Blog Archives

21st January 2022

21/1/2022

The Large Crane at
Goodrington
Photograph by kind permission

This large crane was photographed at Goodrington after it had been used in the installation of a new bridge at Livermead, Torquay. Many thanks to Roger Salter for obtaining permission to use this photograph on our site.

Boscarne Exchange Platform
Roger Winnen

760206i Nearly 46 yeara ago on 6th February 1976 Boscarne Exchange with Keith Jenkin & family, Peter Moore etc. Copyright Roger Winnen

BT Unit at
St Erth
Stephen Widdowson

Resting in the St Ives bay at St Erth. 51302 + 59469 + 51317 P460 in the BT livery DMU St Erth 20th June 1987 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

Bearing the unique BT Livery 51302 + 59469 + 51317 P460 sets off for St Ives once more. The slight exhaust from the leading coach of the set bearing witness to the fact that the power is on. Copyright Steve Widdowso

The appearance of the uniquely BT liveried DMU in the area came as quite a surprise and as I worked at Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station at the time it was a source of pride and pleasure to me. KJ. Quite what inspired BT to fund this show is unknown.

Many thanks to Steve for capturing in black and white the action.

Exeter
Rogr Winnen

A Barnstaple to Exeter and Plymouth DMU at St Davids. Copyright Roger Winnen 30th March 1978 Note the large collection of BRUTES awaiting on the platform.

Many thanks Roger for this 'shot from the past'.

Map and Brochure scans
Michael L Roach

Herewith are some interesting scans of the latest GWR and National System Maps. Some points to note: The cover is believed to be a Cornish view. The legend defines three types of route - main, regional and local. It also shows integrated bus routes (with through rail ticketing). The legend does not define whatever is going on between Whitland and Carmarthen.
Regards, Mike.

158 750 - on a GWR publicity leaflet possibly in Cornwall. Michael L, Roach.

The local Map.

The area map - but what is goig one between Carmarthen and Whitland and why is the Pembroke Dock line shown as dotted?

Many thanks to Mike for sending these in.

20th January 2022

20/1/2022

Penzance
Steve Widdowson

50039 Implacable & 50020 Revenge await further duties at Penzance 20th June 1987 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Many thanks Steve

50025 Invincible near Oxford
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, What wonderful pictures of the Jubilee at Starcross!You just don’t know what gems are hidden away. What a sad picture of 50025 after its accident. Here is a picture of the loco. in fine condition approaching the bridge at Port Meadow ,Oxford on 24 June 1988. It has just arrived from Paddington and is running round its matching rake of coaches in the sidings North of the station. Thanks, best wishes, Michael. Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

Dainton Bank
Paul Barlow

43021 leads 43190 on the 07.35 Paddington to Penzance on Dainton bank near Stoneycombe 21st August 2004. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

Creech St Michael
Bill Elston

Hi Keith,
Some observations at Creech today
Best wishes, Bill Elston

a) Bristol to Penzance, 2C69, Power cars 43194 tailed by 43005. 19th January 2022. Copyright Bill Elston.

b) 08:55 Newton Abbot Hackney Yd to Abergavenny Up sidings Log train. This appears to be a one-off. (when was the last time we saw a loaded log train? ) 19th January 2022. Copyright Bill Elston.

c) Penzance to Cardiff, 2U14, PCs 43156 tailed by 43097. A few weeks ago this shot was impossible, but there has been more serious cutting back; a large oak tree has been felled. 19th January 2022. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill - a better view now.

Engineering - Langham area - west of
Ivybridge
Mark Howells

Afternoon Keith,
I have just returned from a few days in the West Country undertaking briefings and training with our internal drainage maintenance and inspection team in Plymouth.

On Monday (17th January) afternoon one of my engineers and I had a chance to visit a site between Langham and Dinnaton on the Great Western Mainline to investigate an ongoing land drainage issue.

Thankfully, the weather was excellent so I managed to capture several and unusual images during our site visit – please find these attached.

Kind Regards, Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM
Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)

Langham Culvert - taken in the late afternoon sun. 17th January 2022. Copyright Mark Howells Network Rail

Drainage at sunset - Langham It's 16.32 on the 17th January 2022 Copyright Mark Howells Network Rail

Train Vs. Drain - 17th January 2022 at 16.32 Copyright Mark Howells Network Rail

Getting out and about with Mark Howells.
Many thanks Mark

Yesterdays Engineering train at
Penzance
Andrew Triggs

Evening Keith/Roger
4 shots of todays visit by 1963 vintage Colas 37175 with 3Q52 Bi monthy UTU run from Exeter Riverside N.Y this afternoon at Penzance for CRS, also visiting Gunnislake and St Ives lines in the early hours
All the Best Andrew

1. From above the station wall on a dull January afternoon. 19th January 2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs.

2. Peeking over the cycle path fencing by Oil 2 siding. 19th January 2022. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

3. From by platform 4. 19th January 2022. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

And finally 4. Next to 43005 'St Michaels Mount' leading 2P20 for Plymouth on platform 4

Many thanks Andrew.

19th January 2022

19/1/2022

37175 On tonights test train to Exeter Riverside
Roger Winnen

220119a 37175 Heads tonights test train due to depart at 22.43 from Penzance to Exeter Riverside. Copyright Roger Winnen

220119f The rear driving trailer of the train. Copyright Roger Winnen

Todays new Timber Flow
David Tozer & Dennis Clark

70803 at Silverton with the 0855 6Z50 Newton Abbot (Hackney Yard) to Abergavenny Up Sidings. This was the first day of operation. Copyright David Tozer

Hi Keith, I was at Severn Tunnel Junction today for the Timber train hauled by 70803. Most of my shots are still on the camera but I took this going away shot on my phone. I’m sure you will have dozens better but it was great to see it and hopefully it will become a regular working, Regards and Copyright Dennis Clarke,

Many Thanks to David & Dennis for these photographs

The Return of the
Devon Timber Trains +
Al Peters

Timber trains returned to Devon in the form of a trial from Hackney Yard to Abergavenny, Colas Rail timber trains known as 'The Logs' previously ran from Teigngrace where the wagons were loaded for Kronospan at Chirk. Colas Rail 70803 is seen at Hackney Yard with 8 wagons being loaded for Pontrilas Timber on 17th January 2022. The train will work 6Z61 from Hackney Yard to Abergavenny the following day for unloading, if successful timber trains will once more become a common sight along the Dawlish Sea Wall.

Driver Alan Peters

Loading the train at Newton Abbot Hackney Yard. Copyright Alan Peters

Hackney Yard makes an ideal place for the stack of logs, hopefully this will become a regular sight 17/01/22 Copyright Driver Alan Peters

The wagons are strapped ready for the first trial timber train to Abergavenny 17/01/22 Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Red Cow Crossing Exeter
(Apologies! Delayed in our postal system)

Red Cow Crossing, Exeter St Davids with First Great Western Thames Turbo 166 209 still in blue livery seen arriving ECS from Exeter New Yard to work the Exmouth service on 09th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 70809 seen arriving at Exeter St Davids with the late running 6C21 from Westbury with an impressive 20 loaded Auto hoppers for the Paignton weekend engineering works, the train was top and tailed with 70817 at the rear and had to run via Bristol Temple Meads due to a points failure in the Frome area on the 9th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works.

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works. The loco was stabled overnight at Newton Abbot and pictured on 4th January 2022, note the BR totem on the old lamp post. Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works. Colas class 66 working 0Z11 Newton Abbot to Goodrington Sidings awaits signal PN1 at Hollicombe Beach on 4th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works. The sight of a class 66 at Paignton in daylight is quite rare, 66850 waits for the barriers to be lowered at Paignton to continue to Goodrington Sidings on 4th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works. The view from Paignton South Level Crossing with 2 x GWR 150 units waiting to depart with the 15:24 to Exmouth, Colas 66850 departing for Goodrington Sidings and BR class 08 D3014 stabled on the P&DSR on 5th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

The 'Ark' at
Bodmin Parkway
Stephen Widdowson

50035 Ark Royal rolls in at Bodmin Parkway 20th June 1987 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

50035 Ark Royal worked its last train in July 1990 and was withdrawn in August 1990 due to main generator damage, thereby becoming the 18th Class 50 - it was later the first of the 50's to enter preservation.

Many thanks Steve

Going up
Dainton Bank
Paul Barlow

A nice blend of summer colours as Fragonet Liveried 47709 heads the 0644 Redhill to Penzance 1Z84 on Dainton bank 21st August 2004. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul

Bank Holiday rain at
Penzance
Clive Smith

45116 is set to depart with the 1B59 13.45 Penzance - Bristol TM on the 30th May 1983. It's raining so it must be a Bank Holiday. The train is definitely 'short form' with only four coaches. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive - a most interesting picture with plenty of parcels in evidence on the trolleys in the background.

Jubilees in Devon
by David Hunt
David provides a paper with a record of Jubilee appearances in Devon. This record is complimented with photographs kindly supplied by Geoff London of Jubilee 45960 at Starcross and also a rare view at Cockwood showing a third access point to the harbour which was subsequently been filled in.

Once again outside the area of Cornwall BUT the question was asked when a Jubilee went to Plymouth in 2021 as to whether one had even been to Devon before. My research is as follows.

Jubilee 45660 ROOKE is the first that I can locate which worked the Bristol Pylle Hill to Plymouth parcels as far as Exeter St Davids on 15 September 1962, where it was turned and sent light engine back to Bristol Barrow Road (LMS) depot.

The second recorded visit happened exactly 1 year later on 15 September 1963 when 45690 LEANDER worked a freight to Newton Abbot Hackney Yard and then proceeded light engine to Goodrington Sidings to turn and, one again, returned light engine to Bristol Barrow Road.

This was during the period when the GWR passenger shed at Bristol Bath Road had gone over to Diesel and the GWR shed at Bristol St Phillips Marsh was being prepared for Diesel Multiple Unit servicing and all of the remaining steam locomotives still at those 2 depots were transferred to Bristol Barton Road depot which was to see out the remainder of its days as a Steam Shed.

The congregation of all the steam locomotives at Bristol Barrow Road depot, together with the transfer of the Somerset and Dorset line to the Western Region, meant that the train crews had to learn other routes and the locomotives became used as a pool and were sent into areas in which that type of locomotive had previously never visited.

By king permission of Geoff Lendon I enclose 5 images taken from slides of 45690 on the Cockwood and Starcross area.

(1) 45690 crossing the causeway at Cockwood Harbour. Note the fact that the locomotive is crossing third access bridge later replaced by extending the embankment. 15th September 1963. Copyright Geoff Lendon

(2) 45690 at Starcross stopped on the up line awaiting instructions. Sun 15th September 1963 Copyright Geoff Lendon

(3) 45690 at Starcross stopped on the up line awaiting instructions. Sun 15th September 1963 Copyright Geoff Lendon

45690 at Starcross waiting to proceed wrong line to at least Exminster where there will be first opportunity for it to cross over. Sun 15th September 1963 Copyright Geoff Lendon

45690 at Starcross waiting to proceed wrong line to at least Exminster where there will be the first opportunity for it to cross over. Sun 15th September 1963 Copyright Geoff Lendon

A special thanks to David Hunt for the information and to Geoff Lendon for the use of his unique photographs.

18th January 2022

18/1/2022

Staffords Bridge
Paul Barlow.

43366 and 43207 on 1153 Plymouth to Birmingham approaches Staffords bridge 14 January 2022.The low winter sunlight makes it look like 'dayglow'. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A brilliant picture Paul - there is no other word for it. Many thanks indeed.

Route Refresher
Pinhoe
David Tozer and Keith Turley

I would say that this is a fair comment from David Tozer.
I guess you can say this photograph is controversal on a day when SWR slashed services between Salisbury and Exeter by 50% due to crew shortages.
GWR ran a route refresher from Exeter TMD to Castle Cary via Honiton. 158766 taken at Pinhoe with the 1513 3Z50 Exeter TMD to Castle Cary and return. Dave Tozer

158766 at Pinhoe 17th January 2022 Copyright David Tozer

158766 at Pinhoe 17th january 2022 Copyright David Tozer

A rare visitor to the former LSWR main line, GWR class158 DMU No.158766 approaches Pinhoe station on 17th January 2022, working the 3Z50 15:13 Exeter TMD to Castle Cary driver route learner/refresher. Copyright Keith Turley.

Many thanks to David and Keith

Morning on the
Plym Estuary
Clive Smith

Another glorious day. Another two hour walk. This time around the grounds of Saltram House in Plymouth which has a path on the opposite side of the bank to the railway. This wasn't really a photo outing as the best time for that would be at high tide for reflections but the wet mud reflects the blue sky nicely.

(1) 10.45 a.m. and Cross Country's 06.10 Derby - Plymouth formed of Voyager sets 220001 & 221140 skirts the Plym Estuary as it approaches Laira.

(2) The 08.50 Penzance - Cardiff Central headed by named 43094 'St Mawes Castle' with unnamed 43010 on the rear has just emerged from under the Embankment Road Bridge. Look closely on the concrete above the rear power car to see words of wisdom from a romantic who has daubed philosophical graffiti. Makes a change from the usual gaudy rubbish that's sprayed everywhere and increasingly on the side of trains.

Regards, Clive Smith

(1) 10.45 a.m. and Cross Country's 06.10 Derby - Plymouth formed of Voyager sets 220001 & 221140 skirts the Plym Estuary as it approaches Laira. 17th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(2) The 08.50 Penzance - Cardiff Central headed by named 43094 'St Mawes Castle' with unnamed 43010 on the rear has just emerged from under the Embankment Road Bridge. Look closely on the concrete above the rear power car to see words of wisdom from a romantic who has daubed philosophical graffiti. Makes a change from the usual gaudy rubbish that's sprayed everywhere and increasingly on the side of trains. 17th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

Well said - many thanks Clive and the artist.

Many thanks Clive - super views

Didcot
Ron Kosys

47557 traversing Foxhall junction, west of Didcot, heading for Swindon. Note the water tower of Didcot Railway Centre in the background. 6th September 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

50041 back in service at
Bolitho & Basingstoke
Roger Geach

The pictures below have been added to the feature concerning 50 041 arrival on its side at Paddington on the 23rd November 1983. To see the feature please click here and scroll down.

Looking as if it had never been involved in a major incident. 50041 seen at Bolitho 24th April 1987. Copyright Roger Geach

50041 on the 09.10 Waterloo to Exeter - seen at Basingstoke 13th October 1988. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks indeed Roger.

Bodmin Parkway
Stephen Widdowson

50029 Renown arrives at Bodmin Parkway 20th June 1987 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

Many thanks Steve.

Last but not least.
Westwood Box
John Murray Roberts

Keith, I wonder if you've seen this. John.
Tuesday Treasures - October 2020 | Didcot Railway Centre

John kindly sent this one in complete with a link - what more could you ask - excellent material just click the above and enjoy/
Many thanks indeed John.

Be warned
a note from David Ward

Night Riviera Sleeper Suspension of service Monday 24 January – Thursday 17 MarchOvernight engineering work every Monday to Thursday, Monday 24 January - Thursday 17 March, will see the line between Exeter St David and Teignmouth closed.
During these eight weeks, as part of its plans to improve the resilience of the line between Dawlish and Holcombe, Network Rail will be building a 209-metre extension to the existing rockfall shelter north of Parsons Tunnel.

We always work with Network Rail to minimise the impact of their work. Traditionally, this might mean reducing services at weekends. However, with fewer customers using this service at present due to Covid, carrying out the work during the week will cause less disruption.

Our Night Riviera Sleeper is extremely popular, providing an important link between London and Devon & Cornwall, and we are sorry for the disruption this vital work will cause. We look forward to its completion, when we can welcome back the world-famous Night Riviera Sleeper into full service.

Many thanks David.

17th January 2022

17/1/2022

The End of line for
50025 Invincible
Hugh Austen

I noticed all the attention to 50041 Bulwork on the site recently and thought you may like the photos of the other 50 which met its end in 1989

890806a 50025 Was on the Oxford to Paddington on 6th August 1989 when it was derailed by vandals putting I believe rail and sleepers on the track at West Ealing fortunatly no fatalities. Here we see 50025 in Sainsbury's car park on the 8th August 1989 before being taken to Old Oak Common depot. Copyright Hugh Austen

890813a Seen at Old Oak Common on 13th August 1989 showing the other side view of 50025 Invincible and how badly damaged the Class 50 and was eventually scraoped in October 1989. Copyright Hugh Austen.

Many Thanks Hugh

Yesterday at Rewe
David Tozer

Couple of photos taken today at Rewe:- 800301 with the late running 0835 1A77 Exeter St David's to London Paddington 66556 and 66566 top and tail the 0827 6Y15 Newton Abbot West Junction to Taunton Fairwater Yard with the HOBC Copyright David Tozer

800301 at Rewe with the late running 08.35 Exeter St David's to London Paddington. Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

Penzance
Steve Widdowson

47564 Colossus ready to depart from platform 2 at Penzance 20th June 1987 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Many thanks Steve

16th January 2022

16/1/2022

Plymouth Rail Circle/GWS
Railtour to the Bluebell Line
Peter Dale

It is nearly 50 years ago on Sunday 16th April that this railtour ran from Plymouth to Haywards Heath visiting the Bluebell Railway. Many railway enthusiasts from Cornwall travelled on this special.
Peter Dale has now uncovered these from his vast collection of photographs taken over the years.

60-Greyhound on Bluebell special StDavids Apr72 - Donald Stephens from Penzance is seen photographing this special at Exeter St David's Copyright Peter Dale

31027 A Class P Stands at Sheffield Park Station. Copyright Peter Dale

3217 Earl of Berkeley awaits departure at Sheffield Park Station. Copyright Peter Dale

The railtour enthusiasts at Sheffield Park Station with former Great Western 4-4-0 3217 Earl of Berkeley. Copyright Peter Dale

Many Thanks Peter

For further coverage on this Railtour go to features number 2011 and scroll down the pages
Click Here to go into Features Jan-June 2020 Item 2011

Winter Sun
Craig Munday

Hi Keith

A welcome bit of cold and frost (how fickle we photographers are) to share this week. On nights saw me venture out for some local workings.

I had spied a low sun shot before Christmas at Bolitho, and waited for a sunny Thursday afternoon in Mid January for the time lag of the sun to "catch up" from the shortest day. A sun down time of 16.41 seemed ideal for the afternoon JIAs Exeter bound around 16.00, close behind the up London. The sheep were happily grazing as the light turned yellow and the sun over to the left burned brightly orange. Soon the sight of 66082 came into view and it was viewed for a full minute, first crossing the beautiful Liskeard viaduct, then Bolitho viaduct before passing LD35, the down Liskeard home board. The light held and the result was rather nice. Both images are included, the standard lens giving a sharp image even a 1/2 mile away.
Best wishes, Craig

The loco, 66082 is also seen that morning as it was started up for duty, the thermometer well below freezing. Nicely caught on the 13th January 66082 at St Blazey. Copyright Craig Munday

Bolitho 6C53 66082 13th January 2022. Copyright Craig Munday,

6C53 66082 (3) (Large) The same train - a little larger at Bolitho. 13th January 2022. Copyright Craig Munday. (Revised)

The NMT ran on Fri 14th and it's rare to get a fine day for this. Yesterday seemed ideal, but around clay country, large, fast moving fluffy cloud hindered the shot. I headed over to Trewiddle to grab a landscape view as the I'm concerned this view's days are running out with the housing being erected in the Trewiddle complex in the foreground. The houses are springing up at an alarming rate. The shot was nearly ruined by a westbound Castle set just creeping onto the structure. I had heard this toot-up for Homlbush FP crossing, and watched in horror as it departed the station just as the yellow HST was due on the up! The NMT nicely lit at Trewiddle. 14th January 2022, Copyright Craig Munday

From the archive, I saw a picture of 25261 at Par which created a lot of interest. The loco was not a "local" one and visited right at the end of the class being active in the Duchy around 1980. By chance I captured it passing Par arches with two railfreight vans from Burngullow. Being eleven years old, I didn't possess the "where-with-all" to pursue the loco and grab a better picture at Par. The impetulence of youth eh? 25261 at Par in 1981 Copyright Craig Munday.

Bolitho 6C53 66082 13th January 2022. Copyright Craig Munday

Many thanks Craig.

Horse Cove
Ron Kosys

47513 makes a nice picture as it trundles along the coast passing Horse Cove on the 23rd June 1989. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron

Winter at
Exeter
Paul Barlow

In contrast to hot June above snow still ies everywhere except on the locos as 31107 and 45071 stand Exeter St Davids. 1st January 1979 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Bodmin Parkway
Stephen Widdowson

Back to the long summer days once more as 253 053 gives its class mate a healthy shove from behind leaving Bodmin Parkway and heading for the terminus stlll 52 and a half distant wuth the 13.50 Paddington to Penzance . 20th June 1987. Copyright Stephen Widdowson.

Many thanks Steve

Little & Large at
Whatley Quarry
Keith Gale

Dear Keith,

I hope this may be of interest - its a little way from Cornwall, but some may find this interesting.

Whilst out and about last Thursday (13th January 2022) I saw something which seemed to be a little unusual from the norm. Normally the resident GM shunter is powerful enough to push loaded trains into the quarry to make up the 'jumbo' trains unaided. It was quite frosty that morning and the shunter seemed to be losing traction so the crew asked for a shove from a big brother class 66. I attach a picture of the action. As can be seen, although the class 66 is a big GM loco, the GM shunter is built to the American loading gauge. It seems unusual to see a class 66 actually at the quarry. The shunter and class 66 are of course related, both being General Motors products.

66951 and GM 37903 work together at Whatley Quarry on 13 January 2022.

cheers Keith Gale

I attach a picture of the action. As can be seen, although the class 66 is a big GM loco, the GM shunter is built to the American loading gauge. It seems unusual to see a class 66 actually at the quarry. The shunter and class 66 are of course related, both being General Motors products. 66951 and GM 37903 work together at Whatley Quarry on 13 January 2022. Copyright Keith Gale

Many thanks to Keith Gale for providing the above picture.

15th January 2022

15/1/2022

Oh what a beautiful morning - oh what a busy day.
Saltash & S. Brent
Clive Smith

The photos might suggest that I spent Friday 14th chasing after different coloured HSTs but this was anything but the case. A few weeks ago I arranged appointments at my chiropractor at Saltash for 09.00, a haircut in Plympton for 10.15 and at my dentist in South Brent at 12.15 . All well and good. What I hadn't countered for was glorious sunshine, the Network Rail New Measurement Train being out and the re-emergence of a daily XC HST
Regards, Clive Smith

(1) Utterly stunning light on the River Tamar as the 08.47 Plymouth - Penzance crosses the Royal Albert Bridge with 43170 on the rear and 43155 out of sight on the front. Driving down the A38 I was met with both bridges superbly illuminated and so parked up at the bridge view car park and luckily this train was just approaching. 14th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(2) Superlative low winter morning sun illuminating Saltash waterfront and the bridge approach as the 1Q18 06.11 Reading Triangle - Paignton via Penzance New Measurement Train is about to pass through the station at 09.35. Now currently operated by ex-LNER power cars 43290 (rear) and 43299 (front)..Photographed from St Budeaux. 14th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(3) With my spinal chord re-arranged and a few sunny bridge fots to boot it was off to the top end of Plympton for my haircut appointment. With my remaining hairs snipped it was just a couple of minutes up the road to Hemerdon and perfect timing for the 08.50 Penzance - Cardiff Central ascending the 1 in 42 gradient in the morning sunshine headed by 43192 with 43092 on the rear. 14th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(4) Next up was my dentist at South Brent which is in the converted goods shed next to the railway at the site of the former Brent Station . My appointment was at 12.15 for two fillings and fortuitously the 1M49 11.53 Plymouth - Birmingham New Street which was on its third day of working with an XC HST was due to pass at 12.10. Ideal. Unfortunately the morning Dartmoor cloud had failed to shift resulting in the only dull shot of the day. 43366 is on the front and 43207 on the rear. 14th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(5) With barely enough time to eat my lunch I was out again for the 1Q18 06.11 Reading Triangle - Paignton via Penzance New Measurement Train now passing Daveys Bridge running fifteen minutes early at 13.55. 14th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

Ankle, hair and teeth - what a glorious day. Many thanks Clive.

Shivering on shed. 1st Jan '79
Exeter
Paul Barlow

Here we see 25206 resting on Exeter St Davids shed on New Years Day - 1st January 1979.. Copyright Paul Barlow

Brrr - looking like Christmas Cake. Many thanks Paul.

Bodmin Parkway
Stephen Widdowson

43172 together with 43187 power the 13.50 Paddington to Penzance on the 20th June 1987. Copyright Steve Widdowson

Many thanks Steve.

Letter from Burma
Roy Hart

I (KJ) wrote and thanked Roy for his response to a recent request b David Cooke concerning the last engine at Newton Abbot shed.
Dear Keith,
Thanks for your message. I must confess that I rather enjoy these 'mystery' cases which come up from time to time!
I suppose that there are fewer and fewer of us who have memories of these things. The other day I pulled out my old negatives from the 1960s, wondering about how to get them scanned. I found pictures of the GWS special in 1967 when the Hall and 1466 hauled four coaches from Plymouth to Didcot. Society members, limited to 100, were offered the ride - for the princely sum of 2 quid. I rode on it. Left home at 0530, rode the special as far as Westbury, took a DMU to Bristol and was home in bed at Trevingey by midnight! On thinking about it though, this was 54 years ago (I was 16). How many of us who rode that train are left, I wonder?
All good wishes to you and Valerie. Hope to see you before too long.

Nway and Roy

Many thanks once more Roy - I hope you won't mind me publishing your letter - almost in full. Hopefully it will bring forth previously unseen pictures of the move. Isn't it possible to get a light weight scanner out there - we hope to see some of your collection - it must be fascinating.

Seen at Camborne - in memory of Jethro whose funeral occurred recently. The photographer is unknown but we're glad 'his train did stop Camborne'

14th January 2022

14/1/2022

Old Oak
50041
Guy Vincent

Good evening Keith
From a small number of photos classed as 'rejects' that I thought had been thrown out years ago I found the attached colour print of 50041 at the side of Old Oak Common depot on Sunday 10th December 1983. I went there in the hope of catching sight of the loco and was able to creep down and snatch this truly awful photo before quickly making a hasty exit back to the canal towpath. The damage was pretty severe but at the time with the class having just gone through a major refurbishment programme a good case could be made for repairs and 50041 was duly dispatched to Doncaster Works.
Regards, Guy Vincent

50041 Old Oak Common 10th December 1983. Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy - your reject has become a 'Gem' in the history of 50 041.

Bittaford from afar
Clive Smith

A Cross Country HST with power cars 43366 and 43207 works the 1M42 11.53 Plymouth - Birmingham New Street along the southern slopes of Dartmoor as it crosses Bittaford Viaduct .Normally a Voyager, this is the second day running this train has been an HST and is the only XC HST out working at the moment during an industrial dispute. It is believed to be working for driver traction refresher purposes. This is the first time I have used this location in over twenty years living in the locality. I always thought the shot wasn't possible due to trees and electricity pylons and wires in the valley below but I recently saw a similar photo so set out to find the viewpoint. A quick recce the previous day suggested it might be down a horrendously boggy farm track and so I turned up wearing appropriate footwear and trousers. After about two hundred yards of trudging through mud I came to an opening at the top of a field that slopes down the valley with a view out across a dip in the electricity cables. I was a bit concerned the 2+7 HST might not all fit in as there are trees at either end of the gap where the track is visible but luckily it all worked.
Regards, Clive Smith.

Bittaford from afar. Fitting in the view perfectly 43366 and 43207 work the 1M42 11.53 Plym - Brum N S along the southern slopes of Dartmoor as it crosses Bittaford Viaduct 13 Jan 22. Copyright Clive Smith

A remarkable view Clive, most certainly well worth the effort especially with that dodgy ankle. Many thanks.

Test Train from Paddington
Roger Winnen

220113a A return test train runs into Penzance from Paddington, note the modifications above the bogies . One wonders the reason behind it! Copyright Roger Winnen

220113b A return test train departs Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

David Critchlow writes

Hi Keith,
Hope you and family keeping well. Picked up on Roger’s query about the IET modification. I’m not involved in any way but it looks like it could be a modification to overcome cracking problems, part of a Forward Repair Plan to ensure long term use. Below are extracts from bulletins and although the 1st states coaches I’m wondering if that’s what was actually meant. Up to now it has been time consuming checks on the cracks each time an IET leaves the depot.

May 8 2021. “Checks for cracks in the train’s yaw dampers, the area where the suspension system attaches to the vehicle body, resulted in the identification of cracks in the jacking point area on some coaches. Regular yaw damper inspections were prompted following the withdrawal of eight class 800s from service on April 28 after hairline cracks were discovered on two trains with suspected issues on another six.” (https://www.railjournal.com/news/hitachi-class-800-801-802-iets-withdrawn-from-service/)
Sep 2021. “An Office of Rail and Road (sic) interim report said the cracks found in the Hitachi Class 800 and 385 series lifting plates were the result of stress corrosion, and cracks in shock absorbers called yaw dampers were a result of fatigue. A full report will come in December 21.” (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-58494275)

“ORR's final report will establish the root cause of the cracking and will review Hitachi's plan for long term fleet recovery and management and identify any areas for improvement for the industry.” (https://www.investegate.co.uk/office-of-rail--38-road/rns/orr-interim-report-on-hitachi-train-cracks/202109090700011750L/)

Many thanks indeed David for your suggestions and bulletins on this subject of IET modifications
Roger Winnen

Brillant sunshine in January
Roger Winnen

This was the first day of unbroken sunshine for many weeks so I decided to use a Cornwall Rover Ticket for travel around Cornwall & West Devon

220112a The scene at Bodmin on Wednesday, The roads are blocked by bridge replacements which cover replacement bridges over two lines at the station throat. Copyright Roger Winnen

220112b The tower block on Plymouth Station is wrapped up well for the winter, now being converted to serve the Plymouth University complex. Copyright Roger Winnen

220112c Signals at Bere Ferrers. Non operational for the Gunnislake Branch. Copyright Roger Winnen

220112d A galaxy of industrial locomotives at the Tamar Belle Heritage site, Bere Ferrers. Copyright Roger Winnen

220112e The sun sets on the Royal Albert Bridge. Copyright Roger Winnen

Moreton
Ron Kosys

47540 looking very smart as it passes Moreton with a service from Paddington. 5th September 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

Two Exeter pals at
Exhibition Road Bridge
David Tozer and Keith Turley

On a cold frosty 13th January 2022, Ex. LNER class 43 power car now operated by Network Rail. No.43299, with classmate No.43290 on the rear pass Pinhoe, working the 1Q23
the 05:56 Reading to Salisbury via Exeter New Yard NMT.
Regards Keith Turley.

A smashing crisp and cold shot of NMT as it approaches Exhibition Way bridge. - Exeter. 13th January 2022 Copyright Keith Turley

A going away shot, of the NMT from A going away shot - it's even colder in the cutting. Exhibition Way bridge. 43299 & 43290 13th January 2022. Copyright David Tozer

Another cold shot, but some time ago.
Exeter St Davids
Paul Barlow

An un named 50030 is on 06.31 Penzance to Paddington at Exeter. 16th February 1978,. Copyright Paul Barlow

50 030 was later named 'Repulse' and took the CRS railtour to Oxford.
Many thanks Paul - looks very chilly.

For the record
David Cook

Good afternoon Keith,

I hope that you are keeping well and Covid free.

My apologies for the circuitous route of getting this email to you. I have a new computer and have had issues with email addresses for some people. Some are there and some are not. Yours currently is not!

I’m not sure how I missed the article by David Hunt that you uploaded to the website on 16th September 2021, but I have only just discovered it. Being heavily into all things regarding 4566 and its pre-preservation history I was “intrigued” by some of the things that David said. Whilst I do not doubt that he was of an age to go “shed bashing” at Newton Abbot (sadly, I was too young as I was only 6 years old in 1960!) I am struggling to accept what he says, and in particular the doubt he has in relation to 4566 being the last engine overhauled at Newton Abbot Works.

He claims that inside the works was a 57xx pannier tank, No. 5775 and that was after the ceremony involving 4566. We are obviously talking about events which took place almost 62 years ago and so it could be accepted that proving the facts might be very difficult.

My approach to this was to contact the Great Western Trust at Didcot and this morning I received via email 5775’s records. They make an interesting read. They do indeed confirm that 5775 was at Newton Abbot BUT on 8.3.60 (for a Light Casual repair) and she was back at Pontypool Road on 4.4.60. She remained shedded there until 1.3.63 when she was at Swindon Factory for a Heavy General repair prior to sale to London Transport Executive on 30.4.63 as their L89. Subsequently she was purchased by the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway arriving there in January 1970.

How could 5775 be in the works in June/July 1960 when she is shown as being back at Pontypool Road by then?

My records show that 4566 entered Newton Abbot works on 15.6.60 for a Light Casual repair (ironically the same as 5775) and this was completed in time for the ceremony on 15.7.60. From information given to me by Mike Roach whilst 4566 was in the works the following engines were also recorded: 9646, 9655, 5174, 4087 Cardigan Castle, 5029 Nunney Castle. In a newspaper cutting in my collection there is a posed works photograph showing staff “finishing off” 4566 prior to the ceremony, with 1008 County of Cardigan alongside. There is no mention of 5775 being there at that time.

David says he is just being pedantic on the subject so I will have to be the same. Who is right, who is wrong? It’s a tough one to call but all of my research indicates that the last engine to be overhauled before the works closed to steam was 4566.

On a separate note, I would like to comment on the point raised by Roy Hart regarding 5775 being shedded at Pontypool Road but being sent to Newton Abbot for repair. As I have discovered, this is unusual but not impossible. 4566 was shown as being sent to Caerphilly Works for a Heavy Intermediate repair in January 1961 (16.1.51 – 15.2.51), When I first read this, I thought that it was a mistake but as it turns out it is not. When there was insufficient capacity within a works it was usual to send engines for repairs to wherever they could be fitted in.

I hope that all of this makes sense!
Wishing all CRS members, a belated Happy and Healthy 2022,
Regards

David Cook
(4566 Group)

A right puzzler - however an immediate reply from Sunny Asia - Roy Hart (Rangoon)

Dear Keith et al,

I cannot provide a solution to the 5775 conundrum, but I would suggest a possible answer on why 4566?

The issue was political. The matter would have been in the hands of the PR department, who would have made the running on orders from Paddington. Closure of the works was not exactly good news, so why not mask it by turning out a prettily painted and photogenic little tank locomotive to celebrate the local craftsmanship?

An overhauled pannier tank (if painting was approved) would have been turned out in unlined black - just not the same.

Of all the engines around the place on the given dates, it must be borne in mind that some were only there for a few hours' attention by a fitter, and none would have been very clean. A planned PR event required plenty of notice. 4566 fitted the bill, last engine to leave the works or not.

All of the above may seem rather cynical - but that's what the PR business is for.

All the best to you all from sunny Asia,

Roy

Many thanks indeed Roy, I am sure our readers will enjoy your and David Cooks post.

13th January 2022

13/1/2022

Blue Peter at
Bittaford
Clive Smith

LNER class A2 pacific 60532 Blue Peter makes a very rare appearance in the westcountry as it passes over Bittaford Viaduct with the 1Z40 Wolverhampton - Plymouth 'Eastern Mayflower' tour. This loco has not run on the main line since 2001 having only gained its main line certificate in 1992. It has been under overhaul since 2014. This is my local village and sadly this scene is impossible to capture now. The field I was stood in is now the site of a massive property with large private grounds. Just above the rear of the train is another stretch of land which is at the end of my road. That was built on shortly after this picture was taken and there are now large box houses where the horizon was. The Horse & Groom pub by the viaduct can be seen immediately behind the loco. The trees are also now considerably higher.

Regards, Clive Smith

LNER class A2 pacific 60532 Blue Peter makes a very rare appearance in the westcountry as it passes over Bittaford Via Copyright Clive Smith 2nd July 2000

Beautifully caught, well done, many thanks Clive.

47847 at Oxford
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, Hope you are well, great pictures of Westerns on the site recently. Here is a picture of 47847 arriving at Oxford at 15.00 with a service from Manchester to Paddington on 5 March 2002. This was one of ?4 class 47s repainted to mark the end of the class on Virgin passenger trains. Copyright Michael Forward Best wishes and thanks, Michael.

Thanks Michael

Sunny Starcross & Dawlish
Five From Clive

Finally a decent day of sunshine that coincided with an outing for me to exercise my recovering foot on the flat Exe Cycle Trail between Starcross and Powderham. A very busy day of camera work and these are just the best. At 13.00 I was done and sat in the sun in the garden of the Marine Tavern at Dawlish and had a well earned pint.
Regards, Clive Smith

(1) Sunrise was at 08.08 and this was taken at 08.38. 150202 & 150216 catch the low winter rising sun as they pass Horse Cove between Teignmouth and Dawlish with the 08.15 Paignton - Exmouth. The tunnel that can be seen is Parson's Tunnel and a rockfall shelter is being constructed along the base of the cliff. The construction site can be seen in the field above and materials are already being lined up by the track. 12th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(2) I was looking forward to getting a great shot of the up HST but it was six minutes late and right on cue was a Voyager heading south. The air was blue as well as the sky but on looking back at the multiple eclipsed shots I was surprised to have caught this so I'll gladly take it. The train is the 06.40 Penzance - Cardiff Central with 43042 on the rear and 43192 on the front.The Voyager is the 06.10 Derby - Plymouth formed of 220020 and 220011. 12th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith

(3) 43040 heads the 09.56 Bristol TM - Penzance through Starcross with 43004 on the rear. This was at 11.32 and thankfully my foot managed to get me back here on time bringing my planned two hour exertion to a close but no time for a coffee from the Teign Bean shack seen in the car park behind as my train to Dawlish was due and there were umpteen cyclists in the queue for a brew. 12th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(4) 43005 'St Michael's Mount' & 43155 'Rougemont Castle' pass Coryton Cove Dawlish with 0E24 11.30 Laira - Doncaster Wabtec power car move passing at 12.14 . 43005 'St Michaels Mount was only named this week at Laira and was a bit of a bonus in a busy day's photography. 12th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith.

(5) Now for a second massive bonus. 43207 brings up the rear of the 11.53 Plymouth - Birmingham New Street Cross Country service with 43366 on the front in superb light at Dawlish. XC HSTs have been sidelined since late November as part of the ongoing dispute between XC and their drivers over working rest days. Because XC don't own the HSTs but lease them on an 'as used' basis they have effectively been grounded. A few workings have taken place to move sets for maintenance reasons usually on Sundays which are not classed as rest days. Other issues are that Birmingham and Leeds drivers haven't regularly been driving HSTs and so are losing traction knowledge. Add to this rumours that XC will no longer be operating HSTs after May and it all doesn't bode very well. However this train and the 16.42 Birmingham - Plymouth are reported to be HSTs for the rest of this week.

What more can one say for your 'Five Clive' they are super pictures and so many details - a special thanks.

Bulwark under repair
Bill Elston

Following on from yesterdays piece on 50041 BULWARK, I enclose two photos of it undergoing repairs at Doncaster Works,
after it had slid into Paddington Station. The occasion was the Works Open Day on 28th July, 1984.
I was staying with friends in Lincoln at the time, so, not too far away.
Hope of interest
Best wishes, Bill Elston.

50041 Bulwark under repair at Doncaster on the 28th July 1984 - Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill.

Press cutting
More on Bulwark derailment.
Paul Barlow

Daily Mirror 24th November 1983. A picture of the accident sent in sent by Paul Barlow

An enlargement of the above report, Daily Mirror 24th November 1983. Sent by Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Bodmin & Wenford Report
Chris Bellett.

Hi Keith,
Further to my email below. I visited the B&WR again today (12 January) and took some photographs of Bridges 13 and 13A that are being replaced. As you can see the structures date from 1858 and the girders were cast at the Bedford Foundry in Tavistock (Devon) http://www.tvia.org.uk/pages/ironfoundries.shtml The bridge girders are being removed at the end of this week (road closures already in place) and I understand that the railings may be replaced onto the new bridge decks to keep the existing ‘look’ of the bridges.

I also understand that they were originally used elsewhere before being moved to Bodmin General when the railway opened.

I’ll try to provide some progress photographs as the work proceeds.

You also asked about the fate of loco 4247. Its moving to the East Somerset Railway at the end of this week and is scheduled for a major overhaul there later this year. It will not be returning to Bodmin. Here is another photograph of it after being shunted ready for transportation.:

4247 stands awaiting transport to the East Somerset Railway. 12th January 2022. Copyright Chris Bellett

Many thanks Chris for your up to date information - we very much look forward to your further reports.

B & W
Walker lines Access
Chris Bellett & Roger Winnen

It was reported on the 10th January by Chris that a point providing access to Walker lines was being replaced by 'plain line'; It seemed as if the Walker lines site was being 'side lined' so to speak. This is not the case - in fact there were two points serving Walker lines - the original one providing too tight an access was replaced by a new point yet to be connected. In due course the Walker lines site will be developed with covered coaching stock sheds etc, Roger Winnen provides us with pictures of both sets of points.

The turnout into Walker Lines siding from the main running line between Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General is being relaid

Looking back at the old and new point works which awaits its connection. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Roger & Chris

12th January 2022

12/1/2022

Power Car Namings
Guy Vincent

Good evening Keith
It was reported today (11th) that two more of GWR's class 43 power cars have received names, 43005 'St Michaels Mount' and 43187 'Cardiff Castle'. The plates were reportedly affixed at Laira depot so hopefully they will be back in service soon. That leaves just three of the original allocation of 24 names unplaced, 'Castle an Dinas; Berry Pomeroy Castle and Powderham Castle.
Regards for now
Guy Vincent

and here's proof
Driver Nick Dyke

Afternoon, 43005 has been finally named St Michael’s Mount! Here it is seen at Laira on Tuesday 11th January. Kind regards Nick Dyke

43005 named St Michael's Mount - 11th January 2022. Copyright Driver Nick Dyke

Many many thanks to Guy Vincent and Nick Dyke

Liskeard 2
Roger Geach

50041 Later Bullwark 07.40 Penzance to Liverpool Liskeard 24th December 1976. Copyright Roger Geach

First introduced to traffic on the 8th May 1978 it was nearly thirty years ago today (on January 23 1985), British Rail Engineering Limited released 50041 Bulwark back into traffic following a substantial rebuild.
The Class 50 had been badly damaged in a derailment at London Paddington in November 1983, while hauling the 2135 Penzance-London Paddington Sleeper train. It is understood that it derailed when taking a 25 MPH rated point at around 60 MPH. The ‘50’ slid for 100 metres, with its bogies ripped from underneath. It smashed into the ramp of Platform 8. Miraculously the driver escaped serious injury, while three passengers were hospitalised.
The Class 50 was taken to Doncaster Works and, following assessment, authorisation was given to repair it. The ‘50’ began its journey to Yorkshire on January 17 1984, but it would be January 4 1985 before it hauled a train (a test trip from Doncaster to Newcastle).
The locomotive would survived in traffic until April 1990, when it was withdrawn from the NSSA pool at Laira. It was scrapped by Coopers Metals at Old Oak Common in July 1991.
The information here is courtesy RAIL January 1984.

Many thanks Roger

A footnote on the Inquiry into the incident.
Dennis Clarke

Hi Keith, I read your article about 50041 this morning. At that time, I was a Workshop Supervisor at Wembley InterCity Depot. We maintained the sleeper stock and it arrived at our depot every day, usually hauled by a Class 50. After servicing and maintenance, the 50 took the stock back to Paddington for the service to Plymouth and Penzance. After the accident, I attended an internal British Railways inquiry at Reading with all of the staff who had worked on the train when it was last on the depot the previous day. Following that, there was a public inquiry held at The Great Western Hotel at Paddington, which I also attended. I remember it was quite daunting, as a 24 year old Supervisor, being questioned by the chair, Major Rose. I was asked several questions regarding the train brakes, distributors, the possibility of water being in the pneumatics etc. The brake distributors were all removed and tested off the train and none were faulty. I also remember buying the Evening Standard on the way home from the inquiry and the headlines were “Train Brakes Failed” ! This was found to be untrue as other witnesses at Royal Oak station saw sparks flying from the brake blocks on the wheels of the tread braked coaches. The driver approached Paddington too fast, braked hard and was unable to stop in time. It was quite an experience attending and giving evidence at that inquiry, something which I will always remember. I still have a copy of the transcript somewhere, Regards, Dennis Clarke

Many thanks indeed Dennis for the extra information you have provided.

St Erth '87
Stephen Widdowson

Very near the end of a long journey, Seen at St Erth 43082 and 43092 power the { Newcastle to Penzance 20th June 1987 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

Many thanks Steve.

Bitumen traffic
Exeter St Davids
Paul Barlow & Roger Winnen

31106 31112 seen at platform 5 Exeter St Davids on the Exeter City Basin to Ripple Lane bitumen tanks. 16th February 1978 Copyright Paul Barlow

760421e A Class 33 arrives with bitumen tanks at Exeter St David's on 21st April 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Paul - unusual traffic - a rare picture.

Clean stone at
Cowley Bridge
Ron Kosys

33208 hauls a full load of nice clean ballast at Cowley Bridge on the 4th August 1989 - it's the 6O74 1120 Meldon-Tonbridge Copyright Ron Kosys.

Thanks Ron

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