Blog Archives

31st May 2023

31/5/2023

Cornwall Railway Society visit the Gartell Light Railway
29th May 2023
Roger Winnen

This being the first of three planned excursions over the Summer Period of 2023. With rail strikes loaming we kept our fingers crossed. Allowing more time needed for our trip to Exeter we opted for the 07.40 Cardiff service to Exeter St David's before crossing to Platform 1 for the 11.25 service to Templecombe. Arriving at Penzance Station at 07.20 we were informed that the service had been cancelled, our next option being the 08.15 service to Paddington being a five car IET, an annoucement being made on board the train advised passengers that at Plymouth a 9 Car IET would be used for the rest of the journey. Would we make the connection at Exeter! We arrived with 5 minutes to spare. Panic over for the time being! Returning home at Exeter our two trains arrived at the same time. a dash was made with passengers running down the platform from one train to the other a scene like the rush hour in London.

230529b No 9 Jean an 0-4-0 Tender tank was designed and built by Dr Alan White and named after his late wife, it entered service in 2009 Copyright Roger Winnen

230529h Number 9 is seen coupled to its train at Park Lane. Copyright Roger Winnen

230529m Number 6 Faith arrives at Pinesway Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

Moving the stock at the end of the day at Common Lane. Copyright Roger Winnen

For further pictures of this days event
Click Here Features April to Sept 2023 Scroll right down the page to Item 2311

We had a superb day at the Gartell Light Railway, the staff being very helpfull to us all. The refreshments were very much welcomed on a very hot day.
Many Thanks to you all

Network Rail Training Centre
Bristol Parkway
Driver Alan Peters.

An interesting view of Health and Safety training when climbing signal ladders at the Network Rail Training Centre at Bristol Parkway on 25/05/23, this former Royal Mail sorting hub for mail trains. I wonder what the group of trainees would make climbing signal ladders of lofty signals to change the oil lamps which was the case in Cornwall right up to the nineties where a 'lamp man' was still employed.

Driver Alan Peters

Bristol Parkway Network Rail Training Centre. 30th May 3023. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

An extremely interesting picture Alan. All very correctly dresed and equiped in safety gear- it's interesting to know too what use is being made of the former Mail Hub.

Westbury VQ
Driver Alan Peters

Picture of Colas Rail Freight 70808 at Westbury VQ (Virtual Quarry) awaiting to depart with 6M40 to Stud Farm with 19 empty IOA wagons on 25th May 2023, the train will return fully loaded in the early hours of the morning.
Driver Alan Peters

Westbury to Studd Farm. 30th May 2023. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks Alan - looks a superb evening.

Brian on the move from
Bodmin General
Phillip Hawke

Keith,

This little Ruston diesel shunter has been in store at Bodmin for many years having arrived from the former North Devon Shunter Group that was based at Bideford station. It was one of the loco fleet at the Meeth clay works. It's now heading for St Blazey as a part of the turntable project. One of the same class, or very similar, was used by the contractor's E Thomas when laying a sewer pipe along the St Ives branch in the early 1970's and also for the building of Long Rock diesel depot. It was last seen in "store" at a scrapyard near Carharrack. I wonder if it is still there?

Phil

Brian at Bodmin General. 30th May 2023. Copyright Phil Hawke.

Many thanks for the news and photograph Phil, just the sort of thing we want - the details are very much appreciated.

You may be interested?

At the Martyn Rowe (Truro Auction Centre) auction there is the following

189 V arious photographs of the Redruth and Chacewater Railway, quarry photographs, postcards of Cheesewring Quarry and Carbean Quarry St. Austell, three albums containing a selection of railway locomotive photographs and others etc. £20 - 30

TWO DAY ONLINE COLLECTORS SALE
DAY ONE THURSDAY 1ST JUNE 2023 AT 10.00 AM

30th May 2023

30/5/2023

Tonight at Stoke Canon
David Tozer

Gents,
First ever visit to Devon of a Class 69
69003 leading 69004
3Q00 1158 Woking Up Yard Reception. to Exeter Riverside N.Y.
Dave

First ever visit of class 69's to Exeter. 30th May 2023. Copyright David Tozer.

Many Thanks David 1st Prize to you!

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 22 Michael L. Roach
Meeth Halt and Chelfham Viaduct

The story of a day trip from Plymouth to Lynton was related in Part 20 on 18 May 2023; and how such trips were usually accompanied by stops enroute to photograph a train or two, if the timing was right, and if not some railway infrastructure. On this particular day, Bank Holiday Monday 11 June 1962 there were two railway stops on the outward trip to Lynton and one on the return leg several hours later. The first stop was at a bridge over the Barnstaple to Taunton line between Barnstaple and the first station at Swimbridge. The line passed north of and within half a mile of the village of Landkey, but a station or halt was never provided which seems quite remiss of the GWR in view of the number of platforms and halts they did provide in the 1920s and 1930s to much smaller settlements. A minor road headed north from Landkey and passed over the line on an overbridge. I think we probably stopped here to eat our sandwiches while the next train was awaited. I walked along the top of the cutting a short distance west of the bridge to photograph the 1.17pm Barnstaple Junction to Taunton train some six minutes into its 100 minute journey to Taunton. The train consisted of a bogie parcels van and three passenger coaches hauled by Churchward Mogul 6372. The engine was a regular on the line and a long-term resident of Taunton Shed continuously from before nationalisation until withdrawal in December 1963. The railway line closed completely in October 1966 and the bridge has been replaced by a much longer one which now spans the North Devon Link Road, constructed along the alignment of the railway in parts. The road is numbered the A361 which is an interesting road as it wends its way from Ilfracombe across Devon and then across the full width of the Counties of Somerset, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire before entering Nothamptonshire and terminating at Kilsby where it joins the A5 – the Holyhead Road. The A361 is the longest three-digit A road in the whole of the United Kingdom running for about 210 miles in total. Apart from 15-20 miles at each end the road runs wholly through GWR and Western Region territory.
The next stop was just two miles further north but would probably have taken in excess of ten minutes to reach because of the very narrow roads. I did not realise before that the two railways were just so close but here we were only three miles out of Barnstaple and from here the two lines would diverge rapidly. The second line was the narrow gauge Lynton & Barnstaple and I had come to see the wonderful Chelfham Viaduct for the first, and only, time. The viaduct was constructed in 1896-7 to carry the line across a valley at a height of 21 metres and is 121 metres long consisting of eight arches. It was built of cream bricks from the works at Peters Marland which began their near 30 mile journey from the brickworks to the site on the 3-foot gauge Torrington & Marland Railway of 1881. Although the L&B closed in 1935 the viaduct survived to be extensively restored in the year 2000 and has been listed Grade II since 1965. Chelfham Viaduct was the largest structure on any English narrow gauge railway system. Both from ground level and from photographs it is hard to realise that it is not carrying a single line of standard gauge track. A magnificent structure. I took a couple of photographs and we moved on to Lynton and the top end of the cliff railway.
We arrived at Lynton parked up and took a trip down the cliff railway to see Lynmouth and its harbour. In 1962 it was just ten years since the disastrous floods of Friday 15 August 1952 which was still very fresh in everyone's minds. After 70 years the Lynmouth flood disaster of 1952 remains the worst river flood experienced in the UK. More than 100 buildings were detroyed and 34 people lost their lives. We stayed a couple of hours and then set out for the journey home via the centre of Barnstaple this time. First stop was just outside the village of Meeth on the A376 and roughly half way home. We had travelled this way in the morning but not stopped. A quarter of a mile south of this small village a railway line crossed the A376 on an ungated level crossing. Trains were required to stop and whistle before carefully crossing if the traffic had stopped, because this was a Light Railway constructed in accordance with the 1896 Act of Parliament. The speed limit on the whole of the line was 25mph, although it was not part of the 1896 Act but dated back much further to an Act of 1868. There is just one line left on the national network still operated as a light railway and that is the Heart of Wales line. The line that passed through Meeth was the North Devon and Cornwall Junction Light Railway opened on 27 July 1925 and closed on 1 March 1965, although freight continued to be carried at the northern end for a few years. An unstaffed halt was provided adjacent to the level crossing and was photographed as the 6.30pm from Halwill Junction to Torrington train passed consisting of just one passenger coach hauled by an Ivatt 2-6-2 tank. The photograph was used as a mystery photo in Part 19 and there were a couple of clues. There were few one-coach corridor coach steam trains in the west country in the 1960s and most of them were a single autocoach. The other was the ballast, as with lower speeds and lower axle loads light railways often used poor quality ballast, as here, that would not be considered for a normal standard-gauge railway. However a point worth noting in the second photo is that, although the ballast is poor, the sleepers appear to be closer together than normal. Meeth was the final stop at the end of a great day out with railway photos taken at four different locations, including the cliff railway.

MLR / 27 May 2023

7148 Churchward Mogul 6372 heads east on the 1.17pm Barnstaple Junction to Taunton. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7149 Chelfham Viaduct seen from the west side. The viaduct was built in 1896-7 of more than 250,000 cream coloured bricks, and has 8 arches of 13 metre span. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7151 This view of the Viaduct shows the curved south end. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7157 The 6.30pm from Halwill Junction to Torrington stops at Meeth Halt at 7.12pm on Monday 11 June 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7158 Meeth Halt looking towards Halwill Junction. The photographer is looking east but the line is about to embark on a right-hand curve of more than 90 degrees after which the line will be heading south west. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Michael, we look forward to Part 23. Keep up the good work.

Not a good start.
CRS trip to the Gartell Railway.

It is understood that the very first train planned for Roger's day out was cancelled, however there was a contingency plan - we'll hear how it went when Rogers machine returns from servicing.

Paignton
Bits and pieces
Jon Hird

Some photos attached of another trip up to Devon to see the class 33’s and 37275 in action on the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway today.

I first caught the 33’s at Hollicombe Beach, then took a quick drive over to Goodrington to see them arrive and run around.

I watched 37275 do a few trips over the P&DSR at Goodrington sidings, Goodrington bank and at Waterside, also saw their tank engine at Waterside on a Kingswear to Paignton service.

Then up to Kingkerswell to see the 33’s heading back up the branch again at the end of the day.

A nice day with the sea air, sunshine and diesel fumes!

Hollicombe Beach 29th May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

Goodrington 29th May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

6975 Goodrington 29th May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

4555 Goodrington 29th May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird - a lovely shot.

The 33's depart for home. 29th May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

Many thanks for your coverage Jon - excellent

Compton Torbay Adventurer
Andrew Triggs

A trip to South Devon to capture WCR 'Cromptons' 33025 and 33029 working the 'Crompton Torbay Venturer' rail tour in lovely sunny May conditions
All the Best
Andrew

1. WCR 33029 and 33025 with 1Z25 07.00 Burton On Trent-Paignton Rail Tour passing Langstone Rock, Dawlish Warren 29.5.2023
2. 33025 now leading 33029 as they pass Cockwood Harbour with the return 1Z29 16.30 Paignton-Burton On Trent 29.5.2023
3. In between the Tour, celebrity 43184 'Laira Diesel Depot' leading 1S53 13.27 Plymouth-Edinburgh (with 43239) passing Dawlish 29.5.2023

Picture 1 29th May 2023 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Picture 2 29th May 2023 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Picture 3 29th May 2023 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Very many thanks indeed Andrew.

An afternoon by the seaside
Clive Smith

(1) On a glorious day 43184 brings up the rear of the 1V46 06.12 Leeds - Plymouth with 43239 on the front at Dawlish Warren.

(2) A welcome return of class 33s to the Devon mainline as they are very infrequent visitors. Pretty much all BR blue and white aircons. Just a shame West Coast Railways persist with this drab dull maroon livery rather than do the Cromptons up in blue with full yellow ends or even lined green. This is Pathfinders' Crompton Torbay Venturer 1Z25 07.00 Burton-On-Trent to Paignton railtour with 33025 and 33029.

(3) Now to Paignton as 37275 arrives with the 14.15 from Kingswear. The 37 did a number of trips in conjunction with the arrival of the railtour.

(4) West Coast 33029 & 33025 thrash out of Paignton with the Pathfinders' Crompton Torbay Adventurer 1Z29 16.30 Paignton to Burton-On-Trent.

Picture 1. 29th May 2023. Copyright Clive Smith

Picture 2. 29th May 2023 Copyright Clive Smith.

Picture 3. 29th May 2023. Copyright Clive Smith.

Picture 4. 29th May 2023. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive - glad to hear and see that you are out and about.

33's to Paignton
Mark Lynam

1. 33025 + 33029 along the seawall at Dawlish working 1Z25 0700 Burton-on-Trent to Paignton - The Crompton Torbay Venturer

2. Running around in Goodrington Sidings shortly after arrival at Paignton.

3. After run around in Goodrington Sidings.

4. 37275 passes the 33s at Goodrington working 14.05 Kingswear to Paignton.

5. 37275 climbs Goodrington Bank working 14.50 Paignton to Kingswear.

6. 37275 on the return journey at Waterside working 15.20 Kingswear to Paignton.

7. 33025 + 33029 at Kingskerswell working 1Z29 1630 Paignton to Burton-on-Trent.

Picture 1 Copyright Mark Lynam

Picture 2. Copyright Mark Lynam

Picture 3 Copyright Mark Lynam.

Picture 4. Copyright Mark Lynam

Picture 5 29th May 2023. Copyright Mark Lynam

Picture 6. Copyright Mark Lynam.

Picture 7. Copyright Mark Lynam

Many thanks to Mark and all contributors with the amazing coverage - well done. Now I could do with a rest, I hope not too many erros!! KJ

29th May 2023

29/5/2023

Looe line 'tunnels'
Roger Winnen

Roger is still out of contact with the website due to his computer being in the depot under repair and it will be so until at least Tuesday.
Time for us to dig in our stored archives of Rogers work which brings up the following picture of one of the 'cut and cover' tunnels which carry the Liskeard by-pass over the Looe branch under construction.
However out of contact Roger is still roaming the rails - he's off on the CRS visit to the Gartell Railway at Templecombe today. We look forward to seeing that in due course.

A distant view from the main line Liskeard viaduct of the 'tunnel' though which the Looe branch passes under the Liskeard by-pass. 3rd April 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Have a good day Roger and all.

Bahamas going home - a good days work done.
Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

Swindon - Bahamas heading back to Southall. 27th May 2023, Copyright Colin Pidgeon

This picture and many others added to our 'Steam and diesel railtours 22 and 23' collection - to see please click here.

Todays specials and CC Trains
Paul Barlow

33029 and 33025 pass Ellerhayes (Silverton) on the 07.00 Burton on Trent to Paignton. 29th May 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow

43239 & 43184 on the 06.12 Leeds to Plymouth at Ellerhayes. 29th May 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43304 & 43208 on the 16.27 Plymouth to Leeds Rewe. 29 May 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

33025 and 33029 pass Rewe on the return charter 16.30 Paignton to Burton on Trent 29th May 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks to you Paul.

28th May 2023

28/5/2023

Masses of yesterdays Railtours, still being added.
Many thanks to all

45596 16 min early on Teignmouth Sea Wall 27th May 2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

50008+67028, Creech 27th May 2023 Copyright Bill Elston

45596 Dawlish Coastguards { 1Z39 0623 Woking to Plymouth } 27th May 2023. Copyright Stephen Widdowson

Lots more pictures still being added. Please see Steam and Diesel Railtours 2022/23.

Before the railtour marathon
Bodmin & Wenford
Jon Hird

Extra bonus (Cornish) shot of 08359 on the China clay set on the Bodmin and Wenford today, headed to Bodmin Parkway to collect passengers for the days diesel service (the first service train of the day goes to Boscarne junction so this trip gives passengers coming to the railway by train a chance to make the most of their day rover).

All the best, Jon Hird

08359 This morning - 27th May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

You had a very day - many thanks to you for your contributions.

27th May 2023

27/5/2023

Roger is out of contact - his PC has gone away to the depot - unlikely to be back before Tuesday at the earliest. So send no EM's before then. He will be available on his mobile and land line although he'll be out today.
___________________________________________________________

Yellow peril on the
St Ives branch
Steve Widdowson

Please find attached pics of a day out on 25th June 1987, with Telecom livery DMU class 118 51325,51310 & 51310. From Lelant Salting to St Ives.

The train runs in to Lelant Saltings 25th June 1987. Copyright Steve Widdowson.

On board now the view leaving Lelant. 25th June 1987.

The joys of the front view we used to get - the approach to Carbis Bay station 25th June 1987. Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Memories are made of this - the fantasic views we used to get. Many thanks Stephen. We remember the excitement of seeing this non standard and rather garish livery patrolling the Cornish Branch lines.

SDR Rail Ale
Mark Lynam

Today (Friday 26th May) was the first day of the South Devon Railway's Rails & Ales festival which is usually held on the May and August bank holidays, with both steam and diesel trains out. 33002 was on the diesel diagram,5 photos of which are included below.

1) 33002 running around at Totnes Riverside before working 10.30 Totnes Riverside to Buckfastleigh

2) 33002 arrives at Bishops Bridge loop working 11.20 Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside. It waits here for the steam service heading to Buckfastleigh to pass.

3) 33002 arriving at Staverton working 12.10 Totnes Riverside to Buckfastleigh.

4) 33002 at Hood Bridge working 13.00 Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside.

5) 33002 running around at Buckfastleigh in the late afternoon light before working a delayed 16.40 Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside.

Thanks,
Mark Lynam

Picture order left to right then down - please click on an image to obtain an enlargement.

All pictures copyright Mark Lynan.

Many thanks to you Mark for your coverage.

Bristol 1987
Phil Smith

Temple Meads - 33057 seen on the left. 33023 with coaches seen on the right where 33057 will take over the train at BTM its 1987. Copyright Phil Smith.

Bath Road depot. Left to right 33059, 33063, 33030, 33020. Locos at the back 50036, 08483 It is 1987. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks for your Temple Meads memories Phil - keep up the good work.

Dawlish Link bridge
David Ive

Good Evening,
Attached is my first picture taken from the new Link Bridge on the rebuilt Dawlish Sea Wall, which opened yesterday. Taken this morning, it shows GWR 43155 “Rougemont Castle” leading 2U10 0540 Penzance to Cardiff Central.
Kind regards, David Ive.

Dawlish - a view from the brand new pedestrain 'link bridge' of 43 155 Rougement Castle on the 24th May 2023. Copyright David Ive.

Many thanks David - a new view for most us too.

Horse Cove
versus Shell Cove
David Ive

Morning Keith,

Thanks for your email. I'm glad the images have been of use. I have the website on Bookmarks and enjoy reading the various articles.

Funny you should ask about Shell Cove, because I was, initially, hesitant about using the name. It is more commonly known as Horse Cove, however, I have seen Shell Cove used before.

See the attached OS extract. In my image, taken approximately where FB and the green diamond are marked, Shell Cove is the nearest beach, with Horse Cove behind. Hence, I used Shell Cove. I hope this explains.

I have a photographic website at www.djipix.com , where I regularly post images. It is transport based, but predominantly railway. Images are current and older, going back to the 70s and Hydraulics. If you see anything you would like to use, please let me know.

Kind regards, David.

Thanks for the Link David - I am sure visitors will find it interesting.

26th May 2023

26/5/2023

A fascinating history revealed of an abandoned building constructed during Brunel's railway era

From a recent edition of the Cornishman Newspaper a decrepit building erected when Isambard Kingdom Brunel was building his railway through Cornwall has been revealed to have a more fascinating story than originally thought.
The building in 69 Bodmin Road St Austell has been left to decay, the building put up at the time of when the new railway over the
Trenance and Gover valleys was being contructed prior to 1859. To cut the cost of building the viaducts on the new route through Cornwall, Brunell advised the use of timber decking and bracing on stone piers Historians investigating the story of 69 Bodmin Road origally thought built in 1856 as a water-powered sawmill to cut timber for the viaduct which stands above it. This is only a short part of the story, members of the St Austell History Group have been working on the buildings history

Viewed approaching the building, one can see the original piers in the foreground of the Brunels Viaduct built for the opening of the main line in 1859. Copyright Roger Winnen

The decrepit building at 69 Bodmin Road St Austell. Copyright Roger Winnen

Trenance Viaduct crosses Bodmin Road St Austell. Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking down Bodmin Road towards St Austell town centre. Copyright Roger Winnen

The replacent Trenance Valley Viaduct built in 1899. Copyright Roger Winnen

The 10.20 Penzance to London Paddington IET crosses Trenance Valley Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

Shell Cove Dawlish
David Ive

Please see attached image of Cross Country's Inter City liveried 43184 on 1V50 0606 Edinburgh to Plymouth, taken yesterday (24/05) at Shell Cove, Dawlish.

I hope that it may be of use for the website.

Kind regards, David Ive

Intercity HST at Shell Cove. 43184 on 1V50 0606 Edinburgh to Plymouth. 24th May 2023. Copyright David Ive.

Many thanks David. Congratulations on a smashing picture taken on a perfect day.

Steam on the move towards 'our patch'
Seen at Reading.
Colin Pidgeon

45596 on 5Z38 Southall WCR to St Phillips Marsh, seen at Reading. 25th May 2023. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

It's heading the right way - many thanks to you Colin.

A lovely Great Western scene at
Rewe
Paul Barlow

5051 Earl Bathurst heads the 0715 Paddington to Plymouth past Rewe 26 March 2005. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - a smashing scene out in the countryside.

Going back to 1987
Barnstaple
Phil Smith

31467 departing Barnstaple station 1987. Copyright Phil Smith.

You can almost hear it - many thanks Phil. Good to see the old box in operation.

25th May 2023

25/5/2023

A very pleasant visit to Somerset
James Bown

I took the 10.15 from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead yesterday hauled by immaculate Hawksworth 9XXX 0-6-0PT number 9466 which had recently returned to service. The return was hauled by the GWR Mogul 9351. The Somerset countryside in May always delights as does this excellent railway. Best wishes James Bown

Many thanks to you James.

This weeks selection
Craig Munday

The glorious sunshine (14 hours on Friday apparently), continues, and being thoroughly enjoyed. Some recent pictures from out and about.

16th, 66104 was a little later than usual arriving at Goonbarrow - the light was setting fast and a front on view was taken entering the exchange sidings.

The vegetation clearance around St Blazey has exposed a nice evening shot of the clay passing the semaphores, 66104 powers away after Driver Steve Burton has collected the electric token for the section to Goonbarrow.

A lovely shift at Par in the sunshine saw the windows open all day and the sounds of POart we know and love, the ducks and geese hurriedly flying over squawking loudly, the youngsters playing in the park opposite and the passing trains. Memories to cling onto. Pip Dunn was down and travelled up front on 2U12. The train is seen arriving as the sun climbs.

The 21st was Lostfest, and I was attending there for much of the afternoon. The crossing became incredibly busy and I was chief usher for folk coming back to the crossing. Many cut it fine for the barrier sequence so they were hurried along just before the down train left Bodmin.

Bodmin & Wenford's 08359 was in action, and some shots high up from Tywardreath were also taken in the morning.

Finally, yesterday 43272 made its way back to Doncaster at Laira, and is seen at South Brent. It really looks a bit lost on the mainline running solo.

Best wishes, Craig.

Pictures in date order - left to right then down - all copyright Craig Munday. Please click on the pictures to obtain a framed enlargement.

Many thanks Craig - a busy week.

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 21
Steam and the Forder Valley Link Road
Michael L. Roach

The steam roller was patented in France in 1859 and the first British examples appeared in the 1860s. There were a number of maufacturers who adapted their design of traction engine to the new three smooth roll design which was ideal for building roads. Marshalls of Gainsborough were one of the major manufacturers but they produced their first diesel roller in 1925. Steam rollers were still in use throughout the 1960s but in rapidly diminishing numbers. The last steam roller that I saw in use was on a road widening contract. The location was alongside the Vulcan Inn (now a cafe) close to the site of the former Doldowlod railway station on the A470 in Radnorshire where the trunk roasd was being widened and straightened; and the date was 24 August 1971. The roller was Aveling & Porter no. 11208; a 10-tonner dating from 1925 and belonging to the Radnor County Council which is now part of Powys County Council. The roller entered preservation and was last heard of in Kington, Herefordshire.
In Part 9 of this series (10 March) I explained how my first job on a construction site was setting out the Forder Valley Link Road in Spring 1962. The road was built across a flood plain and at the peak there were six road rollers compacting the formation most of them being Marshalls, including one Marshall steam roller. It is believed that most of the rollers were on hire from the well-known firm of R.Dingle & Sons of Stoke Climsland. The Marshall roller in question had the works number 88166 and the registration DCV 5, and it dated from 1937. The roller was driven by one “Taffy” Dare who hailed from the Valleys of South Wales and he lived the typical life that such drivers had been living for the previous 80 to 90 years. Taffy left home at Stoke Climsland, near Callington Cornwall, very early on a Monday morning in good time to light up the engine and raise steam ready to start work at 07.30 with the rest of the construction workers. From Monday evening to Thursday evening Taffy spent four nights in his living van which he had towed to site. This was without doubt a lonely life for a married man but on Friday evening he could damp down the fire and go home for the weekend. He obviously had no car because he had driven the roller to site, so perhaps he had a small motor bike with him. DCV 5 was one of several of Dingle's steam rollers to make it into preservation and when last heard of it belonged to an enthusiast living in Redruth.
CAPTIONS
7006      The typical parts of a steam roller can be seen in this broadside view of DCV 5 on 17 April 1962.
7007      In this view the Marshall is rolling material brought from the other end of the site.
7008      Here we see a lorry bringing material excavated on site and which will be spread in layers by a bulldozer and compacted by rollers. One of the dozers on site was a Hanomag which were never common in Britain. The firm was better known by railway enthusiasts for its steam locomotives. The first three images were all taken at Longbridge at the east end of the road scheme.
7145      On 6 June 1962 the Marshall roller is seen at the other (west) end of the scheme close to where the road joined back into the existing A374 road.

MLR / 21 May 2023

7006 The typical parts of a steam roller can be seen in this broadside view of DCV 5 on 17 April 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7007 In this view the Marshall is rolling material brought from the other end of the site. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7008 Here we see a lorry bringing material excavated on site and which will be spread in layers by a bulldozer and compacted by rollers. One of the dozers on site was a Hanomag which were never common in Britain. The firm was better known by railway enthusiasts for its steam locomotives. The first three images were all taken at Longbridge at the east end of the road scheme.

7145 On 6 June 1962 the Marshall roller is seen at the other (west) end of the scheme close to where the road joined back into the existing A374 road. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Mike - just keep on rollin' along!

24th May 2023

24/5/2023

Lone ranger at
Cullompton
Keith Turley

Having visited Laira depot for maintenance and repairs, Colas class 432 power car No.43272 passes Cullompton on 23rd May 2023,working the OZ17 0955 Plymouth Laira to Derby RTC light 23rd May 2023 Copyright Keith Turley

Many thanks Keith, very good of you to keep an eye on passing traffic.

One thing leads to another
Mission & Praise - broad gauge coch body at
Portbury

Hi Keith,
I was interested to see Michael Bussell's recent contribution of photos (from c1966 & 1967) showing an old BG carriage at Portbury (Portishead branch) that had been in use as a chapel. I too took photos at about the same time (albeit in the summer) & in fact the last 4 photos shown on the Bristol Industrial Museum's website (for which Michael provided a link) are mine. I attach larger copies of these & also one of Portbury station taken on the same day which you might find useful. Michael has provided a comprehensive history of the coach but there are some details I can add. When the coach was dismantled markings showed it to be B&ER coach no. 31, a second class, 4 compartment coach built by the B&ER at their works in Bridgwater in 1863. Its GWR number was 341. This information was supplied to me 4 years ago by Andy King, Senior Curator at the museum at that time. He also confirmed that the hand-painted plaque describing its history as a chapel has sadly disappeared. One of my photos shows this plaque & Michael has provided a transcription. The plaque on the end-wall read 'The Original Wesleyan Mission Room'. Michael states that the proposals for the new M5 made the redevelopment of the chapel as a dwelling a 'non-starter'. I don't think this is the case; using the NLS facility to overlay current day arial photos on old maps at https://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore/#zoom=18.0&lat=51.47638&lon=-2.72591&layers=168&b=1 it can be seen that the old chapel still exists. (Unfortunately I haven't lived in Bristol since 1969 so have never been back to the site. I now live near Cambridge). The 1892-1914 OS 25" map referenced shows the coach outline alongside that of the chapel.
PS 1: I regret to say that since my contact with Andy King in 2019 he died in 2021, shortly after retiring. He was a much-respected Senior Curator & had worked for the City Museum for about 40 years.
PS 2: I can supply photos, also taken 1966, of a BG Horsebox at Yatton (alongside the Clevedon branch). Interested?
Best wishes
Martin Tester

A gallery of pictures relating to the broad gauge coach at Portbury kindly supplied by Martin Tester, his copyright. These are summer pictures taken from much the same locations as those supplied by Michael Bussell. These are summer views. Also included is a 1960's view of Portbury station. Please click on these pictures to obtain an enlarged view. If you click on the link within the text above you will find a copy of a most useful map giving the location of the chapel and coach.

Many thanks to you Michael. Your much valued information will be added to that supplied by Michael Bussell. I hope very shortly to include a comprehensive collection of photographs of Clevedon station taken in its last days and during its demolition taken by Michael Bussell. Thus your pictures of broad gauge stock at Yatton would be a valuable addition to compliment Mr. Bussell's valued collection - please send.

Night time 87/88 scenes at
Bristol
Phil Smith

31132 at Bristol Bath road depot in 1987 Copyright Phil Smith

31141 stands at Bristol Temple Meads with the parcels in 1988. Copyright Phil Smith

Many thanks Phil - I see you are still on night shift - your messages timed at just before 3 AM!!

23rd May 2023

23/5/2023

The Helston Branch
Roger Salter

I was grateful to be taken to Praze yesterday by a friend who lived there for many years.
He drove to the old Praze Station, now a house with gardens, but the branch continues towards Helston as the photos show.
It was a glimpse of the past as I travelled this line many times from Hayle Grammar School-Helston to spend weekends on my friends farm.

Many Thanks Roger

Colourful scene at Salisbury
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, I obviously had a good day at Salisbury on 22 December 1992 as now we see 47715 ‘Haymarket’ leading 47489 on Westbound empty coaches . Thanks and best wishes Michael. Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

Golden Hour at
Trerulefoot
Jon Hird

Good evening guys,
I was up early this morning and had to travel upcountry for an environmental governance meeting (the irony of driving across the country to do so wasn’t lost on me!).
I decided to stop in at Trerulefoot just before 6am to take a photo of the sleeper with 57605 and I also caught a Penzance-bound HST running about 15 minutes ahead of it.
My friend is responsible for looking after this field and later this afternoon he went and planted it, so today was the last chance to get in there for the shot this year without the risk of doing any damage to the crop.

Hope they’re of interest, all the best, Jon Hird

An early morning HST, 22nd May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird. Note the freshly ploughed field very soon to be planted.

The down sleeper caught in beautuful light at Trerulefoot on the 22nd May 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

I, hope,and I am sure they do, all our photographers take the same care and obtain permissions as you do. Wonderful photographs, as you say 'golden images'. Thank you Jon - hope you had a good meeting.

Blatchford viaduct
Chris Harvey

On a hot 30th May 2009, 43 179 "Pride Of Laira" storms east at the head of the 1158 Penzance - Paddington. Copyright Chris Harvey.

Many thanks Chis - the blue stands out nicely against the background trees - thank heavens it was taken before the dreaded green livery.

SVR Spring Gala
Andrew Triggs

Hi Keith/Roger
Just returned from the ever excellent SVR Spring Diesel Gala, find the enclosed shots for CRS of the Best Diesel Gala going on these shores
All the Best
Andrew

P.S I'm aware it's 'borderline' on our area's coverage but we've included SVR events before as well?

1. D821 'Greyhound' passing Kidderminster TMD working 12.30 Kidderminster-Bridgnorth (Taken under supervision, while on the Depot Tour) 18.5.2023
2. Rail Adventure 43484 with 43465 running into Kidderminster station prior to working 09.00 Kidderminster-Highley (with 47712) with GWR 2+4 set with 43188/186 stabled next to them 19.5.2023
3. 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' leading 09.45 Highley-Kidderminster (with 56051 'Survival' at the rear) on Foley Park bank 20.5.2023
4. D1015 'Western Champion' descending Eardington Bank working 14.30 Bridgnorth-Kidderminster 20.5.2023
5. 20189 with 20048 climbing Eardington Bank working 13.30 Kidderminster-Bridgnorth 20.5.2023
6. DBC 60062 'Sonia' with 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' on the LSL Mk3 set approaching Victoria Bridge working 11.45 Highley-Kidderminster 20.5.2023

Pictures numbered left to right and down - details as above - all copyright Andrew Triggs.

Thank you Andrew, an excellent record - are you ever at home? It's good to see all the heads out of windows safely enjoying railtravel.

22nd May 2023

22/5/2023

Bodmin General
Freight to Wenford bridge - if only!
Martin J. Duff

Many thanks Martin - wishful thinking I'm afraid.

A look back at the
Gunnislake branch
Roger Winnen

Bere Ferrers Station on 5th April 1975. Before it became a preservation site. Copyright Roger Winnen

End of the line at Bere Alston on 5th April 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen. When will it be relaid on to Tavistock - that is the big question?

Many thanks Roger.

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