LATEST INPUT , NEWS & OLD PICTURES ETC.

4th July 2020

4/7/2020

At last something to look forward to in 2021. Our first outdoor event for a very long time must be a visit to Torquay 'Bygones Museum', Roger is already planning the trip. Train to Paignton, then bus to the Museum after this onwards along the fabulous coast to Dawlish and Dawlish Warren.

Bygones - Torquay
Adrian King

Having just read the extremely interesting article on Falmouth Docks by Lt. Phil Boak. R.N. I had to drop you a line with regard to a visit, while in Torquay in August 2017, to 'Bygones' a delightful museum absolutely full of railway memorabilia. The first photograph shows one of their prize exhibit's a Hudswell Clarke Works No.1632 an 0-4-0 ST and operated as No. 5 at Falmouth Docks until 1986 when at the end of its working life it was bought for the museum. Mr Cuming the owner of the museum and lifelong railway enthusiast named the locomotive Patricia after his wife.

Bygones is a fabulous little museum and a must for anyone who loves the railway. I've included a couple of other shots I took during our visit of some of the displays and I couldn't resist taking a photo (so I'm hoping I'm not infriging on a copyright) of one of the very many photographs all around the museum which in this case shows a double-header racing through Brent Station with the leading locomotive being 7812 Erlestoke Manor.

Best Regards

Adrian

And here is Falmouth Docks Loco number 5 in captivity but safe. Torquay Bygones Museum 1 August 2017 Copyright Adrian King

Torquay Bygones Museum 2 August 2017 Copyright Adrian King

Torquay Bygones Museum 3 August 2017 Copyright Adrian King

Nameboards, numbers and picture just part of the display at the Torquay Bygones Museum 4 August 2017 Copyright Adrian King

Bygones Museum Torquay Copyright Adrian King.

Torquay Bygones Museum 5 An oblique photo of just one of the amazing collection of pictures within the museum. August 2017 Copyright Adrian King

Many thanks Adrian for bringing this fascinating collection to our notice.

Out & About Today
Bill Elston and David Tozer

Langport Bill Elston
I visited Langport today and saw IET 802114 working 1C72 PAD – PNZ crossing the viaduct, followed by the ecs sleeper 5Z50, top and tailed by 57604 ( leading ) and 57605. Note the reinforcing work being done on the embankments, looking much tidier than it used to be, also the bridge over the River Parrett being repainted. Best regards Bill

57604 leading the ecs sleeper 5Z50, and 57605. 4th July 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

57605, ecs sleeper 5Z50 bringing up the rear is 57605. In the foreground is the river Parret. 4th July 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

802114 1C72 Paddington to Penzance 4th July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Stoke Canon up platform. David Tozer

43304 & 43378 Pass site of Stoke Canon Up platform with the 06.11 Leeds to Plymouth . 4th July 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

57604 leads the 07.35 5Z50 Paddington to Long Rock Depot. 57605 was on the rear. 4th July 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

At Pinhoe David Tozer

158883 Pinhoe 4th July 2020 Copyright David Tozer.

159008 & 159101 4th July 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks to both Bill and David.

PLPR at Crewkerne
Bill Elston

67023 hauling test train back to Salisbury. Seen here half a mile east of Crewkerne on the 2nd July 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

67027 on the rear of the test train heading back to back to Salisbury. 2nd July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill - my apologies for the late appearance of your pictures.

PLPR at Par
Alan Peters

PLPR at Par Colas Rail's 67027 and 67023 approach Par with PLPR (Plain Line Pattern Recognition) as 1Q18 Reading Triangle Sidings to Paignton via Penzance, notice how the fir trees of Marsh Villa Gardens obliterated the classic view from Eastcliffe Road bridge, and also how the Down Goods loop signal has disappeared under the undergrowth on 3rd July 2020 Alan Peters

Colas Rail's 67027 and 67023 approach Par with PLPR (Plain Line Pattern Recognition) as 1Q18 Reading Triangle Sidings to Paignton via Penzance. 3rd July 2020. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan.

Thank you NHS IET Style
Ken Mumford

From South Marston Footbridge - 3rd July 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford

Purton, Collins Lane Crossing 3rd July 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford

Many thanks Ken.

3rd July 2020

3/7/2020

St Pinnock Traction
Andrew Triggs

Good Afternoon Keith/Roger
A car trip to the Glynn Valley to capture the Colas 67s on todays 1Q18 06.11 Reading Triangle Sidings-Paignton Test Train, endeavoured to get the return working from Penzance at Burngullow but it ran early, so missed it...you win some and lose some eh? 3 photos for CRS from the classic location with differing Traction
All the Best
Andrew

802001 working 1A80 08.10 Penzance-London Paddington. Copyright Andrew Triggs

43188/194 working 2C07 06.11 Bristol T.M-Penzance Copyright Andrew Triggs

1Q18 with Colas 67023/027 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Thanks Andrew

Saltash Station
Yesterday and Today
Ross Griffiths Roger Winnen

Today the returning Network Rail Measurement Train is seen passing through Saltash today 3rd July 2020 running 27 minutes early after its run to Penzance. Copyright Ross Griffiths

Class 67s Stella and Charlotte are seen crossing the border bound for Paignton. Copyright Ross Griffiths

Many Thanks Ross

200702a A visit to Saltash yesterday. The restoration work on Saltash Station is near complete, what a transformation of a couple of years ago.. Copyright Roger Winnen

200702b Putting the finishing toughes to the building. Copyright Roger Winnen

200702c Soon the advertisements will be taken away on the platform side of the booking hall. Copyright Roger Winnen

Quiet Afternoon at Par
Leslie Curnow

Good Evening Roger

I decided to have a quiet afternoon at Par today.You would not think it was Summer with so little movement of passengers due to the Covid 19 virus.
There were no clay trains running between Fowey and Goonbarrow on the the Clay. Only the Clay tanker train to Bescot with 66175 in charge running almost an hour early.
With up and down four coach services passing within ten minutes of each other it seemed rather deserted. The usual Castles, 150s and 158 carrying out the shuttle services to and from Plymouth. There would be only a handful of passengers for each train.With restrictions changing next week for holiday accommodation and hospitality it will be interesting to see what changes take place with volumes of people on trains.

200702a 66175 Heads the St Blazey to Bescot clay. Copyright Leslie Curnow

200702b A deserted Par Station not a soul in sight except the man behind the lens. Copyright Leslie Curnow

200702c Par Signal Box awaiting a movement. Copyright Leslie Curnow

200702d A Class 158 heads for Penzance while a 150 sprinter awaits passengers for Newquay.

Many Thanks Leslie

Teigngrace Timber
Driver Alan Peters

Timber being loaded onto the Colas timber train at Teigngrace on 16th October 2013, once the logs are loaded the shunter has to strap down the timber before the train can make it's way to Kronospan in Chirk Alan Peters

Teigngrace Timber 1 At Taunton . 16th October 2013 Copyright Al Peters

Teigngrace Timber 2 16th October 2013 Copyright Al Peters

The Colas timber train being loaded at Teigngrace, the train would run to Heathfield to run round and then would be split at Teigngrace to load, the train would stay at Teigngrace overnight and the loco would run back to Newton Abbott to stable, 56094 is pictured with front half of the train at Teigngrace, the rear half being stabled the other side of the level crossing on the16th October 2013

Teigngrace Timber 3 16th October 2013 Copyright Al Peters

Many thanks Alan - another much appreciated inside story.

Norton Fitzwarren & Bathpool
Bill Elston

66414, after dumping spent ballast at Norton Fitzwarren 1st July 2020 Copyright Bill Elston.

From the same footbridge - an interesting shot as 66414 crosses main line heading to Fairwater Yard 1st July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

66414 crosses main line heading to Fairwater Yard 1st July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Bathpool 57605 at the rear of the ECS sleeper heading for Reading. 1st July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill - you had a busy day.

2nd July 2020

1/7/2020

The Colas 67s working on the Southern today
David Tozer

67023 & 67027 Exibition Way on the Southern Route into Exeter today with the Network Rail Measurement train. Copyright David Tozer

Thanks David

Castle Class HSTs in Cornwall
Roger Winnen

200623a The 17.15 Penzance to Plymouth crosses Hayle Viaduct in glorious summer sunshine on Tuesday 23rd June 2020. Copyright Roger Winnen

200623b 43154 Compton Castle heads the 18.15 service Penzance to Plymouth seen crossing Hayle Viaduct. 23rd June 2020 Copyright Roger Winnen

200623c Mooring the yacht at Hayle with the 19.15 Penzance to Plymouth seen crossing the Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

200624a 24th June 2020 43186 Taunton Castle departs Truro at 16.31 on the 15.50 Penzance to Exeter service. Copyright Roger Winnen

200624b 43170 Chepstow Castle works the 18.15 Penzance to Plymouth seen arriving at Truro on 24th June 2020

Are you Green with Envy?
We are - the good old days recalled by David Cook.

08 118 at Helland - one of the photographs which 'spurred' David Cook to write in. 7th February 1983 Copyright Ian Cavill.

Further to the photographs of 08113 taken on the Wenford Branch in 1983 I thought I would take the liberty in relating the story behind a week’s holiday camping near Hayle with two colleagues, Trevor Davies and Keith Scott also from the 4566 Group which as you know I am still involved with.
The idea was to travel on all of the branch lines in Cornwall during the week which I think we achieved.
In addition to this we paid a visit to St. Blazey depot on the Tuesday and made ourselves known to the Supervisor (the late Chris Coombes if my memory is correct). Having explained who we were and our involvement with the restoration of 4566 in 1975 we were made very welcome. Chris saying at the time that 4566 was well known as being a Cornwall based engine. We were given permission to explore the site with the proviso that the only thing we were not to do was go between/under any wagons for obvious reasons.
Word had obviously got around as whilst we were in the vicinity of the turntable we were “accosted” by a driver (I believe his name was Wallace Matthews) who entered into a fairly lengthy conversation with us. His parting shot being, “the best thing to happen to steam engines was getting rid of them”! We were all taken aback by this at the time but accepted that to some, working on steam engines was hard work. A little later he returned and asked which of us was on the footplate on the SVR, to which I replied that I was a fireman and that Trevor was a trainee fireman. He said you had better have these then and proceeded to give me some gauge and lubricator glasses and a copy of The Blue Book of Rules for Enginemen and Fireman (which I still possess to this day). When I asked him why he still had these items if he hated steam so much he smiled and said, “Well, they must have dropped to the bottom of my locker and I forgot all about them!!!
He asked us what we were doing the next day and said if we were interested he was driving a late afternoon passenger train up to Plymouth and we were welcome to have a ride in the cab if we wanted. I think you can probably guess what we said.
Returning to the main offices we saw Chris Coombes again to thank him for his hospitality and to our amazement were asked if we would be interested in a trip up the Wenford Branch on the Thursday. There as an immediate acceptance of the offer on our part with the agreement that we were to wait at Dunmere Crossing for the train at an agreed time.
Wednesday saw us at Penzance at the due time prior to departure to be told by Wallace that there was a rumour that a Loco Inspector had been seen out and about in the area. So, we were told to travel in the train and if he wasn’t about when we got to St. Erth our cab ride was a goer. Fortunately, he wasn’t and we travelled on 46014 (long gone, although Trevor did see it once at Hereford whilst out chasing a steam special)) to Par where despite being offered the full ride to Plymouth we had to detrain as we decided that getting back to Penzance very late at night could have been problematic.
Thursday as arranged saw us at Dunmere Crossing awaiting our ride. After some time a railwayman (Shunter or Guard?) appeared and asked if we were waiting to see the train. We told him what had been arranged with Chris Coombes and were somewhat taken aback when we were told that due to a funeral that day they had worked two trains the previous day to enable one of the usual crew to attend. You can imagine our disappointment but then we were told to wait and see what could be arranged. About 20 minutes later we were greeted by the sound of an approaching 08 diesel shunter, 08113 and brake van. Are you the lads who were supposed to have a trip up the branch today asked the Driver (Trevor tells me this was John Ferret)? Yes was the reply, well hop up in the cab and I’ll take you up the branch. We asked why the train was running having been told that there was no wagons to collect to be informed that if it got back to St.Blazey we hadn’t had our trip there might be some explaining to do!
So, of we went trundling up the branch, stopping at Helland Bridge to pick up a family (I think they might have had a holiday let?) who rode in the brake van. When we arrived at Wenford we had the opportunity to have a look around before returning back to Dunmere Crossing.
Whilst I am no longer actively involved with the SVR, Trevor is and is now responsible for overseeing and maintaining the 08 fleet at Kidderminster. He tells me that there is a link to 08113 still, this being that he purchased parts from 08113 including the exhauster cut out valve and a vacuum brake control rod that links the two brake valves in the cab and which have been subsequently fitted to D3201. 08113 was owned by RMS Locotec and was broken up in Leeds after being withdrawn/condemned.
It’s amazing that two photographs can bring back happy memories of a fantastic holiday now some 42 years ago!
David Cook
(4566 Group)

Your Letter David a delight to read, many thanks indeed.
Those were the good old days.

Wenford Trains
Jim Lewis

A class 50 approaches with an up train. Some idea of the clay traffic to and from the Wenford branch can be gathered from this picture by Jim Lewis of the sidings at Bodmin Road - each with approximately twenty clay hoods. Copyright Jim Lewis. Nostalgically he tells us that that is his old green ford Anglia in the car park. The sidings in the car park were taken out of use in 1969. This picture dated 1975.

Many thanks Jim

Norton Fitzwarren & Bathpool
Bill Elston

I was over at Norton Fitzwarren today, and saw 66414 leaving the WSR branch, having dumped spent ballast at the Norton triangle. The 1st photo is train on the branch, the 2nd, crossing the main line to access Fairwater Yard. Then on to Bathpool, 66596 returns to Fairwater Yd from Westbury with fresh ballast. Still at Bathpool, the ecs sleeper stock heads for Reading led by 57603, 57605 on the rear.

66414, after dumping spent ballast at Norton Fitzwarren 1st July 2020 Copyright Bill Elston.

66414 crosses main line heading to Fairwater Yard 1st July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

66596 seen at Bathpool. 1st July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Bathpool . 57605 at the rear of the ECS sleeper heading for Reading. 1st July 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

Thanks Bill, a day well spent.

Purton
Ken Mumford

It's 12.22 on the 1st July as 47812 approaches Purton crossing on the Swindon, Kemble Gloucester line. Copyright Ken Mumford.

47812 and DVT 82307 at Purton Common Foot Crossing. en route to Bristol via Birminham, Worcester, Kemble, Swindon (reverse) and Chippenham. Copyright Ken Mumford

Many thanks Ken

Sleeper ECS
Andrew Triggs

Sleeper ECS 57603 and 605 to TRMS Reading Due off at 10.00 but left 10 early. 1st July 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Mostyn Hall. Truro
Chris Parkinson

Three years ago I purchased one of the nameplates from Mostyn Hall. At one point in its life it was allocated to Truro shed. I am seeking a good photograph of this locomotive that I can frame and put on the wall in my study under the nameplate. Could you enquire to see if any of your members has a photo that they could forward please? Many thanks, Chris Parkinson t. 07970 909934

Roger remembers Mostyn Hall at Truro, but has anybody a photograph please.

1st July 2020

1/7/2020

The Daylight Sleeper at Silverton
David Tozer

57605 Totnes Castle tailed by 57603 Tintagel Castle hauls the empty stock daytime sleeper on 1st July 2020 from Long Rock to Reading Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

Falmouth Dock Railway
Lt. Phil Boak. R.N.

Lt. Philip Boak on board HMS Echo. Copyright.

Philip Boak has written a very comprehensive article on the railways of Falmouth Docks. To see his article please click here.

Falmouth 1988
Trevor Tremethick

Barbara and I did a family visit to Falmouth from Kent back in April of 1988 and we had a look at the old station. I think the scene is much changed these days. Best wishes to all Trevor

Photo 1 - Falmouth Station 3rd April 1988. Copyright Trevor Tremethick Photo 1 shows the view from the loading docks and I think there were railings that prevented me from going back any further. People who visit Falmouth now, and never knew the station in its heyday, could be forgiven for not realising how big it actually was. I vaguely remember the overall roof, which I think was taken down around 1957.

Photo 2 - Falmouth Station Dock Workers Entrance 3rd April 1988. Copyright Trevor Tremethick. Photo 2 was taken from Pendennis Rise, which runs into Castle Drive and overlooks the Docks. The station was on the lower level (the grassy bit) and you can clearly see the steps and gate which gave the dock workers access to Falmouth railway station at the end of their working day. My father, who was an electrician in the docks here, told me that a policeman (presumably a member of the Docks Constabulary) was stationed on the gate at such times and would unlock it to let the dock workers through. In Photo 2, you can also see, distantly, the yellow Sentinel diesel that replaced the steam engines. It is standing beside No. 4 Dock.

Photo 3 - Falmouth Station lines to Docks 3rd April 1988. Copyright Trevor Tremethick. Photo 3 is a view from the end of what used to be the arrival platform, looking way out to the site of the signal box and the loco siding, which had a water column. This view shows the lines down to the Docks for transfer of goods to and from BR.

Photo 4 - M55003 on 15.34 to Truro at Falmouth 4th April 1988. Copyright Trevor Tremethick. I went back the next day and took Photo 4. The number of the single unit was M55003 and, as you can see, she still sports the 'West Midlands Passenger Transport Executive' logo. A far cry from the impressive station buildings and the enormous goods shed with the Scammell lorries waiting outside with their maroon 'British Railways' containers. Official vandalism par excellence.

Many Thanks Trevor - and lest we forget a couple of pictures from the late Patrick English of the station before it got to the state you have shown it in.

Falmouth station exterior 1966. Copyright late Patrick English

Falmouth station 1966 Copyright late Patrick English.

The above two pictures from the very much respected Patrick English, a keen photographer and modeler. You will find many more of Patrick's photographs in our Falmouth branch section.

- and now last weekend on the
Falmouth Branch
Mark Lynam

On Sunday 158766 was running services on the Falmouth branch so I took the opportunity to get a few shots, although there was alot of cloud around it cleared in time for when the train passed me.

158766 Heading away from Perran Tunnel 2T74 09.20 Falmouth Docks to Truro. Taken from Trewedna Lane, Perranwell 28th June 2020 Copyright Mark Lynam

158766 at Perranwell working the 2T76 10.26 Falmouth Docks to Truro. 28th June 2020 Copyright Mark Lynam

158766 Pulling away from Perranwell working 2T78 Falmouth Docks to Truro.l 28th June 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam

And finally 158766 at Falmouth Docks working the 2T96 22.33 to Truro. The last service of the day. 28th June 2020 Mark Lynam

Many thanks Mark for your coverage in a green and pleasant land.

30th June 2020

30/6/2020

Par Harbour & Station
Photos from the Paul Walkey Collection

PAR HARBOUR IN ITS HEYDAY. COPYRIGHT PAUL WALKEY COLLECTION

PAR HARBOUR (2) C-RIGHT PAUL WALKEY COLLECTION

PAR HARBOUR From above (3) COPYRIGHT PAUL WALKEY COLLECTION

DERAILMENT PAR STATION C-RIGHT PAUL WALKEY

With grateful thanks to Roger Salter

Maindy Hall at
Swindon
Ken Mumford

On the way to Didcot.from Barry scrapyard. 4900 or Hall Class. 4942 Maindy Hall -is being converted at Didcot to be a Saint Class. Seen in Stretton Loop, Swindon. Copyright Ken Mumford

It was withdrawn in 1963 having completed over 1,300, 000 miles, and sent for scrap to Woodham Brothers in 1964 from where it was bought ten years later by Great Western Society with the specific intention of using it as the basis for a new ‘Saint’.
There is an excellent write up on the project by Steve Richards - please click here https://preservedbritishsteamlocomotives.com/2999-lady-of-legend/

Many thanks to Ken for this unique picture.

08113 The Wenford Bridge Line 1983
Ian Cavill

A Class 08113 at Wenford Bridge in 1983. Copyright Ian Cavill

The 08113 returning from Wenford Bridge seen passing through Helland Bridge. Copyright Ian Cavill

Thanks Ian

Stoke Canon
David Tozer

Lovely light, lovely day. 66596 with the HOBC seen at Stoke Canon. 29th June 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

Stoke Canon Old Station seen on the 29th June 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

Stoke Canon station closed to passengers on the 13th June 1960.

Many thanks David.

Staffords Bridge
Paul Barlow

Steam at speed. Paul Barlow in the last of his current sequence brings us to a waterside location close by the GW main line. 71000 Duke of Gloucester on 1632 Plymouth to Padddington tour approaches Staffords Bridge just east of Exeter. 28 May 2007. Copyright.

Many thanks Paul.

29th June 2020

29/6/2020

Please note - Roger Winnen can now receive EMails after engineering work were completed at 19.00 tonight.
Many Thanks Roger

Sleepers resting at
Long Rock
Roger Salter

Roger Salter reports :- The Night Riviera is running on Thursdays & Fridays but no sleeping cabins only seats, a sleeper coach & buffet is attached for staff training only, hence the large amount of coaching stock & three class 57 locos at Long Rock Depot this morning.

57602 Restormel Castle at Long Rock. 29th June 2020 Copyright Roger Salter.

57603 Tintagle Castle at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Salter

57603 squeezed in at Long Rock. 29th June 2020. Copyright Roger Salter.

57 603 Left and 57602 right at Long Rock Copyright Roger Salter

08645 St Piran on duty at Long Rock. 29th June 2020 Copyright Roger Salter

Many thanks Roger.

Exeter
Clive Smith

Thornaby based 31139 has arrived with the 17.15 Barnstaple - Exeter St Davids. New as D5557 in 1959 and withdrawn in 1995, this loco spent its last twenty five years allocated to the Teeside depot. Bit of a rarity for down in the south west. Regards Clive Smith

31139 at Exeter St Davids on the 24th July 1983. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive.

Boscarne Nostalgia
Andrew Jones

Clay Hoods at Boscarne 1980. Copyright Andrew Jones.

Dear Keith, Please find attached photograph at Boscarne Junction in 1980. This was always a timeless location. Very little had changed since the closure to passenger traffic and freight was still busy, the usual class 37 had dropped off the empties ready for collection by the early morning O8. I travelled on the Wenfordbridge line in the breakvan and experienced a bygone age. Breakfast of bacon and egg was had at Boscarne courtesy of the woodstove. We stopped on the way back somewhere near Helland, switched off and had a leisurely lunch. The sound of the wheels against the tight curves in Dunmere Wood were unbelievable, better than ‘The Last Night Of The Proms’! Wonderful…. Best wishes Andrew and Diane

Thank you very much Andrew - wish I was there!

More Nostalgia 18 years ago
Milltown Viaduct
Chris Harvey

Please find attached a June image from the Cornwall of eighteen summers ago. On a sunny 15th June 2002, 47 843 is captured rolling downhill over Milltown Viaduct towards Lostwithiel, in charge of the 0848 Penzance - Manchester. Best Regards, Chris Harvey, Bodmin.

Milltown viaduct 47843 with the 08.48 Penzance to Manchester on the 15th June 2002. Copyright Phil Harvey.

Many thanks Chris.

Taunton
Paul Barlow

45112 trailing on rear of 0810 Derby-Minehead. Seen on the 28 May 2007. 45112 worked the train back from Minehead. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

28th June 2020

28/6/2020

Daytime Sleeper ECS
Bill Elston, David Tozer, Evan Gray, and Andrew Triggs

The main cause of lineside interest yesterday the 27th June was the empty stock working on the sleeper set back from London hauled by 57605/603 working 5Z50 the 07.35 London Paddington-Longrock T&RSMD Night Riviera, returning west for heavy cleaning at Longrock (which is due to return ECS to Reading on Wednesday 1st July).

Bill Elston was at Oath north east of Taunton.

Oath 57605, 27th June 20a Copyright Bill Elston.

Still at Oath a 'going away shot shows 57603 bringing up the rear. 27th June 20b Copyright Bill Elston

David Tozer got news of the working and was at Stoke Canon where he also viewed the boarded up signalbox.

Stoke Canon Signal Box. 27th June 2020. Copyright David Tozer. It is reported that the box has a brighter future in the world of preserved railways.

-- and here comes the sleeper ECS at Stoke Cannon. 27th June 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

Evan Gray, a new contributor, was at Respryn to view the progress through Cornwall. Welcome to the website to Evan.

57605 on the Down Riviera stock at Respryn. 27th June 2020 Copyright Evan Gray

And finally, Nigel Triggs caught the ECS at Angarrack.

27th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs. It's a shame that the GW green blends into the scene so well!

Thank you to all.

Other sightings
Bill Elston & Andrew Triggs

At Creech St Michael, just east of Taunton.

Creech St Micheal . Produced a pair of HST power cars returning from Doncaster Wabtec to LA, 43162 ( leading) and 43156. 24th June 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

And on Angarrack viaduct

Angarrack. Heading west working 2C20 11.26 Exeter St Davids-Penzance with 150247/158766.. 27th June 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Angarrack From a distance across the field 802106 working 1A92 14.20 Penzance-London Paddington. 27th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Thanks to Bill and Andrew.

27th June 2020

27/6/2020

Taunton
Paul Barlow

47840 North Star 47828 on the 0810 Derby-Minehead wth 45112 on rear leaves Taunton. This was 47840's last run on NR before preservation. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Sleeper out & back
Mark Lynam & Andrew Triggs.

Yesterday we featured pictures of the sleeper ready to depart on the 25th by Andrew Triggs. Here from a different angle is the same train against a darkening sky. Do you, Andrew and Mark know each other we wonder?

57604 on the sleeper, delayed awaiting the arrival of & 802002 on the 16.04 Paddington to Penzance service. 25th June 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam.

150202 about to work the 22.22 to St Ives 25th June 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam

Following on from last nights shots of the 'Up Sleeper' 3 shots for CRS of the 'Down Beds' at Marazion at 07.50 this morning to complete the (comeback) story of the Night Riviera with 57605/603 top and tailing Load 5 and later at 08.05 running away from Penzance ECS to Longrock T&RSMD. All the Best Andrew

A second or so later the train passes the down station building at Marazion. 26th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks to Mark and Andrew

03's at Bodmin/Wadebridge
Neil Phillips

Regarding Chris Tooth’s appeal for identities and photos of Class 03 diesel mechanical shunters in the Bodmin/Wadebridge/Wenford Bridge area, my submission on the three locos allocated to St Blazey can still be found on the ‘Latest Input’ page, but briefly these were D2129 (10/61 – 4/65), D2127 (8/64 - 5/67) and D2183 (4/62 – 5/62, 11/64 – 5/67). So far I have only found two photos of D2129 in Cornwall, at St Blazey depot and Doublebois, and no evidence it worked to Wenford Bridge - the ‘1366’ class pannier tanks 1367/8/9 were still working the branch 1962-4 but it seems inconceivable that it wasn’t at least trialled during its 3 ½ years at St Blazey. A photo of a nearly new-looking D2127 at Dunmere Crossing can be found in the Bradford Barton album ‘Cornwall’s Railways – A Pictorial Survey’, and in 1966 it appears to have worked two brake van specials to Wenford Bridge, on 11/6/66 & 10/9/66, which were of course recorded on film. The loco was still in plain green at the time but had gained ‘wasp stripes’ by 4/67, although strangely those on the radiator end didn't wrap around onto the side casing, which makes me suspect they were applied ‘locally’. Two images of D2183 at Wadebridge in 1965 can be located in the ‘Bodmin Road (Parkway) to Padstow’ section of this website, however what must be the best photo of a Class 03 on the Wenford Bridge line (so far) is a glorious Colour-Rail shot of D2183 crossing the A389 at Dunmere in June 1965, which has been published twice in recent times (‘Modern Locomotives Illustrated’ Issue 217 & Strathwood’s ‘Sixties Diesel and Electric Days Remembered V’). The Class 03s were not a success in Cornwall, being regarded as underpowered and unreliable, however they could at least negotiate the very sharp curves on Wadebridge Quay, a challenge too far for the more powerful and heavier Class 08! Best regards, Neil Phillips

Many thanks Neil for your very detailed note.

More on the Wenford Branch
Shaun Brown

Dear sir, I am not a member of the CRS but your website is my home page and gets checked several times a day. It is a excellent site with thousands of informative posts and pictures and I stumbled on it by accident a couple of years ago and have checked it daily ever since.
Anyway, I digress, I have some information that may be of use to Mr Chris Tooth regarding the 03's on the branch. In the excellent book "Southern Branch Line Special No 1, Bodmin and Wadebridge 1834-1978" edited by Tony Fairclough and Alan Wills and published by Bradford Barton of Truro, ISBN 0 85153 343 4 on page 86 there is a picture of class 03 D2127 with a short rake of wagons and brake van waiting to cross the road at Dunmere in September 1965. The driver was Norman Wills, the fireman was Derek Connel and the guard was Harry Knight. This loco was transferred to St Blazey in August 1964 and Transferred back to Laira in May 1967. It appear that it was cut up at Cohens of Kingsbury in October 1968. Not sure if I can send you the image as I guess it would be against copyright?
I can't find any other images of 03's on the Bodmin and Wenford branch but class 03 D2129 was also based at St Blazey around the same time.

A few days ago Mr Quentin Goggs was asking for information/sources of photographs on the Wenford Bridge branch. The Railway Magazine has a article on it's website about the branch and about two thirds the way down the page there is a picture of a class 08 squeezing past his former cottage at Helland Bridge. The thing that is different about this photograph is that it's from the other side of the usual view. You can see the article at https://www.railwaymagazine.co.uk/1760/september-1984-bodmin-and-wadebridge-150/. There is also a superb double DVD by Branch Line Video called "Memories of the Bodmin and Wadebridge Railway Featuring the Wenford Bridge Mineral Line" BLV09-09-00021. This is a cracking set and features memories of the men who worked the lines and amongst the excellent footage is a piece with a Beattie Well Tank threading it's train past the cottage at Helland Bridge.
I hope that this information is of some use.

Kind regards, Shaun Brown

Many thanks for your information Shaun and also for the link - I would recommend that others try it.

A great day out
Keith Jenkin

An 03 heads the 'Two Rivers Railtour' up the Wenford branch on the 10th September 1966. Copyright Keith Jenkin.

Memories of a grand day out, previously we had covered the metals from Par through the Pinnock tunnel to Fowey and then down to Boscarne Junction by DMU where we changed onto this marvellous collection of brake vans for a trip up the branch. A pasty stop was made en route!!

26th June 2020

26/6/2020

The Cement
Jamie Dyke

Cement 6C35 02.50 Aberthaw to Moorswater on route. Copyright Jamie Dyke

70809 on the cement passes Combe junction platform. 24th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke.

70809 runs round at Moorswater on the 24th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke.

Finally 70809 and stock unloading at Moorswater. 24th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke.

Many thanks Jamie.

Clay on the way
Mark Lynam & Jamie Dyke

66056 seen at Treviscoe working the 6Z60 the 11.51 Parkandillack to Bescot Downside. 25th June 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam

66056 arrives at Burngullow working the 6Z60 11.51 Parkandillack to Bescot Down side . 25th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke..

Many thanks Mark and Jamie.

St Austell
Jamie Dyke

Six car DMU at St Austell. 2P13 the 14.13 Penzance to Plymouth. 25th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke. The train comprised of 150266 leading, 150249 and 150221 . 150266 leading, 150249 and 150221

Many thanks Jamie.

The sleeper returns
Penzance & St Erth
Andrew Triggs

Tonight saw 57604 with Load 5 on the returning Night Riviera, currently planned as running Thursday and Friday nights only, captured at Penzance (at 20.35) and St Erth (at 22.05) for CRS with 150202 (at 22.10) on St Ives duty for good measure. All the Best Andrew

Penzance with 57604 on the sleeper. It's 20.35 on the 25th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

St Erth Still enough light for a picture with 57604 on her way to Paddington with the sleeper. It's 22.05 on the 25th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

St Erth at 22.10 with 150202 in the bay. 25th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew

An appeal for Class 03 204hp diesels on the
Wenford Branch
Chris Tooth

Hi I would be grateful if your membership could provide any pointers in working out which of the 03s were used on the Wenford Branch. I'm interested in the period from 1964, when they took over from the GWR 1366s, through to say 1967. I've yet to find any photographs, other than on demolition trains, of the 03s working in the Bodmin \ Wenford \ Wadebridge areas. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Regards Chris Tooth. Can you help?

Helland - 08113 on its way to Wenford on the 7th February 1983. It squeezes past Mr. Qunetin Goggs house! Copyright Ian Cavill.

25th June 2020

25/6/2020

Holt Junction
Guy Vincent

Three pictures taken at Holt Junction (for Devizes Branch) almost 59 years apart. 1) NBL 'Warship' D602 'Bulldog' eases its 11 coach load off the Devizes branch with the diverted down 'Royal Duchy' 1.30pm Paddington-Penzance at 3.38pm on the sunny Saturday afternoon of September 9th 1961. One of the four members of traincrew visible in the cab is handing the single-line token to the Holt Junction signalman before the driver opens up and accelerates away towards Bradford Junction and Westbury. This diversion was necessary due to a severe land slip on the direct 'Stert Valley' route at Crookwood west of Patney & Chirton which resulted in closure of that line from 22nd August until repairs were completed on 25th September. This saw the single track Patney-Holt Jcn via Devizes line run at almost full capacity with trains waiting to pass at Holt Jcn plus at Devizes and Patney & Chirton. (Photo David Bartlett)
Photo's 2 & 3).No longer a Junction! The same location from the rear of two Swindon-Westbury 'Trans Wilts' shuttle services in early May and late June 2020. The horse chestnut trees visible in the background of the 1961 picture are still very much in evidence and can be seen in both the later shots slightly to the right of the remaining single track. The Devizes branch diverged just beyond the white ballast bags below the trees. Milepost 102.111 indicates that Holt Junction station was one-hundred-and-two and three-quarters of a mile from London Paddington station via Swindon. Following closure in 1966 the station was demolished in 1969-70 with the rubble simply being bulldozed across to the right and heaped into a long bank which is now hidden by dense vegetation. Guy Vincent

1) Holt Junction D602 on down Royal Duchy dropping off token for Devizes branch 9th September 1961. Copyright The late David Bartlett.

2) Holt Junction Site 6th May 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

3) Holt Junction looking north 22.06.2020 Guy Vincent.

Many thanks to Guy and the late David Bartlett for the article and especially the 'Golden Oldie' picture of David Bartlett's.

Many thanks Paul.

Along the wall at
Dawlish
Paul Barlow

A few shots tonight 924th June 2020) at Dawlish of the continuing sea wall work and the Fairwater to Totnes HOBC train

Kind regards, Paul Barlow

Dawlish sea wall work - close by Parsons tunnel. 24th June 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.

66414 1752 Fairwater-Totnes passes through Dawlish 24th June 2020 Copyright Paul Barlow.

66596 on rear of the 1752 Fairwater-Totnes passes through Dawlish. 24th June 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Wednesday Freight to
Par Harbour
Mark Lynam

66056 at Par Harbour Crossing reversing towards the harbour. 66056 shunting at Par Harbour. 66056 at Par Harbour. 70809 shunting at Moorswater cement works. Thanks,Mark Lynam

66056 Par Harbour Crossing 23rd June 2020 Copyright Mark Lynam

66056 Par Harbour (1) 23rd June 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam

66056 Par Harbour (2) 23rd June 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam

70809 at Moorswater Copyright Mark Lynam

Thanks Mark.

The closest thing you'll get to a book launch for
"A Place And A Name"
Phil Hadley

Greetings.I am writing to let you know that my second novel “A Place And A Name” is finally here with an official publication date of Monday 29th June2020. It’s been a long time coming, having dealt with another book project forsomeone else and house moves, and then had the virus restrictions delay theprinter & cause the planned launch at the VE75 Celebrations in Gorran Havento be cancelled but I am now glad to be able to recommend it to you. A Place AndA Name continues the wartime saga set in Cornwall of Major Isaac Trevennel ashe seeks to track down an enemy agent on the loose in the spring of 1941 whenfears of invasion are again on the rise. Set against an accurate historicalbackdrop, the story encapsulates the work of the Radio Security Service attheir wireless listening post at St Erth, the strategic vulnerabilities of theCable & Wireless Telegraph Station at Porthcurno and the horror and heroismof the attack on the SS Registan off Cape Cornwall. All the while the Major isseeking to further his romantic cause with the ATS Corporal Elizabeth Treluckeywhom he takes one weekend to meet his parents. How they all fare you’ll only findout by reading the book! If youwould like to purchase a copy you can do so in one of three ways: 1) Direct from me. You can either send me acheque for £12.50 payable to Phil Hadley to 40 Eastcliffe Road, Par, Cornwall,PL24 2AH or by using online banking and making a payment for £12.50 to SortCode: 11-00-88 Account Number: 00154730and marking the payment P&N. If you use this method you also need to sendme an email giving your order and the address to which you want the book postedand alerting me to your payment. This method is available immediately For people local to St Austell & Gorran Haven the cost is just thecover price of £10.00 as the book can be hand-delivered. 2) From Monday 29th June youcan purchase the book on eBay where it will cost you £13.00 to cover thebook, postage & packing, etc. 3) From Monday 29th June youcan purchase the book on Amazon where it will cost you £10.00 plus thepost & packaging charges set by Amazon even though it’s me posting themout! Should yourequire a personalised inscription let me know either in your email or letter,via eBay message or Amazon message to seller. This needs to be done at the timeof purchase. Copies ofthe first book in the planned trilogy “No Small Stir” are still available at£10.00 direct from me or via eBay or £10.80 on Amazon. Please state clearly thetitle required. Should youhave a rush of blood to the head and want to purchase multiple copies, thenplease get in touch regarding prices. All postingis by Royal Mail First Class and posting is done within 2 working days. RoyalMail delivery then varies across the country. Hand delivery for locals may take2-3 days depending on your location. Any questions, do get in touch. Yours sincerely, Phil

You want fiction get Phil's book - you want fact get Craig's book!

A peep at the
Newquay Branch
Jamie Dyke

150219 - the last remaining blue liveried class 150 seen from Demeza bridge. 15.09 23rd June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke

150219 at Tregoss Crossing at 16.01 on the 23rd June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke. To my mind a classic picture - nicely framed. KJ.

Thanks Jamie.

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Lt. Phil Boak. R.N.