1st September 2020

1/9/2020

Out in the twilight
David Tozer

Taken at 19.40 in the fading light. GWR route learner/refresher approaches Exhibition Way overbridge, Exeter. 150248 was working the 1745 5Z31 Castle Cary - Exeter (New Yard). Dave

150248 1st September 2020 Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David - taken 1 and a half hours ago!!

Crewe Coal Sidings (DRS) to
Devonport Royal Dockyard
Roger Winnen

Quite a number of Railway Enthusiasts gathered at Keyham this lunchtime for the run of 2 Class 66s on a training run into Devonport Dockyard. 66122 in DBS Livery together with 66425 in DRS Livery.
Craig Munday travelled up from Cornwall as part of the organisation (MOM) operating the ground frame etc. Problems arose moving the points after such a longtime out of use, however it came right in the end. The engines were split on the branch and then recoupled before entering the Dockyard for a short stay. The return journey via St Budeaux Victoria Road reverse Plymouth to Bridgewater.

200901a 66122 in DBS Livery together with 66425 in DRS Livery stands in the through road at Plymouth Station on route to Devonport Royal Dockyard. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901b Looking from the other end sees 66425 in the smart DRS Livery. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901c The pair are seen arriving at the junction for the Dockyard Branch. Note the missing rail on the crossover. This crossover has had little use for a number of years, so it was removed by Network Rail. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901d Action at the junction with the orange army, Craig Munday was the MOM in attendance seen lower left by the now enclosed ground frame. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901e The Two Class 66s enter the branch which hasn't seen traffic for a number of years. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901f On the Dockyard Branch with the sign 'End of Staff Section. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901g An uncoupling exercise was carried out as this photograph shows before both engines went into the yard. Unfortunately it is now impossible to take a photograph looking in the opposite direction.as the original fence has now been covered complete with timber. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901h Leaving the branch and unable to use the crossover the engines headed for St Budeaux Victoria Road to return on the up main to Plymouth Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901i Returning from St Budeaux the pair crosses the abandoned crossover heading to Plymouth & Bridgewater. Copyright Roger Winnen

Roger reports to be very tired after another long day with his camera - well done and thanks Roger. A rare and interesting operation.

Cogload
HST & Crewe to Devonport working
Bill Elston

Over at sunny Cogload this morning. Photo 1 shows 2C67 Cardiff – Taunton, led by 43122 Dunster Castle, with still unnamed 43005 bringing up the rear. Even GWR green appears half decent in the sun ! Close behind were DBC 66122 with DRS 66425 working from Crewe to Devonport Dockyard. Best wishes, Bill