Features page
July 2018 Onwards
1819 A Celebration of 40 years of The Cornwall Railway Society
1820 The Royal Duchy Bristol Temple Meads to Par 22nd July 2018
1821 The penultimate weekend of HST's on the Newquay branch.
1822 The West Somerset Steam Gala Sat 29th September Roger Winnen
1823 The visit of Flying Scotsman to the west and in particular Cornwall
1824 External Booksales - an appreciation
1825 View from the top - City of Truro - Clive Smith
1826 60009 Bristol - Plymouth 1st December 2018
1827 Peak to Waterloo - Clive Smith
1828 Major Works at Westbury station - relaying the north junction. Guy Vincent
1820 The Royal Duchy Bristol Temple Meads to Par 22nd July 2018
1821 The penultimate weekend of HST's on the Newquay branch.
1822 The West Somerset Steam Gala Sat 29th September Roger Winnen
1823 The visit of Flying Scotsman to the west and in particular Cornwall
1824 External Booksales - an appreciation
1825 View from the top - City of Truro - Clive Smith
1826 60009 Bristol - Plymouth 1st December 2018
1827 Peak to Waterloo - Clive Smith
1828 Major Works at Westbury station - relaying the north junction. Guy Vincent
1828 Major Works at Westbury station
- relaying the north junction.
A feature by Guy Vincent
- relaying the north junction.
A feature by Guy Vincent
As briefly mentioned recently, Westbury station is closed from December 23rd to January 3rd inclusive to enable Network Rail contractors and engineers to renew the complete track layout Westbury North Junction. The current layout is now life-expired and dates from April 1984 when the GWR semaphore signalling was removed, Westbury North Signal Box demolished and the area put onto the new Westbury Panel Box. At the same time as the renewal works are taking place signalling alterations will be made at the south end of the station prior to the platforms being extended in March/April 2019 to enable 10 car IEP's to be fully accommodated. In picture 3 the right hand gantry carrying signals W502 and W602 is to be removed with two new signals on straight posts replacing them. The left hand gantry and signal for P1 (W102) will remain but the right hand signal (W402) will be removed and relocated further south. I shall provide occasional pictures of the work as it progresses over the period. Westbury station will be closed and 'out of bounds' for the duration of the works but good views can be obtained from the public road bridge to the north. Train services will generally terminate & start back from Trowbridge, Frome and Warminster with West Country services using the avoiding line and calling instead at Frome. Buses will link Westbury to these stations and also Melksham as the Swindon-Westbury 'Trans Wilts' service is completely suspended for the period. Certain Weymouth-Bristol trains and vice versa will run through by using the Westbury avoider, reversing at Heywood Road Junction and continuing over the Hawkeridge loop to the east of Westbury. All part of 'Building a Greater West'.
Picture 01 Taken at 12.09 on the 22nd December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 02 Taken at 12.13 on the 22nd December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 03 Looking south from the end of platform 2/3. Taken at 09.28 on the 22nd December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 04 Taken at 12.19 on the 23rd December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Engineers well into the first stage of excavating the trackbed beneath the Down Reception, Patney Siding and Platform 1 lines at Westbury North at 1220pm on Sunday 23rd December. Just 13 hours beforehand this junction was in full use. 66416 is at the head of the spoil train. As the coming week progresses each line will be similarly dealt with.
Picture 05 Taken at 12.23 on the 23rd December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
06 Platform 1, deserted at 11.55 on the 23rd December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture 06 Platform 1 restricted public access, platforms 2 and 3 out of bounds for duration of works.
Picture 07 Road railer running along down reception towards second work site at Westbury South Junction.
Picture 07 Road railer running along down reception towards second work site at Westbury South Junction.
Picture 07 It is 11.56 on the 23rd December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture 08 Looking north at 15.38 on the 24th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 08) Engineers cutting up the old track into small sections prior to removal into the waiting wagons as scrap. The machine at top centre of the picture has a 'claw' for picking up the redundant materials which are then dropped into the wagons. The adjacent formation has already been excavated, lined-out and received the initial drop of ballast.
Picture 09) Looking across the layout with the Down Reception and Line One formations awaiting new track.
Picture 09) Looking across the layout with the Down Reception and Line One formations awaiting new track.
Picture 09 Taken at 14.17 on the 24th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 10 Taken at 18.23 on the 24th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Pictures 10 and 11) Night views of the site with work continuing 24-7.
Picture 11 It's 18.24 on the 24th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 12 The time is 13.20 on the 25th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Westbury North Junction Renewal Day 3 25.12.2018
Work continuing on schedule helped by relatively dry weather and mild temperatures for this time of year.
Picture 12) Engineers carefully unpacking a new point operating motor assembly prior to full installation, adjustment and testing during the second stage of the blockade; 'S & T Testing and Commissioning'.
Picture 13) Looking towards the station with the Down Reception and number one platform line back in place with number two line dug out and sand already laid.
Work continuing on schedule helped by relatively dry weather and mild temperatures for this time of year.
Picture 12) Engineers carefully unpacking a new point operating motor assembly prior to full installation, adjustment and testing during the second stage of the blockade; 'S & T Testing and Commissioning'.
Picture 13) Looking towards the station with the Down Reception and number one platform line back in place with number two line dug out and sand already laid.
Picture 13 It's 13.22 on the 25th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 14 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 15 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 16A With track into the down reception and platform one replaced, the bed of the route into platform two has been excavated, levelled and bottom-ballasted ready for the new track to be laid. Beneath the ballast is a waterproof liner which sits on a bed of sand that has been compacted down and levelled in order to prevent 'wet beds' from forming. This junction carries some of the longest and heaviest trains to run in the UK so good support and drainage is absolutely crucial. The light-coloured line in the left foreground (to the left of the excavator) is believed to be the edge of the foundation of Westbury North Signal Box. 20181226_110315 11.03 26th December 2018 Westbury North Day 4. 1 Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture 16B 15.06 on the 26th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture 17 A dull misty day at 11.15 on the 27th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture 18 11.47 on the 27th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Watching the proceedings from the road bridge it has been interesting to see the condition of the spoil as it is lifted and loaded into the waiting wagons. Besides dirty ballast, ash, cinders, remnants of old sleepers and redundant S&T materials have come to light including a length of point rodding that was presumably left behind when the semaphores went in April 1984. For a time this morning the foundation of Westbury North Signal Box was visible as a straight line of old concrete and brick remnants. At the bottom is a hard layer of what appears to be compacted brick and stone and this probably dates to when the line was first built in 1847. A thorough job is certainly being made of these renewals by Network Rail and their 'Team Orange'.
Picture 19 Looking towards the Power Box. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 20. A smashing night scene looking over the new track towards the station. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Westbury North Junction Renewals Day 6 Friday 28th December 2018
Disappointingly dull weather conditions again today with most of the heavy work now completed. A short stretch of the Up Reception line was the only track still needing to be replaced.
Guy Vincent 28.12.2018 Many thanks Guy.
Disappointingly dull weather conditions again today with most of the heavy work now completed. A short stretch of the Up Reception line was the only track still needing to be replaced.
Guy Vincent 28.12.2018 Many thanks Guy.
Picture 21) Looking towards the station with more ballast in place and engineers busy welding together the new rail sections and connecting up signalling and detection equipment. 13.00 28th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 22) Looking towards the signal box more welding being undertaken with 66051 on a materials train that originated at Hinksey.13.02 28th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture 23) Road replacement transport in the station approach road. Buses running to Frome, Warminster, Trowbridge and chippenham via Melksham with a minibus shuttle serving Dilton Marsh. 13.19 28th December 2019. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture 24) Looking from platform 1 across to the site of the demolished diesel depot with a ballast train standing in P1 and the new signals for P2 (W402) and P3 (W502) visible. W402 previously occupied the empty space at the end of the remaining gantry.13.24 28th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Westbury North Junction Renewals Day 7 29th Dec.2018
With all the new track now in place the next phase of work is well underway with tons of new ballast being dropped, spread and finally 'tamped' into position. There is still plenty of S&T work to be undertaken and the project concludes with several days of adjustments and testing before 'normal' train services recommence at 0400hrs on Friday January 4th 2019. Let us hope also that a thorough tidy-up of the site takes place as it would be a pity to leave behind a bad impression of what has been a well-managed and well executed undertaking.
Guy Vincent 29th December 2018 Many thanks for today's report.
With all the new track now in place the next phase of work is well underway with tons of new ballast being dropped, spread and finally 'tamped' into position. There is still plenty of S&T work to be undertaken and the project concludes with several days of adjustments and testing before 'normal' train services recommence at 0400hrs on Friday January 4th 2019. Let us hope also that a thorough tidy-up of the site takes place as it would be a pity to leave behind a bad impression of what has been a well-managed and well executed undertaking.
Guy Vincent 29th December 2018 Many thanks for today's report.
Photo 25) West country services calling at Frome during the Westbury blockade. 800314 ready to leave on 1C74 0800 Paddington - Exeter St Davids. Calling at Frome at 09.37 on the 29th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 26) Ballast being unloaded while S&T staff carry on with their work. Working beneath the bridge are two very noisy ballast regulator / tamper units. 12.08 29th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 27) Similar view to Photo (26) with ballast being unloaded and then spread where required by the excavators. 12.11 29th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Photo 28) Looking towards the signal box with the previously exposed concrete sleepers now hidden by a layer of fresh ballast.
12.06 29th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent
Photo 29 Close-up of the Colas Tamper & ballast regulator lifting and packing the new line. The operator sits inside the machine and follows the co-ordinates provided by the machine's laser measuring equipment to accurately lift and align the track. Copyright Guy Vincent
Here I more or less intend to conclude the look at the Westbury North renewal project that has now entered it's second week. Most of the 'interesting' work has now been completed so I'll wait until the trains are running normally before getting a small number showing it back in use. My biggest disappointment has been the grim weather and poor natural light throughout this job, hopefully allowance can be made for the poor quality of some of the images.
Westbury North Junction Renewals Day 8 30th Dec.2018
Photo 30) A class 166 on the diverted 0819 Bristol-Weymouth heading down the Westbury avoiding line towards Fairwood Jctn. This had come from Trowbridge via Hawkeridge loop and then reversed direction at Heywood Road Junction. 09.26 30th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Photo 31) A five car class 158 formation ex Trowbridge slowly negotiates Hawkeridge Jctn, heading for Westbury East Loop Jctn and Heywood Road Jctn where it will immediately reverse and then head back to Trowbridge ready to form the 11.06 departure to Bristol Parkway. 10.15 30th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 32) Turbo 166212 on Hawkeridge curve having run empty from Trowbridge. After reversal at Heywood Road Jctn it too will return to Trowbridge and form the 1303 for Bristol Parkway. (nb. photo taken through a gap in a secured palisade gate). 11.53 30th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 33) 166212 coming back around Hawkeridge curve following reversal. Look for the Westbury White Horse in the left background. In years gone by it was common to see pairs of class 37s or single class 56 locos sitting at the signal whilst awaiting entry to the cement works on loaded coal or flyash trains from South Wales.
12.02 30th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 34) Looking more like an operational railway again the two tampers carry on with their work while the platforms receive attention.
11.12 30th December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 35 ) S&T adjustments to some newly fitted points as the lines in front of the panel box also look ready for business. 11.15 29th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 36) Besides major track renewals, many smaller jobs are being carried out such as replacing train detection equipment that operates the track circuits. Barely noticeable but absolutely essential in order to run a safe and reliable railway. 11.00 30th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 37) A view of the work in progress at the north end of platform 2 where the height is being increased. 10.55 30th December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent
Westbury North Junction Renewals Day 8 31st Dec.2018
Two bonus shots of the Westbury North work site early on 31st December 2018
Please note just how early these shots were taken!!
Please note just how early these shots were taken!!
38) Engineers are preparing to 'de-stress' the rails on the down reception line to the left of the station platforms. 05.21 31st December 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent.
39) Road-rail vehicles still in use on the opposite side of the bridge with the well-lit panel box in the background. Much of the on-site lighting was powered by large solar panels and these appear to have worked most effectively. 05.23 31st December 2018. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Westbury North Junction Renewal. Guy returns for a final look at the track, the trains and the future extension of platform 3. An excellent end to 2018 and grand beginning to 2019.
Westbury North Renewals Completed
Westbury station is now back to normal following the Christmas project that saw the complete North junction layout renewed along with signalling work in advance of the lengthening of platforms 2 and 3 later this year. The following four pictures were taken on Sunday January 6th 2019.
Photo 40) Celebrity HST power car 43185 preparing to leave for London Paddington with the 0947 from Penzance (headcode 1A83).
Photo 41) Trailing 1A83 was 'old number one' although bizarrely British Rail gave it the number 43002. This historic power car has at last been recognised as worth saving and it was recently designated by the ''Railway Heritage Designation Advisory Board'' to become part of the National Collection when it is retired from service this coming spring. It's original partner from set 253001, 43003, is now set for several more years front-line service in Scotland.
Photo 42) Looking north from the end of platforms 2 and 3. A 158 from Cardiff to Warminster is approaching. The diagonal symbols on the green boards indicate to drivers that the previous temporary speed restriction has been terminated earlier than planned and the normal line speed now applies through the junction.
Photo 43) Looking south from the end of platform 3. New signals are in place and the platform will in due course be extended to about the point where the white concrete cable trough on the right ends.
Guy V
Westbury station is now back to normal following the Christmas project that saw the complete North junction layout renewed along with signalling work in advance of the lengthening of platforms 2 and 3 later this year. The following four pictures were taken on Sunday January 6th 2019.
Photo 40) Celebrity HST power car 43185 preparing to leave for London Paddington with the 0947 from Penzance (headcode 1A83).
Photo 41) Trailing 1A83 was 'old number one' although bizarrely British Rail gave it the number 43002. This historic power car has at last been recognised as worth saving and it was recently designated by the ''Railway Heritage Designation Advisory Board'' to become part of the National Collection when it is retired from service this coming spring. It's original partner from set 253001, 43003, is now set for several more years front-line service in Scotland.
Photo 42) Looking north from the end of platforms 2 and 3. A 158 from Cardiff to Warminster is approaching. The diagonal symbols on the green boards indicate to drivers that the previous temporary speed restriction has been terminated earlier than planned and the normal line speed now applies through the junction.
Photo 43) Looking south from the end of platform 3. New signals are in place and the platform will in due course be extended to about the point where the white concrete cable trough on the right ends.
Guy V
Photo 40 Copyright Guy Vincent
Photo 41 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Photo 42 Copyright Guy Vincent
Photo 43 Copyright Guy Vincent
A very big thank you to Guy Vincent. Guy has made it his business to photograph the many stages in this major renewal at Westbury. Congratulations to him for his photographic coverage and fine details of the work being carried out.
1827 Peak to Waterloo - Clive Smith
On the 11th June 1985 to celebrate the 300th anniversary (1685 - 1985) of the Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards 45143 was sent to Waterloo for a re-dedication of its nameplate . The ceremony was held four days before the 170th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo. The loco was specially prepared by Toton and worked throughout on the 05:48 Exeter - Waterloo service. It returned on the 13:10 Waterloo - Exeter service. Less than two years later the loco was withdrawn on May 7th 1987.
Regards. Clive Smith Many thanks Clive
Regards. Clive Smith Many thanks Clive
(1) The peak awaits departure at Exeter St Davids on the 05.48 to Waterloo. Note the recently lifted through line. 11th June 1985 Copyright Clive Smith
(2) Waterloo is certainly not in our area but the picture shows the historic appearance of the Peak and the addition of '1685 - 1985' to the nameplate. 11th June 1985 Copyright Clive Smith
(3) Back in our area 45143 stands at Salisbury with the 13.10 Waterloo - Exeter St Davids. 11th June 1985 Copyright Clive Smith.
(4) Nearing the end of its historic day the peak waits at Honiton to cross an up service. 11th June 1985 Copyright Clive Smith.
1826 60009 Bristol - Plymouth Christmas Shopper 1st December 2018
Views on the outward and return journey of 60009 from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth on the occasion of the running of a charter train. This is probably the last journey 'down west' for this loco which is likely to become a static exhibit on the expiry of its boiler certificate.
Photographs by David Field David Tozer Trevor Tremethick Andrew Triggs Leslie Curnow and Roger Winnen
Photographs by David Field David Tozer Trevor Tremethick Andrew Triggs Leslie Curnow and Roger Winnen
60009 Union of South Africa heads towards Bedminster with 1Z09 60009 comes into sight at Brislington hauling the Bristol TM to Plymouth Railtour. It's 0817 on 1st December 2018 Copyright David Field
60009 Union of South Africa heads towards Bedminster with 1Z09 What a fine and dramatic sight as 60009 comes closer with the Bristol TM to Plymouth Railtour at 0817 on 1st Dec 18 Copyright David Field
Unfortunately the spectacle is over in seconds. 60009 Union of South Africa heads through Bedminster with 1Z09 Bristol TM to Plymouth Railtour at 0819 on 1st December 2018 002 Copyright David Field
We now move on to Exeter St Thomas as 60009 thunders through at 10.36 on the 1st December 2018. Copyright David Tozer.
Running alongside the River Plym approaching Laira 60009 looks in fine fettle. 60009 passing Laira with the 'Plymouth Christmas Market Special' on the 1st December 2018 Copyright Trevor Tremethick
181201j 60009 Union of South Africa seen entering Plymouth Station with the towers of Mutley Plain Baptish Church in the background. Copyright Andrew Triggs
181201k 60009 Heading under the Sutherland Road overbridge into Plymouth Station. Copyright Andrew Triggs
181201b 60009 Union of South Africa arrives at Plymouth on the Plymouth Christmas Market from Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen
181201c Coming to a stand at Plymouth Platform 7. Copyright Roger Winnen
181201d We have a glimpse of sunlight which lasted a few minutes as 60009 makes an impressive sight in Platform 7. Copyright Roger Winnen
181201e Running around with its support coach before going oft to Laira Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen
181201l Union of South Africa in Black and White stands in the middle road. Copyright Andrew Triggs
181201f Ancient and Modern, the new IET arrives into the station passing the A4. Copyright Roger Winnen
181201m Contrast at Plymouth. Copyright Leslie Curnow
181201n Union of South Africa in the centre road at Plymouth. Copyright Leslie Curnow
181201g Its 16.00 hrs at Plymouth the light is fading fast. Copyright Roger Winnen
60009 makes a grand sight as it pulls away from Exeter St Davids at 18.39 on the 1st December 2018 Copyright David Tozer
1825 View from the top - City of Truro - Clive Smith
How things may have been different for 3440 back in 1904 at milepost 171 at Wellington if the loco had been officially accredited at 100 mph. The debate still goes on about timing watches and breaking the speed limit but it is Flying Scotsman that now takes all the fame for that record. Here are some views of the original 'celebrity' locomotive from the top of Inter City House at Plymouth on 30th November 2004. This is the 100th Anniversary Special from Plymouth to Truro.
Regards Clive Smith Many thanks Clive
We are greatly indebted to you for these unique pictures for the top of the tower. What an opportunity!
Regards Clive Smith Many thanks Clive
We are greatly indebted to you for these unique pictures for the top of the tower. What an opportunity!
Top of Inter City House at Plymouth on 30th November 2004 City of Truro 100 Anniversary. Copyright Clive Smith
Top of Inter City House at Plymouth on 30th November 2004 City of Truro 100 Anniversary. Copyright Clive Smith
Top of Inter City House at Plymouth on 30th November 2004 City of Truro 100 Anniversary. Copyright Clive Smith
On 3rd December 2004 City Of Truro headed a special from Plymouth to Bristol TM. A smattering of enthusiasts turn out to see a stupendous display as the historic 4-4-0 leaves Plymouth on a glorious frosty morning. Regards, Clive Smith
2004 City of Truro prepares to depart Plymouth for Bristol. 3rd December 2004 Copyright Clive Smith
City of Truro departs Plymouth 3rd December 2004 Copyright Clive Smith
City of Truro heads for Mutley tunnel. 3rd December 2004. Copyright Clive Smith
1824 An appreciation with reference to the Cornwall Railway Society External Booksales team and helpers.
PRC and CRS Booksales in West Cornwall
Let’s trace this back to probably about 1970 when the late Ivor Hocking used to travel down by train from Plymouth for every meeting of the West Cornwall Group of the Plymouth Railway Circle – at that time meetings were held at Murdock House in Redruth. Ivor used to bring a case full of books for sale he often stayed at Keith Jenkin’s place.
After some time it was decided to have a bookstall at the West of England Traction Engine Rally – this was held at Silverwell. To protect the books the PRC purchased a small tent – the PRC disc was mounted outside on a pole to advertise the organisation.
Later on, to further advertise the booksale tent a white pole on which half size home and distant semaphore signals were mounted. A copy of the PRC disc was locally made and added to the pole.
It was quite cramped inside the tent which had to contain at least two operators for security purposes and a pasting table for the books. On one year everything at the Rally virtually came to a stand when there was considerable rain which increased to a cloudburst. The thin fabric of the tent only served to break down the extremely heavy drops which emerged inside the tent as a mist!! Quite how many people gained some shelter inside the tent at that time is not recorded but it was very full.
After a time the booksales became established at Redruth rather than Plymouth due to Ivor Hocking being unable to travel the distances involved. This was where one of the West Cornwall Committee members, Rick Palmer, took charge of the bookstall and the stock was held at Redruth and replenished as necessary. This must have been about 1975/6. Meantime we still operated a stand at the Traction Engine Rally but luckily through the kindness of the organisers were able to find sheltered sanctuary within one of the large tents at the Rally. Our bookstall expanded considerable onto large plywood tables supplemented by plywood wings onto which large displays of railway pictures were assembled by Peter Butt.
In November 1977 at a meeting held at the Falcon Restaurant Redruth it was agreed by those present to form an independent organisation of railway enthusiasts still based at Redruth. At a subsequent committee it was agreed that the new organisation would be called ‘The Cornwall Railway Society. Now being completely independent of the Plymouth Railway Circle all stocks of books and relevant cash were handed back to the PRC. The new organisation was funded by loans from Committee Members.
Our numbers increased dramatically especially as at the time we began running railtours – which provided us with a substantial income. Concerned at whether the floor (First floor level) at The Falcon could stand the weight of members present we moved to a larger accommodation at the St John Ambulance hall.
Rick Palmer continued to run the book stall often assisted by the late Alan Milburn until December 2000, nearly a quarter of a century. At this point Tony Goulding took charge. Tony really enjoyed the task and, using his own transport made the society better known by visiting various model railway events some quite far away. Tony continued to run the bookstall very efficiently.
In due course it was realised that the structure of the St John Ambulance Hall was getting in a bad way and that the staff could no longer afford to maintain the building which contained a considerable quantity of asbestos. The CRS committee realised that we would need to find new accommodation and this was found at the Community Centre. This was large enough to hold the numbers who attended and had a kitchen of sorts. In due course we found even better accommodation at the Memorial Hall at Redruth Methodist Church. This has an excellent kitchen and comfortable seats plus a built in sound and video system.
Meantime, Tony Goulding, after completing over eight and half years as booksales officer and making a considerable contribution to our coffers felt it necessary to retire. In his place came Christine Simmonds who took charge of the book stock and carefully kept the stock up being full of interesting books. With the help of willing members Christine and her books were taken to many model railway meets and again a considerable income resulted from her and her colleagues endeavours. Some venues produced a very good return, others were, at times, disappointing. Christine attended many exhibitions and events and through her diligent efforts brought in a good income to Society as had her predecessors.
Recently it has been difficult to find volunteers to provide transport and problems in this respect have caused the committee to think again about attending these meetings which has been producing reduced income of late, perhaps books are not as popular as they once were. As a result it was decided that the Model Railway event held at Bodmin over the weekend of the 19/20th October 2018 would be the last event we would attend. We are extremely grateful to Christine for the nine and half years she has been in very capable charge
However, on a smaller scale Christine will still provide a bookstand at our indoor meetings – the books on sale will be second hand given by members – so if you have any books in good order you no longer want – then please let Christine have them.
Also thanked for their assistance over the years are Mike Bojko, Peter Bragg, Gerry Chandler, Eric Dowson, Peter Galassini, Mike Hitchens, Richard Horwood, Mick House, The late Keith Lloyd, Ian Mckey, Trevor Tremethick, Roger Winnen, and Tony Wright. Sincere apologies and thanks to anyone we have missed out.
Let’s trace this back to probably about 1970 when the late Ivor Hocking used to travel down by train from Plymouth for every meeting of the West Cornwall Group of the Plymouth Railway Circle – at that time meetings were held at Murdock House in Redruth. Ivor used to bring a case full of books for sale he often stayed at Keith Jenkin’s place.
After some time it was decided to have a bookstall at the West of England Traction Engine Rally – this was held at Silverwell. To protect the books the PRC purchased a small tent – the PRC disc was mounted outside on a pole to advertise the organisation.
Later on, to further advertise the booksale tent a white pole on which half size home and distant semaphore signals were mounted. A copy of the PRC disc was locally made and added to the pole.
It was quite cramped inside the tent which had to contain at least two operators for security purposes and a pasting table for the books. On one year everything at the Rally virtually came to a stand when there was considerable rain which increased to a cloudburst. The thin fabric of the tent only served to break down the extremely heavy drops which emerged inside the tent as a mist!! Quite how many people gained some shelter inside the tent at that time is not recorded but it was very full.
After a time the booksales became established at Redruth rather than Plymouth due to Ivor Hocking being unable to travel the distances involved. This was where one of the West Cornwall Committee members, Rick Palmer, took charge of the bookstall and the stock was held at Redruth and replenished as necessary. This must have been about 1975/6. Meantime we still operated a stand at the Traction Engine Rally but luckily through the kindness of the organisers were able to find sheltered sanctuary within one of the large tents at the Rally. Our bookstall expanded considerable onto large plywood tables supplemented by plywood wings onto which large displays of railway pictures were assembled by Peter Butt.
In November 1977 at a meeting held at the Falcon Restaurant Redruth it was agreed by those present to form an independent organisation of railway enthusiasts still based at Redruth. At a subsequent committee it was agreed that the new organisation would be called ‘The Cornwall Railway Society. Now being completely independent of the Plymouth Railway Circle all stocks of books and relevant cash were handed back to the PRC. The new organisation was funded by loans from Committee Members.
Our numbers increased dramatically especially as at the time we began running railtours – which provided us with a substantial income. Concerned at whether the floor (First floor level) at The Falcon could stand the weight of members present we moved to a larger accommodation at the St John Ambulance hall.
Rick Palmer continued to run the book stall often assisted by the late Alan Milburn until December 2000, nearly a quarter of a century. At this point Tony Goulding took charge. Tony really enjoyed the task and, using his own transport made the society better known by visiting various model railway events some quite far away. Tony continued to run the bookstall very efficiently.
In due course it was realised that the structure of the St John Ambulance Hall was getting in a bad way and that the staff could no longer afford to maintain the building which contained a considerable quantity of asbestos. The CRS committee realised that we would need to find new accommodation and this was found at the Community Centre. This was large enough to hold the numbers who attended and had a kitchen of sorts. In due course we found even better accommodation at the Memorial Hall at Redruth Methodist Church. This has an excellent kitchen and comfortable seats plus a built in sound and video system.
Meantime, Tony Goulding, after completing over eight and half years as booksales officer and making a considerable contribution to our coffers felt it necessary to retire. In his place came Christine Simmonds who took charge of the book stock and carefully kept the stock up being full of interesting books. With the help of willing members Christine and her books were taken to many model railway meets and again a considerable income resulted from her and her colleagues endeavours. Some venues produced a very good return, others were, at times, disappointing. Christine attended many exhibitions and events and through her diligent efforts brought in a good income to Society as had her predecessors.
Recently it has been difficult to find volunteers to provide transport and problems in this respect have caused the committee to think again about attending these meetings which has been producing reduced income of late, perhaps books are not as popular as they once were. As a result it was decided that the Model Railway event held at Bodmin over the weekend of the 19/20th October 2018 would be the last event we would attend. We are extremely grateful to Christine for the nine and half years she has been in very capable charge
However, on a smaller scale Christine will still provide a bookstand at our indoor meetings – the books on sale will be second hand given by members – so if you have any books in good order you no longer want – then please let Christine have them.
Also thanked for their assistance over the years are Mike Bojko, Peter Bragg, Gerry Chandler, Eric Dowson, Peter Galassini, Mike Hitchens, Richard Horwood, Mick House, The late Keith Lloyd, Ian Mckey, Trevor Tremethick, Roger Winnen, and Tony Wright. Sincere apologies and thanks to anyone we have missed out.
Some photographs of the various members who have devoted many hours of their own time to operating the Bookstall in Cornwall over the past almost half century.
We had some difficulty in tracing a picture of the Late Ivor Hocking but here he is having just got off the Farewell to the Ashburton Branch Railtour run by the
Plymouth Railway Circle and South Devon Railway Society on the 8th September 1962. Ashburton Older viewers will recognise a smiling Ivor Hocking walking down the platform. 4567 will soon be uncoupled to come forward into the train shed and run round. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer.
An enlargement of the previous picture . Ivor is accompanied by, it is believed, by the late David St John Thomas Publisher and Author. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer.
The PRC Tent at the 1975 Rally. 21st August 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen. We do know who the young man standing by the sales table is, the rest of the crew are lurking at the back of the tent! The PRC's metal headboard is mounted on the pole below the semaphore signals. We don't know who provided the tent.
Familar faces from the past at the 1977 Traction Engine Rally. Left to right - Rick Palmer, Trevor Tremethick , Gordon Dobbs, Roger Wnnen, Les Wallace, Peter Butt, Keith Jenkin, & Jim Eldridge. 20th August 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen. Of special note Gordon Dobbs was the Chairman of the West Cornwall Group, P.RC. and Leslie Wallace his predecessor. On the extreme right hand side of this group with a camera is Jim Eldridge. Jim was an L.N.E.R. driver who drove amongst other things A4 Mallard on the 'Elizabethan Express' - we were honoured to have him as a member. Jims ashes were at his request spread on the track at the throat of Kings Cross.
Manning the stand at the 1977 Rally. Rick Palmer. Gordon Dobbs, Trevor Tremethick, Les Wallace, Peter Butt, Keith Jenkin. Jim Eldridge. 20th August 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen
The headboard on the signal post is a locally made one including 'West Cornwall Group' at the bottom.
Keith Jenkin manning the stand at the 1977 Rally Gordon Dobbs Car complete with PA system. 20th August 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen This by the way is the light weight PRC tent which provided good cover from the elements except downpours!
The CRS bookstall. By this time we'd moved to share a part of a much larger tent. Note by the curves in the canvas the tent is keeping off some pretty strong wind! At the forefront are Rick Palmer and Roger Winnen to the right it is thought to be the late Peter Moore. Between Rick and Roger and seated is Gordon Dobbs. 19th August1978. Copyright Roger Winnen. Peter Butt arranged the display boards.
Sales Stand at The St Agnes Traction Engine Rally. Peter Butt and the late Peter Moore. (Peter Butt prepared the displays of the photographs and his own maps. Also all the signage.) 19th August 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen
Trevithick Day Exhibition in the Masonic Hall at Camborne. The late Walter Julian stands to the left and Keith Jenkin. 4th May 1985 Copyright Roger Winnen Note the CRS Disc painted by Peter Butt as was the Oxford Explorer headboard.
Peter Butt our artist, Walter Julian, Keith Jenkin and Roger Winnen in The Masonic Hall Camborne on Trevithick Day. Copyright RW 4th May 1985
Keith Jenkin, the signalman, goes off duty in Camborne. 4th May 1985 Copyright Roger Winnen. A view from the footbridge, quite what the real signalman thought as this was carried across the crossing is not known!
A new man at the helm! Tony Goulding with the Cornwall Railway Society bookstall at the Hayle Model Railway show. 25th May 2013. Copyright Roger Winnen Tony manned the bookstall for over eight years, covering many venues, until lifting the heavy boxes of stock up into his attic came a bit too much.
The lady in charge. Christine Simmonds and Roger Winnen at CRS Bodmin Model Railway Exhibition Bookstall 28th October 2017. Copyright Roger Winnen
Two stalwarts Christine and Roger at the Bodmin Model Railway Exhibition on the 28th October 2018. Note the smart CRS banner behind. Copyright Roger Winnen.
The last day of the last show. Roger was there and took the photograph, Christine is aided by Mick House who also provided transport on this occasion. Copyright Roger Winnen.
A very sincere thank you to Roger Winnen (Our senior committee member -he has been on the committees of both the PRC and CRS for his outstanding contributions to this website - the vast majority of pictures are from him - what an archive!
1823 The visit of 'Flying Scotsman' to the west and in particular Cornwall
Saturday 5th October 2018
Saturday 5th October 2018
Two runs are scheduled - the first from Plymouth right through to Penzance and return loco hauled to Plymouth, the second run from Plymouth to Par and back.
With no idea of how many pictures will be sent the runs have been divided into sections on the westward and eastward runs. We have to limit the number of entries, and please nothing from inside the fence unless on a place to which the public are allowed. Safety is paramount.
Plymouth and west of:- No pictures submitted.
Royal Albert Bridge Saltash and west of:-
Flying Scotsman enters Cornwall for the first time 6th October 2018 Copyright Peter Murnaghan
Cornwall beckons 6th October 2018 Copyright Peter Murnaghan
St Germans and west of :-
Climbing away from St Germans. A dramatic picture by Roger Geach. Copyright.
Climbing up towards Trerule Foot. 6th October 2018. Copyright Peter Salmon.
Bodmin Parkway and west of :-
181006z 60103 The Flying Scotsman at Respryn. Greeted by thousands of people in Cornwall. Copyright Roger Salter
Lostwithiel and west of:-
Flying Scotsman Lostwithiel Copyright Diane Jones
Flying Scotsman arrives at Lostwithiel Copyright Andrew Jones N.B Conditions were slightly better this evening at Lostwithiel. I have never seen the station so packed, I estimated well over 300 people on both platforms.
It was a bit of a landmark day as Diane also took a picture from the up platform while I managed to secure my normal spot on the downside.
There was almost a carnival atmosphere and a really lovely evening was had by all.
Much excitement at Lostwithiel. Copyright Robert Bridges
St Austell and west of:-
Whether we will get any pictures at St Austell station - only time will tell. However it was most frustrating to the crowds waiting on St Austell up platform to see the steam when an Up HST pulled in and completely blocked their view. Our sympathies are offered.
The Scotsman flying at Speed - caught at Burngullow. Copyright Craig Munday.
St Austell west of 60103_Dowgas 6th October 2018 Copyright Julian Stephens
Redruth and west of :-
I'm sure that this won't be the best picture taken at Redruth. However I was there, the up platform was packed such that it was difficult to find a place to occupy. This picture was taken while I was kneeling in a puddle. (The only way I could get a picture). The scene reminded me of pictures of the mass exodus of miners in the last century. Nobody was allowed on the down platform and nobody was allowed to stand on the footbridge, perhaps a favoured location! Maybe the potential loading was more than neither network Rail nor the bridge could suffer! Fortunately the rain had almost gone. 60103 entered the station with rather a pathetic whistle, a King or Castle would have put up a better show, but one must admit that Scotsman looked perfectly turned out. KJ
Camborne and west of :-
Angarrack Viaduct - Ollie Turrell
The train has just crossed Guildford. viaduct, Trevassack. Knill Monument in background. Matt Gaymen
Camborne west of, Flying-Scotsman Coach 'Julia' at Trevassack. Copyright Matt Gayman
PENZANCE Approach and terminus :-
181006j Viewed from the station wall 60103 Flying Scotsman arrives at Penzance. Copyright Colin Grover Crown Inn Penzance
181006a 60103 The Flying Scotsman at Penzance Station. Copyright Dave Beckerleg
181006b Flying Scotsman in Platform 1 at Penzance. Copyright Dave Beckerleg
181006c The first visit of the 95 year old Gresley Pacific to Penzance Copyright Dave Beckerleg
181006za The crowd gathers around Flying Scotsman at Penzance. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006zb Flying Scotsman has its tender replemished with water in the station yard. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006zd 60103 is seen backing out to couple to the rear of the returning train. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006zd 60103 is seen backing out to couple to the rear of the returning train. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006ze The valve gear in close up. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006zf The front end. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006zg Coach Julia of The Cathedrals Express. Copyright Trevor Goldsworthy
181006zh The Buffet Car of the Cathedrals Express
See Links below for Video Footage of the 'Scotsman' arrival at Penzance and also the return though Camborne, taken by Trevor Goldsworthy. Also details of a link to memorable Drone Footage taken of Penzance.
Trevor has sent in a link to his video of the arrival of 4472 at Penzance - this is highly recommended. Many thanks to Trevor for his own link and the advice concerning the drone link.
The link to Trevor's video is
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZIj_8mFMtQ
Also highly recommended is this drone footage taken despite the dreadful weather. Credits for this footage are on the link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qh1B41Dd7sc
The link to Trevor's video is
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZIj_8mFMtQ
Also highly recommended is this drone footage taken despite the dreadful weather. Credits for this footage are on the link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qh1B41Dd7sc
THE RETURN JOURNEY TO PLYMOUTH -Diesel hauled.
Flying-Scotsman returns passingTrevassack, Hayle - Copyright Matt Geyman
Flying Scotsman returns - approaching the site of Carn Brea Station. Copyright Ollie Turrell
Flying Scotsman retreats from Redruth and after passing under Treleigh bridge heads for Wheal Bois, otherwise known as Shallow Adit Crossing. Note the new signal, currently not commissioned alongside the down track. Copyright Keith Jenkin
60103 Holmbush Copyright Julian Stephens
60103 East of Par at Twenty to three Copyright Craig Munday
THE SECOND COMING! Scotsman Plymouth to Par.
60103 and 44871 on the 1700 Plymouth to Par steam specail on Moorswater viaduct Saturday 6th October 2018 Copyright Roger Geach
The light was fading as Julian took this shot of 60103 -44871 at Milltown climbing towards Terverrin Tunnel. Copyright Julian Stephens The time is 17.54.
60103 Par at 6 PM Copyright Craig Munday (A smashing photo from Rail Staff. Just count the people on the platform and on the bridge)
A smart turn around at Par and it's 18.15 as we see 47760 crossing Milltown viaduct with the return railtour. Copyright Julian Stephens
The Flying Scotsman returns from Plymouth to Exeter and Bristol on Monday 8th October 2018
60103 and 44871 cross Blatchford Viaduct with the Plymouth to Exeter run on Monday 8th October 2018 Copyright Roger Geach
181008 60103 Flying Scotsman and 44871 on the return run calling into Dawlish Warren. Copyright Roger Salter
181008b 60103 and 44871 is seen passing Easton. Copyright Roger Salter
Exminster Flying Scotsman returns Steam Dreams tour 8th October 2018 Copyright Peter Salmon
1822 The West Somerset Steam Gala
Saturday 29th September 2018
Roger Winnen
Saturday 29th September 2018
Roger Winnen
180929a 34046 Braunton masquerading as 34052 Lord Dowding hauls the 11.00 Bishops Lydeard to Minehead. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929b Awaiting departure from Bishops Lydeard. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929c 34052 Lord Dowding departs Washford. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929d The Hawksworth Coach where a £5 supplement was charged to ride in this restored vechicle. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929f The 12.55 Minehead to Norton Fitzwarren is seen arriving at Washford behind 7822 Foxcote Manor and 6960 Ravingham Hall. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929g The double heading are seen between Stogumber and Crowcombe Heathfield. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929h 41312 Stands at Williton awaits departure on the 13.40 to Norton Fitzwarren. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929i 7820 Dinmore Manor departs Crowcombe Heathfield on the goods. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929j Memories of the past with the goods train departing. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929k 41312 Arrives at Crowcombe on the service from Williton. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929l 80072 Works the 13.10 Norton Fitzwarren to Minehead service seen at Crowcombe Heathfield. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929m 73082 Camalot seen arriving at Williton on the 13.45 from Minehead. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929n D6575 and a Class 03 D2133 rest at Minehead. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929o 80072 on the Minehead Turntable. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929p D7017 was use as a substitute for the failed American S160 locomotive. Copyright Roger Winnen
180929q 41312 Stands awaiting departure at Bishops Lydeard on the last train of the day, being the 17.45 to Minehead calling at Williton and Watchet only. Copyright Roger Winnen
The Penultimate Weekend
of HSTs on the Newquay Branch
Clive Smith
of HSTs on the Newquay Branch
Clive Smith
A busy day of photography was had on Saturday 1st September 2018. Many pictures and videos taken recording for posterity the 08.57 Plymouth to Newquay and return 11.30 Newquay to Paddington. Honours were provided by power cars 43191 and the colourful 43027.
(1) Refreshments are loaded into a proper buffet car at Plymouth station as the 08.57 to Newquay is displayed on the indicator.
(2) The service has the road from the Newquay platform at Par. The signal box and semaphores are nicely reflected on the side of the HST.
(3) The token has been collected from St Blazey box.
(4) The HST passes under Treffry Viaduct on the climb through Luxulyan valley.
(5) Crossing the 09.35 Newquay to Newcastle Cross Country voyager at Goonbarrow Junction as the signalman transfers the token between trains. Will XC still be running HSTs to the resort next summer ?
(6) 43191 on the blocks at Newquay amidst the palm trees.
(7) View of the 11.30 to Paddington from the concourse at Newquay.
(8) The much changed Newquay station with now solitary platform. Gauging tests have been completed by Network Rail and the station awaits its first IET in the near future.
(9) 43027 with its 90 Glorious Years transfers leads the 11.30 to Paddington.
(10) Passing the 09.46 Exeter St Davids to Newquay at Goonbarrow Junction. This train is a double sprinter set running in the path of a former Paddington to Newquay service. Could GWR Castle 2+4 sets appear at the resort in the future ?
(1) Refreshments are loaded into a proper buffet car at Plymouth station as the 08.57 to Newquay is displayed on the indicator.
(2) The service has the road from the Newquay platform at Par. The signal box and semaphores are nicely reflected on the side of the HST.
(3) The token has been collected from St Blazey box.
(4) The HST passes under Treffry Viaduct on the climb through Luxulyan valley.
(5) Crossing the 09.35 Newquay to Newcastle Cross Country voyager at Goonbarrow Junction as the signalman transfers the token between trains. Will XC still be running HSTs to the resort next summer ?
(6) 43191 on the blocks at Newquay amidst the palm trees.
(7) View of the 11.30 to Paddington from the concourse at Newquay.
(8) The much changed Newquay station with now solitary platform. Gauging tests have been completed by Network Rail and the station awaits its first IET in the near future.
(9) 43027 with its 90 Glorious Years transfers leads the 11.30 to Paddington.
(10) Passing the 09.46 Exeter St Davids to Newquay at Goonbarrow Junction. This train is a double sprinter set running in the path of a former Paddington to Newquay service. Could GWR Castle 2+4 sets appear at the resort in the future ?
Picture (1) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (2) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (3) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (4) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (5) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (6) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (7) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (8) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (9) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture (10) 1st September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
1820 The Royal Duchy Bristol Temple Meads to Par 22nd July 2018
Craig Munday & Roger Winnen
Craig Munday & Roger Winnen
180722g The Royal Duchy arrives at Plymouth behind 44871 and 37706. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722h Owing to a fire risk the Class 37706 is coupled inside of 44871 for working over the steep West Country Banks. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722i Under the canopy and gloom of Plymouth Stations Platform 8. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722j The Royal Duchy is seen passing through Liskeard on route to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722k We had the old couple from Causeland (Railway Enthusiasts) at Liskeard cheering as the train went through. and shaking my hand. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722za 44871 and 37706 on the climb to Milltown Viadict after passing through Lostwithiel. Copyright Craig Munday
180722l Catching the following train from Liskeard which was bound for Newquay I alighted at Par to see the train in the down platform at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722m Here we see the train backing out of Par to crossover for the Newquay bound line. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722n We see the train now running through Par Station to stable its rolling stock on the first piece of double track to be laid in Cornwall. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722zb 44871 and 37706 with its support coach arrives at St Blazey Depot. Copyright Craig Munday
180722zc 37706 Alongside the CDA wagons at St Blazey. Copyright Craig Munday
180722zd 37706 Stands in the yard at St Blazey. Copyright Craig Munday
180722ze Turning 44871 on the St Blazey Turntable. Copyright Craig Munday
180722p 37706 at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722q The shunting operations at Par made some nice photographs. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722r Returning to couple to its stock. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722s The train now coupled leaves the through line to shunt past the road overbridge and back into Platform 2. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722t For the second time the train now reverses now into Platform 2 for its 17.40 departure. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722u The signal is pulled off for its departure at 17.40. However the time is now 17.51. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722v Plenty of smoke and clag as the train departs Par. Copyright Roger Winnen
180722w A roaring sound as The Royal Duchy departs for Bristol. Copyright Roger Winnen
1819 A Celebration of 40 years of the
Cornwall Railway Society
On Saturday 21st July the Cornwall Railway Society chartered the Bodmin & Wenfprd Railways recently acquired class 121 "Bubble Car" for an extensive tour over the B & W's system.
The route and timings were arranged in conjunction with the Bodmin and Wenford Railway Our Indoor Events Secretary Derek Buttivant, the bookings officer was Roger Winnen our Outdoor Events Secretary, the Guard for our train was Peter Glassine (Also a CRS Committee Member) and the driver was Martin Blackwell . We are most grateful to all these gentlemen and to all members and staff of the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.
Our tour ran precisely to the timetable.
The weather was excellent for the event, a slight shower earlier on cooled the temperatures to a very pleasant and acceptable level.
The route and timings were arranged in conjunction with the Bodmin and Wenford Railway Our Indoor Events Secretary Derek Buttivant, the bookings officer was Roger Winnen our Outdoor Events Secretary, the Guard for our train was Peter Glassine (Also a CRS Committee Member) and the driver was Martin Blackwell . We are most grateful to all these gentlemen and to all members and staff of the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.
Our tour ran precisely to the timetable.
The weather was excellent for the event, a slight shower earlier on cooled the temperatures to a very pleasant and acceptable level.
A Celebration of 40 years of The Cornwall Railway Society
To celebrate our anniversary we are touring the Bodmin & Wenford Railway aboard the ex-Chiltern Class 121 “bubble car” unit. By arrangement with the Bodmin & Wenford Railway this tour will allow participants to access some areas not normally seen by the general public. You are reminded of the need to be aware of safety issues at all times, particularly when leaving or joining the train and when on the track.
ITINERARY
15.00 Cream tea at Bodmin General Station .
15.45 Train departs Bodmin General for Boscarne Junction.
16.00 Arr Boscarne Junction.
1600 – 16.30 Opportunity for photos at Boscarne
16.30 Dep Boscarne Junction for Bodmin General
16.45 Arr Bodmin General
16.55 Dep Bodmin General for Bodmin Parkway
17.10 Arr Bodmin Parkway and shunt to sidings
17.10 – 17.45 Visit to carriage shed
17.45 Dep Bodmin Parkway to Colsloggett Halt for run past 17.55/18.05
18.05 Dep Colesloggett Halt to Walker Lines for photo opportunity 18.15 – 18.30
18.30 Dep Walker Lines for Bodmin General
18.45 Arrive Bodmin General where a Fish & Chip supper will be served (if pre-ordered)
PLEASE NOTE: The railway will be operating a Steam, Beer & Jazz train on this evening and participants in the CRS tour may be able to avail themselves of real ale, etc. at Bodmin General. If seats are available it may also be possible (on payment of the fare) to join the Steam, Beer and Jazz train which departs at 19.00.
For CRS members wishing to return to Bodmin Parkway for main line connections, the special train will depart Bodmin General at 19.25 (after departure of the jazz train) to Bodmin Parkway, arriving 19.40 (for train connections to Penzance 19.54 and 20.08 and Plymouth 20.05)
IT IS IMPORTANT that we adhere to the above timetable in order to fit in with other railway activities. Please return promptly to our bubble car after each stop. Members wishing to disembark from the train to look around the Parkway shed or to visit the Walker Lines sidings will need to use a ladder to exit and reboard
the train. Please take great care when doing this.
The Cornwall Railway Society is most grateful to the management, staff and volunteers of the Bodmin and Wenford Railway for providing this special train and allowing access to railway facilities. Raffle tickets will be on sale for those wishing to contribute towards the BWR's plans to construct a second platform and external station canopy at Bodmin General station.
We hope you will have an enjoyable afternoon and evening and we look forward to your continuing support of our society.
Very many thanks also to Derek Buttivant who produced this programme and also did a considerable amount of organising on behalf of both the CRS and the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.
To celebrate our anniversary we are touring the Bodmin & Wenford Railway aboard the ex-Chiltern Class 121 “bubble car” unit. By arrangement with the Bodmin & Wenford Railway this tour will allow participants to access some areas not normally seen by the general public. You are reminded of the need to be aware of safety issues at all times, particularly when leaving or joining the train and when on the track.
ITINERARY
15.00 Cream tea at Bodmin General Station .
15.45 Train departs Bodmin General for Boscarne Junction.
16.00 Arr Boscarne Junction.
1600 – 16.30 Opportunity for photos at Boscarne
16.30 Dep Boscarne Junction for Bodmin General
16.45 Arr Bodmin General
16.55 Dep Bodmin General for Bodmin Parkway
17.10 Arr Bodmin Parkway and shunt to sidings
17.10 – 17.45 Visit to carriage shed
17.45 Dep Bodmin Parkway to Colsloggett Halt for run past 17.55/18.05
18.05 Dep Colesloggett Halt to Walker Lines for photo opportunity 18.15 – 18.30
18.30 Dep Walker Lines for Bodmin General
18.45 Arrive Bodmin General where a Fish & Chip supper will be served (if pre-ordered)
PLEASE NOTE: The railway will be operating a Steam, Beer & Jazz train on this evening and participants in the CRS tour may be able to avail themselves of real ale, etc. at Bodmin General. If seats are available it may also be possible (on payment of the fare) to join the Steam, Beer and Jazz train which departs at 19.00.
For CRS members wishing to return to Bodmin Parkway for main line connections, the special train will depart Bodmin General at 19.25 (after departure of the jazz train) to Bodmin Parkway, arriving 19.40 (for train connections to Penzance 19.54 and 20.08 and Plymouth 20.05)
IT IS IMPORTANT that we adhere to the above timetable in order to fit in with other railway activities. Please return promptly to our bubble car after each stop. Members wishing to disembark from the train to look around the Parkway shed or to visit the Walker Lines sidings will need to use a ladder to exit and reboard
the train. Please take great care when doing this.
The Cornwall Railway Society is most grateful to the management, staff and volunteers of the Bodmin and Wenford Railway for providing this special train and allowing access to railway facilities. Raffle tickets will be on sale for those wishing to contribute towards the BWR's plans to construct a second platform and external station canopy at Bodmin General station.
We hope you will have an enjoyable afternoon and evening and we look forward to your continuing support of our society.
Very many thanks also to Derek Buttivant who produced this programme and also did a considerable amount of organising on behalf of both the CRS and the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.
Our link man and organiser. Derek Buttivant and his good lady pictured appropriately at Grogley Halt on the Boscarne - Wadebridge route. 17th May 2014. The occasion of a CRS Walk Wadebridge- Boscarne. CR RW
Driver Martin Blackwell and Guard Peter Galassini. Seen here in Bodmin Parkway shed later in the day. Copyright Keith Jenkin.
180721a The Cornwall Railway Society 40th Anniversary Cream Tea at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Salter
180721b The CRS Cream Tea at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Salter
Richard Horwood and Valerie Jenkin partake of a cream tea, Alan and Sue Harris enjoy theirs in the backgound, right. Dennis Flood (Chairman) and Peter Bragg (President) discuss the day ahead. Copyright Keith Jenkin.
180721za The CRS Special at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zb Derek Buttivant making sure that everything is in order before departure from General. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zc Our Guard Peter Galassini stands ready with a member of the platform staff at Bodmin General Station awaiting our time of departure Copyright Roger Winnen -
180721zd All aboard to Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721t The CRS 40th Anniversary Tour on Tour.to Boscarne. Copyright Derrick Buttivant
180721ze Rails to Wadebridge, someday we may see trains again. Copyright Roger Winnen
And here's proof - the CRS headboard sits alongside that of the Camel Train at Wadebridge on the 6th May 1978. Copyright Trevor Tremethick
As can be seen in the picture above the CRS headboard has been to Wadebridge, this was on the 'Camel Train', a special run by the Lea Valley Railway Club on which we were allowed to fix our headboard in return for doing some advertising and ticket sales. The headboard was unofficially carried on this train over B.R. metals to Plymouth and return. For later official trips on charter trains the headboard was subject to rigorous testing by BR before approval. The headboard was made in the workshops at the 'B' site, Goonhilly Earth Station during lunch times where considerable assistance was provided by Ian Croft. The expert painting on this and the other CRS headboards was done by Peter Butt whose skills are very much appreciated.
A special favour. It was suggested to the B & W railway that perhaps the CRS Anniversary special could be used to take our headboard as far as is currently possible in the Wadebridge direction. Thus with our driver Martin Blackwell at the controls and the points securely clipped we proceeded to the buffer stop at the extreme end of the run round loop. Our special is thus the first passenger train to go past Boscarne Junction for many years.
At Boscarne Junction the party was given the chance to either stay on the train while reversed a short distance up the bank or to watch proceedings from the platform or approach road. Here we see Martin Blackwell watching as Peter Galassini moves to fit a point clip to lock the points for the passage of a passenger train. Copyright Keith Jenkin.
180721zf The unit then traveled as far as the run round point which also had to be changed and clipped by Peter Glassini. We could then proceed to the buffer stops at Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zg We await for the points to be changed to allow the unit to reach the buffer stops. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zh With the points clipped our Anniversary Special heads towards the buffer stops. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zi Mission accomplished, we've made it! . Copyright Roger Winnen
From the Alan Harris Collection of models. Many thanks Alan.
180721zj Next stop Nanstallon! When one wonders, the sooner the better. Best of luck to the B & W with this venture. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zk Duty done the unit returned up the run round loop to come back to the platform. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721c The bubble car moves from Boscarne Buffers. Copyright Roger Salter
180721d Peter Galassini about to clip the points at Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Salter
180721zl (2) Members of the party on Boscarne Junction Station. Copyright Roger Winnen Doesn't the class 121 look smashing in the 'Chiltern Blue' colours. N.B. Many members of the party commented on the quality of the ride and the general ambiance of this heritage unit compared to its 'modern' replacement - the class 153.
180721f Our Pressed Steel Bubble Car at Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Salter
180721e Members of the CRS on the platform at Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Salter
180721zl Boscarne Junction 1834. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zo Our unit returns to the Platform at Boscarne. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zo Rounding the curve into Bodmin General we pass the resident Class 37142 parked in the siding. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721g Keith Jenkin out for a photograph with the President of the Society Peter Bragg alighting from the train. Copyright Roger Salter
180721zp On arrival at Bodmin Parkway we have a photo call. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721h A group photograph taken at Bodmin Parkway for the 40th Anniversary Special. Copyright Roger Salter
180721i Members walking the plank on route to the shed at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Salter
180721k The invasion of Bodmin Parkway and the Carriage and Engine Shed. Copyright Roger Salter
180721l The ex Chilton Railways bubble leaves Bodmin Parkway for the shed. Copyright Roger Salter
180721zr Our unit parks up in number 5 road. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zs 50042 Triumph is seen undercover in the shed at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zt One of the twins Alfred built by Bagnalls of Stafford is seen also in the shed. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zu Devonport Dockyard No 19 also rest in the shed. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zv Historical vehicles include a GWR Siphon G and a Southern Railway PMV. Copyright Roger Winnen
Passing traffic. Copyright Keith Jenkin
|
Passing traffic. Copyright Keith Jenkin
|
John Ball surveys the scene. Copyright Keith Jenkin.
180721ll Our unit at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Salter
Well done, nobody in sight - Mike Bojko grabs a rare chance. Copyright MB
Peter Galassini asks if Father John Gilbert and Nick Kiszczuk wish to avail themselves of the ladder. Copyright Keith Jenkin
The cab view as we make our way back to the platform. Copyright Keith Jenkin
180721zvv Our 121 Class Unit returns from the shed line. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zw Waiting to depart from Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zx The Class 121 stops at Colesloggett Halt for the arranged Run Past. Copyright Roger Winnen
Founder Member Gerry Chandler checks out the seat!!. Copyright Keith Jenkin
180721zy Viewed from the overbridge at Colesloggett Halt as the Bubble approaches. Copyright Roger Winnen
180721zz Our unit approaches the platform at Colesloggett. Copyright Roger Winnen -
180721m Our run past at Colesloggett Halt. Copyright Roger Salter
180721n Our Guard Peter Galasinni looks out of the unit at Colesloggett. Copyright Roger Salter
A rear view as we arrive at Walker lines where a new point, the far one, is being installed to improve access. This will provide a less sharp radius turn out. Copyright Keith Jenkin
180721p At Walker Lines siding the final stop on our tour. Copyright Roger Salter
180721zza Our last port of call was Walker Line Sidings, members are seen going down the ladder to view this site. Copyright Roger Winnen
A few of the party take a look around. Copyright Keith Jenkin.
Final picture at Walker Lines with the access ladder safely in position. Copyright Keith Jenkin
180721q The sun is seen setting as we round the bend at Gwinear Road. Copyright Roger Salter