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15th April 2021

15/4/2021

 
Midgham
Michael Forward
Picture
Hello Roger, Glad to see you had a trip up to Newton Abbot to see the power car moves.A good collection on the site. Here is a picture taken of 50032 ‘Courageous’ passing through Midgham station 0n 27 July 1985 with the 08.50 service from Paignton to Paddington. Copyright Michael Forward
Thanks Michael
An information enquiry
Dear Sir or Madam,
Reaching the age I am, I have now decided to start modelling Penzance in 1982 for my N-gauge layout. I started in the eighties and have now come back to it….just a slight delay!
Anyhow, your website has proved to be very useful – thank you. However, what is the best way to ask members questions about this period? Do you have a forum/do I need to join etc?
To start with, to give you an idea of the sort of questions I would like answers to:
Did Penzance have any DMU services in 1982? I can’t find any in the timetable apart from a late night arrival of a St Erth service…which I presume was to stable the unit at Penzance from the St Ives line?
With thanks
Christopher Manlow

Hello Christopher
I have been looking at a Working Timetable dated 17th May to 3rd October 1982 which confirmes your information on DMUs only working the branch lines and a service back into {Penzance for the last train off the St Ives Branch.
I don't have the winter working timetable its possible that some services were worked with DMUs if you can give me sometime I will look through my photographic records to find any records.
As a society we try to help people with their enquires if at all possible, living in Penzance all my life close to the Railway Station has been a great benefit to me over the past 76 years.
If we can help you in anyway please do not hesitate to contact us.
Kind Regards
Roger Winnen & Keith Jenkin

Restormel
Julian Stephens

Picture
Restormel 5Z91 Penzance to Laira 13th April 2021. Copyright Julian Stephens.
Despite the patchy cloud today, here we see 43004 and 43010 heading away from Restormel towards Brown Queen tunnel with 5Z91 10:30 Penzance to Laira.  Regards Julian
Many thanks Julian
​

Day Two
Power Car Transfer.
Keith Turley

GBRF class 66/7 No.66748 'Burton 50' hauls Ex. GWR class 43 power cars Nos.43069-43078-43086 and 43196 passing Stoke Canon on 14th April 2021, working the 5C20 14:43 Long Marston to Plymouth Laira T&RSMD stock transfer. Keith Turley.
Picture
Stock transfer at Stoke Canon on the 14th April 2921. Copyright Keith Turley.
Very interesting these stock moves - is it for component recovery and eventual scrapping or for the formation of more 'Castle Class' units.
Thank you Keith
​

Spring Clean at
Kingswear
Clive Smith

I was in Kingswear in Fore Street that runs above the line and heard a diesel toot and thought there might be a shunter as no tourist trains were scheduled. A look over the wall and a scan up river and no sign of anything. Maybe it was a river boat but I'd heard enough shunters in my life to be fairly certain. A bit later I was right outside the station and heard the toot again . The station was all closed off but the road into the adjacent car park offers a view inside and there was the gronk 03371 pootling around. The wagon behind had a tank on it containing some solution to spray on the rail head as there were two workers in all over biohazard suits spraying all the lines in the station and presumably the branch. The Dartmouth Steam Railway was back in action on the 13th April running on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays as are the boat trips so I'm guessing there were a few adhesion problems the day before. There's usually a visitor centre carriage on the track behind but that has been removed allowing the light through the windows making a nice clear shot of the station with a loco and not a soul about . I heard it was busy here yesterday as much as it can be on the covid adapted trains. 03371 was built at Swindon Works in 1958 and was withdrawn in 1987. It's first depot allocation was Lowestoft followed by spells at Bradford, Healey Mills and York.

Regards, Clive Smith


Picture
03371 on spraying duties at Kingswear station. 14th April 2021. Copyright Clive Smith.
Many thanks Clive - nice to see life returning.
​

Swindon Spotting
Ken Mumford

Ken spent a few hours at Swindon station on Monday 12th April 2021.
Here is a selection of his 'spots'.
Picture
Tamper 'Roger Nicholas' pauses at Swindon en route to its overnight duties. 12th April 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
The other end of the tamper also forms a nice bright and colourful image 12th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
Yet another scrap train! Swindon station Scrap train for Newport headed by a rather grubby 66713 12th April 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
Swindon station. The tail end of the scrap train. 'Arlington Fleet Scrap' barrier coach heading for Newport. 12th April 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
Swindon Station 66020 with westbound freight 12th April 2021, Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
Swndon station The west bound freight continues through platform 4. 12th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.
Swindon station is a busy place - more on scrap soon.  Many thanks Ken.
​

St Ives Branch News
The branch will be closed 7th to the 14th June.
More than 5,500 police will on duty for the G7 summit in Cornwall and the popular St Ives railway branch line will be closed, it has been confirmed.
Great Western Railway (GWR) said replacement buses would operate between main line station St Erth and St Ives from 7-14 June while the line is shut.
Roads in the area will also be closed, but police say they hope it will not be for longer than four days.
The summit is to take place from 11-13 June in Carbis Bay, near St Ives.
Media coverage of the event will be based in Falmouth.
The UK, US, Germany, France, Canada, Italy and Japan make up the G7 and leaders from Australia, India, South Korea and the EU will also attend as guests.

14th April 2021

14/4/2021

 
Roving around the
South West
Andrew Triggs
Apart from the trip to Totnes for the 66 and the Power Cars Laira run, it was great to have a day out and about on the 'Four Foot', and great to see Roger 'on patrol' once more! A selection for CRS of the days activities, let's all hope the return to normality continues
All the Best
Andrew

Picture
150243 passing 158760 at Lostwithiel at 12.59 working 2C43 and 2P13. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
DBC 66150 approaching with 6G09 13.02 Goonbarrow Junction-Fowey Docks Carne Point with load 38 CDAs Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
Voyager 220011 arriving at Truro working 1S49 09.31 Penzance-Newcastle. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
43029 leading 2C34 16.27 Exeter St Davids-Penzance clearing Totnes. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Thanks Andrew
A new addition to the Great Western Fleet GW15
Roger Winnen

Picture
210413b The refurbished HST coaches outshopped at Doncaster by Wabtec at Penzance yesterday. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
210413cA newly created Great Western Set GW15 on a trial run from Laira to Laira via Penzance yesterday. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
210413d The delayed 10.30 departure for Plymouth had to be flagged off as the trains rightaway system failed.. Copyright Roger Winnen
 Long Marston to Laira
Bill Elston Paul Barlow, Keith Turley and David Tozer

Yesterdays movement of four power cars from Long Marston to Laira caused great excitement.
At Cogload  Bill Elston
Bill Elston writes - Three photos at Cogload today,
GBRf 66748,with 4 HST power cars ( 43056, 43087, 43193 and 43197 ). in tow, working from Long Marston to Laira.
Not long after, 66606 rolled by with the Riverside to Whatley quarry empties. Take care, Bill
Picture
Cogload - 13th April 2021. Copyright Bill Elston.
Picture
A going away shot at Cogload. 13th April 2021. Copyright Bill Elston.
Picture
66606 rolled by with the Riverside to Whatley quarry empties. 13th April 2021. Copyright Bill Eston.
At Staffords Bridge  Paul Barlow
Paul Barlow writes - A couple of shots this afternoon of the 1241 Long Marston to Laira HST power car move with 66748 hauling. The location is Staffords bridge just north of Cowley Bridge junction. Not sure if these PC's are for reinstatement or spares for the existing fleet. Someone must know! They have probably been out of use for about 2 years.
Kind regards, Paul 
Picture
66748 43197 43193 43087 43056 12 41 Long Marston to Laira 0C20 Staffords Bridge13th April 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow
Picture
A second shot by Paul Barlow
Cowley Bridge Junction   Keith Turley
Keith writes - GBRF class 66/7 No.66748 'Burton 50' passes Cowley Bridge Junc. on 13th April 2021,
hauling ex GWR class 43 power cars Nos.43197-43193-43087 and 43056,
working the OC20 12:41 Long Marston to Plymouth Laira stock transfer.
Keith Turley.



Picture
Four power cars move. 13th April 2021 Copyright Keith Turley
Exminster    David Tozer
David writes - Exminster. Former AG Crossrail Class 66 66748, previously used in Holland with the 1241 Long Marston GBRF to Plymouth(Laira) with power cars 43056/87/193 and 197. Understood to be used for engine swaps with Cross Country power cars which are high on engine hours.
Class 166 166216 with the 5Z57 1713 Exeter (St David’s) – Paignton.
Dave
Picture
66748 plus four power cars, 13th April 2021 Copyright David Tozer
Picture
166216 13th April 2021 Copyright David Tozer
Newton Abbot  Roger Winnen
Picture
210413a 66748 West Burton 50 hauls at rake of First Great Western Power Cars 43056 43077 43193 43197 from Long Marston to Laira. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
66748 West Burton 50 hauls at rake of First Great Western Power Cars 43056 43077 43193 43197 from Long Marston to Laira seen passing Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen
Totnes   Andrew Triggs
Andrew writes - Two shots taken at Totnes Bypass bridge of today's GBRf hauled move running as 0C20 12.41 Long Marston GBRf to Laira T&RSMD, 66748 hauling 43056, 43087, 43193 and 43197
All the Best
Andrew

1. Clearing Totnes station at 17.45, running 11 early at this point
2. Heading away from Totnes By Pass bridge towards Plymouth and Laira T&RSMD
Picture
Totnes 13th April 2021. Copyright Andrew Triggs.
Picture
Totnes - 13th April 2021. Copyright Andrew Triggs.
Brent  & Par   Clive Smith
Clive writes - Apologies for the late inclusion of the 67s on the NMT on the 9th April. An outing to a few pubs in Cornwall on the 12th had the added bonus of a Castle HST set at Par and incredible sight of a 66 hauling four  HST power cars at Brent completed a busy few days.

(1 & 2) GBRf 66748 passes the site of Brent station on 13th April  with the 0C20 12.41 Long Marston - Laira stored power car move with First Great Western blue liveried 43197, 43193, 43087 and 43156. The blue power cars have faded a lot with nearly two years open storage.


(3) 67023 heads the four-weekly 1Q18 06.08 Reading Triangle - Paignton via Penzance Network Measuring Train (NMT) on the 9th April. 67027 on the rear. Remarkably after living near  Ivybridge for just over twenty years I have never taken a picture at Dinnaton which is a mile and a half west of Ivybridge station.  Not sure why. Perhaps it may have been overgrown for a long time. There is a fitness centre and golf course immediately to my right over the bridge with a most convenient car park. In the background is the lunar landscape of Lee Moor China Clay Works.

(4) 43029 heads the 13.18 Exeter St Davids - Penzance into Par station past the wonderful semaphore signals. 43171 was on the rear of this shortened 2+3 set.

Regards. Clive Smith
Picture
(1) Brent 13th April 2021. Copyright Clive Smith.
Picture
(2) Brent 13th April 2021. Copyright Clive Smith.
Picture
(3) Dinaton NMT 6th April 2021. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
(4) Par Copyright Clive Smith,
Many thanks to Bill, Paul, Keith, Dave, Andrew, Roger & Clive
​

Rare motive power - class 20's . yesterday
Westbury area
Guy and Charlotte Vincent
Guy writes - Two class 20s were a rare sight in the south today (13th April 2021) moving a set of Mark 3A coaches from Eastleigh to Long Marston.  The full formation was 20118  20132 &  12041 12115 12019 12027 12012 12026 12151 11094.   

20118 was for several years preserved at the South Devon Railway.

5X20 0956 Eastleigh T&RSMD - Long Marston.  Eight former Greater Anglia coaches that have been refurbished and adorned with Chiltern branding.   Two images: 1. passing Westbury and on the approach to Hawkeridge Jctn running some 95 minutes late (due to a late start from the depot, photo by Charlotte)  and 2. approaching Bradford on Avon with 3 video stills.    According to reports the two class 20s were located at Worksop (Notts) on Sunday morning but later ran light to Derby in order to take some EMU barrier vehicles to Wembley Yard (Mon 12th). Once this was done the duo left light to Eastleigh for today's task.

Regards, Guy Vincent
Picture
(1) Hawkeridge 13th April 2021. Copyright Charlotte Vincent.
Picture
(2) Greenland Mill Level Crossing. Bradford tunnel is behind the photographer. Copyright Charlotte Vincent. This is a smashing location for shots in this direction.
Picture
Chiltern Branded Mk 3A Carriages Std Class Carriages 12115. Copyright Charlotte Vincent.
Picture
GA Liveried Chiltern Branded Mk 3A 1st Class Carriage 11094. N.B. Appears to be un- modifed slam door stock. Copyright Charlotte Vincent.
Many thanks to Guy and Charlotte Vincent.
​

13th April 2021

13/4/2021

 
Picture
With a special thanks to David Ward who designed and sent  this remarkable birthday card to commemorate a very important anniversary.
Hemmerdon
Paul Barlow

High pressure steam tackles Hemmerdon while the 'sheer weight' of enthusiasts tests the strength of the bridge!
Picture
.A powerful combination as 70000 and 47519 1219 Penzance to Wolverhampton approach Hemerdon bank summit 21st October 1995 summit - Copyright Paul Barlow
Picture
70000 and 47519 breast Hemmerdon summit with the 12.19 Penzance to Wolverhampton on the 21st October 1995. Copyright Paul Barlow.
Many thanks for Paul for  these remarkable pictures of a 'stirring event', and one can sense the excitement of the occasion!
​

Sampford Courtenay
Rony Kosys
Picture
33208+33102 pass through Sampford Courtenay station on the 23rd June 1989 with the 6O74 the 11.20 Meldon Quarry to Tonbridge . Copyright Ron Kosys
One wonders if with this line soon to be reopened to passengers to Okehampton whether this former station closed 5th June 1972 will see fresh life? Many thanks to Ron for catching this heavy load of ballast.
​
Improvements to
The Barnstaple line
Tony Hill

Tony Hill writes - Hello Keith

North Devon line works 10-18 April 2021

Two pics taken on Saturday 10th April 2021 of the works by NR Contractors to slightly extend the platforms at Eggesford 
to fully accommodate a three car cl 158 DMU.

Also a pic of loco 66780 with 'Falcon' bogie opens (some empty, some with spoil and some with unused new ballast) standing at Kings Nympton at 1330 on Sat 10/4/21 awaiting passage that afternoon to Crediton (for eventual return to Westbury on Sun 11/4) within the Crediton to Barnstaple North Devon line Blockade of 10 to 18 April.
This blockade, with associated Double Decker Bustitution, also includes the installation (postponed from April 2020 due the 'plague') ) of a replacement steel underbridge by a large Road Crane at Penstone near Coleford Jn.
This train (with another class 66 the other end) had worked at Lapford earlier that day. A second train worked by 66704 and similiarly formed was stood at Portsmouth Arms,  having worked at KN earlier that day, and it too ran to Crediton (for a Westbury ) following the train worked by 66780.
The works at Lapford and Kings Nympton were in connection with track removal, digging out ballast etc with machines ( and loading into wagons) to improve drainage, reballasting (mostly from adjacent stockpiles of ballast previously delivered by TRAIN ) and reinstatement of the track; both sites of long standing poor drainage conditions.

Regards Tony
Picture
Eggesford Platform Extension (1) 10th April 2021 Copyright Tony Hill
Picture
Eggesford Platform Extension (2) 10th April 2021 Copyright Tony Hill
Picture
Kings Nympton 66780 on drainage works. 10th April 2021 Copyright Tony Hill
Many thanks indeed Tony for your report and pictures.
​

12th April 2021

12/4/2021

 
Royal Albert Bridge
Paul Barlow

Picture
70000 and 47519 make a very fine sight as they cross the Royal Albert Bridge and leave Cornwall on the 12.19 Penzance to Wolverhampton on the 21st October 1995. Copyright Paul Barlow
A quarter of a century ago - let's hope we have more of them. Thank you Paul for being there - right time right place.
​

Stoke Cannon 
Keith Turley

Hi Keith.
A second rare visitor in two days sees GBRF class 66/7 No.66780 'The Cemex Express' passing Stoke Canon on 11th April 2021,
working the 6G71 15:02 Cowley Bridge Junc. to Westbury Down TC engineers.
Cheers Keith Turley.  
Picture
66780 'Cemex Express' makes a fine sight at Stoke Canon. 11th April 2021 Copyright Keith Turley.
St Blazey and Par
​Andrew Keast

​I thought that you might like some recent photos from the St Austell area. Firstly - 66053 leaves St Blazey yard on 6C53, the 12:20 St Blazey -Riverside - 18/03/21 Secondly a week later the same loco - 66053 at Carlyon Bay on 6Z60, the 11:20 Parkandillack (actually Treviscoe) - Exeter Riverside - 25/03/21 Then 67027/67023 through Par on 1Q18, the 06:08 Reading Triangle - Paignton via Penzance 9th April 2021
Picture
66053 leaves St Blazey yard on 6C53, the 12.20 St Blazey -Riverside 18th March 2021 Copyright Andrew Keast
Picture
66053 at Carlyon Bay on 6Z60, the 11.20 Parkandillack (actually Treviscoe) - Exeter Riverside 25th March 2021 Copyright Andrew Keast
Picture
67027 leads the NMT through Par 9th April 2021. Copyright Andrew Keast
Picture
67023 brings up the rear of the NMT 9th April 2021. Copyright Andrew Keast. A nice clear day and photograph - an up train is expected.
Many thanks Andrew,
Bathpool and Creech St Michael
Taunton
Bill Elston

Three photos from the Taunton area today.
Firstly, Castle set 43094 with 43093 on 2U24 taunton to Cardiff passing Bathpool,
then 57002 working Taunton to Taunton, via  Swansea (!) seems like a 'jolly' to me, also at Bathpool
Finally 66780 working 1502 Cowley Bridge to Westbury. passing Creech St Michael running some 80
 minutes late.

Hope these are of interest, Cheers, Bill Elston
Picture
43094, 43093 Bathpool 2U24 Taunton to Cardiff 11th April 2021 Copyright Bill Elston
Picture
57002 working Taunton to Taunton, via Swansea. 11th April 2021 Copyright Bill Elston
Picture
66780, working 15.02 Cowley Bridge to Westbury, 30 late. 11th April 2021 Copyright Bill Elston
Many thanks Bill
​

11th April 2021

11/4/2021

 
Weekend work at
Westbury
Guy Vincent

Major renewals being undertaken this weekend around Westbury

1) Bradford Junction.  Renewal of formation and ballast top-up.  The crossover at the junction has been removed and the formation dug out prior to refilling. 66097 on spoil train.

2 3 and 4) Hawkeridge Junction  Renewal of Up Loop or Chord line leading round to Westbury East Loop Junction.  This was last done around 30 years ago as a budget job with steel sleepers dropped onto the original formation and CWR installed.  Now with an increase in heavy freight traffic using the loop the entire formation is being excavated and renewed and new concrete sleepers are being laid.  

3) Westbury station.  Fleet of assorted buses engaged on rail-replacement services for Trowbridge Bradford on Avon and Bath.

Regards

Guy Vincent.  
Picture
1. Bradford Junction Crossover Relaying 10th April 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture
2. Hawkeridge Renewals 70806 10th April 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
3. Hawkeridge Up Loop Renewal 70805 10th April 2021 Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture
4. Hawkeridge Up Loop Renewal. 10th April 2021 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
5. Westbury Road-Rail Replacement 10th April 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent. Two signs of the times - (a) Bus replacements, and (b) Masks must be worn.
My apologies to Guy for the late publishing of this report - technical hitch.
​

Devon & Cornwall
Roger Winnen
Good to see Roger about.

Picture
210408a Motive Power at Bere Ferrers. No 3 A.S.Harris and Earl of Mount Edgecombe in the process of a complete repaint. 8th April 2021 Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
210408b Earl of Mount Edgecombe in the process of a repaint. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
210408bb A.S.Harris with the Gresley teak body brake coach at Bere Ferrers. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
210408c 66170 on the 693W 1151 Parkandillack to Exeter Riverside sits in Chapel Sidings at Par awaiting departure. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
210408d 66170 Departs Par at 15.26 for Exeter Riverside. Copyright Roger Winnen
Burngullow
Andrew Bryon

Picture
158763 Working the Penzance-Plymouth.. Copyright Andrew Bryon
Picture
43171/43029 Working theCardiff Central-Penzance. Copyright Andrew Bryon
Rare Visitor
​Keith Turley

A very rare visitor to the Westcountry today 10th April 2021.DRS class 57/0 No.57002 'Rail Express' pases Stoke Canonworking the OV83 10:00 Taunton to Taunton via Exeter St. Davidsdriver route learner.
Cheers Keith Turley.
Picture
Many thanks Keith.
​

Picture
Penleigh, Westbury 57002 (47322) 6Z82 10.57 Westbury - Taunton Fairwater 9th April 2021 Copyright Guy Vincent.
DRS class 57 57002 made an unexpected and rare appearance yesterday (9th) when it took some newly overhauled HOBC vehicles from the Plasser Works at West Ealing to Fairwater Yard, Taunton.    The train passed along the Westbury avoiding line at speed at 1545hrs.    57002 was rebuilt for Freightliner by Brush Traction at Loughborough in 1998 and was previously known as 47322.  I gather (from RTT) that it is currently scheduled to return from Fairwater to West Ealing by way of the Berks & Hants route departing at 0855 on Monday (12th).

Guy Vincent
Many thanks Guy for the bonus info.
​

A sunny walk at
St Keyne
Chris Harvey
I've spent today exploring the Looe branch and making the most of the wonderful sunshine! Here is my best shot - about half a mile north of St Keyne station, 150 248 is captured rolling south with the 09.36 Liskeard - Looe.

Best Regards, Chris Harvey, Bodmin

Picture
St Keyne, half a mile north of. 10th April 2021 Copyright Chris Harvey
Thanks Chris. A great day for a good walk.
​

10th April 2021

10/4/2021

 
Sheer power on 
Dainton
Paul Barlow

Picture
70000 running as 70019 Lightning with 7802 Bradley Manor on the 08.04 Paddington to Penzance climb Dainton. 14th October 1995. Copyright Paul Barlow
It wasn't an uneventful journey - 7802 was scheduled to run as pilot to Penzance and return but was detached at Plymouth on the outward leg with a hot box.
70019(70000) stalled about 100 yards short of St. Austell station and 47703 was called up to assist to St. Austell and then ran dead-in-tow to Penzance.
info courtesy of Six bells junction.
Lighning will be remembered as a local engine - Coming home from school I can well remember it  standing at the entrance to Redruth tunnel with an up service train. K.J. 

Lots of clagg, Many thanks Paul.
​

Cowley Bridge Jct.
Ron Kosys

Picture
33110 arrives at Cowley Bridge Junction with the 7O70 the 16.30 Meldon to Eastleigh on the 3rd May 1989. Copyright Ron Kosys
Many thanks Ron.
​

Ken Mumford
at  Swindon

Picture
Light engine, Westbury to Hinksley Yard. 9th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
Interesting vinyls on a passing IET. 9th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
Yet more scrap to Newport from East Anglia. 9th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
66514 Northolt to Severnside (Avonmouth) 9th April 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
66143 on route to Llanwern 9th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
66143 on route to Llanwern [2] 9th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford
Many thanks Ken.
​

Request for drawings of
Templecombe Box.
​Steve Wakefield
​Good evening all, Please I wonder if you’d be kind enough to point me in the right direction. I’m searching for the architectural drawings for the iconic signal box at Templecombe. I’m a railway modeller, 7mm scale; I am aware that the signal box has been produced commercially in smaller scales. Also, if you know of any modifications in its history they would be useful too, as fresh plans are usually drawn at each stage. Very much obliged, have great weekend. Steve Wakefield
​
steve.stantonmarine@icloud.com
Thank you for your request - we'll see if we can help. Please contact Steve direct.
​

9th April 2021

9/4/2021

 
Tribute to
HRH  Duke of Edinburgh
Guy Vincent

Following the sad but not totally unexpected news today (April 9th)  of the passing of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh  I thought it would be nice to pay tribute to him by contributing some photographs taken by David Bartlett at Westbury on Monday 31st May 1971.  They show an immaculate  D1046 'Western Marquis' on Royal Train duties shunting the coaching stock from the station across to the up sidings.   On this day Prince Philip used the train for a journey from Gloucester to Westbury and later continued to Shirehampton (Bristol).  I can only assume that the Duke had engagements close to both stations (possibly military connections?).   The train was formed: D1046 (ex general overhaul at Swindon, released 12th May) with coaches 5155 798 45006 45005 and 5154.  The headcode was 1Z02.   Just weeks later on 30th July  D1046  was working the 1420 Theale-Westbury empty tipplers when it overran signals and ended up in a ditch at the west end of Woodborough down loop.   It was moved back to Swindon for repairs on 14th August and when it emerged on 25th November it had lost the headboard clips at 'B' end.    

Incidentally April 9th also happens to be the anniversary of the birth of Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806 - 1859)  and Dr  Alexander Moulton of  The Hall,  Bradford-on-Avon (1920 - 2012), designer of the Moulton range of small-wheeled bicycles and various suspension systems used by the British Motor Corporation in the 1960s and 70s.  Dr Moulton received the Queen's Award for Industry in 1967 and met the late Duke on a number of occasions,  Prince Philip having a deep interest in technology and engineering. 


Details of Royal Train workings are accessible from the NRM, York under 'Royal Trains List.pdf'

Guy V
Picture
D1046 Western Marquis 1Z02 31st May1971 (1) Copyright The late David Bartlett
Picture
D1046 1Z02 31st May 1971 (3) Copyright the late David Bartlett
Picture
D1046 1Z02 31st May 1971 (4) Copyright The late David Bartlett
Picture
D1046 1Z02 31st May 1971 (5) Copyright The late David Bartlett
Many thanks to Guy Vincent for this tribute.
​

And yet more of the NMT at
Stoke Cannon
Keith Turley
Picture
In beautiful late afternoon light Colas Rail Freight class 67 No.67023 'Stella' with classmate No.67027 'Charlotte' on the rear pass Stoke Canon on 9th April 2021, Copyright working the 1Z18 15:39 Paignton to Taunton Network Rail test train.
Many thanks Keith.
​

More of the NMT
Burngullow, Chacewater and Angarrack
Andrew Triggs Andy Bryon

Picture
67027/67023 Reading TS-Paignton seen passing Burngullow on route to Penzance. Copyright Andy Bryon
Picture
1. Passing the former Chacewater station working 06.11 Reading Triangle Sidings-Paignton 9th April 2021 Copyright Andrew Triggs. N.B. No real sign of a busy little station ever having been here.
Picture
2. Having cleared the road over bridge, heading for Scorrier, the trackbed of the former Chacewater-Newquay branch has recently been cleared by Network Rail 9th April 2021 Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
3. The return from Penzance, viewed from Sampson Farm Road bridge, clearing Angarrack viaduct. 9th April 2021. Copyright Andrew Triggs.
Picture
4. Heading for Gwinear Road, having just cleared Sampson Farm Road bridge. 9th April 2021. Copyright Andrew Triggs.
Picture
The returning NMT passes Burngullow on route to Paignton. Copyright Andy Bryon
Many thanks Andrew Triggs & Andrew Bryon.
​

NMT Down West
Craig Munday

A trip down west to collect a car under repair saw an opportunity to call by at Chacewater (or Scat-ups as my wife's family call it) to see the NMT. The usual HST power cars replaced by class 67s this week. Colas 67023 / 67027 approach Chacewater on 9th Apl 2021. 
The area's vegetation is being cleared by contractors and they have worked along the up main side revealing the former Newquay branch track bed. The wonderful splash of colour from the wild rhododendron may be cut back this year prior to it blooming. 
Kind regards, Craig 
Picture
67023 and 67027 1Q18 Chacewater 9th April 2021 Copyright Craig Munday.
Many thanks Craig.
​

A trip down
Further West.
Mark Lynam

Good afternoon Keith/Roger,

Today saw Colas Rail 67023/67027 on this months test train, instead of the New Measurement Train.
Seen below at Carn Brea and Hayle.
67023+67027 at Carn Brea working 1Q18 0606 Reading Triangle Sidings to Paignton via Penzance surrounded by the gorse currently in full bloom!
43155 at Carn Brea on the rear of 2U20 1050 Penzance to Cardiff Central.
67023+67027 at Hayle working back up the mainline on 1Q18 0606 Reading Triangle Sidings to Paignton via Penzance.
158766 calls at Hayle working 2P16 1315 Penzance to Plymouth, while 43171+43029 on 3 coach GW13 set departing over the viaduct behind working 2C67 0800 Cardiff Central to Penzance.

Thanks,
Mark Lynam
Picture
67027 & 67023 at the site of Carn Brea Station. 9th April 2021 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
Carn Brea 9th April 2021 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
The returning NMT at 67023 & 67027 Hayle 9th April 2021 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
43171 & 43029 head towards Penzance while 158766 heads est. Seen at Hayle Copyright Mark Lynam
Many thanks Mark.
​

Colourful Cockwood (3)
Paul Barlow
Picture
A pair of FGW Blue class 153s on a local service to Paignton 15th July 2015. Copyright Paul Barlow
Many thanks Paul.
​

Newton St Cyres
Ron Kosys

Picture
I’ll never apologise sending phots taken at Newton St Cyres. I cycled there from Exeter aged 10, and on to Crediton, to buy Southern Railway platforms tickets that were still available at that time. Copyright Ron Kosys 33107 and 33063 could be heard not long after leaving Cowley Bridge Junction it was so still on the afternoon of 28th July 1988, with 6V96 0938 Tonbridge to Meldon Quarry empties.
Many thanks Ron, yours and our memories are brought back by the picture.  Note the redundant down platform.
Penzance
The late John Cornelius

Picture
A 'dated' scene at Penzance. Taken by the late John Cornelius. Copyright
In memory of John.
​

8th April 2021

8/4/2021

 
Exeter Central 
David Tozer
Today saw the National Rail Measurement Train go into the Bay Platform at Exeter Central this being possibly the first locomotive since 2nd June 2016.
Picture
The Measurement Train approaches Exeter Central on its route down the former Southern Line with Charlotte and Stella top & tailing. Copyright David Tozer
Picture
A rare sight as the train enters the Bay Platform 1 at Exeter Central. Copyright David Tozer
Picture
Arriving at Platform 1 its 08.56. Departure being at 11.05. Copyright David Tozer
Picture
Just enough room to fit the train on the platform at Central Station. Copyright David Tozer
Thanks David
Colourful Cockwood (2)
Paul Barlow
Picture
70000 Britannia 1650 Kingswear to Fits the frame nicely - heading for Bristol the 1Z28 the 'Torbay Express' passes Cockwood on the 15th July 2012 Copyright Paul Barlow
Many thanks Paul.
​

Big Cats at Salisbury
Michael Forward
Picture
I send the first of two pictures taken at Salisbury on 15 August 1989 which shows 50027 ‘Lion ‘ with the 14.05 departure for Waterloo (10.20 from Exeter) Copyright Michael Forward
Picture
We now see 50028 ‘Tiger ‘ with the 14.15 terminating service from Waterloo,the coaches are the four TC units 8001/8002. Copyright Michael Forward
Thanks Michael
Hawkeridge Junction
Ron Kosys

Picture
33103 with a Cardiff - Porstmouth Harbours seen at Hawkeridge Jct on the 22nd April 1988 Copyright Ron Kosys.
Many thanks Ron.
​

Swindon Interlude
Ken Mumford

Picture
​1Z36 was a charter hauled by class 40 - 40145 in BR blue - was much better in its orginal green plus livery. Trina passedf throuhg on the UML - up Main Line - note other railway enthusiats on the opposite platform (platform 3) Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
Kingswear to Euston seen at Swindon 7th April 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
70806 heads a working through Swindon station 7th April 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
66149 heads west. 7th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.
Picture
The NHS branded IET. 7th April 2021; Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
Merehead to Wootton Basset Stone. 7th April 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.
Above, the Merehead Quarry to Wootton Bassett stone train which goes to the Cocklebury area just east of the station for the loco to run around and then take the train to its destination.  It was stopped in the centre road for about 3 minutes before route indicator lights allowed it forward.
A busy time - Thanks Ken.

7th April 2021

7/4/2021

 
Ellerhayes & Cullompton today
David Tozer  Keith Turley

Picture
0604 PZ - Paddington at Ellerhayes Silverton 7.4.2021 Copyright David Tozer
Picture
Ellerhayes with the return 07.30 Kingswear to London Euston 37667 &37688 Great Rocks. 7.4.2021 Copyright David Tozer
Picture
Ellerhayes with the return 07.30 Kingswear to London Euston 37667 &37688 Great Rocks. 7.4.2021 Copyright David Tozer
Picture
The returning LSL operated private charter seen at Cullompton on 7th April 2021, Copyright Keith Turley
Many Thanks David & Keith
Colourful Cockwood (1)
Paul Barlow
Picture
Very nicely framed. 43145 on a Penzance to Paddington service passes Cockwood harbour on the 15th July 2012. Copyright Paul Barlow
Many thanks Paul.
​

Private train at
Newton Abbot
Clive Smith

Picture
​(1) 37688 top and tails the 1Z34 15.50 Plymouth - Newton Abbot LSL private train. Dead green liveried D6851 (37667) is on the rear. 6th April 2021. Copyright Clive Smith.
Picture
(2) D6851 has started its engine in readiness for departure with the 16.43 Newton Abbot - Kingswear LSL private train. 37688 is now dead on the rear of the train. Next outing for this train will be the 07.30 Kingswear - Euston on the 7th with 40145 from Bristol to Euston. Copyright Clive Smith.
Many thanks Clive.
To see the rest of our wonderful collection of photographs of this amazing tour please click here and scroll as necessary. Many thanks to Roger Winnen who is putting this collection together and of course to all of you faithful contributors.

​

Query re the Electric Token Instrument
Newquay
Chris Osment

Ref The most interesting feature by Alan Peters  The photograph of the Electric Key Token instrument shows green (‘C’ configuration’) tokens. Now ‘C’ tokens were used for the single-line section from Newquay to St Columb Road which came into existence after the closure of Tolcarn Junction in November 1964. After the closure of St Columb Road in January 1965 the section then became Newquay to St Dennis Junction using yellow (‘D’ configuration) tokens until the closure of St Dennis Junction in December 1986. At that time the St Dennis Junction to Goonbarrow Junction section used ‘C’ tokens, but what I do not know is whether the new Goonbarrow Junction to Newquay section then used ‘C’ or ‘D’ tokens until Newquay closed in October 1987. As I can’t read the wording on the tokens, I would be very interested therefore to know if that photograph is from the 1964-65 or 1986-1987 period please.
 
Kind regards, Chris Osment
Picture
A close up of the electric token machine at Newquay Signalbox (Courtesy of Gary Rainbow) Copyright Alan Peters
Hi Keith,

All the pictures were taken at the time of the closure of the signal box in October 1987, I believe the tokens are Newquay - Goonbarrow Jct, the token instrument was the first thing to be removed by the S&T when the box closed and there was me hoping for a souvenir, however number 15 lever plate for the ground frame had to suffice. I Understand that the ground frame was moved for a short period for a siding, which I have no idea if it was ever used. I think the section is still a green token, which I thought I had a picture of the token somewhere, maybe Craig can confirm as I don't get up there too often.
I used to own the ground signal from the carriage sidings but had to sell it when I moved briefly to Australia something I very much regret as I doubt I will get another.

Gary Rainbow is now the Driver Standards manager for Cross Country Trains.

Regards Alan Peters

Many thanks to Chris Osment (Railwest) for the query and to Alan for the answer.
​

Gonemena Incline
John Dawe

I am trying to research the Gonemena Incline on the Liskeard and Caradon Railway and understand that Silvanus William Jenkins was engineer in the early days of the railway.  He was also engineer or surveyor to a number of other railways but I am unable to form a definitive list.

Other than Micheal Messenger's excellent book there seems to be very little information about the Gonemena Incline available but it has ocurred to me that it might have had similar arrangements to other inclines Mr Jenkins may have been involved with.  I had intended to visit the area last September but with the pandemic I was unable to do so.

By the by I have been misled in some of my online researches by another Silvanus Jenkins who lived in the Liskeard area at about the same time but appears to have been transported and by a ship similarly named!

I shall be gratefull for any assistance you can give me. 
Regards
John Dawe
Andover, Hampshire 
​
​A reply received from Roy Hart. 
SYLVANUS WILLIAM JENKIN   1821-1911
Born at Redruth (you may be related!) We will investigate. Spent his professional life at Liskeard.
He was for many years County Surveyor for East Cornwall.
He was engineer for the Liskeard and Caradon Railway, also for the Helston Railway (built 1885-7).
He was also involved in the reconstruction of several of the main line viaducts, I believe, when the Brunel timber structures were replaced.
Jenkin was a prominent citizen of Liskeard and his name can be found today on foundation stones in the town (Public Rooms, Temperance Hotel) He was often a donor and benefactor. In the 1870s he was Mayor of Liskeard. 
In 1902 the rather tumbledown church tower at Liskeard was rebuilt into the imposing structure there today: Jenkin was central to that project.
He was, for about 40 years, land agent for the Lanhydrock estate.

That's all I know! All the best,

                 Roy  Hart
Picture
Looking down the Gonemena Incline Photograph by the late Sid Sponheimer
Thank you to John Dawe and Roy Hart.
​

6th April 2021

6/4/2021

 
 Stunning views
St Ives Branch
Mark Lynam

Picture
150238+150244 pass Lelant working 2A14 1053 St Ives to St Erth. Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
150238+150244 above Porthkidney Sands beach working 2A20 1233 St Ives to St Erth. Copyright Mark Lynam
Many Thanks Mark
Ponsandane Signal Box
May 1973
Roger Winnen
Picture
730505a Barriers installed at Pondandane Sinal Box with old railway equiptment visible. Ponsandane & Long Rock Signal Boxes closed on 23rd June 1974 when the main line was signalled from Penzance to Marazion Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
730531b Ponsandane Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen
Cowley Bridge
Ron Kosys
Picture
33106 at Cowley Bridge Jct on the 5th July 1988 with the 7O70 the 11.20 Meldon-Eastleigh Ballast. Copyright Ron Kosys
Many thanks Ron.

Westbury Depot & Recycling
Guy Vincent

Another visit to the locked gate at the secondary exit from the up yard at Westbury on the site of the former stabling point buildings. Diesel 56094 was present, stabled in the exact spot where 30 plus years ago it was normal to find these locos between duties.  The newly relocated refuelling tanks are to the left of the '56' while to the right and beyond are more sidings and the Network Rail Recycling Yard.    Here redundant track components are delivered from across the country for reuse or recycling.  A sizeable ballast 'virtual quarry' is at the far end next to the line as it curves away towards Fairwood Junction.   New ballast is currently received from Cliffe Hill Stud Farm Quarry in Leicestershire and then loaded onto trains for delivery out to where it is needed.  Portions of the Fairwater (Taunton) based HOBC sets generally arrive here 3-4 times a week for refilling.   This yard sent out most if not all of the new materials used during the recent major renewals in west Cornwall and received back the old track and ballast for disposal.

 Waste ballast is brought in and unloaded by excavators onto a large heap in the 'new' sidings at the south end of the down yard.  It is screened, cleaned and graded then sold back into the construction and aggregate industries.  Much goes out by road but some departs by train.    Southampton Up Yard (Bevois Park) and Willesden South West Sidings are both destinations currently receiving deliveries with DC Rail (owned by the Cappagh Group of companies) dealing with the Willesden traffic with their fleet of new JNA box wagons and recently overhauled class 60 locos.  The latter can almost be considered as new, so high is the standard of finish.    Plenty more waiting to be treated at Toton...  


Guy Vincent
Picture
1) 56094 on site of former depot 3rd April 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
2) Fuel tanks and site of former depot buildings 03.04.2021
Picture
3) Yard view 03.04.2021 3rd April 2021 Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
4) Spent ballast unloading area (down side new sidings) 23rd March 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture
5) 60028 on 6M16 1731 Westbury-Willesden screened and cleaned spent ballast (possibly bound for HS2 works?) 18th March 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
6) New JNA loaded with spent ballast 18th March 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Many thanks indeed Guy.
​

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