21st December 2019

It soon will be Christmas!
Santa by Steam amd Diesel
Roger Winnen

191221a Santa by Sulzer as 47306 The Sapper 47306 prepars to depart Bodmin General on the 12.45 Santa by Sulzer service to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

191221b Inside the Signal Box by kind invitation of David Letcher. Copyright Roger Winnen

191221c 4612 tails Santa by Steam to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

191221d The returning service being the 12.25 from Bodmin Parkway approaches Bodmin General Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

191221e The new platform is seen taking shape at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

191221f With the weather closing in we see 47306 The Sapper arriving at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

191221g 4612 decorated for the occasion departs Bodmin Parkway at 14.17. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many Thanks to David Letcher for his information  of movements during my visit which was most appreciated.

Class 67s at Arena Park Exeter
David Tozer

The 0556 1Q23 Reading to Exeter and back to Salisbury with 67027 leading and 67023 tailing on the Network Rail Measurement Train. Copyright David Tozer
I had hoped to get a better photo when they returned, however this proved impossible as another train blocked the view passing going towards Exeter.

Thanks David

Distant Signals
​Change to Yellow
Julian Hanwell

Hi Keith.
I discovered this interesting memo about changing over the Distant Signals in Cornwall to Yellow lights.
I'm sure Roy will be interested in this paper....
Hope you're ok for Christmas, Regards. Julian Hanwell. 
​Yes, extremely interesting, many thanks. and a happy Christmas to you too.

GWR NOTICE to Enginemen and fof signalmen ref yellow arms 1933. From Julian Hanwell.

Marazion/Long Rock
Mark Lynam

A lovely day yesterday took Mark Lynam to Long Rock and Marazion  where in brilliant sunshine he saw  the test train on its way in and out of the terminus. What a delightful view the properties on the left must have - and, depending on your interests either enhanced of spoilt by the train.   An enthusiasts paradise!!  Many thanks for your support during the year Mark - all the very best to you.

67027 & 67023 Longrock working the 1Q18 Reading triangle to Penzance and back to Paignton, 20th December 2019. Copyright Mark Lynham

After a brief rest at the terminus 67023 heads the test train away for Paignton. 20th December 2019. Copyright Mark Lynam.

Later in the day, looking splendid 43004 heads past Marazion marshes towards Penzance With the 2C19 1017 Plymouth to Penzance. Copyright Mark Lynam

Salisbury
Ron Kosys

​A train of empty 4-wheeled ARC hoppers are passing through Salisbury on 19th April 1988, heading towards Westbury.
Note the exhibition train on the left, which was of course based there.
Very best regards, Ron. 
​Many thanks indeed Ron, we never know where we'll see you next - variety is the spice of live.  Happy Christmas.

56044 seen at the Exeter end of the island platform at Salisbury on the 19th April 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.