title.
https://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=Gulf+Refinery,+Milford+Haven

It is now but two months since Richard wrote me and asked if we might be interested in a few pictures of work at Cowley Bridge Junction in 1965/66. I replied right away saying "Yes please". Little did I guess that I would receive extremely valuable notes on this difficult project on the operational railway system together with nearly forty irreplaceable photographs taken as the work proceeded. What can I say but a very sincere thank you to Richard for making his notes and photographs available to us. I am sure that all members of the Cornwall Railway Society and those further afield worldwide who enjoy our website will have their knowledge considerably enhanced by this fine article.

Many thanks indeed Richard for your time and trouble.

Keith Jenkin. December 2018

The Final at Plymouth

Leading up to the open day.

08 645 and its repaint with the St. Piran flag and name.

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