Blog Archives

30th September 2018

30/9/2018

The West Somerset Steam Gala
Sat 29th September 2018
Roger Winnen

180929r The American S160 at Minehead was declared a failure for the WSR Steam Gala. Copyright Roger Winnen

180929q 41312 Stands awaiting departure at Bishops Lydeard on the last train of the day, being the 17.45 to Minehead calling at Williton and Watchet only. Copyright Roger Winnen

Click Here for further photographs of the West Somerset Steam Gala 1822 and scroll downwards

Early morning activity at
Bodmin General
Roger Aston

Many thanks to Roger who popped in to catch the early morning activity at Bodmin General.

4612 shunts the shed, here moving J94 from one road to the other. 09.40 29th September2018 Copyright Roger Aston

Port of Par undergoing attention at 09.11 on the 29th September 2018 Copyright Roger Aston

Lynton and Barnstaple
Galas 2016 & 2018
Roger Winnen & David Tozer

Firstly a look at pictures taken at the 2016 Gala followed by, right up to date yesterdays pictures at this Gala - what a marvellous line - so scenic.

On arrival at 12.00 noon 2-4-0 Charles Wytock was coupled to the engineers train at Woody Bay. 24th Sept 16 Copyright Roger Winnen

Lynton & Barnstaple Gala 24th September 2016 Engine Axe arrives at Woody Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen

Lynton and Barnstaple Gala 2018. Ready to depart at 09.49 on the 29th September. Copyright David Tozer

Killington Lane at 11.16 on the 29th September 2018. What a fantastic backdrop. Copyright David Tozer

A later service leaves Woody Bay for Killington Lane, picture taken at 12.00 on the 29th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks to Roger and David.

29th September 2018

29/9/2018

Good weather on the
Gunnislake Branch
Andrew Triggs

Several shots taken on 28th September 2018 on the Gunnislake branch, which has always been my favourite line to travel on in our region, for CRS All the Best Andrew Many thanks indeed Andrew.

150 221 at Bere Alston working the 2C69 to Gunnislake. 13.18 on the 28th September 2018. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Sandyways Crossing at 14.58 on the 28th September 2018 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Gunnislake branch token. 28th September 2018 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Dramatic lighting at Calstock Viaduct 150 221 working the 2G72 for Plymouth. 28th September 2018 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Flying Scotsman Timings
Karl Hewlett

Here are the timings for 60103 Flying Scotsman's trip down to the South West, makes a change from the usual we get. It is long weekend trip with the exception of Friday and Sunday where bar one or two light movements not much is happening, but I have had to eliminate nearly all of the light movements as the document would be over a page long!

60103 makes a gradual trip down with Black 5 44871 (a classic Waverley Route recreation), over the Somerset and Devon banks on Thursday to Plymouth where the 5 is left, 60103 then leads solo steam to Penzance with a WCRC diesel at the rear on Saturday. From Penzance the reins are handed back to the diesel leading the tour back to Plymouth. On Monday 60103 is joined by 44871 again to tackle the Devon banks to Exeter where the two detach and service at Riverside, the tour then does a mini jaunt to Plymouth and return with diesel where the A3 and 5 then re-attach at Exeter and head to Bristol. Again another mini jaunt is done from here to Exeter and return with the diesel and this tour thus leaves our territory bound for Southall with the ECS. As said there are quite a few LE moves in-between mainly with diesel, but as for what traction West Coast are sending at the moment is speculation but a good guess is class 47/57 with the weight and ETH involved. I don't know how the double headed steam is playing out but the logical and pleasing for all move would be to put the A3 on front, but with modern day running of railways it could be either the times are:

Thursday 4th October

1Z47 Taunton To Plymouth 60103/44871

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54511/2018/10/04/advanced

Saturday 6th October

5Z72 Laira T&MRSD to Plymouth station 60103 T&T WCRC Diesel

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54535/2018/10/06/advanced

1Z72 Plymouth to Penzance 60103 T&T WCRC Diesel

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54527/2018/10/06/advanced

5Z73 Penzance to Penzance Via Slopers Sidings WCRC Diesel T&T 60103

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54536/2018/10/06/advanced

1Z73 Penzance To Plymouth WCRC Diesel T&T 60103

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54528/2018/10/06/advanced

Plus 'mini trip' Plymouth to Par and return

1Z75 Plymouth to Par 60103

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54529/2018/10/06/advanced

1Z76 Par to Plymouth WCRC Diesel T&T 60103

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54530/2018/10/06/advanced

Monday 8th October

5Z42 Laira T&RSMD to Plymouth WCRC Diesel T&T 60103/44871

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54549/2018/10/08/advanced

1Z44 Plymouth To Exeter St Davids 60103/44871

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54522/2018/10/08/advanced

1Z46 Exeter St Davids To Plymouth WCRC Diesel

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54524/2018/10/08/advanced

5Z46 Plymouth To Exeter Riverside New Yard WCRC Diesel

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54525/2018/10/08/advanced

1Z72 Exeter St Davids to Bristol Temple Meads 60103/44871

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54526/2018/10/08/advanced

1Z74 Bristol Temple Meads to Exeter St Davids WCRC Diesel

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54532/2018/10/08/advanced

5Z75 Exeter St Davids To Southall WCR WCRC Diesel

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U54540/2018/10/08/advanced

Regards

Karl Hewlett (Friends Of Penmere Station).

Now we have it, many thanks Karl for your time (and timings) and trouble.

More from WSR Gala
Roger Aston
All photos taken between Crowcombe and Watchet 

80072 with passenger stock. 28th September 2018. Copyright Roger Aston

It's 80072 with a demonstration freight. 28th September 2018. Copyright Roger Aston.

34052 Braunton 28th September 2018. Copyright Roger Aston

Many thanks Roger.

28th September 2018

28/9/2018

WSR Gala in the
Crowcombe area
David Tozer

73082 it's 11.09 on the 28th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

80072 at 11.19 on the 28th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

73082 its 11.24 28th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

41312 it's 14.08 on the 28th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David for your coverage of day 2 of the WSR Autumn Gala.

Flying Scotsman -
visits to Cornwall

It would seem that the special train on the 6th October (which is fully booked) will arrive at Penzance at 11.00 and depart at 13.00. Back at Plymouth for 15.00 it will depart again at 17.00 for Par arr approx. 18.00.
Both of these trains will be steam hauled down but return diesel hauled with the steam in tow. More details as they become available.

RHTT Timings
Karl Hewlett

Dear Keith.
The RHTT season is here so I have sent over the complete timings for Monday to Sunday including any branches that are covered, locos are DBS class 66 66200 and 66120 although could change during the next couple of months:

Sunday
St Blazey LIP To Par Via Newton Abbot Until 09/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48132/2018/09/30/advanced

Par To St Blazey LIP Via Falmouth Docks Until 09/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48133/2018/09/30/advanced

St Blazey LIP To St Blazey LIP Via Penzance Until 09/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48125/2018/09/30/advanced

Monday To Friday
St Blazey LIP To Westbury Until 07/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48126/2018/10/01/advanced

Westbury To St Blazey LIP Via Salisbury Until 07/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48131/2018/10/01/advanced

St Blazey LIP To St Blazey LIP Via Penzance Until 07/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48124/2018/10/05/advanced

Saturday
St Blazey LIP to Westbury Until 08/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48145/2018/10/06/advanced

Westbury To St Blazey LIP Via Salisbury Until 08/12/2018
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H48129/2018/10/06/advanced

Kind Regards, Karl (Friends Of Penmere Station).
Many thanks Karl.

Post from Brian Willis

Morning Keith, I found this article of particular interest concerning Bob Le Marchants involvement with Morewellham Quay as a colleague John Goodridge, was very much involved there also. In fact, in an earlier time we spent many days poking around there and up at Devon Great Consols.

More to the point was the picture of the Cylinder Bridge of the Yealmpton branch. I have not seen anything much of the current state of this railway for quite a while and I was reminded of our Sunday school ‘treat’, to some farmers field in Yealmpton. Pannier loco, gated stock in just post war days; at least, I remember some of it!

Thanks for all the daily articles and pictures. Looks like good weather in the South West recently, just like here at the moment.

Brian.

Glorious Sunshine
Clive Smith

Clive sprints around Plymouth to bring us pictures of the day.
Many thanks Clive.

The unbelievable quality sunshine of the past few days has provided an opportunity to capture the GWR Londons as the HSTs take their bow. The iconic trains are still active throughout the day and this gives the chance to pick and choose locations subject to the position of the sun. A rare treat for photographers often limited to railtours at particular dates and times of the day when the sun may be in the wrong place or not even shining like last Saturday ! Don't leave it until next month as this may be too late.
Regards
Clive Smith

43190 leads the 05.41 Penzance to Paddington through South Brent on 27th September 2018 at 08.00. The sun has not long risen and the trees are already developing an early brown hue. 08.01 on the 26th September Copyright Clive Smith

Celebrity 43002 heads past Tavistock Junction with the 10.00 Penzance to Paddington on 27th September 2018. The overgrown yard is a sad shadow of its former self . The car park at the adjacent new Lidl now offers excellent easy access to this location. It's 12.12 on the 27th September Copyright Clive Smith

43041 leads the 12.55 Plymouth to Paddington over the River Plym at Marsh Mills. Thanks to Sainsburys for providing more car parking and a nice lunch. It's 13.04 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Clive Smith

No HST alas as yet another service bites the dust and the new order takes over. I was not expecting an IEP on the 12.03 Paddington to Penzance but the disappointment is overshadowed by the Royal Albert Bridge framed by a stunning blue sky. The 1996 Toyota Corolla in the foreground is the photographer's and also continues to provide sterling service. It's 15.18 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Clive Smith

West Somerset Autumn Gala
Roger Aston

73083 Camelot creeps onto turntable at Minehead. It's 10.47 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Roger Aston

73082 turned. It's 10.52 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Roger Aston

53808 token change at Williton. It's 12.48 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Roger Aston

53808 trundles in with freight at Williton. It's 13.36 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Roger Aston

41312 at Norton Fitzwarren prior to being uncoupled for turning. It's 14.45 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Roger Aston

Smashing day, smashing pictures, many thanks Roger.

A trip to Looe
& two of a kind at Liskeard
Martin Scane

In glorious weather Martin takes a trip to Looe and on return catches two IET's in one shot at Liskeard. Many thanks Martin

150 121 in the bay at Liskeard - an unusual shot as passengers make for the train. It's 12.11 on the 27th September 2018 Copyright Martin Scane

Down at Looe at 12.46 on the 27th September 2018. Copyright Martin Scane

Back to Liskeard - it's 15.31 27th September 2018 Copyright Martin Scane

Liskeard again, two mins later at 15.33 and Martin catches two IET's at the same time - well done. 27th September 2018 Copyright Martin Scane

27th September 2018

27/9/2018

Delightful weather at Hayle
Mark Lynam

It's spring tide time and you can see the tide is rising in each of the four sequential shots below. What a difference the blue sky makes. It's a pity that the livery of the IET is rather dull, however, in the second shot the bright red of a bus on a T1 or T2 services make a nice contrast as it waits at Foundry Square. Well done and many thanks Mark.

9 car 802101 1C80 12.03 Paddington to Penzance seen at 16.51 on the 26th September 2018 Copyight Mark Lynam

150126 works the 2E88 Penzance to Exeter seen at 16.57 on the 26th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam

Northern 150207 & 153329 work the 15.57 Plymouth to Penzance. Seen at 17.53 on the 26th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam

802101 works the 17.42 Penzance to Paddington seen at 17.57 on the 26th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam

September 26th, 2018

26/9/2018

First RHTT train.
By Andrew Keast.

66120 and 66200 worked the first RHTT train of the year into St Blazey. The train was 340F 08:50 Westbury-BZ and arrived 50 minutes early.
Words & photos by Andrew Keast.
Many thanks Andrew.

Here we see 66120 photographed from the A3082 Par Green level crossing. The train is about to reverse back into the sidings next to St Blazey shed. Copyright Andrew Keast.

66200 heads the RHTT past St Blazey turntable. Copyright Andrew Keast.

The RHTT wagons looking particularly clean in the sunshine. This will not last long! Copyright Andrew Keast.

66120 tails the train past the turntable. Copyright Andrew Keast.

Now parked up next to the shed, 66120 looks a fine sight next to 66034 which had worked down earlier this morning from Bescot. Copyright Andrew Keast.

Yealmpton Branch
Cylinder Bridge
Colin Burges

This is the remains of Cylinder Bridge between Steer Point and Yealmpton.

Cylinder Bridge. Bob Le Marchant takes a rest. Bridge Rail in the Foreground. June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges. Note the bridge rails forming crude reinforcement of the displaced concrete abutment. Mudbank Lake is at left and River Yealm at right. With a nod from the gamekeeper, we later followed the river down from Puslinch Bridge as far as Kitley Quay.

Doing up his bootlaces and moaning about being dragged out on his bike with me last year on a route refresher of the Yealmpton Branch is a great friend of mine, Bob Le Marchant, . A veteran of South Crofty and a graduate of the Camborne School of Mines, Bob went to work in a South African gold mine where he managed an enormous underground operation. He drove his Willys Jeep across Africa when he returned home, later joining Robin Daniel and Pete Hughes in blasting the deviation tunnel on the Festiniog, opened in 1977. After that, he came back to Devon and opened the George & Charlotte Mine tramway at Morwellham Quay, eventually blasting through to New Quay. He ran the whole operation at Morwellham for many years, with early ambitions to make a spiral tunnel down to the hydro-electric station and reopen part of the line to Devon Great Consols. Today "retired," he still puts in a week every month with the "Rest of the World Gang" in North Wales and is otherwise busy on his own projects or those he is called in to assist because of his rare set of skills. He's always cheerful and always willing to help; I'm proud to call him my friend. In his 70th birthday card last year I wrote: "You're the engineer I wanted to be."

Cylinder Bridge from another angle. June 2017 Copyright Colin Burges

This year we followed the Turnchapel Branch and then made for Wembury and the ferry across to the exquisite Newton Ferrers. It was once possible for commuters to catch the ferry from there to Steer Point for the train to Plymouth.

That's enough, I think ...

Colin Many thanks Colin. We'd like more in due course.

GWR P.W. Works
Info forwarded by Derek Buttivant

Hello Roger.
Just in case you haven't picked up the details from elsewhere, I thought you might like to look at a new web page on the GWR web site giving full details of engineering works for the rest of this year and the start of next year. There are some significant ones coming up, notably closures of Marley and Whiteball tunnels. You are welcome to put the link on the CRS web site if you think it appropriate - or just use it for your own enlightenment! The link is below.
Best wishes,
Derek Many thanks Derek

www.gwr.com/travel-updates/planned-engineering/SWupgrade

Exminster today
David Tozer

David spent and interesting hour and a quarter on the bridge at Exminster today - lovely sunshine. Many thanks David

150266 12.26 Exmouth to Paignton at 13.08 on the 26th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

43009 with the 1C77 on the 10.33 Paddington to Paignton at 13.14 on the 26th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

Here comes the 'prize catch' for the day. In pristine condition the RHTT - how long will it stay like this? 66200 & 66120 on the 11.28 Westbury to St Blazey RHTT at 13.49 on the 26th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

Ivor the Engine
Ken Mumford

Ivor (who features at several preserved railways) is a modification of a small Peckett industrial locomotive to resemble Ivor.
Ivor's fondest dream is to sing with the Grumbly and District Choral Society, a dream that is realised when his whistle is replaced with three pipes from an old fairground organ. He becomes the first bass of the choir, as well as providing them with a means of getting from place to place.

MUCH MORE information can be found on the Internet which, in my humble opinion, is certainly well worth exploring.
Kind regards, Ken (Mumford) Many thanks Ken

Ivor the engine at Swindon & Cricklade Railway at Blunsdon. 26th September 2018 Copyright Ken Mumford.

Par Shunt with 66034.
By Andrew Keast.

I managed to catch the Par Docks shunt this morning at 07:45. 66 034
was shut down in order not to annoy the neighbours (and the driver).
This is a regular Wednesday morning working, the train having come down from Bescot (Running as 648L) in the early hours.
Words and Photos by Andrew Keast. Many Thanks Andrew.

66 034 stands behind the gates on the A3082 Par Green road crossing. Copyright Andrew Keast.

Looking behind the gates on the A3082 Par Green road crossing gives a better view of 66 034. Copyright Andrew Keast.

D1008 Western Harrier arrives at Plymouth Station during the remodelling in April 1974
Roger Winnen

740419a D1008 Western Harier arrives at Plymouth North Road from Plymouth Friary with a goods trains during the time of the remodelling of Plymouth Station on 19th April 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen

740414a The remodelling of Plymouth Station on 14th April 1974. The through platforms of numbers 2 & 3 were converted into bay platforms with the Gunnislake services using Platform 3 at the west end. Copyright Roger Winnen

South Brent
Then And Now
1982 and 2018
Clive Smith

img 272 50029 Renown passes the closed signal box with the 11.38 Plymouth to Manchester on 16th October 1982. Copyright Clive Smith

IMG_1547 Power Car 43087 leads the 05.41 Penzance to Paddington on the 31st August,2018 Considerable tree growth has taken place on the old down platform. Copyright Clive Smith

img271 31234 heads west with the 05.15 Paddington to Plymouth parcels on the 16th October 1982. Copyright Clive Smith

IMG_2388 Inter City liveried 43185 leads the 10.03 Paddington Penzance on 25th September 2018. A mass of budlea occupied the former up platform. The former goods shed is now a very smart health centre including my local dentist. Quite a surreal experience watching and hearing the trains go by as your cavities are being drilled into. Copyright Clive Smith

Thanks Clive

25th September 2018

25/9/2018

Westerns in the Westcountry
The 1970s
Roger Winnen

730600 An express from Newquay to the North of England hauled by a Western passes through Quintrell Downs. Its June 1973. Copyright Roger Winnen

740615a Most probably D1028 Western Hussar approaching St Dennis Junction with the 10.05 ex Newquay on Saturday 15th June 1074. Copyright Roger Winnen

740414a D1045 Western Viscount heads the 10.30 Paddington Penzance through Defiance Platform on 14th April 1974. Copyright Roger Winnen

740209a D1072 Western Glory passes through St Budeaux Ferry Road on 9th February 1974. Copyright Roger Winnen

740411a D1029 Western Legionnaire in a rather run down condition at Chyandour, Penzance. 11th April 1974. Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter and Teign Valley Ralway
More Exhibits
at Christow
Colin Burges

New exhibits at Christow. May 2018 Copyright Colin Burges

Finished in May were two buildings of which there must once have been thousands around the railway system in various sizes and shapes.

The small Samuel Taylor lamp hut came from Teignbridge Crossing and the Joseph Ash hut stood above the well here at Christow.

The Pumphouse is to be the annex of the exhibition for those items not needing to be kept warm and dry.

The explanatory label to the left of the poster board is available in the PDF below.

The blurb on the poster board, including the reproduction Teign Valley closure notice and a map of what an extensive local public transport system looks like, can be found a little way down on the E. & T.V.R. "The Railway" pages:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/the-railway.php

Some pictures of the Pumphouse being erected can be seen here:

http://www.teignrail.co.uk/production.php#1928

Cheers, Colin Many thanks indeed Colin

Barton Hill Visitor
Guy Vincent and Karl Hewlett

Bristol Barton Hill 994022 19th September 2018 Copyright Guy Vincent

For some time Tyne & Wear Metro 2-car unit 994022 has been visible from passing trains outside Bristol's Barton Hill depot, now used by Arriva Traincare as a stabling and servicing point. Contract refurbishment on a variety of stock is also undertaken here with GWR's class 158 sets currently being attended to. Information on the Tyneside unit is sketchy but it seems it arrived by road during the first week of July 2017 reportedly for derailment repairs. The unit was built by Metro Cammell at Washwood Heath, Birmingham in 1978 but quite what the future holds is unclear. Gale force winds on 19th blew off one of the tarpaulins covering the set but once the weather improved this was quickly replaced during the afternoon. A rare chance to see the 40 year old veteran from a passing train temporarily halted at signals next to the depot.
Guy Vincent 22nd September 2018

Many thanks to Karl Hewlett for this very detailed additional information :- In response to Guy Vincent's question about Tyne and Wear Metrocar 994022 being at Barton Hill Depot Bristol, this unit received accident damage just outside of their South Gosforth Depot in a shunting manoeuvre coupled with other sets 4002 and 4072, although only 4022 received damage. The centre section of this unit is where the damage is and apparently quite severe, the unit almost ended up on its side with one part wanting to go the opposite direction from the other. I believe the most damage and perhaps not visible in Guys image is on the other side, but I know there is damage to its bodywork panels, rubber interconnector (the gangway connection between the two coaches), plus damage to its central bogie.

The sketchy part is what happened and what is its fate. I did find out that a circular going around the depot was the driver did a SPAD and then tried to rectify this by reversing it and then derailed on a point, whether this point was in the process of being cleared and if this was a routine clearing or if someone had realised what had just happened and tried to advert disaster further is not known, but it did a Long Rock depot HST on it anyway. The unit at one point was going for repairs at Wabtec but this has obviously changed, it is known that DB Regio a subsidiary of Arriva are footing the bill if repairs are done as the incident happened before they handed over the reigns back to Nexus. I'm not sure if that has anything to do with its move further south perhaps eventually going to Arriva's depot at Canton, but others are now saying it has been officially withdrawn being beyond economical repair. Tyne and Wear's sole depot of South Gosforth has got space issues and there has been rumour the repairs are beyond the depots capability, but these sets are supposed to be gradually withdrawn in the near future as Nexus are currently in the process of getting tenders for new sets in the 2020's with Bombardier being one of the bidders.

Regards, Karl (Friends Of Penmere Station).

Many thanks to both Guy Vincent and Karl Hewlett for your time and trouble. We await further news of 994022.

24th September 2018

24/9/2018

The Royal Duchy.
By Alan Peters.
Many Thanks Alan.

As the weeds start to reclaim St Blazey yard, 34046 'Braunton' masquerading as 'Lord Dowding' for RAF100 is seen approaching the turntable after working 'The Royal Duchy' to Par on Sunday 16th September 2018. Copyright Alan Peters.

With onlookers admiring 'Braunton' as 34052 'Lord Dowding' on the turntable ready to be turned at St Blazey 16th September 2018. Copyright Alan Peters.

The big push as 34052 is turned by hand on St Blazey turntable on 16th September 2018. Copyright Alan Peters.

Rails and Test.
By Alan Peters.
Many Thanks Alan.

During the early hours of Sunday 16th September Colas Rail Freight 70810 is seen at Crediton top and tailed with the long welded rail train as 6C97 from Westbury - Crediton - Westbury, 14 lengths of 600ft long welded rail were dropped for relaying in the station area. Copyright Alan Peters.

In the early hours of 20th September 37254 'Cardiff Canton' makes a brief ops stop at Taunton with UTU1 as 3Z29 Bristol High Level Sidings - Exeter St David’s - Cardiff Canton testing at a leisurely 30mph all the way! Copyright Alan Peters.

Craig's Comparisons
Craig Munday

A few hours covering St Erth yesterday. It is a super box on the sweeping curve that I never tire of watching trains from.
Two trains from different eras yesterday (23rd September 2018), both class 1 expresses! DRS class 37s 37602 & 606 worked the Shrewsbury to Penzance charter and IETs 802009 & 010 working a GWR service train.
What a contrast with the new train and semaphores.
You wouldn't see such a contrast at an airport - flights with a 1960 plane followed by a brand new one at Heathrow! 22nd Sept 2018.
Just a pity the weather was so poor. Still, 2018 has been a fantastic Summer on the whole weather wise.
Kind regards, Craig Many thanks Craig

37602 and 37606 pass through St Erth with the Pathfinders 'Cornishman on the 23rd September 2018. Copyright Craig Munday

In an almost identical position an IET on an up services poses by the semaphore signals. 23rd September 2018. Copyright Craig Munday.

A very modern image as an IET is seen approaching St Erth. 23rd September 2018. Who'd have imagined such views 50 years ago. Copyright Craig Munday

23rd September 2018

23/9/2018

Northern Interloper at
Bristol Barton Hill
Guy Vincent

180919a Bristol Barton Hill 994022 - Copyright Guy Vincent

Thanks Guy

Edington Burtle
Robert Lindley

Robert records a road sign pointing to the station which closed 54 years ago. The last train called there on the 4th May 1966 - KJ was on it!

Edington & Burtle roadsign Photographed on the 18th September 2018 by Robert Lindley The station painted out, but not forgotten, closed to passengers w.e.f 6th Mar 1966, goods being withdrawn on the 13th July 1964. Copyright.

From a privileged position
Craig Munday

The first day of the diesel gala at Bodmin saw the kindly loaned DBC class 67 67028 travel up from St Blazey light loco. I was the Ground Frame operator to allow the loco in off the main line. The loco then worked various services on the Parkway - General section in tandem with the home fleet's locos.

The 11.10 from Bodmin General is seen passing the A38 bridge in bright sunshine. We were extremely fortunate for the bright spell, and the train being a bit late.

Pictures taken on shed and at Bodmin 21st Sept 2018.
Many thanks Craig.

67028 at St Blazey 08.27 21st September 2018. Copyright Craig Munday

67028 at St Blazey 08.27 21st September 2018 Copyright Craig Munday

67028 departs St Blazey for duty on the B & W 21st September 2018 Copyright Craig Munday

67028 on the transfer siding at Bodmin Parkway at 10.10 on the 21st September 2018 Copyright Craig Munday

B & W Gala 33110 arrives at Bodmin General at 10.07 on the 21st September 2018 Copyright Craig Munday

Caught in brilliant sunlight is 67028 with 50042 at the A38 Road bridge 11.34 with the 11.10 off Bodmin General. 21st September 2018 Copyright Craig Munday

22nd September 2018

22/9/2018

Glorious Devon!!
David Tozer

153 329 & 150 207. 153 329 is one of the five GWR 153's left with GW work on the 0837 Exeter SD to Paignton. It's 08.38 on the 22nd September 2018 Copyright David Tozer

37602 leads 37606 with the 0450 Shrewsbury - Penzance with an almost complete rake of blue and grey stock. Only the rear coach was non standard livery.22nd September 2018. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks David.

The Bodmin & Wenford
Diesel Gala
Sat 22nd September 2018
Jacob Hampson Roger Winnen

As Friday was a most beautiful day weather wise, Saturday was the complete opposite as it rained all day. However I braved the elements until my camera gave up the ghost during the middle of the afternoon. Waterlogged no doubt!

180922c Little and Large. Alfred and the Chiltern Rail Bubble stand outside the shed. The bubble car made a number of trips to Boscarne Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

180922d 67028 Leading the next generation of Rail Freight and 33110 about to depart for Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

180922e The red livery of the Class 67 brightens up Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

180922f We have a line up of diesels at Bodmin General 47306 50042 and 33110. tucked in behind was 67028. Copyright Roger Winnen

180922h 37142 Arrives in the pouring down rain at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

180922o Class 67028 37142 and 33110 at Bodmin General. Copyright Jacob Hampson

Pathfinder Tours, The Marches Cornishman.
By Mick House.

DRS class 37s, 37 602 & 37 606 were on the front of The Marches Cornishman with thirteen bogies trailing. It was just a pity that the weather was not a bit kinder for them on the train and those of us out there taking the pictures. The train departed Shrewsbury on time at 04.50 and arrived at Penzance one minute late at 12.55 and departed right time at 15.36, heading back to Shrewsbury.
Words and photos by Mick House.
With additional photos by Ollie Turrell Roger Salter Keith Jenkin Jacob Hampson & Roger Winnen.

I am sure more photos will be added as they come in.

180922a The Railtour stops at Bodmin Parkway to allow participants to travel on the B & W Diesel Gala. Copyright Roger Winnen

180922b Foul weather at Bodmin lasted all day as the pair of Class 37s await departure for Par and Penzance . Copyright Roger Winnen

37 602 & 37 606 about to go under Apex bridge. Copyright Mick House.

37602 leads the pair with 37606 behind as they pull into St. Erth Station. Copyright Ollie Turrell.

180922i The 04.50 Shrewsbury to Penzance 'Marches Cornishman enters Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

180922j 37602 and 37606 at the bufferstops at Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

180922k Undercover at the terminus. Copyright Roger Salter

180922l The duo pushes back to slopers on a very wet Saturday. Copyright Roger Salter

The consist fights through the fog and rain over Angarrack Viaduct on the way to Shrewsbury. Copyright Ollie Turrell.

180922m 744A Cornishman at Redruth at 15.55 on the 22nd September 2018 Copyright KJ (It was dry and sunny as usual)

37 606 & 37 602 pass Wheal Busy Crossing on the way home. Copyright Mick House.

180922n The return special to Shrewsbury approaches Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Jacob Hampson

B & W Diesel Gala
Andrew Triggs

Just returned from a photographic trip to the 1st day of the 2 day B&W Diesel Gala with Guest Locomotive DBC 67028 (with the forecast looking poor at best tomorrow on the Saturday, making the most of Friday's decent weather) find 4 shots enclosed for CRS, with the emphasis on lineside shots rather than the run of the mill standard station shots
All the Best, Andrew Many thanks Andrew.

1. 67028 leading resident 33110 at Respryn Road bridge working the 10.30 Bodmin Parkway-Bodmin General service. 21st September 2018. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

2. From the opposite direction, 67028 leads 50042 Triumph working the 11.10 Bodmin General-Bodmin Parkway. 21st September 2018. Copyright Andrew Triggs

3. Visiting 67028 with 50042 (and 37142 at the rear) passing under the A38 road bridge working the 13.05 Bodmin General-Bodmin Parkway. 21st September 2018. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

4. Charlie's Gate witnesses 67028 leading 37142 (with 50042 at the rear) working the 13.33 Bodmin Parkway-Bodmin General service. 21st September 2018. Copyright Andrew Triggs

21st September 2018

21/9/2018

The New Measurement Train is back again.
By Mick House.

It’s back again the flying Banana was in Cornwall today, it departed Reading Triangle Sidings, right time at 06.06 this morning and arrived at Penzance, right time 11.52.
It departed from Penzance, again right time 12.23 and it arrived at its final destination for today of Paignton one minute early at 15.35. The formation today was from the Penzance end 43 014 The Railway Observer, 975984, 977994, 977993, 975814, 977984 & Mark Carne CBE 43 013.
Words & photos by Mick House.

The New Measurement Train arriving at Penzance. Copyright Mick House.

Very interesting Papers by Bruce Hunt.
We are most grateful to David Critchlow for drawing our attention to four very detailed and most interesting papers written by Bruce Hunt.
These papers are accessed by one link and cover four items of great interest to students of Cornish Railways.
The four items covered are :-
1)    The proposed short cut to Looe.
2)    Railmotor number 93 on the Looe branch.
3)    The Tregantle Military Railway. (Very detailed)
4)    The Cornubian Railtour. (3rd May I964)
To locate these papers please click on the following link.
http://brucehunt.co.uk/south%20east%20cornwall/tregantle%20military%20railway.html
Our appreciation to Bruce Hunt for putting the results of his considerable research on the web.

The gateway to Screasdon Fort, once served by the Tregantle Military Railway. 30th June 1973 Copyright Roger Winnen. For a detailed history please click the link above.

For an account and pictures of an informal visit to the Fort in June 1973 please click here and scroll down to 'Tregantle Railway'.

34002 Salisbury stands at Redruth station on the down working of what was expected to be the last ever steam train to visit Cornwall. Note the mass trespass! Copyright Keith Jenkin.

34002 Salisbury on the down working of the 'Cornubian' stands at Redruth. In the background lies Alma Place where a bus on route 33 waits departure to Camborne. 3rd May 1964. Copyright Keith Jenkin

34002 Salisbury stands at Redruth at the head of the Up Cornubian, the last ever steam train to stop at Redruth. 3rd May 1964. Copyright Keith Jenkin

A read of item four of the paper by Nigel Bruce on this railtour is highly recommended.

It only seems like Yesterday!
34067 Tangmere on the Devonian
4th July 2013
Roger Winnen

130704aa The Devonian from Poole to Exeter St David's approaching Black Boy Tunnel. Copyright Roger Winnen

130704ac The Devonian awaiting departure for Poole via Bristol,Westbury, Salisbury, Eastleigh & Southampton. Copyright Roger Winnen

130704ad Waiting for the right away at Exeter St David's Copyright Roger Winnen

130704af The Devonian passing Tiverton Parkway after being looped at Tiverton Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

<<Previous

First RHTT train. By Andrew Keast.

Par Shunt with 66034.​By Andrew Keast.

The Royal Duchy.By Alan Peters.Many Thanks Alan.

Rails and Test.By Alan Peters.Many Thanks Alan.

Pathfinder Tours, The Marches Cornishman.By Mick House.

The New Measurement Train is back again.By Mick House.