Blog Archives

31st Juky 2023

31/7/2023

Moorswater
& St Blazey
Jon Hird

45627 having having crossed Moorswater viaduct is on its way to St Blazey for turning. A classic shot. 30th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

Ready for action on the turntable at St Blazey. 30th July 2023, Copyright Jon Hird.

These and lots more pictures of this railtour will be appearing in our Steam and Diesel Railtours section which is being prepared by Roger Winnen.
Please click here.

R & C & GWR Relics
Bissoe & Lansalson
Peter Flanagan

A couple of pics of old railway infrastructure still visible in former lines now turned into footpaths. First is a granite sleeper block on the Redruth & Chasewater railway near Bissoe, second is an iron chair at Carlyon Farm kiln sidings on the Lansalon branch near St.Austell.
Maybe of use to you ? Peter Flanagan

A granite sleeper block on the Redruth & Chasewater railway near Bissoe. 30th July 2023. Copyright Peter Flanagan

An iron chair at Carlyon Farm kiln sidings on the Lansalon branch near St.Austell.30th July 2023. Copyright Peter Flanagan

Almost lost but not forgotten. Many thanks Peter.

166219 passing Exminster
David Tozer

166219 was working the 1853 Paignton to Exmouth as David Tozer was awaiting the return of the Jubilee from Par. Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

Patchway
Phil Smith

43071 runs into Patchway with driver Jamie at the helm. 2019 Copyright Phil Smith.

43071. Driver Jamie takes a breath of fresh air at Patchway station 2019 Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil.

30th July 2023

30/7/2023

Bodmin Railway
Jon Hird

Please find attached a selection of photos of 50042 ‘Triumph’ at work on the Bodmin & Wenford today (29th July 2023). A great running day as always, thanks to the volunteers who give up so much of their time so that we can enjoy these fantastic machines.

All the best, Jon Hird

50042 Bodmin General. 29th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

50042 Boscarne 29th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

50042 Charlies Gate 29th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

50042 Charlies Gate 29th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks indeed to you Jon for your efforts and I most certainly endorse your thoughts on the crews who turn out to run thse machines and also of course to your self for bringing us these pictures. All our wesbsite supporters are very much appreciated.

Bill Elston reports from
Wick (2miles E of Langport)

Hi Keith,
Today's crop from Wick;
1) A 9-car IET heading west towards Taunton on 1C74. Oath Farm in the distance.
2) 66023 working 0C14 L/E Westbury to Westbury via Par.
3) 50007 and 50049 on 1Z50 Ipswich to Paignton, GBRf staff outing.

Best wishes, Bill.

IET at Wick 29th July 2023 Copyright Bill Elston

66023 at Wick. 29th July 2023 Copyright Bill Elston

50007 (Hercules) + 049 at Wick. 29th July 2023. Copyright Bill Elston.

A closer view of 50007 + 049, 29th July 2023. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill. It is of little interest but railway enthusiasts usually associate Wick with Thurso which lies some 19 miles NW of Wick - however this Wick is some 500 miles south of Thurso!! Now you're all the wiser!

Shrewsbury to Weymouth Charter as seen in the
Swindon area
Ken Mumford and Colin Pidgeon

Hello friends,
Firstly I caught the Shrewsbury to Weymouth special speeding past Purton (Collins Lane) double headed by D1995 in the original two-tone green [which I like] with 47593 'Gallway Princess' tucked in behind it. Colin Pidgeon took photos when it stopped at platform 1 at Swindon station - left 3 EARLY. [Photos 3 and 4 are Colin's morning photos]

Later and then at Swindon station stopping briefly alongside platform 3 in order to take on an extra man in the cab [pilotman??] and thus to bear right up the Gloucester branch leaving 8 LATE.

I was on platform 3 whilst Colin Pidgeon was on platform 4 and took the last but one photo of 47593 brnging up the rear unpowered.

The other photos were of various trains by me PLUS a class 387 heading to the Cockleberry Sidings.

Kind regards to you all, Ken

The pictures below have been kindly sent in by Ken Mumford and have been placed in a gallery. Only the second picture, is taken at Purton Crossing and is of the Shrewsbury to Weymouth special on the outward journey. There are various other of traffic at Swindon station later in the day which include the special train returning from Weymouth. Please click on a picture if you wish to see and enlarged version.

Many thanks Ken - rather a lot of pictures to sort - I hope our viewers will understand.

29th July 2023

29/7/2023

An Evening at Cockwood Harbour
David Tozer

A couple from this evening DB Class 66 66023 wearing King Charles 111 livery. 1030 0Z14 Westbury to Par and return. Copyright David Tozer

GBRF Class 50's 50049 ' Defiance' and 50034 which in fact was 50007 renumbered. This was the 1700 1Z52 Paignton to Ipswich. Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

Not all railway but you mustn't miss this one
Gloucester to Chepstow
Colin Burges

This ride along the Gloucester Canal may interest some of your readers, as it contains much railway interest.

https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/84-sharpness-gloucester-and-chepstow/

Cheers, Colin Burges.

Many thanks Colin - excellent material - not to be missed.

Staffords Bridge
& Ellerhayes
Paul Barlow

Heading for pastures a new de branded 43158 and 43022 work the 11. 00 Laira to Kings Norton 27th July 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A Panned shot showing detail of 43158 Copyright Paul Barlow

43239 and 43301 at Ellerhayes Silverton on the 12.27 Plymouth to Glasgow 28th July 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - you are achieving great success with your drone.

Contributions from
Par & Lostwithiel
James May

Dear Keith and the team,

I am a long-term follower of the Cornwall Railway Society and your daily updates always allow escapism from the usual routine. Living in Hampshire, seeing all of the regular updates – whether present or past content – are always welcome and appreciated.

I am presently down in Cornwall for a week and thought that I may be able to share some photos that I have taken over the week. I am usually a bus man, but Cornwall and the prospect of change does funny things to you! The history of the Cornish railways fascinates me along with the promise of (hopefully) sunny and relaxed breaks.

Picture 1: Cross Country’s Class 221 221135 heads north on 25th July with the 1S47 0837 Penzance to Edinburgh service. I usually catch the 0945(ish) service in to Truro and have seen the Cross Country arrival at Par for many years, whether it be to Scotland or Manchester. To see it roaring through took me a little by surprise. Pictured 25th July 2023.

Picture 2: Not the best photo, but I am a busman as I say and not used to the lengths and speed of the railway! Here, having returned me safely from Penzance to Par illustrates 43155 leading the 2U32 1650 Penzance to Cardiff Central at Par, with 43010 on the rear. I always tend to take a photo of the train that I’ve just got off for keepsake at Par… will this be the last time I am on an HST? Pictured 25th July 2023.

Picture 3: Taken the next day, here is Class 150 150244 having just arrived, pictured following the 1310 arrival from Newquay, alongside 802009 on the 2P16 Penzance to Plymouth route – note how the weather has changed in less than 24 hours! I was on the 150 from Newquay and we arrived in just a minute or two before the IET arrived from Penzance – many passengers were pleased to be able to make the connection so efficiently.

Picture 4: A longer shot illustrating 150244 at Par again - I took this one as it moves on the 5N07 Par to Par Chapel Siding to illustrate the shunt signal in use, as I know the semaphores will be gone by my visit next summer.

Pictures 5: Finally, popping up the line to Lostwithiel, here is HST 43154 arriving with the 2C27 1417 Plymouth to Penzance service, in the pouring rain and framed by one of the semaphores which will be no more the next time I visit. 43092 was on the rear. I know the IETs are a little like marmite – some people love them, others dislike them – but there is a certain thrill and sense of occasion when an HST arrives in the station more than other types in the south west.

Feel free to use as many or as few of the photos that you wish; thank you for all the good work that you continue to do.

Best wishes, James

221135 Par 1S47 the 08.37 Penzance to Edinburgh 25th July 2023. Copyright James May

43155+43010-Par-2U32 1650 Penzance to Cardiff Central - 25th July 2023 Copyright James May

802009-Par-2P16 Penzance to Plymouth-with 150244 26th July 2023 Copyright James May

43154+43092-Lostwithiel-2C27 1418 Plymouth to Penzance - 26th July 2023 Copyright James May

Many thanks James - not a good week for a holiday methinks - hope its better soon.

Swindon

Swindon 26th July 2023. Copyright Colin Pidgeon

Swindon 26th July 2023. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin.

Oxford
Peter Todd

70811 passes through Oxford 26th July 2023 Copyright Peter Todd

66138 at Oxford 26th July 2023 Copyright Peter Todd

66519 at Oxford 26th July 2023 Copyright Peter Todd

Didcot
Peter Todd

66303 Didcot 26th July 2023 Copyright Peter Todd

Taken in a rush - Pendennis Castle - from the slopes at Didcot. 26th July 2023 Copyright Peter Todd

Many thanks for your Oxford and Didcot contributions Peter.

Severe damage at
Bath Green Park
Chris Osment

Chris sadly reports - Keith
Earlier this year extensive work took place to renew the glazed roof of the 'train shed' of the former Bath Green Park station. Sadly, just after the work had finished, a fire broke out in the early hours of 23rd April and caused severe damage to part of the wooden superstructure on the south ('departure platform') side of the station - see https://www.bathecho.co.uk/news/es/firefighters-tackle-blaze-green-park-station-101838/ . This is slowly being repaired.
Chris

Many thanks for the information Chris - but very glad to hear of the repairs.

28th July 2023

28/7/2023

1962 Part 35.
Bath Green Park Station
Michael L. Roach

Bath Green Park Station
Green Park Station was built by the Midland Railway as the terminus of their branch from Mangotsfield and opened to passengers in 1870. The station was designed by the Midland's in-house architect to blend in with the Georgian buildings around it. The origins of the Somerset & Dorset line lay in the Somerset Central Railway opened in 1854 and the Dorset Central Railway opened in 1860. The two railways amalgamated in 1862 under the name Somerset & Dorset Railway with the aim of reaching Bath which was completed and opened in 1874. However the extension had exhausted the company financially and in 1876 the company became the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway owned 50/50 by the Midland Railway and the London and South Western Railway. The aim of the new owners in taking over the S&D was quite specific and well-known and that was to exclude the Great Western Railway from the area. With the Grouping of 1922-23 the ownership transferred to the London, Midland & Scottish and the Southern Railways. The main station buildings and overall roof of Bath Green Park Station survive to this day. The station only ever had two platforms and S&D trains departing for Templecombe and Bournemouth travelled over the former Midland route for the first half mile before diverging on to S&D metals at Bath Junction where the climbing started.

MLR / 14 July 2023

7206 Crab 42790 is seen at Bath Green Park Station at 2.30pm on Saturday 30 June 1962 on an unidentified train. The engine was based at Saltley Shed and may have arrived overnight on the 10.30pm Sheffield to Bournemouth train. Copyright Michael L. Roach,

7208 A general view of Bath Green Park looking towards the buffers. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Michael. As usual we look forward to Part 36 of your memories.

HST Movements Today
David Tozer

43251 leads the 0511 1Q18 Reading Triangle Sidings to Penzance. Copyright David Tozer

43016 and 43189 with the amended 0737 2C65 Bristol Parkway to Penzance Copyright David Tozer

Silverton Off to pastures new debranded HST power cars 43158 and 43022 reportedly heading to a new life with the Rail Adventures company along with coaches 49101, 48101,48103 and 48113. The working was the 1059 5Z42 Laira to Kings Norton Ot Plant Dept.

Many Thanks David

re: Movement of redundant Castle Class stock from Laira 28.07.2023

Keith / Roger

It was reported this morning on wnxx.com that the Castle set moved by Rail Adventure Ltd on Friday last (28th July) from Laira to Kings Norton was transferred to the Potter Group storage facility at Ely, Cambs, yesterday (31st). This now places 43022 and 43158 with 43170 which moved there from Laira on 9th June.
Many Thanks to Guy Vincent

Trevor Tremethick

Laira HST Situation- Reports of another 4car HST departure for Kings Norton OT Plant Sidings at 10.59 today

Hi Roger
This is about as much as I can get out of it. As usual, the vegetation growth ruins everything. The only clear spot is where the flyover bus shelter is but even that is not long enough for the whole engine. A pity, but at least it is a record.
I’m not normally one to endow trains with personalities a la the Thomas brigade, but there was an element of pathos here, with nameplates and GWR logos gone.
Anyway, here you are. I will try my best to be lineside for the next one.

5Z42 1059 Laira-Kings Norton OT Plant sidings. 43158 starting to move out of Laira sidings 28.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Nether Stowey Castle bids farewell to its former home, Laira 28.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

_Kingswear Castle heads East for its new life ssen at. Laira Jct 28.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

43022 takes a final look at the River Plym, Laira Jct 28.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Hi Roger
A couple more from today. A bit ‘samey’ with my limited field of view, but yours if you want them.
This is the train photographed earlier in its journey by David Tozer, the 2C65 0734 Bristol Parkway to Penzance (actually 07.37 from Parkway) passing Laira Jct only a quarter of a minute late. Interesting as the leading engine is Launceston Castle which I had noted on the sidings at Laira back in May and wondered if it had been withdrawn. Obviously not. Powderham Castle brings up the rear.
Good to hear that 43022 / 158 are likely to get a new lease of life. Clearly, I am behind with the news.

43189 on 2C65 0734 Bristol Parkway to Penzance passing Laira sidings 28.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick-1

43016 on rear of 2C65 0734 Bristol Parkway to Penzance, Laira, 28.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick (1)

Many Thanks Trevor for coverage of this farewell event today

Castle Class Miscellany at Laira late July 2023
Guy Vincent

re: Trevor Tremethick's interesting photos of activities at Laira depot on Tuesday, the badly faded blue HST power car is 43091 which is being dismantled for spares. The 5L46 0955 Laira - Ely Papworth stock move on Wednesday 26th was formed: 37608 6344 48131 48132 48133 49111 6346. The HST coaches were set GW11 and no power cars were included in the formation this time. As of this week there are seven 'Castle' sets booked to be in use Mon-Fri with two spare sets available. The spares I believe are kept at Laira. Real Time Trains usually shows the daily allocation and the easiest way to find out where they are is to search a station such as St Erth and look at each train's consist. Today (27th) the following were reported to be in use:

43198 & 43097 on set GW16 48148 48147 48146 49116

43042 & 43194 on set GW08 48124 48123 48122 49117

43172 & 43192 on set GW09 48127 48126 48150 49109

43092 & 43154 on set GW14 48142 48141 48140 49114

43094 & 43162 on set GW03 48109 48108 48107 49103

43010 & 43155 on set GW10 48130 48129 48128 49110

43187 & 43027 on set GW06 48118 48117 48149 49106

Some sets have had carriages substituted and are no longer in their original formations.

Guy V

Many Thanks Guy for all your updated information, Trevor wish to convey his thanks to you for keeping him updated with the HST situation

Castle Class Miscellany at Laira late July 2023
Trevor Tremethick

Thanks and please do convey my thanks to Guy who has been brilliant keeping us up to date with the HST situation.
Two for you, one focussing on 43091 under the hoist and the other from today being XC 43304 just pulled out this afternoon, presumably for further service. I had hoped it would be either 43022 or 43160, the last two that I need! Never thought I would still be a trainspotter at my age.
Cheers

Trevor

Many Thanks Trevor

Paul looks down on the railway world
Drone pictures
Paul Barlow

Paul has brought an exciting new world to our website with his drone pictures taken in his 'Exeter area'.

43303 and 43357 pass Starcross with the 0612 Leeds to Plymouth 26th July 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow

166209 arrives at Exeter St Davids on the 0719 from Paignton to Exmouth 26th July 2023 Copyright Paul Barlow

43154 and 43092 leave Exeter St Davids on 0650 Bristol to Penzance 26th July 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43172 and 43192 pass a muddy Cockwood harbour on 0740 Penzance to Cardiff, 26th July 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - we look forward to your next trip aloft soon.

Remember this gentleman?
Geof Hudson - Laira Manager

The naming ceremony for 50027 'Lion' this occurred on the 23rd July 1994. Also pictured is Geoff Hudson Laira Depot Manager who carried out the naming ceremony. Photo supplied by Phil Smith . Copyright. The loco is currently on the Mid Hants Railway.

The CRS had been involved with BR in the running of several railtours from Penzance - our first charter was the 'Devon Explorer' on the 4th September 1988. This charter involved negotiations with British Rail and at the time Geoff Hudson was the Manager at Laira. For this occasion Stephen Horne, a retired RAF officer represented the CRS. Geof also had a forces background having been a submarine commander in the Royal Navy. It is understood that they both got on very well!! The train was turned out in an imaculate condition and all went very well.

Many thanks to all involved.

27th July 2023

27/7/2023

Western arrival at
Redruth
Ray Bishop

An undated picture of a Western arriving at Redruth. Copyright Ray Bishop. Sent by Stephen Widdowson. Recd 27th July 2023

A reminder that Redruth is the railhead for RNAS Culdrose a fact that once used to be shown on the station running in boards. Whether Ray has taken this study of the Western as excuse to include the two young ladies sitting on a BRUTE trolley is unknown but it makes a pleasant scene. One rarely sees uniforms on trains these days unlike my times when I was their ages when it was a common sight.

Any idea of which Western this was or the service? Anyway a nice picture - many thanks to Steve Widdowson for sending it in and of course to Ray Bishop for taking it.

Laira Views
Paul Barlow

Hello Keith
A few shots of HSTs at Laira a few weeks ago. We were en route to Milbay docks for the ferry to Roscoff. I managed to persuade my wife it was a good idea to stop, although I don't think she was convinced!

Kind regards, Paul Barlow.

43239 leads 43378 past Laira depot , 29th June 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow

43091 in a very faded FGW blue 29th June 2023 Copyright Paul Barlow

43093 Berkley Castle 43366 'HST 40' at Laira 29th June 2023 Copyright Paul Barlow

I guess you were going on a holiday hope that you have been forgiven for the photographic stop by your 'other half' - also hope that an enyoyable holiday was adequate compensation! Many thanks Paul.

Bath Green Park
and Environs
Guy Vincent

Bath Green Park and Environs, photos taken in May 2020. Plus two older photos of S&D Bridge no 3.
Guy Vincent

1) Bath Green Park station frontage / facade. The tree gets bigger year by year... Copyright Guy Vincent.

2) A view of the south side of the former Midland Railway train shed which also forms the boundary with Midland Bridge Road. Copyright Guy Vincent.

3) The impressive Midland Bridge which takes the B3118 across the river Avon. This looks for all the world like a redundant railway structure but has never carried trains. . Copyright Guy Vincent.

4) Plaque commemorating the opening of Midland Bridge in 1905. Copyright Guy Vincent.

5) The modern junction created at the point just to the east of where the S & D 'bridge no 1, 'Redbridge Viaduct' crossed the A36 Lower Bristol Road. The area bears little resemblance to the time when the S&D was in-situ with the modern Windsor Bridge Road going off to the right across land once occupied by the S&D embankment as the line curved in to join the Midland route from Bristol at Bath Junction. Until recently this land was occupied by a 1990s BMW dealership but that has now been relocated to the outskirts of Melksham, some 12 miles away, and the site is again to be redeveloped, reportedly for student accommodation. The metal viaduct, demolished in May 1969, was immediately followed by a brick multi-arched viaduct as the S&D curved away behind the Royal Oak Inn (seen on the left just beyond the Bellotts Road turning) to begin the ascent of Devonshire bank. This is now the Linear Park and not too far away the present GWR main line is crossed by the rebuilt three (now one!) arch S&D bridge no 3, now referred to by Network Rail as 'Somerset and Dorset Railway Overbridge MLN1 108m 09.5ch'. Copyright Guy Vincent.

6) Photo of S&D Bridge over GW main line during reconstruction, 01 July 2016. Copyright Guy Vincent.

7) as photo 6, but finished in February 2017. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks indeed Guy, an excellent record - sorry for the delay in publishing.

Caught passing through
Newton Abbott
Clive Smith

R O G Europhoenix 37608 opens up with some clag as it enters Newton Abbot station with the 5L46 09.55 Laira - Ely Papworth Sidings stock movement..

37608 was formerly D6722 new in July 1961 then renumbered 37022. It was a long time Eastern Region Stratford and March stalwart up to 1980 when it was reallocated to Eastfield in January 1981 spending many years on the West Highland line before being reallocated to Thornaby in 1986.

Regards, Clive Smith

37608 Newton Abbot 26th July 2023 Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive - the historical details you have included are much appreciated - what a history.

26th July 2023

26/7/2023

Todays movement Laira
to Papworth Sidings at Ely
Trevor Tremethick

Well, a miserable morning for photography here at Laira, so you might not want to bother with these.
I was unable to go anywhere as we had a workman coming, so had to shoot from the loft, about half a mile away. Lens set to 500mm. The vegetation ruins the view, but from this angle there are no clear places. They left six minutes early, and presumably will have picked up 43158 at Tavistock Junction (if that is where it went). Hardly worth the picture, but it does show a partially-stripped power car in the background, in the older livery. The close-up was just done on a whim, but at least the roof of the bus shelter places it!

While I was waiting, the 2C09 0650 Bristol Temple Meads to Penzance came through, with Compton Castle on the front and Cromwell’s Castle at the rear. The seagull comes free of charge. One dark night, I am going to sneak down there with a chain saw and cut down those poles!
Kind regards
Trevor

Many Thanks Trevor for witnessing The Penultimate Journey of an HST Power Car

Coming to collect the scrap
Silverton
Keith Turley

On 25th July 2023 ROG operated class 37/6 No.37608 'Andromeda'with barrier vehicles 6346/4 seen at Silverton near Exeter, working the 5V84 07:35 Derby RTC to Plymouth Laira T&RSMD.
Regards Keith Turley.

37608 Andromeda coming to collect the scrap - seen at Silverton with vehicles 6346 & 6344. 25th January 2023. Copyright Keith Turley.

Many thanks to you Keith.

CDA's For preservation
Jon Hird

The CDA’s time is really drawing short now and as if to reinforce that fact, the national wagon preservation group have today announced an ambitious plan to purchase 12 of the stored wagons currently at St. Blazey from DB Cargo, to base at the Bodmin and Wenford. I hope it comes off, I can already imagine a blue 50042 or 37142 with a dozen wagons in tow passing Charlie’s Gate on a summer afternoon….

I’ve attached a screenshot of the Facebook post detailing this plan so that any of your readers who don’t use that platform can read their ‘press release’.

All the best, Jon Hird

CDA Notice 25th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

I’ve attached 2 photos of todays CDA trip from Goonbarrow to Fowey and back, both are taken from near the old Blacksmiths shop in the Luxulyan Valley.25th July 2023. Copyright Jon Hird.

We welcome the plan - hope it comes off - the Bodmin Railway already have three clay hoods to add to the collection. Thanks Jon for the advice and pictures.

Exeter 2017
Phil Smith

43159 with 43102 - the fastest diesel train in the world. seen at Exeter St Davids in 2017. Copyright Phil Smith

Many thanks Phil.

GWR Castings
Paul Negus

No doubt prompted by a recent view taken by our very good friend Driver Alan Peters of a GWR drain cover at Westbury another good friend Paul Negus has sent in the following example from Bristol.

Water cover casting spotted on a platform at Bristol by Paul Negus. Copyright.

Keep your eyes down Paul, well spotted.

25th July 2023

25/7/2023

Today at ColumbJohn Bridge, Near Rewe.
David Tozer

A couple from lunchtime today at Columbjohn Bridge, Near Rewe.
37608 with barrier coaches 6344 and 6346. 0735 5V84 Derby R.T.C to Laira.
Dave

Many Thanks David for the 37 to Plymouth

Derby to Plymouth Laira
Trevor Tremethick

Hi Roger
Further to our telephone conversation, here are the rather disappointing results. Everything brought forward by 1 hour + and we got down to Laira just as they had started to move what used to be ‘Kingswear Castle’. The 08 took it down towards Ocean Siding and I think they must then have disappeared off towards Tavistock Jct. Whilst we were getting back under the flyover 37608 appeared briefly and then went back into the depot with a barrier vehicle and ‘something’ off a Castle set but I couldn’t see if this was a power car or a coach. By the time we got back up on the flyover, they had gone all the way back to the far sidings and it looks like the 37 is parked there for the night. She had a name on the side, which I think was ‘Andromeda’. This is the only pic I could get and is heavily cropped.

I will try and get something tomorrow morning, but I am not hopeful if they mess around with the timings again. I suspect the 37 will run up to Tavistock Jct to pick up 43158 and I can’t get there tomorrow.

The joys of railway photography. Hope others may have had better luck.
Best wishes

Trevor

Laira 25.07.2023, 37608 near old steam shed site with barrier vehicle(s) awaiting next day's scrap run. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Laira 25.07.2023, Withdrawal of 43158 Kingswear Castle. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Many Thanks for your photographs Trevor

Superb at Salisbury
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, I hope you are well and enjoying this pleasant weather with some welcome rain too. Here is a picture from Michael Adams of 50002 ‘Superb’ at Salisbury with the 10.15 from London Waterloo. Thanks and best wishes Michael Adams

Many Thanks Michael

Somerset & Dorset Viaducts
Michael Forward

Roger, here are a couple of pictures from my trip on 7 September 1992 to some former sites of the S&D route. Copyright Michael Forward The upper of the two photos from Michael Forward shows the remains of Bridge 171, which carried the S&DJR across the River Stour just to the north of Sturminster Newton station. The 'flood arches' seen in the photograph still remain and I believe that they are maintained now as part of the 'local heritage'. Regards Chris

Here we see Prestleigh viaduct again in lovely countryside. This was to be demolished early the next year,1993. Thanks for dealing with these, Michael. Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael some nice photographs

Newlyn & Penzance
Howard Sprenger

While down at St Erth/St Ives, I also called into Penzance on 27th October 1973. There's a rather nice American car in the forth photo - I would guess a Chevrolet Impala. I wonder if anyone knows who owned it - it would have been quite a celebrity car if it was owned locally. The little quarry engine at Newlyn was taken the previous year while on holiday. Unfortunately, my 1972 slides have degraded a lot more than the 1973 ones, but I've done my best to rescue it. There must have been a change of specification on the Agfa film I used at the time.

Best regards, Howard.

Freudenstein 0-4-0T 'Penlee' Newlyn 1st June 1972. Copyright Howard Sprenger

Penzance 27th October 1973. Copyright Howard Sprenger

Four nostalgic shots - many thanks Howard. Does anybody recognise the car?

Coldrennick Viaduct
Chris Harvey

A nice shot of Coldrennick viaduct that might be of interest. On the 9th July 2007, the 0940 Newcastle - Newquay Voyager heads west towards Menheniot.

Best Regards, Chris Harvey

Well caught Chis, nice timing and light - thank you.

Bodmin report
Chris Bellett

Please find attached a photograph showing Prairie Tank Locomotive No.5552 at Bodmin General after its overhaul and undertaking live steam testing. Note the painting is not yet finished and it is as yet absent of its numbers and emblem(s).

Taken at Bodmin General on Sunday 23 July 2023.

Take Care,
Chris Bellett, Semi-Retired S&T Engineer, CRS Member

Prairie 5552 After Overhaul Undergoing Steam Testing at Bodmin General Sunday 23rd July 2023. Copyright Chris Bellett

Many thanks Chris - great to see progress being made.

24th July 2023

24/7/2023

Laira the position as of today 24th July 2023
Trevor Tremethick

Good evening Keith and Roger
A walk down to Embankment Road late afternoon today revealed the following:

GWR 43186 Taunton Castle and XC 43285 on the sidings. 43093 Berkeley Castle which had been there for some time and which I photographed on my last visit (14 June) was not in evidence but may have been moved elsewhere on site. XC 43303 and GWR 43097 Castle Drogo (with 43009 Nunney Castle on the other end) being serviced.

A contact tells me that there are seven sets still operating, with two in reserve at any one time. It appears this will be reduced to three sets in September. Confirmation would be welcome.

43285 in Laira Sidings 24.07.2023. IET passing on up main. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

43186 Taunton Castle and XC 43285 in Laira Sidings 24.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

43009 Nunney Castle at Laira 24.07.2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick-1

Many Thanks Trevor for keeping us updated for Laira Depot
Best Wishes from Keith & Roger

Future traffic
Sand at Par
David Ive

Please see, attached, my image of Colas 70811 on 6Z57 Burngullow Junction to Exeter Riverside sand train on Thursday morning. I trust that it is of interest and use. I echo other's comments with respect to hoping it becomes a regular runner. If it does, maybe we can hope for a 56 one day!

Best wishes, David Ive http://djipix.com

70811 passes through Par on thw 20th July 2023. Copyright David Ive.

And so say all of us - many thanks David.

Bath Green Park
Chris Osment and Guy Vincent

Chris Osment writes - There were two parallel, but separate, double-track rail bridges across the River Avon into Bath (Green Park) station. The upstream (southern) bridge remains and has been converted into a road for access to the car-park. The deck was removed from the downstream (northern) bridge and replaced by a narrower pedestrian bridge - the unused parts of the original pillars are still visible in the rivers.
When the railway area was redeveloped four new roads were created and giving names associated with the railway. A large 'gyratory' system (which still exists) on the Lower Bristol Road became 'Pines Way', whilst the feeder road into the old railway site became 'Ivo Peters Road' (after the well-known railway photographer). Two internal site roads were named 'Stanier Road' and 'Beale Way' (after the well-known S&D driver).
Subsequent alterations within the site resulted in the loss of both the latter roads, although the 'Stanier Road' name seems to persist in some references. Apparently Donald Beale's widow complained that the 'memorial' to her late husband had been obliterated without any consultation or respect of his memory, so subsequently the name has been re-applied to a new riverside path behind the site of the old engine shed, although it is hard to spot.
Regards
Chris

Guy Vincent writes - Here are three photos from May 2020 of the former Midland Railway lattice pattern bridge at the entrance to Bath Green Park station, referred to by Mike Roach in the latest instalment of his excellent series covering the year 1962. The bridge now takes Stanier Road into Sainsbury's car park. There were originally two identical spans side by side but post closure the northern one was removed and later replaced by the modern pedestrian footbrige that can be seen in pictures 2 and 3.
Lastly, a photo taken inside Green Park station on 6th March 2006 when preserved S&D loco, 7F 2-8-0 no 53809, was on display during a week-long event marking 40 years since closure of the Somerset and Dorset railway. This was the engine involved in the 1929 accident at Bath Junction after the crew became incapacitated by fumes inside Combe Down tunnel, and was based at Bath Green Park shed for its entire career. See feature elsewhere on this site.

Guy Vincent

Bath Green Park former Midland Railway bridge from South. 8th May 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

Bath Green Park former Midland Railway Bridge looking East 25th May 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

Bath Green Park former Midland Railway bridge looking west 25th May 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

With many thanks for your most interesting replies to both Chris and Guy - very well done - your time and trouble is much appreciated.

23rd July 2023

23/7/2023

1962 Part 34.
Bath Green Park Shed
Michael L. Roach

Bath Green Park Shed
We arrived at Bath Green Park Station at 1.37pm on a local train of three coaches from Templecombe hauled by 75071 which we would soon see on shed. The date was Saturday 30 June 1962, and we departed again at 3.30pm for Bournemouth West. In the meantime we walked out to Bath Shed which was located beside the former Midland line to Mangotsfield roughly half way to Bath Junction where the Somerset and Dorset line started. The shed was on the opposite side of the River Avon to Bath Green Park Station and involved a much longer walk than the rail distance would suggest to reach the entrance to the shed. The shed was coded 22C up to 1950; then 71G to 1958 when transfer to the Western Region made it 82F. There were two separate dead-end sheds of 4 tracks and 2 tracks. The shed closed on 7 March 1966 with the closure of the Somerset and Dorset line. It looks very much to me like the bridge which formerly carried the railway over the River Avon between Bath Green Park Station and Shed has been turned into a road bridge.
The undoubted star of our visit to Bath Green Park Shed was seeing one of the Fowler 7F 2-8-0s number 53808 built in 1925 for the first time as they had a great reputation for haulage of freight trains Monday to Friday and passenger trains on summer Saturdays. Later in the year the Railway Observer reported (October 1962 page 320) that “On the last passenger working of the summer season to be powered by a S&DJR 2-8-0 53808 with the eight coach Exmouth to Cleethorpes had to stop for a blow-up at Shepton Mallet but ran thence to Bath in 40 minutes passing Masbury Summit at 24mph.” Two 7Fs from the second batch of five have been preserved numbers 53808 and 53809. There is much more about both engines on the website preservedbritishsteamlocomotives.com

MLR / 10 July 2023

7201 53808 stands out of use on 30 June 1962 at Bath Green Park Shed. This seemed to be a favourite siding to park a 7F while not in use. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7204 Another view of Fowler 7F number 53808. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7203 44146 of Bristol Barrow Road stands on the south side of the 2-track wooden shed. Copyright Michael. L. Roach.

7205 A general view of the 4-track stone shed showing left to right 44856, 75027, 73054 and 75071. 44856 was based at 8A Edge Hill, Liverpool. 75027 had an interesting shed history as it started life at Laira Shed, Plymouth for just four months in 1954. Later in 1962 75027 moved to Machynlleth Shed to work trains on the Cambrian. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks for Part 34 - Michael - brings back memories, As you so rightly say the former rail bridge over the River Avon has become the road access bridge for Sainsburys Super Market - going to Google Earth and Street view will reveal some interesting shots taken on that bridge - in the distance one will see the train shed. Looking in the other direction the approach road has been named 'Stanier Road'. During the 57 years since closure (my word is it really that long?) the S & D route has been obliterated by developments, however one can pick up the route clearly where the line crossed the GW at Oldfield Park from whence it forms a 'Linear Park'.

Special Trains in Cornwall last Week including Colas and the Land recovery aggregates train

230720d 66200 Passes the Colas Land reclamation train at Burngullow hauled by 70811. Copyright Craig Munday

230718b 37423 and Caroline passing through Par Station hooting to the signalman. Copyright Craig Munday

Click Here for a further update of the Colas Land Recovery Train and Class 37 with Caroline last week. Go to features Item 2316 April to September 2023 and scroll right down the page

Strike day at
Westbury
Driver Alan Peters

Strike day at Westbury. RMT strike day at Westbury on 20th July sees, 166 207 and 166 220 along with other 165/166 units stabled in the sidings alongside recently outshopped DB 66025 20th July 2023. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

An unusual view at Westbury. 70803 stands in the holding sidings. 20th July 2023. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

A rare survivor from the days when the railway companies made everything! 20th July 2023. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan.

Further info concerning
Chacewater Signalbox
Julian Hanwell

Hi Keith.
Yes Roy is right about dating. Pre 65. Any signalling man will notice many of Chasewater's FPLs (levers) now taken out of use are bolted in the reverse position to allow the interlocking to work for main line running signals which suggest the down connection from Truro into Platform 3 now disconnected but the Branch Line still just about operational as a siding.
Good ol Roy. You must send him my best regards !

Julian Hanwell.

Yes, regards to Roy, and thank you to you.

The 'Curnow Collection'
Chris Bellett

Morning Keith/Roger,
Whilst looking for something else I came across this website. Not sure if you have a link to it already?

https://curnowcollection.com/

Take Care,
Chris Bellett, Semi-Retired S&T Engineer. CRS Member

Thanks for the reminder Chris.

22nd July 2023

22/7/2023

Signalbox 'Gems' from the past
Chacewater '65
Julian Howard

Hello there.

Its a long time since I sent photos but when viewing chacewater I noticed you did not have any of the interrior.
These photos were taken by the late Frank Sperrit who I knew very well. His Widow 'Pat' said I could post any of his material that he copied me years ago if it was for the benefit of other enthusiasts and historians.
Hopefully you will post them. Oh that's me pictured in the last photo after the box closed !

Kind Regards.
Julian Hanwell

Chacewater Block Shelf 1968. Copyright the late Frank Sperrit

Julian Hanwell poses for posterity at Chacewater signal box. Copyright the late Frank Sperritt.

Very many thanks to Julian Hanwell and of course Pat Sperrit.
No doubt these views will also be appreciated by Roy Hart who 'frequented these boxes in his youth.

Stop press - from Roy Hart.
Dear Keith,

Yes, I am delighted to see these pictures from my old friend Frank. Can't be 1968, though. The diagram shows the up side branch connections in place, so 1965 at the very latest.

Best to all, Roy

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Please see further note from Julian above (22nd July 2023)

A few minutes to spare?
Something to watch.
Martin Scane

Hi Keith.
I’m currently largely confined to home recovering from a total hip replacement operation on Saturday which has somewhat restricted my movements for a bit.
Anyway, trolling through the internet, as one does, I came across this cracking bit of cine footage of mostly hydraulics in the West Country in the 60s. Much of it is in West Cornwall (especially the first half) and there is a bonus of some steam as well.
You may have seen it before but thought it was worth flagging up:
Cheers
Martin

Hi Keith,
I’m currently largely confined to home recovering from a total hip replacement operation on Saturday which has somewhat restricted my movements for a bit.
Anyway, trolling through the internet, as one does, I came across this cracking bit of cine footage of mostly hydraulics in the West Country in the 60s. Much of it is in West Cornwall (especially the first half) and there is a bonus of some steam as well.
You may have seen it before but thought it was worth flagging up:
Cheers
Martin
Sent from my iPad

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6UOndVlOCI

Many thanks Martin - I hope the link works for all - I found it
FASCINATING - a couple of glimpses of Redruth showing the bay section at the Penzance end of the up platform and one more of the car park in its place. Also views of Alma Place with traffic going in the 'wrong direction'!!

Also hope your hip improves rapidly - perhaps you'll be able to play your beloved football soon.

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Jon Hird