FEATURES Mid May early September 2017

Features page covering the period
Mid May to Early September 2017

Note Features are added at the top of this page i.e. The most recent comes first.

Articles in this section :-

The Cornwall Railway Society exploring The Bideford Westward Ho! & Appledore Railway 100 years after Closure. Roger Winnen 2nd September 2017
The South Devon Railway August Bank Holiday Rails and Ales Festival Photographs by Roger Salter and Roger Winnen
The Dorset Coast Express at Millbrook Southampton together with visits to Eastleigh Romsey & Salisbury by David Tozer
RARE VISIT OF VIRGIN HST TO THE WEST 12th August 2017
46100 Royal Scot heads the Royal Duchy to Par on Sunday 6th August, 2017
46100 Royal Scot heads The Royal Duchy to Par on Sunday 30th July, 2017
Ride Cornwall in One Day by members of the Cornwall Railway Society 29th July, 2017
Yeovil Pen Mill Shed 82E In search of, Colin Burges
Weekend at Yeovil Railway Centre 8th/9th July 2017
WW2 Wartime Memories by Maurice Dart
Castle Cary to Westbury by bike. by Colin Burges
Porthallow & Porthoustock Quarry Tramway - A report by Peter Murnaghan
The Mazey Day Cornishman from Worcester Shrub Hill to Penzance.
The Curse of 37069 - Karl Hewlett
The first visit of a Class 800 IEP Hitachi Great Western Train to Cornwall 22nd June 2017
A rare event with a test train to St Ives in daylight hours Andrew Triggs and Roger Winnen
West Somerset Gala June 2017

The Visit of Tornado to the Bodmin & Wenford Railway
The Cornishman - Tornado heads to the Far South West

Diary Dates for Summer 2017 Karl Hewlett

Severe Flooding at Broom Xssing. Nr Chard Junction New Years Eve 2001/02

The Cornwall Railway Society explores the Bideford Westward Ho! & Appledore Railway 100 years after closure. Photographs Roger Winnen

Map of Bideford, West Ho and Appledore Rly Reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland,

170902a Crossing the 08.43 service from Barnstaple at Crediton with the driver handing over the token to the signalman. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902b Floral displays at Copplestone Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902c Crossing the next service from Barnstaple at Eggesford. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902d The token machines at Eggesford on the Barnstaple bound platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902e Viewed from the Upper Deck of the 21 service to Bideford. The home signal at Instow is pulled off for the 'Ghost Train' Copyright Roger Winnen

170902f Crossing over Bideford Bridge where temporary rails were laid to remove engines of The Bideford Westward Ho! & Appledore railway following closure in 1917 Copyright Roger Winnen

170902g Bideford Quay now and then. Showing a train on the Quay. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902h An inscription on the Art Gallery at Bideford depicting the railway which only lasted from 1901-1917. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902i Marking One Hundred Years since the closure of the railway. This is at Bideford. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902j Bideford Quay viewed from the upper deck of the 15 service to Appledore. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902k The Bideford Westward Ho! & Appledore Railway Carriage Shed at Bideford. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902l Members of the party at the former Appledore Station with its trackbed now converted into a road. Left to Right Robert Wheeler, Tony Brokenshire, Keith Jenkin, Valerie Jenkin, Richard Horwood and Christine Simmonds. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902mThese were the original railings and platform wall at Appledore Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902n We return to the carriage shed at Bideford used now for other means of motive power. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902o The owners were surprised to learn that this was the Bideford Westward Ho! & Appledore Railway Carriage Shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902p At work in the carriage shed washing the cars. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902q An outside view from the rear of the building at Bideford. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902r Arrival at Westward Ho! Members of the party relax for refreshments. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902s The railway crossed the road at this point from the Surfers Shop on the left to the Co-op on the right. The station began by the Co-operative Shop displaying the green sign. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902t This was the alignment of the line by the Baptist Chapel heading for Appledore. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902u A short distance along the sea front at Westward Ho! is the bridge abuntments for the line. Richard Horwood explores the scene. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902v Rudyard Kipling at Westward Ho! Copyright Roger Winnen

170902w The large development now taking place at this popular North Devon resort. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902x This was Seafield House adjacent to the railway as it climbed to the cliffs at Comborough. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902y What a grand old house this was!. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902z The coastal footpath from Westward Ho! follows the formation of The Bideford, Westward Ho! & Appledore Railway to Cornborough Cliffs where the line then turns inland to Bideford. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902za We return to Bideford Quay and walk to Bideford Station crossing the famous bridge. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zb Painting the Signal Box at Bideford! A warning to cyclist. On arrival at Bideford we were made most welcome by the volunteers working on the site. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zc Inside the box which contained a frame from Netley near Southampton. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zd The track diagram. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902ze Further views of the box. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zf A Southern PMV contains the History of Bideford Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zg The main station buildings at Bideford were at onetime The Midland Bank after the railway closed. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zh An industrial Planet Diesel. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zi The engine is protected against vandalism. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zj Looking onto the overgrown trackbed. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zl Also at Bideford Station there is a mark one coach for refreshments. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zm This concrete hut most probably built at Exmouth Junction Concrete Works came from Yelland which was served by the branch line from Barnstaple . A large Electricity Generating Station was situated there to supply power for North Devon. Copyright Roger Winnen

170902zn Retracing our steps back to Bideford Quay for our return journey. Copyright Roger Winnen

The South Devon Railway
August Bank Holiday Rails and Ales Festival
Photos by Roger Salter & Roger Winnen

170826a D6975 arrives at Totnes with the 10.00 service from Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826aa D6975 awaits departure with the 10.45 service to Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826b 5542 awaits departure with the 11.04 service to Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826c 5542 approaches Staverton on the 11.30 service from Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826cc D6975 leaves Staverton on the 11.30 Buckfastleigh Totnes service. Copyright Roger Salter

170826d Dedicated to duty Tony Brokenshure and Roger Winnen amongst the ferns at Nappers Halt. Copyright Roger Salter

170826dd Through the bushes at Nappers Crossing as D6975 returns with the 12.15 service from Totnes to Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Salter

170826e D6975 Works the return 12.15 from Totnes seen near Nappers Crossing. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826f 5542 Heads the Cornish Riviera Express in South Devon bound for Totnes. Copyright Roger Salter

170826ff The Cornish Riviera on route for Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826g We have not alighted at Nappers Halt as no trains are scheduled to call in the next 24 hours. Roger Winnen and Tony Brokenshire. Copyright Roger Salter

170826gg Nappers Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826h The returning Cornish Riviera at Nappers Crossing. Copyright Roger Salter

170826hh 5542 and 5526 passing Nappers Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826hhh 5542 and 5526 passing Nappers Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826i Music for Pleasure No 4 at 12/6 stands in the siding near to Staverton. Copyright Roger Winnen -

170826j The Beer and Real Ale Festival at Staverton. Copyright Roger Salter

170826jjj 5542 Preparing to work the 14.30 service from Buckfastleigh to Totnes. Copyright Roger Salter

170826kk Working on the signals at Buckfastleigh as 5542 receives the calling on arm. Copyright Roger Salter

170826jj 5542 Departs Buckfastleigh on the 14.30 for Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826k D6975 awaits its next train at Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Salter

170826ll 55000 stand outside of the Goods Shed. Copyright Roger Salter

170826ll 55000 stands in the Goods Shed road at the Ashburton end of Buckfastleigh Station. Copyright Roger Salter

170826lll Looking towards the new carriage shed with D6737 and D7612 opposite the redundant Buckfastleigh Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826mm Topping up the tanks of 5542 at the Buckfastleigh water column. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826n 5542 Moving around the Station at Buckfastleigh

170826nn Waiting for the right away! Copyright Roger Winnen

170826oo Movements in the yard as D3712 moves for hauling the 16.45 to Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826r The new Carriage Shed under construction at Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Salter

170826s The two prairies at Buckfastleigh looking quite magnificent. Copyright Roger Salter

170826ss The dogs are wondering as D3721 attaches to the 16.45 service to Totnes Riverside. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826sss D3721 crossing 5526 at Bishops Bridge on the 16.45 from Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826tt Smile your on Candid Camera! Copyright Roger Winnen

170826ttt Drinking the Jail Ale! Do not pass go! Go to Jail. - Copyright Roger Winnen

170826uu Two for the price of one as Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

170826tttt D3718 at Totnes after hauling the 16.45 from Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Salter

170826vv D3721 Departs Totnes Riverside with the 17.30 to Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Dorset Coast Express
at Millbrook, Southampton together with visiting Eastleigh and Romsey & Salisbury
David Tozer

170816a 60009 Union of South Africa hauls the Dorset Coast Express through Millbrook 16.8.2017 Copyright David Tozer

170816b 60009 at Millbrook approaching one of the Freightliner Terminals 16.8.2017 Copyright David Tozer

170816c 60009 is passing the freighliner complex at Millbrook 16.8.2017. Copyright David Tozer

170816d 37716 tails the Dorset Coast Express which ran from London Victoria, Staines, Southampton to Weymouth and returning to London Waterloo. 16.8.2017 Copyright David Tozer

170816e 66560 hauls a Freighliner train seen passing Millbrook 16.8.2017. Copyright David Tozer

170816f Great Western Railway 158957 meets a South West Trains unit at Salisbury 16.8.2017. Copyright David Tozer

170816g 159102 at Romsey 16.8.2017. Copyright David Tozer

170816h 444037 & 444040 passing Eastleigh at speed 16.8.2017. Copyright David Tozer

170816i 450555 departs Eastleigh Station with a service to Winchester 16.8.2017. Copyright David Tozer

170816j The Station Buildings at Romsey with the train departing. Copyright David Tozer

RARE VISIT OF A
VIRGIN HST TO THE WEST
12th August 2017

Today brought the rare sight of Virgin Power Car on the rear of a train originating from Glasgow at 09.00 this morning.

170812a 43305 Photographed on arrival at Exeter St David's. Copyright Roger Winnen

170812aa Viewed looking back from the carriage window as the train begins the climb to Dainton. Copyright Roger Winnen

The service pauses at Liskeard. 12th August 2017 Copyright Peter Murnaghan

The train departs Liskeard. 12th August 2017 Copyright Peter Murnaghan.

170812b The evening glint of the sun as she crosses Redruth Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

A reminder of days gone by as the Virgin Power Car stands at St Erth. 12th August 2017 Copyright Jamie Dyke.

170812c An unusual cab side door on the HST at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

170812d The return working to Plymouth at 21.32 as the HST sits in Platform 4 at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

46100 Royal Scot heads the
2nd Royal Duchy of 2017 to Par
Sunday 6th August 2017
Protographs by Craig Munday, Julian Stephens, Andrew Triggs & Roger Winnen

170806l 46100 Royal Scot passing through Totnes on the Royal Duchy to Par. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170806a The Royal Duchy hauled by 46100 Royal Scot emerges from Mutley Tunnel Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806aa Memories of yesteryear when steam engines were stabbled in the sidings to the left of the mainline for double heading over the South Devon Banks. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806b Royal Scot enters Plymouth Station at 12.42 with the Royal Duchy to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806bb The hooter sounds on 46100 as she emerges from Devonport Tunnel prior to running through Dockyard Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806c The Royal Duchy is seen passing through Dockyard Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806dd 46100 Royal Scot in close up passing through Dockyard. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806dd 46100 Royal Scot arrives at Par. Copyright Craig Munday

170806e After turning St Blazey 46100 and her support coach is seen fron the road overbridge at Par prior to backing onto its train for the return run to Taunton and Bristol. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806f Displaying its reporting number as 46100 couples to its train. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806ff Looking down from the footbridge at Par Station 46100 looks low on coal. Receiving information today suggest that 46100 came off the train on arrival at Exeter at 20.38, owing to lack of coal and was replaced by a Class 33 to Bristol leaving at 21.39. however much lost time was regained and an arrival at Bristol was only 13 mins late Copyright Roger Winnen

170806h Looking a majestic engine 46100 Royal Scot. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806hh_46100 Royal Scot hauling the Royal Duchy at Restormel Farm. Copyright Julian Stephens

170806i The Royal Duchy is seen approaching Liskeard Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170806j 46100 Thunders through Liskeard Station. Only a handful of people were there to witness the event. Copyright Roger Winnen

46100 Royal Scot heads the Royal Duchy to Par on Sunday 30th July 2017
Roger Winnen

170730b 46100 Royal Scot arrives at Plymouth on the Royal Duchy to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730c The family watches as Royal Scot arrives at Platform 8 at Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730d Running into Platform 8 at Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730e 46100 Royal Scot passes through Bodmin Parkway on route to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730f A majestic looking engine 46100 Royal Scot. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730g After an issue at St Blazey the engine moves to the turntable. Its 16.11 two hours after the trains arrival at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730h 46100 runs onto the turntable. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730i Its hard work for some as they begin to turn Royal Scot. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730j 'Its on the magic roundabout' Copyright Roger Winnen

170730k The engine has now turned, the drain cocks opened as she leaves the turntable. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730l Mega light to photograph the engine, time was against us! Copyright Roger Winnen

170730m Two HST services one to and one from Penzance together with the Royal Duchy stabled alongside the Newquay Platform at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730o The returning Royal Duchy passing Loswithiel, taken from the overbridge near the former Milk Factory. Copyright Roger Winnen

170730p The sun came out as the train with 46100 Royal Scot rounded the corner, to late to move to another location a few yards away. Copyright Roger Winnen

Ride Cornwall in One Day by Members of the
Cornwall Railway Society 29th July, 2017.
Roger Winnen

170729a Ride Cornwall St Erth Station at 07.30 preparing to Ride Cornwall. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729b 57602 Restormal Castle arrives St Erth on the Night Riviera conveying participants for our Tour of Cornwall. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729c The 08.00 service from St Erth arrives at St Ives and with a minute stopover returns as the 08.14 through service to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729d Arrival at Falmouth Docks with the 09.20 service from Truro. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729e A short walk to Castle Drive to view the ongoing repairs to the RFA Vessels at Falmouth. Also notice rail still in place from the Docks Rail system. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729f RFA Lymn Bay and Pendennis Shipyard with rails going in the direction of the former engine shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729g Our return train arriving at Falmouth making the 10.20 service to Truro. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729h Studant Accommodation for Falmouth University overlooks the station at 150104 awaits departure. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729i The unique 10.28 hauled by 57602 St Erth to Plymouth enters Truro Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729j For use of the sleeping car passengers the notice says, Tony Goulding and John Gallagher are relaxing in Truro Station aboard the 11.04 to Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729k The restored coaches at St Germans brighten up the scene. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729l Our train has arrived in Plymouth Station at 12.32. We head for Platform 7 for the 12.54 to Gunnislake

170729n Bere Ferrers Station home of the Tamar Belle. Well worth a visit. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729o Bere Alston Station the junction for the Gunnislake Branch. This station was once on the Southern Main Line to Exeter. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729q Gunnislake Station the terminus of the branch which once carried onto Callington. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729r Returning on the 13.45 to Plymouth we see the Station Buildings at Bere Alston. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729s On arrival back into Plymouth we catch the Atlantic Coast Express non stop to Loswithiel, Par and Newquay. We are passing Bodmin Parkway at speed with 4247 about to depart Copyright Roger Winnen

170729t Arrival at Goonbarrow Junction Imery's Isaac is viewed from the HST window. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729u Through the bushes Imerys other shunter Alex is seen at Rocks Dries. The old Red Telephone Box still stands to the right of Alex. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729v HST 90 Glorious Years arrives with our train into Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729w Holiday Makers putting a brave face on during the winter weather. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729x Approaching Goonbarrow on our return leg of the journey with CDAs and a Cross Country Voyager awaiting to cross. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729z St Blazey Signal Box and yard. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729za One class 66 resides in St Blazey Yard. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729zb The rain gets heavy as the 18.46 departs Liskeard for London Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729zc Its 19.01 as the Looe Service approaches Liskeard Branch Line Platform. Notice the check rails. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729zd The last of the Branch Lines to cover, the Liskeard to Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729ze Arrival at Looe Station its 19.55. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729zf Through the carriage window 'Looe' picked out in stones. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729zg A plaque to Joseph Thomas who designed the connecting line in 1901. Copyright Roger Winnen

170729zh The 20.00 from Looe waits departure in the rain. Copyright Roger Winnen

In search of Yeovil Pen Mill Shed 82E
An article by Colin Burges

Lying in the triangle of scrub between the former Durston & Yeovil (now a path), the Somerset, Wilts. & Weymouth and the Mill Stream which once served Pen Mill, are the remains of the loco shed.

Yeovil Pen Mill Shed remains 8th July 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

And helping to hold up the bank of the Mill Stream (off the River Yeo) are these long lengths of Barlow rail. The keen-eyed will have spotted some short lengths at Christow which had been used as catchpit covers.

In the vicinity of Yeovil Pen Mill shed Barlow rail has been used to support the bank. 8th July 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

Yeovil Pen Mill shed - lthe Barlow rail with GWR stamp. 8th July 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

Many thanks to Colin Burges for the above article and photographs.

Weekend at Yeovil Railway Centre 8th/9th July 2017

34052 Lord Dowding arrives for turning at Yeovil Railway Centre on the 8th July 2017 The train, a railtour was 'End of Southern Steam' Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 1 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 2 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 3 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 4 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 5 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 6 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

And now a series showing the turning operation. Picture 7 8th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

Sunday 9th July 2017 and Clan Line comes in for turning

Hi Keith, hot off the press. selection of pics today of 35028 at Yeovil Junc.
The engine was immaculate. After turning the loco,the support coach had to be turned as well, which provided some light entertainment while this was being done, BY HAND!!.
I didn't stay to see the departure of the train back to London.
But it was a very enjoyable afternoon. CHEERS JOHN C.

35028 Clan Line arrives for turning Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7144 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7146 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7148 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7156 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7161 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7163 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7165 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7173 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7175 NOW FOR THE SUPPORT COACH 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7177 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7181 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

IMG_7182 SUPPORT COACH TURNED - JOB COMPLETE. 35028 Clan Line Waterloo Sunset at Yeovil Railway Centre 9th July 2017 Copyright John Cornelius

Many thanks for all your pictures over the two days John - Very well done.

PLYMOUTH WW2
WARTIME MEMORIES MAURICE DART

Page One

Page Two Wartime Memories Maurice Dart

Page Three Wartime Memories Maurice Dart

Page 4 Wartime Memories Maurice Dart

Page Five Wartime Memories Maurice Dart

Castle Cary to Westbury
By bike
Colin Burges

What better way to explore a railroute in detail than on a bicycle? Colin, a keen cyclist rode on the 28th June 2017 from Castle Cary to Westbury, It's 19 miles as the crow flies as the crow flies, but how far did he actually go? Colin answers :- The odometer recorded 40 miles, but about three of those were in Exeter. So 37 road miles for 19 3/4 rail miles, via Frome.
Many thanks for your very interesting report Colin
To complete my route knowledge from Bruton to Westbury, yesterday I rode out from Castle Cary. Thundery showers were forecast but the rain held off and the sun shone for a bit.

Brewham Road was closed to traffic and this was blissful for a lone cyclist. When I reached the blockade it was contractors working on a railway bridge and they let me through.

Sheephouse Crossing is marked by a piece of bridge rail which would once have carried a trespass notice. The fence straining posts are still in the brambles.

An HST passes Sheephouse-crossing the location of which is marked by a vertical piece of bridge rail which formerly held a warning notice. 28th June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

It seems that the railway was able to extinguish the right of way here by providing a route under the bridge carrying the line over the River Brue. Sheephouse was also on a public footpath and this has been diverted.

Sheephouse Crossing the diverted path 28th June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

Distant view of Bruton station. 28th June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

Colins' bike at Bruton - a class 66 approaches. Copyright Colin Burges

Just along from the former crossing, Bruton Station can be seen, as well as the severe curve on what was never originally intended to be a main line to the west.

Out of sight to the left, visible from the train, is the Bruton defensive dam. I thought at first that this may have been part of the upstream works talked about after the 2014 floods, but I find that it was built in 1984 to relieve Bruton of the awful flooding it used to suffer.

The railway crosses the Brue twice more between Bruton and Cary; the S. & D. crossed it on Cole Viaduct. The river passes under Highbridge Station and issues at Burnham-on-Sea.

After lunch in the market square at Frome, I set off down Clink Road. Coalway Lane Bridge, now overgrown and carrying only a footpath looked interesting and as I approached it I could hear the characteristic whistling of a Class 66. This was waiting for the road through the single line junction at the head of a train of empties. Soon a loaded train emerged from the junction and accelerated rapidly away towards Westbury.

Frome - Coalway Lane bridge 28th June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

With plenty of time before the 18.04 from Westbury, I rode on via Dilton Marsh and Fairwood, one moment enjoying the solitude of a bridle path skirting the depot, the next caught up in the murderous "going home" traffic in a quite miserable town.

Westbury the former Dainton-signalbox at lakeside 28th June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges_

Westbury isn't such a nice place as Castle Cary to while away an hour with a can of beer and a newspaper. The asinine announcements one after the other nearly had me crying out "SHUT UP!" You've heard the latest: "See it, say it, sort it."

While looking at six empty spaces in the van, the guard informed me that he had been instructed to refuse cycles that had not been booked; this is of course to prepare us for the new trains which have fewer spaces in more than one place.

After this policy was brought in last summer, I dutifully booked on every train, on one occasion picking up nine tickets for three trains. Some clerks seemed to take ages making the reservations; some didn't seem able. I tried not to get in the way of revenue custom so often I had to stand back from the queue. Yet not once did it make any difference; every guard I asked said he would not enforce the rule. Yesterday I judged from experience whether booking would be necessary; I have sometimes booked the return on the day. Mine was the only cycle from St. David's and Westbury. I have noticed that the policy has suppressed demand, which is what the operator clearly wanted.

The HSTs were the last trains to be built with van space: the power cars, if you remember, originally had a cage for mails and parcels. Apart from a brief experiment providing two cycle spaces when the TGS was not platformed, this two-ton carrying capacity at each end of the train has run around empty for over three decades, over which time white vans have proliferated and the traffic that might have been carried has burgeoned.

This summer looks like being the last in which I will enjoy what's left of the old railway, flinging my bike in the van and leaning out of the window to enjoy the best air conditioning there is - now there's a thought!!

Drivers know the road, but how many have stood on every bridge and followed the roads and paths closest to the railway all the way between Westbury and Penzance?

With best wishes, Colin

We are most grateful to you Colin for your report - no wonder you are so fit!

Porthallow & Porthoustock Quarry Tramway
St Keverne and Associated Quarries
A report by Peter Murnaghan

The most southerly disused tramway in mainland Britain – unless you know otherwise !

Whilst the Penlee Quarry tramway on the quay at Newlyn is the furthest west railway relic in Britain, another Cornish industrial tramway can hold the title of the most southerly, if you discount the lines on the Channel Islands.

On the east coast of the Lizard peninsula, the remains of the St Keverne and Associated Quarries tramway system are surprisingly easy to discover. The geology to the north of Coverack provides gabbro rock and hard schist to make gravel for roadbuilding. Quarries along the coast between Porthallow and Porthoustock offered easy access for the dispatch of the roadstone by ship to distant markets.

The stone was first extracted on an industrial scale in the late 19th century, but it was not until 1934 that a rail system was laid to connect four separate quarries along the coast to a combined grading and stone-crushing plant and a quay for loading onto ships. The 2-foot gauge tramway is believed to have started at Porthallow, although there are no obvious signs at this point.
The line is understood to have closed as long ago as 1958, but the route between Porthkerris Cove and Porthoustock is open to all as a Permissive Path and relics of the old tramway can be seen by those who know where to look.

The line ran for over a mile and the best way to see it is to walk along the coast path from Porthallow. Leave the beach at the southern side up a steep path beyond the Five Pilchards public house. Keep to the coast and head for the Diving Centre at Porthkerris Cove. At the south end of this beach, you will find the first part of the line, a causeway with a concrete-edged sea wall, with one line of rail still in situ, together with the remains of plentiful wooden sleepers. The line passed in front of an old quarry, which was probably already disused when the track was laid. This leads up the old rope-worked Pencra Head incline, which took the trucks of stone up from sea level to a height of over 150 feet at a gradient of around 1 in 4. This incline can easily be spotted and can be walked, although gorse is trying to dissuade walkers. Nevertheless, wear strong trousers and push through; you will spot sleepers, still with their rail spikes in place. At the top would have been the winding mechanism and machinery for crushing and grading. There is also a fine view back down to Porthkerris and the former wartime Royal Navy Torpedo station.

Continue on along the coast path, where the huge (and still working) Porthoustock Quarry comes into view. This was not connected to the tramway that you are following, although it once had a short stub of its own to transfer stone to its storage hoppers for dispatch by road or ship.

However, the line we are following appears again in the surface of the path on the way to Batty’s Point, a huge concrete silo at the north side of the bay, which was used to load ships. Wagons were pushed onto the structure and emptied their stone cargo down shutes, which can still be seen. It is not possible to safely get onto this quay as the timber linkspan has long since disintegrated. However, behind Batty’s Point there are some disused buildings associated with the quarry, one of which is the former engine shed that would have housed the petrol driven 4-wheel locomotive. Behind the engine shed is another long stretch of rail, embedded in the gravel path, which was probably a headshunt for wagons. This path leads on down into Porthoustock, which features a number of interesting buildings, including a lifeboat house at the head of the beach.

This is a very pleasant route to explore, which can form a morning’s circular walk from St Keverne, served by the 36 bus from Truro and Helston. Pubs and eating places can be found in St Keverne and, at Porthallow Cove, the Five Pilchards is a particularly lively pub serving the day’s freshly caught fish.

Peter Murnaghan
Very many thanks indeed for this very carefully prepared and researched report, Peter.

For a map please click below:-
http://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore/#zoom=15.613333333333324&lat=50.0617&lon=-5.0655&layers=171&b=1

Portkerris Cove. Sea wall with trackbed and incline beyond. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-2 View down incline south of Porthkerris Cove. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-3 Portkerris Cove with quarry on left and the former torpedo station top right. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-4 Porthoustock quarry in the distance with section of rail on the left of the path. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-5 Surviving sections of rail in the path near Porthoustock. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-6 Old loading silo at Batty's Point, which was connected to the tramway in the foreground, by a trestle. Porthoustock quarry in back ground never connected by tramway . Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-7 The rather dilapidated engine shed alongside Batty's Point. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-8 Inside the engine shed, the 2ft gauge rails remain, set in the concrete floor. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-9 Beyond Batty's Point, the rails continue on the path for a short distance towards Porthoustock. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

1706-10 Batty's Point loading structure from Porthoustock beach, showing the 8 shutes. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

Many thanks to Peter Murnaghan for a very comprehensive article.

More on Porthoustock
Dear Keith, following on from Peter Murnaghan and his excellent article on the Quarries at Porthoustock, there is a very good article on Amalgamated Roadstone, who owned the quarries on the following link http://www.irsociety.co.uk/Archives/20/ARC.htm
Which includes a photograph of an operational locomotive at this site and some interesting facts on other local quarries.
Diane and I visited Porthoustock last week and a very interesting place it is.
Best wishes Andrew (Jones)

The Mazey Day Cornishman from Worcester Shrub Hill to Penzance
Hauled by 37s and a Freightliner Class 66

170624i 66525 & 37059 Heads the Mazey Day Cornishman to Penzance seen nearing Exeter. Copyright David Tozer

170624o 66525 and 37059 heads the very late running Cornishman to Penzance about to pass under Apex Bridge. Copyright Mick House

170624p 37059 sits behind 66525 as it passes Apex Bridge. Copyright Mick House

170624k 66525 and 37059 heads the down Mazey Day Cornishman on Marazion Marsh. Copyright Roger Salter

170624za Freightliner 66525 leading 37059 over the pointwork on the approaches to Penzance Station. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170624zb The tour on its final approach running 145 mins late. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170624u The Mazey Day Cornishman arriving at Penzance behind 66525 and 37059. Copyright Craig Munday

170624a The arrival of the 05.40 Worcester Shrub Hill to Penzance at 15.28 running 145L Copyright Roger Winnen

170624 Nearing the buffer stops at Penzance after a mammoth journey from Worcester. Copyright Craig Munday

170624b 37059 and 66525 rest under the station roof. Copyright Roger Winnen

170624c Freightliner 66525 saved the day heading 37059 from Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen

170624zc Looking over the station wall with the passengers detraining. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170624d The pair backs out the train to slopers siding for its run around facility. Copyright Roger Winnen

170624w With a two white lights illuminated on the signal post the train backs into the slopers siding. Copyright Craig Munday

170624s The pair is seen backing into slopers slopers siding where 66525 will detach from the train and run around to head the train back to Worcestershire.. Copyright Craig Munday

170624w 37069 Heads the train into the station to form the 17.00hrs departure for Worcester Shrub Hill. . Copyright Craig Munday

170624f 66525 on its train in Platform 2. Copyright Roger Winnen

170624zd The return working, with 66525 rounding the curve from Long Rock. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170624ze The traditional shot passing the former Marazion Station, the tour departed late at 17.20 Copyright Andrew Triggs

170624zf 37059 trailing the tour as it heads up Marazion Marshes. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170624g 66525 opens up through Camborne at 17.40 hrs Copyright Roger Winnen

170624h 37059 brings up the rear of the 16.07 to Worcester Shrub Hill running 73 mins late. Copyright Roger Winnen

170624 Redruth - the Cornishman returning at 17.44 24th June 2017 Copyright Keith Jenkin

170624m Redruth Station with the Cornishman returning to Worcester 24th June 2017 Copyright Keith Jenkin

170624n 420 Redruth - the Cornishman with 37059, switched off, on the rear returning to Worcester Shrub Hill 24th June 2017 Copyright Keith Jenkin

170624q The returning Cornishman to Worcester is seen passing Wheal Busy. Copyright Mick House.

170624r 37059 brings up the rear of the Cornishman as she passes the 13.06 Paddington -Penzance service. Copyright Mick House

The curse of 37069, has it happened again?
Karl Hewlett

For one that was looking forward to 'The Mazey Day Cornishman' railtour (24th June 2017) and being caught up in 'will it won't it' turn up at Lostwithiel with numerous things going wrong such as 069 refusing to do anything, 059 on low Amps, a brake fault with one of the coaches, go to not going to Paignton and now talk of it not getting back to Worcester because of an engineering blockade, has the curse of 37069 happened again??!!

Now for over a hundred years there has been strong beliefs by footplate crew of locomotives that are cursed or jinxed, this could be anything from locos dropping on top of workmen whilst being constructed to crashes and tragic circumstances. Some enginemen would say poppycock laddie, whilst others would swear on their life these tails are true. Examples of locos that fall into this category are 47216/299 which BR had Immingham staff practically sworn to secrecy because a medium had predicted this loco would be involved in a horrific pile up, it later did at Wrawby Junction despite its renumbering to 299 in hope to prevent this. The loco was practically rebuilt and even then it had several misdemeanours afterwards. There have been stories of some crew when booking on and checking the roster to see 299 allocated to them, they would refuse to take it out. Great Train Robbery loco D326 (40136), has been in several scrapes including another serious one not connected with the robbery, I believe no less than five accidents in total. back to steam days when a Jubilee being constructed fell on top of a erecting shop member and killed him, this loco would never run smoothly even when it was stripped to it's last nut and bolt and reassembled with new parts its problems stayed with it to the scrap man.

Now we come to another another jinxed loco, 37069. This loco was running along the EMCL in pre TOPS days (D6769), when the driver swapped places with the secondman so he could get some road knowledge in. This took place between Northallerton and York and soon after this swap occurred a Deltic headed train in the opposite direction kicked up debre from the trackside and this flew in through the front cab window hitting him on the head, he died instantly. Since then 37069 has be dubbed jinxed because of unexplainable things have happened more than once such as the horn being unexpectedly blown, fire bottles discharging themselves, an airy feeling of not being alone in the cab and some drivers have even reported seeing a ghostly aberration at the controls of the loco. Which loco packed up at Worcester and refused to play ball; 37069. All the other problems since, has the curse of 37069 returned to haunt The Mazey Day Cornishman?

Regards, Karl (Friends Of Penmere Station). Very many thanks Karl.

The first visit of a Class 800 IEP Hitachi Great Western Trains visits Cornwall on Thursday 22nd June 2017

170622 800003 & 800004 Hi Keith, No doubt by the time that you have read this you would have returned home from Redruth Station to see the Japanese invasion. Like knotweed they will soon be everywhere. Photographed in the gloom at Powderham at 08.07 on route to Cornwall. What has happened to the fine weather! Copyright David Tozer

170622 Photographers capture IEP entering Liskeard. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

170622 A young family is captivated by the first Hitachi IEP to call at Liskeard. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

170622 IEP leaves Liskeard bound for Penzance. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

170622 800004 and 800003 Passing through Par on route to Penzance. Copyright Jamie Dyke

170622 _Class800 80004 Passing St Austell on route to Penzance. Copyright Julian Stephens

170622 Class 800heads westwards through St Austell.. Copyright Julian Stephens

170622 The fist IEP sets 800004 & 800003 are seen passing Crugwallins near Burngullow 5X60. The results are very good seeing its poor light. Copyright Craig Munday.

170622 The first IEP sets passing Crugwallins on route to Penzance. Copyright Craig Munday.

170622 Passing under the Apex Bridge after its climb from Chacewater. Copyright Mick House

170622 800004 Approaches the Engine House at Wheal Busy. Copyright Mick House

170622 The IEP as seen heading for Scorrier Station as it passes over the foot crossing at Hallanbeagle. Copyright Mike House.

170622 Emerging from Redruth Tunnel the train heads for Penzance a further 16 miles. Copyright Keith Jenkin

170622 800004003 Arriving at Penzance working the 5X90, running 11 late at 11.12. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170622 Arriving into Platform 2 the 10 car formation just fitting in. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170622d The arrival of the two IEP units 800004 and 800003 at Penzance - Copyright Roger Winnen

170622 The 5X90 05.02 North Pole LEP Depot to Penzance is seen arriving behind 800004 Sir Daniel Gooch at Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

170622 800004 Isambard Kingdon Brunell coupled to 800003 Queen Elizabeth 11 at Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

170622c The coming tother of two famous people Queen Elizabeth 11 and Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622a Large crowds gathered at Penzance Station on Thursday morning to witness the first IEP set to come this far west. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622b Speeches were made by various corporate bodies to highlight the achievement being made to rail services in the Westcountry. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622e Mainline signalling enhancements. Roger Winnen

170622f Rail Improvements for Cornwall. Roger Winnen

170622g Read all about it at Penzance Station. Roger Winnen

170622h West Cornwall Interchange at St Erth. Roger Winnen

170622i The Long Rock Depot extension. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622 Penzance Station Platform 2 is filled with the new 10 Car Train awaiting its return to London. Copyright Roger Salter

170622 150239 is seen entering Platform 4 at Penzance whilst on Platform 2 is the ultra modern Hitachi Built bullet train. Copyright Roger Salter

170622 The return working is seen passing the former Marazion Station. Copyright Roger Salter

170622 The 5X92 working passing Marazion at 12.52. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170622 DSCF9397 The 800s heading up Marazion Marshes., back to North Pole IEP depot. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170622 The return working at Wheal Bois after passing through Treleigh. Copyright Mike House

170622 The two pairs coupled at Wheal Bois. Copyright Mike House

170622 800003 & 800004 at Scorrier on its return working. (Copyright Mark Lynam

170622 800003 & 800004 heading away towards the former Chacewater Station, taken from the Apex Bridge with the A30 alongside. Copyright Mark Lynam

170622 The return working with_Class800003 and 800004 approaches Crugwallins, St Austell. Copyright Julian Stephens

170622 _Class 800004 on the rear as the train crosses under the road overbridge at Burngullow. Copyright Julian Stephens

170622 800003 and 800004 Approaching St Austell Station. Copyright Derek Buttivant

170622 The return working is seen approaching the former St Austell Signal Box and the station. Copyright Jamie Dyke

170622 The return working to North Pole passing through St Austell. Copyright Derek Buttivant

170622 IEP at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright R Kitson. - Copy

170622 Contasts in rolling stock. Queen Victoria passing 150 247 at Liskeard. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

170622 Up IEP entering Liskeard station. Copyright Peter Murnaghan

170622 The Class 800 IEP arrives back into Liskeard. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170622 800004 and 800003 Passing Liskeard. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170622 The IEP clears Liskeard Station after passing the centre pivot signal. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170622j The returning IEP crosses Coombe by Saltash Viaduct as she leaves Cornwall. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622k Crossing the Royal Albert Bridge into Devon. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622l 800003 Queen Victoria leaves the Victorian Spendour of the Royal Albert Bridge. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622m With the wide angle lens treatment this is the view. The other view of the bridge from the first road overbridge on the Devon side is now overgrown, and no good for a photograph. Copyright Roger Winnen

170622 800003 Queen Victoria heads the return special through Stoke Canon. Copyright David Tozer

Class 37 D6757 hauls a test train to St Ives during the early morning
Photographs by Andrew Triggs and Roger Winnen

170614a Arrival at Penzance, its 05.14hrs As the driving trailer passes the signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614za Arrival at Penzance just as the sun was rising 37057 with the test train. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614zg The early morning arrival at Penzance Station. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614b 37057 Stabled in Platform 2 prior to the run to St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614c Its 05.33 D6757 passes Marazion Station on route to St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614d At 05.45 the train is seen going away through Lelant Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614zi D6757 Heads through the quiet station of Lelant. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614e The train is seen heading away to climb the Lelant Golf Coarse. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614f The driving trailer brings up the rear. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614zc D6757 Approaches Carbis Bay with the test train. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614gg Rounding the bend into Carbis Bay at 05.59 hrs. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614h The train passing through Carbis Bay Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614i D6757 Arrives at St Ives, its 06.08. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614j Nearly at the buffer stops. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614k Viewed from the station car park D6757 awaits departure from St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614zd Cars stand on what was the former station site with D6757 near the buffer stops at St Ives. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614zh Departure from St Ives as the train crosses Porthminster Viaduct. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614l Departure from St Ives at 06.23, the train is seen crossing Porthminster Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614m D6757 is seen crossing Porthminster Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614ze Rounding the bend at

170614zk Coming off the branch at St Erth. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614n The train is seen arriving at St Erth following the departure of the 06.45 Penzance to Paddington service. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614p Departure for Penzance at 07.04. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614zj D6757 Departing St Erth for Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614zf Departing St Erth for Penzance the train crosses over from the up main to the down main. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170614q The train is seen stabled at Penzance during the long hours of daylight. Notice the former Great Western Motorail Vehicle next to the 37. Copyright Roger Winnen

170614r D6757 Viewed from the Station Wall at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

West Somerset Gala June 2017
A compilation of pictures by John Ball and John Cornelius
Many thanks.

9th June 2017 Copyright John Ball

The Visit of Tornado to the Bodmin & Wenford Railway 29th May 2017 through to Sunday 4th June 2017
Photographs by Sid Sponheimer Craig Munday Roger Salter & Roger Winnen

170601zzn BODMIN TORNADO 2 001 Martin Scane

170601zl 6435 and 60163 Tornado inside the shed prior to running the first train of the day. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170601zzj Tornado emerges from the shed at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Salter

170601d 60163 Tornado leaves the shed at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601eTornado pulling up alongside the Bodmin Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zm Tornado moves from the Motive Power Depot to the Platform at Bodmin General. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170601zn 60163 runs back through the road bridge to couple to its stock situated round the bend. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170601zo Smoke and Steam as Tornado hauls its train into the station. Copyright Sid Sponheimer -

170601f Tornado coupled to its six coach train enters the station for the 10.30 departure. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zza Just to prove that its really happening at the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Copyright Roger Salter

170601h This train is top and tailed with 4612 leading down to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzo Denise at Bodmin, one of the leased photographed engines on the site. Copyright Martin Scane

170601j 6435 in the shed at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601k This was the access to the platform, up via the repair sheds, crossing over the roped off running lines, passing the loco shed to the platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzd 60163 Tornado at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zq The 10.30 service from Bodmin General passes Charlies Gate. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170601zr Looking back at Tornado as she rounds the bends into Bodmin Parkway Station. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170601m 60163 Tailing the train to Bodmin Parkway crossing over the river bridge on approach to the station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzk 60163 At Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Salter

170601o The train is about to depart at 10.53 Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzj Tornado departing Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zr The 10.53 Departure from Bodmin Parkway is seen at Charlie's Gate. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170601zs 60163 Climbs away from Charlie's Gate. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170602a Tornado at Charlie's Gate on the 10.53 from Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Andrew Jones

170602b City of Truro on its visit to Bodmin is also seen at Charlies Gate in 1992. Copyright Andrew Jones

170601p Climbing out of Bodmin Parkway with the adjacent A38 road bridge. Copyright Roger Winnen -

170601q Looking back to the bridge with 4612 doing sterling work on the grade. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601r Approaching Walker Lines Industrial Estate. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601s Excitement from the road bridge as the train enters Bodmin General Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzc T9 30120 and Tornado together at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zze The giant tender of Tornado alongside the T9 30120 tender. Copyright Roger Salter -

170601u The 11.45 departure for Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzk The Beattie and Tornado at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zzg Little and Large at Bodmin General. Copyright Martin Scane

170601v The restored Austerity J94 in the repair shop at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601w The history of Judy and The Port of Par. Copyright Roger Winnen -

170601zzf The DMU leaves for Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Salter

170601y 60163 Tornado arrives at Bodmin with the 12.08 from Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen -

170601zzg Tornado enters Bodmin General on the service from Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zzl The return DMU from Boscarne arrives at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Salter

170601za Tornado tailes the 13.00 from Bodmin General, passing under the bridge at Charlie's Gate into Parkway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzh Tornado approaches Charlie's Gate after departure from Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zc Tornado approaching Charlie's Gate. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zd 4612 Bringing up the rear on route to Bodmin. Copyright Roger Winnen

170531a Tornado on the Bodmin & Wenford Copyright Craig Munday

170601ze Colesloggett Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zf 4612 Approaches Colesloggett Halt on the 14.15 to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zg 4612 Passes through the Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zh From the same bridge 60163 Tornado tails the train to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zzi 60163 passes through Colesloggett Halt on route to Bodmin Parkway.. Copyright Roger Salter

170601zi The return working being the 14.38 from Bodmin Parkway approaches Colesloggett Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

170601zk The finel photograph of the day with 60163 Tornado at Colesloggett. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Cornishman
Tornado heads to the Far South West
Monday 29th May 2017

Many thanks to all contributors

60163 Clink Road Jctn 1Z63 0803 Pad-Pnz 29th May 2017 Copyright Guy Vincent

60163 Exminster 29th May 2017 Copyright David Tozer

Tornado was about 20 late passing my position at Saltram Folly - had she been on time I might have had some (very) hazy sunshine. They let a Cross-Country out in front of her. Anyway, got something .copyright Trevor Tremethick Best wishes Trevor

60163 on The Cornishman, approaches Laira, 29th May 2017 Copyright T Tremethick

170529f Tornado at Scorrier Crossing. Copyright Keith Watkins

170529g 60163 Tornado is seen at Redruth heading west with the Cornishman to Penzance. Copyright John Ball

170529g 60163 Tornado passes through Hayle Station prior to crossing Hayle Viaduct on the last leg of its journey to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529h Tornado crossing Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529i 60163 Tornado passes the ASDA superstore at Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen - Copy

60163 'Tornado' approaching Ponsandane footbridge with the 'Cornishman' running 35 late at this point 29th May 2017 Copyright Andrew Triggs

289 Tornado has passed Ponsandane Footbridge and is seen adjacent to slopers siding on route into Penzance Station 29th April 2017 Copyright Lisa Welch

60163 on final approach to Penzance, viewed from Ponsandane 29th May 2017 Copyright Andrew Triggs

170529j 60163 Tornado under the station roof at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529k Owing to the press and media coverage, large crowds gathered at Penzance Station to witness this historic event. It was very difficult photographic wise! Copyright Roger Winnen

170529l From the buffer stops. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529eee 60163 Tornado at the buffer stops on arrival at Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

170529m After departure of the return working to London, Tornado moved with haste from under the station roof to slopers siding with its support coach. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529zq Tornado in Slopers siding Penzance running around its support coach. Copyright Michael West

170529n Viewed from the 17.42 service to London Paddington 60163 enters platform 3 to fill up with water. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529o Tornado flying the Cornish Flag. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529p About to top up with water in Platform 3 at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

59202 with its support coach follows 60163 Tornado to Penzance from Exeter Riverside. It returns with the 17.15 Penzance to Paddington special

170529q 59202 Crosses Liskeard Viaduct with its support coach for the 'Cornishman' return journey. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170529zs 59202 with its support coach passes Carlyon Bay, St Austell. Copyright Jon Hird

170529zc 59202 Crosses Hayle Viaduct with a support coach to haul the return special back to London Paddington at 17.15. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529ddd 59202 with its support coach is seen crossing Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Salter

170529zd 59202 Alan Meadows Taylor passing the Hayle Asda Store. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529zo 59202 'Alan Meadows Taylor' with Tornado's support coach passes Ponsandane. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170529zp 59202 Propelling to Slopers Siding. Copyright Andrew Triggs

170529zd 59202 Attached to the return railtour to London Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529ze At last we are seeing sunshine, looking down on 59202 with the return working. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529zf Looking over the station wall as 59202 awaits departure at 17.15 for London Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

The return 17.15 Cornishman for London Paddington now hauled by DBC 59602 passing Marazion. 29th May 2017 Copyright Andrew Triggs

170529ddd The return 17.15 to London Paddington is seen passing the former Marazion Station. Copyright Roger Salter

The return Cornishman. 59602 passes Hallenbeagle 29th May 2017 Copyright Jon Hird

Having made it very successfully to Penzance Tornado returned light engine to Bodmin Parkway where it will stay for a few days on the B & W. The Cornishman Railtour returned to Paddington dep 17.15. Tornado departed Penzance about half an hour late at 18.30.

The delivery of Tornado to the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.

170529q Judy brings the Bodmin & Wenford staff etc down to Parkway to await the arrival of Tornado. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529r The arrival of Tornado with its support coach at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

Sid Sponheimer catches Tornado as it leaves the main line at Bodmin Parkway and heads for the shunting neck to gain the Bodmin and Wenford Railway. 29th May 2017 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

170529t Passing the gradient post on route to the siding. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529u 60163 Tornado in the exchange siding. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529w Departure to the Bodmin & Wenford metals. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529x Looking very nice in the evening light. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529y The scene from the restored footbridge at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529z Just off the platform end at Bodmin Parkway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529za Little and Large with Bodmins Orange Army capturing the event. Copyright Roger Winnen

170529zb Its 20.09hrs 0-4-0 Judy and 4-6-2 60163 Tornado at Bodmin Parkway will proceed to Bodmin General after the various movements have taken place. Copyright Roger Winnen

The first sighting of Tornado at Coleslogget Halt. 29th May 2017 Copyright Jon Hird

Diary Dates for Summer 2017

With summer coming I have produced a list of forthcoming railtours and there requested motive power, as we have been blessed this year with some interesting tours:

Steam Charters

'The Cornishman' 29th May, 60163 Paddington to Penzance (see CRS May page for times), still no return times for 60163 to leave Cornwall after its week at Bodmin.

'Torbay Express' Bristol Temple Meads to Kingswear and return, 60163 18th June, 02nd and 23rd July, 20th August and 10th September. 35028: 20th August and 03rd September.

'The Dartmouth Express' 24th June, 6023 or 34046 Bristol Temple Meads to Kingswear and return.

'The Devon Belle' four day tour 06th July, London Waterloo to Exeter TBA, 48151 Exeter to Kingswear , 07th July Kingswear to Penzance and return, 09th July, TBA Kingswear to Waterloo via Weymouth (48151 Castle Cary to Weymouth).

'The Royal Duchy' Bristol Temple Meads to Par and return 46100 23rd, 30th July and 06th August, 6023/34046 or 70013 27th August and 34046 03rd September .

'The Cathedral Express' 26th September, 34046 Taunton to Kingswear and return.

Diesel Charters

'The Cornishman' 29th May, class59/2 Penzance to Paddington.

Mazey Day Cornishman' 24th June, DRS class37x2 Worcester Shrub Hill to Penzance and return.

'The Devonian' 3rd June, unspecified diesel Tyseley Warwick Road to Goodrington Sands and return, steam Goodrington Sands to Kingswear and return. Shown as Vintage Trains charter but not much detail on this?

'The Saltburn Pilgrim' Saltburn to Plymouth and return 30th June to 3rd July, Pullman stock and unspecified diesel. Possible trip to the South Devon Railway but not finalised and no information on whether by coach or train?

'The Torbay and Dart Explorer' 8th July, class 50x2 (to/from Worcester Shrub Hill), Burton Upon Trent to Kingswear and return.

'Dartmouth Regatta Statesman' 26th August, WCRC diesel Wolverhampton to Kingswear and return.

The above are subject to the usual disclaimers of the above changing or being cancelled.

Kind Regards

Karl (Friends of Penmere).

Many thanks to you Karl for such a comprehensive list.

Severe Flooding at Broom Crossing.
Near Chard Junction New Years Eve 2001/02

Severe Flooding at Broom Crossing.Broom Crossing lies about two and three quarter miles west of Chard Junction. John Cornelius was on duty at Chard Junction Box that night. Here's what happened in his words:- Some pics of the result of severe flooding down the AXE valley during the night of December 31st 2000 & January 1st 2001. I was on late turn at Chard Junction that Sunday evening.
The water started rising around 2100 and by midnight the floods had more or less reached a peak of 6 feet deep in the milk factory yard and on the road both sides of the crossing. The water was also running down the the railway line through the old branch platforms like a river. The men in the factory weighbridge hut were marooned there for three or four hours until the water subsided. Likewise I couldn't get out to go home because of the floods in the road, so I advised Waterloo control of the situation and told them I would remain on duty through the night to monitor the situation. Gradually the water receded and by 03.30 was clear of the road and milk factory yard and the milk lorries got on the move.
I then took a handlamp and walked the station limits between both sets of points inspecting the line,thankfully the track was o.k. After this I reported to Waterloo control and told them, that while the track was ok at Chard junction, I suggested that p/way carry out a full examination of the line before any trains were allowed to run in the morning. This they did and found the washout at Broom.
What a night!! cheers JOHN C. Luckily for us John has sent us pictures from his 'Treasure Trove'of the washout at Broom Crossing. Many thanks to the man at the scene, John Cornelius - it's recorded history. By his actions in phoning Waterloo Control and closing the line there is no doubt that John prevented a serious accident.