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30th April 2022

30/4/2022

 
The Gronk Day at Bodmin
Martin Duff
Picture
The Bodmin & Wenford two Class 08s were in traffic today. The green livery 08444 will be taken out of traffic after today for an extensive overhaul. Copyright Martin Duff
Picture
08359 coupled to 08444 at Bodmin Parkway today. Copyright Martin Duff
Picture
The duo seen at Bodmin General Station. Copyright Martin Duff
Picture
08444 Looks very weather betten at Bodmin General today. Copyright Martin Duff
Picture
08359 in BR Blue Livery looks the part. Copyright Martin Duff
Many Thanks Martin
Class 73 'Minion' on Tour
Guy Vincent

​'Minion' class 73 no 73951 stabled at ... on 26th (clue in the photo!) then passing Hawkeridge Jcn and approaching Westbury as a 0Z21 1008 Bristol Temple Meads-Weymouth route learning run on the morning of 29th April.  The loco is powered by two Cummins 750 hp diesel engines, giving a total output of 1500hp. The sound is almost the same as a class 220 'Voyager'.  

Regards, Guy Vincent  
Picture
Bristol TM 73951 26th April 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture
73951 seen at Hawkeridge. 29th April 2022 0Z21 1008 Bristol Temple Meads - Weymouth. Copyright Guy Vincent
Picture
Hawkeridge - 73951 Heads off for Weymouth forming the 0Z21 1008 Bristol Temple Meads - Weymouth. Return. 29th April 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent
Many thanks Guy,
​

Pinhoe
David Tozer

The GWR route refresher that usually operates between Exeter and Castle Cary via Honiton will soon cease between Exeter and Axminster. The usual traction is a Class 150/2, however today (29.4.2022) 158762 worked the 1523 3Z50 Exeter T.M.D to Castle Cary via Honiton. Possibly only the third time this has happened.

From 16th May the 1631 from Barnstaple to Exeter will be extended to Axminster. The unit is then scheduled to operate ECS to Castle Cary and return via Honiton on Mondays to Wednesdays and Fridays. On Thursdays it is scheduled to return to Exeter via Taunton. Barnstaple line services are generally in the hands of Class 158's and even the odd Class 166.

Dave Tozer 
Picture
158762 on route refresher duties seen here at Pinhoe. 29th April 2022. Copyright David Tozer
Many thanks David.
​

Bristol Parkway
Phil Smith

Picture
Difficult to see now as it was then the year is 2002, and you'll have to believe it it is 47818 leaving Bristol Parkway passing the short lived Royal Mail Depot. Copyright Phil Smith
Thanks Phil.
​

29th April 2022

29/4/2022

 
At the end of a long journey - steam at rest
Penzance 
Claire Sheppard

Took a couple this evening,  approximately 10.50pm, at Penzance Station. 
Kind regards .  Claire Sheppard 
Picture
6223 at rest Penzance 28th April 2022 Copyright Claire Sheppard
Many thanks Claire - and a reminder that you can see the rest of our growing collection by clicking on 'Steam and Diesel Railtours  22 onwards' on the left hand margin on the the 'Home page'.
Short Freight at Par
Michael Forward
Picture
Hello Roger, Thank you for dealing with the recent pictures. Here is one taken almost 22 years ago showing 66198 taking one clay slurry tank to Burngullow.on a lovely 29 April 2000. All the best Michael Copyright Michael Forward
Supporting Ukraine
Bow
Driver Alan Peters

Picture
Colas Rail 60801 pauses at Bow station with the 6F23 Westby ro Credton bound for Okehampton top and tailed with 20 loaded auto hoppers on the 28th April 2022. Copyright Driver Alan Peters
Many thanks Alan - nice to see the flag.
​

Excursion pauses at
Tiverton Junction
Clive Nye

Picture
Ramsgate to Paignton 24th March 79. 33 040 at Tiverton Jun, awaiting a path. Hauling the Ramsgate to Paignton Excursion on 24th March 1979Copyright Clive Nye
IET Tribute
Swindon
Ken Mumford

Picture
a London-bound IET carrying information about the Penlee Lifeboat. Remembering the tragic accident. Photograph taken on 27th April 2022. Copyright Ken Mumford.
​The Penlee lifeboat disaster occurred on 19 December 1981 off the coast of Cornwall. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeboat Solomon Browne, ...
Location: Mount's Bay, Cornwall, England
Date: 19 December 1981 (evening) -
(The above courtesy Wikipedia)
Thanks for the photo and reminder Ken
​

From the
Phil Smith
​Archive
Picture
47830 arr Totnes station. It's 2002. On the bridge on the left Ray , Phil and Rosey stood waiting for trains then off to the pub, lovely. Copyright Phil Smith
Thanks for the photo Phil - a good one, but cannot spot anybody on the bridge - glad you had a good evening.
​

28th April 2022

28/4/2022

 
Two steam hauled Railtours
It's the 28th April and we have two railtours by todays date to look at - one exactly 60 years ago on 28th April 1962, and one, hopefully fingers crossed today, 28th April 2022.
Firstly our veteran reporter Michael L. Roach looks back sixty years and bring us the following account, and many of the photographs - he was there. 
RAILTOUR REPORT                                                
The Plymouth Railway Circle Cornish Minerals Tour of 28th April 1962

Nearly a hundred participants congregated at Truro Station to take part in what proved to be the most ambitious tour ever organised in the west over lines used only for china clay traffic, and a branch threatened with closure. An added attraction was the fact that this was the last time that a steam engine would be rostered to work a revenue earning train from St. Blazey Shed as diesels have now replaced all steam turns at this depot. A fitting finale was a triumphal entry into St. Blazey with whistles crowing  as a final salute to the steam engine's close association with the depot and the clay industry.
The special train consisted of prairie tanks 4564 and 5531, coupled bunker to bunker, and eleven brake vans. From Truro the train ran to Newham (Truro Goods), then Chacewater where the branch to Newquay (which is under threat of closure) was taken as far as Tolcarne Junction. Here the little-used third side of the triangle was taken to reach the Newquay – Par line which was followed to Bugle. The train was then propelled along the short branch to Carbis Wharf. Returning to Bugle the locos ran around to take the train back westwards to St. Dennis Junction. Here the train traversed the Meledor Mill branch before returning to St. Dennis Junction and heading for Drinnick Mill and Burngullow on the Cornish main line. At St. Austell the locos ran round to take the train up to Lansalson before propelling back to St. Austell. The locos ran round again at both St. Austell and Par before the tour came to a close with passengers detraining at the closed station of St. Blazey.
(This is a shortened version of a contemporary report written by Alan J. Weary which appeared in The Railway Observer)  
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Leaving Truro the special made its way to Newham - the first passengers there for many a year. The West Cornwall passenger station here closed 16th September 1863.
Picture
On the Chacewater to Newquay branch. A privileged view at Perranporth taken by the late Terry Nichols.
Picture
The Plymouth Railway Circle Cornwall Mineral lines Railtour near Goonhavern on Saturday 28th April 1962. This picture was kindly provided by Derek Brooks, Recorder Goonhavern Old Cornwall Society.
Picture
The railtour stands at St Columb Road. 28th April 1962. Copyright Mike Roach
Picture
The Cornwall Minerals Railtour at Carbis Wharf shortly after two on Saturday 28th April 1962. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer
Picture
The railtour at Melangoose Mill on the Meledore branch. 26th April 1962. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer.
Picture
The railtour gains the main line at Burngullow and heads for its next stop at St Austell. 28th April 1962 Copyright Mike Roach.
Picture
The final port of call. The railtour seen on the Lansalson branch 28th April 1962. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer. The good old days - this was what railtours were all about!!
Many thanks to Michael Roach and all other photographers.
​

     Todays steam  
​
For a report on todays steam to Penzance please click here for 'Steam and Diesel Railtours 2022 onwards' and scroll as necessary.

​
Okehampton Engineering
Driver Alan Peters

Picture
Colas Rail 70803 is pictured with the Rhomberg Sersa HOBC train, used to move the spoil between the worksite and Okehampton Military sidings on 26th April 2022. Copyright Driver Alan Peters
Picture
The former Military sidings near Torrs Road bridge where the spoil is discharged, this is the first train past Okehampton towards Meldon - seen on the 26th April 2022. Copyright Driver Alan Peters
Picture
A classic photograph. Colas Rail 70803 peeps through Torrs Road bridge in the early hours of 26th April 2022. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.
Many thanks Alan.
​

Getting all factors right.
Teignmouth & Dawlish
Clive Smith
Picture
43170 leads the 05.40 Penzance - Cardiff Central through the cutting on the approach to Teignmouth station on the 27th April 2022. 43162 is on the rear. A difficult place to get all factors right. Copyright Clive Smith.
Picture
I've only got a 20mm lens so this is as good as I can get. Cross country on the 05.27 Plymouth to Leeds. A distant view of Langstone Rock and Exmouth. 18th March 2022. Copyright Clive Smith
Well done Clive - you got factors right especially the high tide in the latter shot.
​

Sea wall engineering work at
Dawlish & Sea Wall
​Steve Widdowson
Picture
A colourful scene as the course of the stream which flows out into the sea here is modified - not much of the work is visible at high tide. 19th April 2022. Copyright Stephen Widdowson
Picture
This view shows the scale of the works concerned with re-inforcing the rail route here. Note the encampment high above 43027 ~ 43194 Dawlish on the 2U14 0740 Penzance ~ Cardiff 21st April 2022. Copyright Steve Widdowson
Many thanks Steve - much appreciated.
​

Two I almost missed
Keith Turley and David Tozer.
Picture
On 26th April 2022 Freightliner class 66/5 No.66560 with classmate No.66511 out of sight on the rear pass Cowley Bridge Junc. working the 6X37 16:55 Fairwater Yard to Aish emergency crossover HOBC. Copyright Keith Turley,
Picture
66100 28th April .2022 Copyright David Tozer.
My apologies gentlemen - forgiveness sought!
​

27th April 2022

27/4/2022

 
A treat for all.
Steam alongside the Dart
Clive Smith
A beautiful morning without a trace of haze on the Dart Estuary looking up river from Higher Contour Road in Kingswear. Great Western Railway 2-8-0T steam loco 5239 Goliath arrives at Kingswear with the 11.15 from Paignton. In the second photo the 1924 vintage GWR loco steams along the River Dart by Britannia Crossing as it heads up the gradient to Greenaway Tunnel with the 12.55 Kingswear - Paignton. This picture was taken from Sandquay Road in Dartmouth.
Regards, Clive Smith
Picture
Great Western Railway 2-8-0T steam loco 5239 Goliath arrives at Kingswear with the 11.15 from Paignton. 26th April 2022 Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
The 1924 vintage GWR loco steams along the River Dart by Britannia Crossing as it heads up the gradient to Greenaway Tunnel with the 12.55 Kingswear to Paignton. 26th April 2022 Copyright Clive Smith
Many thanks Clive - Marvellous pictures from Higher Courtour Road, Kingswear and Sandquay Road, Dartmouth.
​

Today at 
Bristol T.M.
Guy Vincent

Guy writes :- ​Hello Keith / Roger

A rare visitor to the loco holding siding at the east end of platform 7 at Bristol Temple Meads.  73951 'Malcolm Brinded' (named after a non executive director of Network Rail)  arrived from Derby RTC during the afternoon of 26th.  Currently unable to establish the purpose of the visit.  73951 was rebuilt for Network Rail in 2014 and was previously numbered 73104.  It can usually be seen out and about on test train duties with sister loco 73952  'Janis Kong'.

Also a couple of views of 'celebrity' 43093, now looking a little the worse for wear.
​

Regards, Guy Vincent
Picture
1) 73951 with 43094 approaching on 2C87 1800 Cardiff-Newton Abbot, 43093 at the rear (see below). 26th April 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
2) 73951 in the loco siding P7 Bristol Temple Meads. 26th April 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
3) 43093 at the rear of 2C87. The star of the 2018 Old Oak Common closure event, this power car is now in need of some TLC!, 26th April 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Picture
4) Close up of 43093's cab showing late 1970s Yellow and BR Blue paintwork exposed. Some TLC needed! 26th April 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent
Many thanks Guy - keep up the good work.
​

Steve's Day out.
West of Taunton
Stephen Widdowson

Steve takes a day trip down west and sends us the most interesting results.
Picture
43093 ~ 43094 Taunton { 5U22 1424 Taunton Plat 3 ~ Taunton Plat 6 } 19th April 2022. Copyright Steve Widdowson
Picture
43093 at Taunton 19th April 2022 Copyright Steve Widdowson.
Picture
43172 Tiverton Castle nameplate 19th April 2022 Copyright Steve Widdowson
Picture
802020 Exeter SD { 1C81 1233 Paddington Exeter St Davids } 19th April 2022 Copyright S Widdowson
Picture
A most interesting view of the extensive works at Dawlish seen at high tide. 19th April 2022. Copyright Steve Widdowson
Picture
Newton Abbot GWR bench 19th April 2022 Copyright Steve Widdowson. (Whether the old GWR would approve of the colour scheme is doubtful - I think we enjoy it?)
Many thanks for your very interesting collection Steve.
​

Anybody know anybody?
Chacewater SB
Martin Duff/Tony Wight
​I've been asked by Martin Duff if any of our members recognise any of the men in this photo. Quite why he wants to know he didn't say!
Thanks,
Tony Wright 
Picture
I've been asked by Martin Duff if any of our members recognise any of the men in this photo. - No date given - looks like the time of renewal or change.
Thanks for the query - any answers please.
​

The Chacewater photograph.
Roy Hart replies
After a few microseconds Roy Hart replies from Rangoon! This photo dates from around 1957. They are  replacing the 'lead off bed' opposite the box. It was probably connected to the replacement of all the old tubular point rodding with modern 'channel' rodding.
Second from the left is Bill Cheesman, interlocking engineer based at Par S and T depot. Bill was a Londoner who moved to Cornwall. He looked after the locking frames throughout Cornwall. At the left of the group, next to Bill, is Hedley (whose surname I forget), his assistant.

That's the best I can do!,  All the best, Roy
Your best is good enough for us - many thanks Roy.
​

Is BR Logo coming back
Topsham
Steve Widdowson

Steve writes :- Whilst at Topsham on 20th April I noticed that 150233 has the BR double arrows on the doors. First time I have seen this.
I also noticed that 150221 also has the double arrows, is this the start of the New BR ?
Regards Steve Widdowson 

Picture
150233 { BR logo } + 150239 Topsham 2F14 1024 Paignton ~ Exmouth 20th April 2022. Copyright Steve Widdowson
Picture
150233 + 150239 Topsham {2F14 1024 Paignton to Exmouth} 20th April 2022. Copyright Steve Widdowson
Many thanks Steve.
​

Schrivenham Scrap
Andrew Jenkins

Please see attached photos showing 365 506 passing through Shrivenham early this morning on (yesterday's - 25th April) 2345 Belmont Down Yard to Newport Docks (Sims).  This train was running 33 minutes late at Shrivenham, so the early morning sun was starting to lift the mist.  37601 + 37608 were on the front with 365 506 sandwiched between a number of barrier vehicles. the full consist being -
37601, 37608, 975875, 365 506, 977087, 6340, 6330, 6344.
Regards, Andrew Jenkins

Picture
37601 + 37608 with scrap EMU 365 506 at Shrivenham. 26th April 2022. Copyright Andrew Jenkins.
Picture
EMU 365 going for scrap passing Shrivenham. 26th April 2022. Copyright Andrew Jenkins.
Many thanks to Andrew and to Ken for passing it on.
​

26th April 2022

26/4/2022

 
Out and about in Devon
David Tozer
Picture
166205 draws into Topsham with the 1420 Paignton to Exmouth. As many as three Class 166's can be seen on diagrams most days. Copyright David Tozer
Picture
66560 heads the 1655 6X37 Taunton Fairwater Yard to Aish Crossover via Tavistock Junction at Staffords Bridge. 66511 was on the rear. Copyright David Tozer
Many Thanks David
Implacable at Newton Abbot
Michael Adams
Picture
Hello Roger, Another picture from Michael Adams this one showing 50039 ‘Implacable’ at Newton Abbot with the 09.36 Liverpool to Penzance on 7 July 1984.Thanks, all the best, Michael. Copyright Michael Adams
Thanks Michael
Two Exeter locations - Arena Park and Stoke Canon
Exeter 
​David Tozer
At Arena Park
Picture
150219 at Arena Park o the 15.25 3Z50 Exeter T.M.D to Castle Cary. This route refresher has been operated generally once a week. From the May 16th timetable it will no longer operate.25th April 2022. Copyright David Tozer.
At Stoke Canon
​66511 and 66560 top and tail the 1655 Taunton Fairwater Yard to Aish Crossover via Tavistock Junction.
Picture
66511 leads at Stoke Canon, 25th April 2022. Copyright David Tozer.
Picture
66560 brings up the rear past Stoke Canon. 25th April 2022. Copyright David Tozer.
Many thanks David.
​

Railtour memories
The Devon Quarryman
Clive Nye
 The following details courtesy of Six Bells Junction Railtour Files                               
                                  25th June 1978
                   R.P.P.R.
        The Devon Quarryman

Locos Used33103 & 33119
Stock Used (3)4TC's 418 & 420 + RMB 1872Route : 1Z34 throughout (4)
Loco(s)Route
33119 (1)London Paddington - Slough - Twyford - Reading - Didcot Parkway - Swindon - Westerleigh Jn - Bristol Parkway - Stapleton Road - Bristol Temple Meads - Bridgwater - Taunton - Exeter St Davids
33103 (2)Exeter St Davids - Okehampton - Meldon Quarry
33119 (1)Meldon Quarry - Okehampton - Crediton
33103 (2)Crediton - Okehampton - Barnstaple - Torrington - Meeth clay depot
33119 (1)Meeth clay depot - Torrington - Barnstaple - Crediton Exeter St Davids - Exeter Central - Honiton - Yeovil Junction - Salisbury - Basingstoke - Reading - London PaddingtonNotes :
(1) 33103 on rear.
(2) 33119 on rear.
(3) Formation: 33119+420+1872+418+33103
(4) Timing sheet gave the headcode as 'train 1234' - this is presumed a typo and should have read 1Z34?

Sources : Alan Costello (information taken from RPPR Railtour Pictorial Booklet),
Adrian Brown & Colin Marsden

Timings (Booked and Actual)
(from John Clifford)

LocationBookedActual
Paddington07.52d07.53
Southall08/0508/06
Slough08.13a ~ 08.15d08.15 ~ 08.16
Maidenhead08/2208/22
Twyford08/2708/27
Reading General08.33a ~ 08.35d08.31½ ~ 08.35
Didcot08/5308/54
Challow09/0209/07
Swindon09.15a ~ 09.25d09.19 ~ 09.29
Wootton Bassett09/3209/36
Hullavington09/4109/44½
Westerleigh Jn09/5209/54
Bristol Parkway09/5709/58
Stapleton Road10/0610/04½
Bristol Temple Meads10.10a ~ 10.17d10.13 ~ 10.23
Worle Jn10/4010/39
Uphill Jn10/4210/41
Bridgwater10/5310/51½
Taunton11/1011.12a ~ 11.13d
Whiteball Tunnel11/2611/30
Cowley Bridge Jn11/4811/47
Exeter St Davids11.51a ~ 11.55d11.51 ~ 11.58
Cowley Bridge Jn11/5812/02
Crediton12/0612/09½
Okehampton12/35?
Meldon Quarry12p50a ~ 13p00d?
Okehampton13p15a ~ 13p20d13.17 ~ 13.26
Crediton13.50a ~ 13.55d13.51 ~ 13.56
Eggesford14/2014/17
Barnstaple Jn14.45a ~ 14.47d14.42 ~ 14.42
Torrington15/1715/13½
Meeth Clay Co. Sidings16.00a ~ 16.10d15.53 ~ 16.14½
Torrington16/5516/52
Barnstaple Jn17.25a ~ 17.27d17.19 ~ 17.26½
Eggesford17/5217/53½
Crediton18/1218/11
Cowley Bridge Jn18/2218/17
Exeter St Davids18.25a ~ 18.30d18.20 ~ 18.30
Exeter Central18/3418/32
Exmouth Jn18/3818/35
Pinhoe18/4118.40½a ~ 18.45½d
Chard Jn19.15a ~ 19.23d19.21 ~ 19.24½
Yeovil Junction19.38a ~ 19.50d19.39½ ~ 19.58
Templecombe20/0520/15
Gillingham20/2520/24
Wilton South20/3520/40
Wilton Jn20/3620/41
Salisbury20.40a ~ 20.44d20.44½ ~ 20.46½
Tunnel Jn20/47½20/50
Worting Jn21/2221/16½
Basingstoke21.25a ~ 21.33d21.28 ~ 21.32d
Southcote Jn21/5121/49½
Reading General21.54a ~ 21.56d21.56 ~ 21.57
Twyford22/0322/02
Maidenhead22/0822/07
Slough22.13a ~ 22.15d22.12 ~ 22.14
Southall22/2522/22
Paddington22.37a22.32
Picture
Devon Quarryman at Okehampton. 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman at Okehampton 25th June 1978 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman 33 119 at Meldon Quarry 25th June 1978 Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman 33 119 at Meldon Quarry 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman 33 119 at Barnstaple 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman at Barnstaple 25th June 1978 . Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman at Meeth 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Picture
Devon Quarryman at Meeth. 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Many thanks for stirring up memories Clive - a very good day out.
​

These plus other railtour pictures can be found in our railtour collection - please click here.

25th April 2022

25/4/2022

 
Fatherford Viaduct and Beyond
​Driver Alan Peters
Engineering works will be taking place on the Okehampton Branch between Monday 25th April 2022 to Monday May 9th May, with the dreaded rail bus replacement, although the line was mostly re-laid work Colas Rail engineering trains will be returning to the line in connection with work at Fatherford viaduct and Coleford and will see some trains travel beyond the current limit of operations at Okehampton.


25/04/22 - 6F20 (Train 1 of 5) goes beyond normal operational railway to                     197m 51c, 1 x class 70, 1 x AS UMH2, 17 MFS wagons
26/04/22 - 6F21 (Train 2 of 5) 1 x class 70, 20 auto hoppers, 1 x class 70
28/04/22 - 6F22 (Train 3 of 5 at Fatherford) (Train 1 of 2 at Coleford) 1 x                     class 70, 1 x AS UMH2, 17 MFS wagons
28/04/22 - 6F23 (Train 4 of 5) 1 x class 70, 20 auto hoppers, 1 x class 70
01/05/22 - 0F24 (Train 5 of 5) 1 x class 70
02/05/22 - 6F25 (Train 2 of 2 at Coleford) 1 x clas
s 70, 20 auto hoppers,                     1 x class 70
14/05/22 - 6C21 goes beyond normal operational railway to 197m 51c,                       1 x class 70, 38 Coalfish Wagons, 1 x class 70 - Fatherford Spoil
14/05/22 - 6C22 1 x class 66, 30 Coalfish Wagons, 1 x class 66 -                                Coleford  Spoil
21/05/22 - 6C21 goes beyond normal operational railway to 197m 51c,                       1 x  class 70, 38 Coalfish Wagons, 1 x class 70 - Fatherford                          Spoil
21/05/22 - 6C22 1 x class 70, 30 Coalfish Wagons, 1 x class 70 -                                 Coleford  Spoil

Driver Alan Peters
Very nice to hear from you Alan - hope all is well with you.
​

Dawlish
Clive Nye
Picture
33 117 arriving at Dawlish with 06.45 Newton Abbott to Exeter on 2nd June 1979. Copyright Charles Nye.
Picture
Clive dashes up to the far end of the down platform to witness 33 117 leaving Dawlish for Exeter on 2nd June 1979. Copyright Clive Nye.
Many thanks Clive.
​

Colourful Clay
Mark Lynam

​Mark reports :- Over the last few days I have been out around mid Cornwall for the clay workings, which have been two red locos!
Thanks,
Mark Lynam
Picture
66152 'Derek Holmes' arrives at Par working 6V99 0948 Exeter Riverside N.Y. to St Blazey. Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
Due to the later path of 6V99 it was a rare opportunity (After a couple of hours waiting around) to see the train going down to Par Harbour in the afternoon with the sun on the right side! Seen here departing the docks at 15.25 after loading up just Three JIAs. Copyright Mark Lynam.
Picture
Thursday saw 66152 work up the Parkandillack branch loading the other 8 JIAs seen at Trewoon working 6C53 1151 Parkandillack to Exeter Riverside N.Y. Copyright Mark Lynam.
Picture
66165 Middleway Crossing Copyright Mark Lynam (Looks like a flood prevention scheme wall being erected to the right of the stream)
Picture
On Friday 66165 worked the Friday only 6P24 1525 Parkandillack to Fowey Dock Carne Point seen shunting at Kernick Dryer before propelling out onto the main branch. Copyright Mark Lynam.
Picture
66165 passing Kernick Dryer after finishing loading working 6P24 1525 Parkandillack to Fowey Dock Carne Point, 3 hours early! Copyright Mark Lynam.
Picture
66165 coming off the branch at Burngullow in some brief sunshine. Copyright Mark Lynam.
Many thanks to you Mark.
​

What is your view?
Asks Andrew Jones
Dear Keith and Valerie, Travelling in time? Well you can with Google Earth.
Please find attached photographs from my own collection and from Google Earth which illustrates the phenomena.
Google have a fair use policy which allows their photographs to be used in non commercial blogs such as the Cornwall Railway Society website.
Here is an extract from their policy,
 
License
 
‘ As long as you follow these Terms, the Google Terms of Service give you a license to use Google Maps/Google Earth, including features that allow you to:
  1. view and annotate maps;
  2. create KML files and map layers; and
  3. publicly display content with proper attribution online, in video, and in print.’
Attribution
‘All uses of the content must provide attribution to both Google and our data providers. We require clear, visible attribution when the content is shown. You may not move the attribution to the end credits or fade it out after a few seconds.
Note that if you (a) embed a classic map, Street View panorama or My Map; (b) use one of our APIs on the web or in an application; or (c) use Google Earth Pro or Earth Studio on desktop; then the necessary attribution is already baked into the map and no further credit is needed. Learn more about how to properly credit, as well as how to identify providers, on our attribution guidelines page.’
Now I am no legal expert, but I would assume from this that in most cases the copyright or attribution is embedded in the photograph but it would be wise to also state the copyright holder when posting images from service.
When using google earth you will find that most satellite images are up to date, but by using the timeline facility it is possible to go back a number of years.
Street view is not updated regularly so the image attached of the mess building and shunters cabin at Ponsandine is still showing a building which is now demolished, others such as Trevemper Sidings on the Newquay to Chasewater Railway also show buildings no longer there.
Google earth is a useful tool when researching old railways.
It would be interesting to hear from Society members on their thoughts on this subject and any unusual findings.
 
Very best wishes Andrew an Diane

Picture
Ponsadane mess office and shunters cabin Nov 2021 Andrew and Diane Jones
Picture
An 'over the hedge' view of Ponsandane mess office and shunters cabin currently on copyright. Google Earth. Sent by Andrew and Diane Jones.
It seems to me a very reasonable and valuable input for us, as 'non commercial users' to be able to use - it opens up a whole collection of very interesting views.  Many thanks to Google Earth and to Andrew and Diane for researching the legal side of it - we hope he is correct.
​

24th April 2022

24/4/2022

 
English Riviera Statesman
Guy & Charlotte Vincent
47805 (D1935) and 47810 (D1924) double heading the 1Z79 0520 Ely-Paignton 'Riviera Statesman' charter past Berkley, Somerset on a very chilly St George's Day Saturday April 23rd 2022.
Photo by Charlotte Vincent
Regards Guy
Picture
Berkley, Frome. 47805 & 47810 1Z79 05.20 Ely-Paignton Riviera Statesman 23rd April 2022 Copyright Charlotte Vincent.
Many thanks Guy and Charlotte.
​

Return run
Crossing the Crossing at Paignton
Roger Winnen
Picture
Return run
English Riviera Statesman
Paul Barlow

Picture
47805 & 47810 make a smoky departure from Exeter St Davids on the 16.37 Paignton to Ely English Riviera Statesman
Many thanks Paul
​

For many more pictures of this railtour on route out and back and at Paignton please click here and scroll.
Dawlish
Clive Nye

Picture
33 014 on the Sea wall at Teignmouth working 06.45 Newton Abbot to Exeter 22nd August 1978. Copyright Clive Nye.
The semaphore signal dominates this picture - many thanks Clive.
​

Cornwall
End to end.

Craig Munday

On my travels it's incredible how quickly the trees get their green leaves. The scene can change in a matter of days. The valley at Coombe is a joy to behold. Quietly tucked away from the main A390 road, it's lovely to travel the country roads and see the copious GWR services swish through the lush countryside. If only there were more loco hauled trains to savour! 

East of Burngullow sees the weekly clay trains, which have seen bright red 66s add some lovely colour to contrast the rich greenery in the lineside. 

I was called to Saltash this week for a signalling fault which was stable when I arrived. This allowed me some time to look around the area. The contractors have done a magnificent job clearing the lineside from Plymouth down to St Germans. A London bound Hitachi was pictured at Wearde Quay showing the former trackbed to good effect.

Next west was the overbridge at Churchtown Farm nature reserve. A stunning place to watch trains across Anthony's passage and Forder viaduct. The tannoys from naval ships on the river can give you a startle though with calls of "man overboard" as they practice their routines! Some ladies passed by and pointed out the new vineyard being established on the hills around Forder viaduct and castle. The small plastic pipes are visible in the freight picture. 66152 heads west running later than usual with 6V99 - 18 wagons all just fitting into the shot. 

Closer to home, 66152 is seen with the JIAs after loading at Treviscoe and Par Harbour. Pictured at Mount Charles 66152 romps downhill from St Austell with 11 loaded wagons. 

Finally a trip down west with supplies for Penzance box and time to see the new sidings taking shape at Ponsondane, Mounts Bay coaches now relocated away from their base by the former level crossing. 57605 had run around the sleeper stock and was ready to haul to Long Rock in stunning sunshine. 

Best wishes for now. 

Craig 
Picture
Class 802 at Wearde Quay. 20th April 2022. Copyright Craig Munday
Picture
From Churchtown Farm overbridge 66152 forming the 6V99 20th April 2022. Copyright Craig Munday
Picture
Again at Churchtown 158769 forms the 2P09. 20th April 2022. Copyright Craig Munday.
Picture
66152 JIAs 20th April 2022. Copyright Craig Munday
Picture
66152 Mount Charles 6C53 21st April 2022. Copyright Craig Munday
Picture
And finally 57605 at Ponsandane on the 5C99. Copyright Craig Munday 22nd April 2022.
All in a working week - what a job you have Craig -
many thanks.
​

23rd April 2022

23/4/2022

 
Next Weeks Steam
Timetable
For NEXT week, A steam special runs down Thursday evening to Penzance and returns early Saturday morning. 

On Friday the steam loco, support coach and diesel loco runs from Penzance to laira & return to turn the loco. 

The steam loco is 46233 Duchess of Sutherland, and the diesel expected to be a WCR maroon liveried 33/37/47 or 57. (Watch this space). 


Thursday 
1Z48 15.52 Exeter St Davids to Penzance

Plymouth          17.04 / 17.59 (Water)
Liskeard                           18.26
Par                                   18.51
Truro                                 19.17
Camborne              19.35 / 19.37 
St Erth                              19.49
Penzance                         20.00

Friday (Turning move via Laira - Diesel leading)
5Z51   10.22 Penzance to Laira

St Erth                      10.31
Truro                         11.02
Par                            11.21 
Plymouth              12.17 / 12.31

Return 
5Z52 14.06 Laira to Penzance    


Liskeard                   14.53
Par                            15.21
Truro                         15.48
Penzance                  16.28 

Saturday return working with steam from Penzance 

1Z54 07.20 Penzance to Exeter St Davids

St Erth                           07.30
Camborne                     07.40
Truro                             08.01
Par                                 08.29
Lostw'l up loop              08.39/08.58
Liskeard                         09.20
Plymouth                 09.49/ 11.33 Platform 5
We would be interested in your pictures of these workings to show in our section 'STEAM AND DIESEL RAILTOURS 2022 ONWARDS'. Click this items on our home page menu.  However please understand that we will have to be selective - not too many from the same locations etc. 
Cornish Culverts -
Wivelscombe Area

Mark Howells

Morning Keith,
 
Please find attached something a little different, internal photographs of two culverts at either end of Wivelscombe tunnel and the approach cuttings.
 Culverts are often overlooked but are vital to the safe operation of the railway, they permit watercourses, ditches or other waterbodies to be conveyed beneath railway embankments.
 Apart from the excavation of cuttings, culverts are very often one of the first pieces of permanent infrastructure to be constructed as the embankment is then be constructed over and around the culverts.
 Clearly these culverts have been built to last and constructed with a little flare – the differing brick work patterns and orientation is very interesting and impressive.
 
Kind Regards,
 Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM
Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)


Picture
Wivelescombe Tunnel. Drainage culvert. 19th April 2022. Copyrght Mark Howells - Network Rail.
Picture
Wivelescombe Tunnel. Drainage culvert. 19th April 2022. Copyrght Mark Howells - Network Rail. (2)
We're really getting down to it here - amazing constructions.
Many thanks Mark.
​

Coldrennick Viaduct
Chris Harvey

Keith,
Please find attached a shot from 9th April 2005 which you might be able to use. A 153 + 150 pairing soars over Coldrennick viaduct on a lovely Cornish spring day, with the 1025 Penzance - Bristol Temple Meads.
Best Regards, Chris Harvey
Picture
Coldrennick Viaduct 9th April 2005 Copyright ChrisHarvey
Many thanks Mark. An interesting comparison of liveries here - I have a feeling that most people would prefer either of these to the standard green of today.
​

Langstone Rock
Clive Nye

Picture
33 024 approaching Dawlish Warren working 5O22 17.10 Newton Abbot to Exeter, this train will form the 18.10 Exeter to Waterloo service on 20th August 1978. Copyright Clive Nye
Many thanks Clive.  Langstone Rock as many will know is a handy vantage point to see along the coast in either direction - getting up there isn't easy for senior citizens - the path is not the best. However if you are fit it's well worth the exercise. In this view, taken on a calm day - there is a very gentle swell running and a few have made it to the top of the rock.

22nd April 2022

22/4/2022

 
Weedkilling at Par
Michael Adams
Picture
Hello Roger, here a couple of lucky shots by Michael Adams ,taken at Par on 29 April 1988 and showing 50019 ‘Ramillies’ on a down weedkilling train. All the best ,Michael Copyright Michael Adams
Picture
I expect todays spraying is more sophisticated! Copyright Michael Adams
Many Thanks Michael
Latest views of
Wivlescombe Tunnel
Mark Howells
Evening Keith,
 
A site visit to Wivelscombe tunnel on the 19th April 2022 produced two photographs for the CRS.
GWR High Speed Service, Down direction working emerges from Wivelscombe tunnel.
West cutting and portal of Wivelscombe tunnel.
From observations made on site and a quick look back through our records the tunnel appears to have been completed in 1907 as part of the deviation of the line inwards. I’m aware there are several excellent articles already on the CRS website but the plaque above the tunnel portal definitely declares 1907.
 
Excellent weather always makes the day that much more pleasant.
 More images of other locations visited this week in Devon and Cornwall to follow.
 
Kind Regards,
Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM
Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)
Picture
Wivelescombe Tunnel. A down IET emerges from the west end of the tunnel. 19th April 2022. Copyrght Mark Howells - Network Rail.
Picture
Wivelescombe Tunnel. East portal. 19th April 2022. Copyrght Mark Howells - Network Rail.
As usual we are most grateful to Mark for his official views of the tunnel.
​

Summer view from
Shalden Bridge
Clive Nye

Picture
It's a high tide as we see 33 011 from Shalden bridge working the 5O10 08.45 Newton Abbott to Exeter, this train will form the 10.10 Exeter to Waterloo service on 20th August 1978. Copyright Clive Nye.
Many thanks Clive, a pleasant scene.
​

Lelant Crossing
Dennis Clarke
I was at Leland station today (21st April 2022)  and took a few pictures which I have enclosed. It appears that the crossing is going to be re-instated, although in a slightly different place. Regards, Dennis
Picture
Lelant Platform Extension (A) Footpath changes 21st April 2022 Copyright Dennis Clarke
Picture
Lelant Platform Extension (B) Footpath changes 21st April 2022 Copyright Dennis Clarke
Picture
Lelant Platform Extension (C) Footpath changes 21st April 2022 Copyright Dennis Clarke
Thanks for your report Dennis - it looks as if for a few weeks those wishing to access the foreshore from the platform are going to be faced with quite a pleasant though long deviation.
Swindon Selection
Colin Pidgeon

Picture
37800 on 5Q76 Ely Papworth Sidings to Newport Docks with 317708 20th April 2022 Copyright Colin Pidgeon. No doubt the trailing train will be neatly chopped up and in containers now!
Picture
60028 on 6Z52 Oxford Banbury Road to Machen. 20th April 2022 Copyright Colin Pidgeon
Picture
66531 on 4L36 Wentloog to Felixstowe. 20th April 2022 Copyright Colin Pidgeon
 Where is Wentloog? About 7 miles west of Newport.
Many thanks to Colin Pidgeon and to Ken Mumford for forwarding.
 Cornish Railway to Hold First Diesel Heritage Event Since 2019
​Bodmin and Wenford Rly.
Jenna Kirkpatrick

​Please find attached a press release about a forthcoming diesel heritage event that the Bodmin Heritage Railway will be holding on 30th April.
 The link below is for higher resolution photo included within the article. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you require any further information.
https://we.tl/t-1OcGIptNVN 
Kind regards
Jenna
Picture
Thanks Jenna.
​

21st April 2022

21/4/2022

 
Westbury Part 2
21st April 1976
Roger Winnen

Picture
760421n D1021 Western Cavalier on the down Cornish Riviera at Westbury on the avoiding line heads for Penzance This train was due at Heywood Road Jun at 12.52 and Fairwood Junction at 12.54 Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421o The 08.45 Penzance to Paddington on the avoiding line at Westbury. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421r A Class 47 with a stone train approaches Westbury most likly working the 6073 10.15 Whatley Quarry to Woking which was not due to pass Fairwood until 13.15. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421u50019 on the 12.30 from Paddington approaching Westbury on the 14.02/14.04 service to Paignton. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421v A 3 car Gloucester RC&W class Cross Country unit departing Westbury for Bristol on the up Trowbridge line This being the 12.15 Weymouth to Bristol Temple Meads due 13.54/14.00. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421zb D1056 Western Sultan is indeed about to run-round the schools special on Platform 2 and will obviouly be departing from the north end of Platform 2 for Bristol. Copyright Roger Winnen
D1056 Western Sultan arrives at Bristol Temple Meads
Picture
760421zt D1056 Western Sultan arrives at Bristol Temple Meads from Westbury. Copyright Roger Winnen
Many Thanks to Guy Vincent for adding additional information for the above photographs which is most appreciated
Dawlish
Clive Nye
Picture
A down train is expected as 33 004 departs east from Dawlish on the 1st June 1979. Copyright Clive Nye
Looks like it was a nice day for a stroll. Many thanks Clive.
​

Cross Country
Stoke Canon
Paul Barlow

Picture
Nice to see a full length HST. 43378 leads and 43304 brings up the rear on the 14.27 Plymouth to York. Seen here approaching Sandy crossing Stoke Canon on the 16th April 2022. Copyright Paul Barlow.
Many thanks Paul - the rape seed certainly makes for a stunning picture.
​

Westbury 21st April 1976
Roger Winnen
Picture
760421w Westbury North Signal Box. The 'Western' in platform 4 awaiting departure must be D1071 Western Renown with 'A' end cab leading. D1071 was one of the 5 locos equipped with a square cut-out ventilator in each cab end, the others were D1012 (withdrawn by 1976) D1028 (no headboard clips either end), D1039 (withdrawn) D1056 (on the schools special this day!) and D1071. D1071 had no clips at B end following collision repairs in 1967. Track Record Press record this as working the 1A05 1155 Paignton-Paddington which was due at Westbury 1410-1412. I guess this is the same train you photographed from the bridge leaving Westbury and curving off onto the Berks & Hants line. The Cross Country class 119 DMU set in platform 1 (left) is working the 2O69 1308 Bristol TM - Portsmouth Harbour, due Westbury 1355-1409. Actually this looks to be two DMU sets and I remember well seeing and photographing such six-car formations in the mid 1970s along with single and double sets of class 204 / 5 'Hampshire' DEMUs, or 'Bog Units' as we referred to them. The mineral wagons are still present in P3 when D1056 arrives around 30-60 minutes later.Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421zc Semaphores at Westbury. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421za D1056 Western Sultan works a special for schools. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421x D1071 Western RenownA Western departs Westbury for London Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760421j Thumper at Dilton Marsh Platform Westbury. This being the 2068 11.08 Bristol Temple Heads to Portsmouth Harbour due Westbury 11.55-12.09 and Dilton Marsh 12.13 Copyright Roger Winnen
Many Thanks to Guy Vincent for adding additional information for the above photographs which is most appreciated
Observations at
Marston Bridge
Ken Mumford

Ken spends a little time at Marston Bridge which is approximately one and a half miles east of Swindon station - out in the country one might say.
Picture
An interesting splash of colour as Marston Bridge One and a half miles east of Swindon. Here 70 803 heads east with a long train of empty wagons. 20th April 2022. Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
Again at Marston Bridge, looking east 37 800 heads yet another set of redundant vehicles on its last journey. 317 708 on route to Newport. 20th April 2022. Copyright Ken Mumford
Picture
Marston Bridge. Kens last view of 317 708 on route to Sims at Newport. Another set dissapears - has it aleady been scrapped. April 2022. Copyright Ken Mumford
Many thanks Ken for your funereal observations.
​

Advance notice - New book
St Ives Branch

I’m the author of a new book about the St Ives Branch Line, due to be published this summer, which I hope might be of interest to CRS members.  If you’d be happy to mention it on your website the full details are here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-St-Ives-Branch-Line-A-History-Hardback/p/21452

Photographers featured include Mark Lynam, Roger Winnen, Craig Munday, Nathan Stockman and the late Peter Gray, amongst others.

With best wishes,
Richard Long
Picture
Names familiar to us all.
​

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