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20th September 2018

20/9/2018

 
18 Years ago The Royal Mail at Par
Michael Forward

Picture
000918a This photograph was taken 18 years ago on 19th September 2000 of 67016 about to take the Royal Mail Stock from Penzance around to St Blazey for cleaning and servicing. The Great Western seats, signals and the box stand out to make this a very interesting photograph. Copyright Michael Forward
The Westerns in the West
Roger Winnen

Picture
760729a The demolition of Long Rock Shed with a Western, 47s and a Class 50 on shed. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760606a D1001 Western Pathfinder stabled in the station yard. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760721a D1054 Western Govenor departs Penzance on the 18.00 service to Bristol and the North of England. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760722z Western Venturer is seen at Chyandour possibly on the Liverpool Penzance train. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760606d D1001 Western Pathfinder heads a train past The Royal Mail at Ponsandane. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760717x A Class 52 passes Long Rock Level Crossing. Copyright Roger Winnen
I am very grateful to Guy Vincent who has identified this locomotive to be D1021 Western Cavalier. This engine was involved in a collision at Laira Depot on 9th August, 1976 with 08954 severly damaging her buffer beam and therefore it was withdrawn the next day. Many Thanks indeed Guy
Picture
760722b D1058 Western Nobleman heads the 17.45 Stopper from Plymouth to Penzance seen at Marazion. Copyright Roger Winnen
Rattlebrook Peat Railway
Andrew Jones

 Andrew writes:-   I recently stayed at Lydford, and cycled the splendid Granite Trail to Okehampton.
Passing Bridestowe Station, the trail has been diverted slightly to the east of the  exLSWR mainline, for a short distance, to give the present owners some privacy.
It appeared that an existing track had been used for this purpose and on further investigation, consulting an old ordnance survey map, I found the existence of a tramway leading from Bridestowe Station to a point some 7 miles distant at Kitty Tor and Amicombe Hill.
Please see attached map.
It transpires from some research, that the tramway was built for the Duchy of Cornwall in 1879 for the extraction of Naptha Oil from peat.
It was built to the standard gauge, although horse drawn for almost it entire life it served some kilns at Rattlebrook and involved a reversal near Corn Ridge.
During the 1920’s a petrol lorry was converted for use on railway and was used to dismantle the railway in 1932.
The railway is still traceable and makes an enjoyable and accessible walk to the heart of Dartmoor with relative safety and gentle gradients.
I have not been able to find any historic photographs of the line and wonder if society members know of the existence of any?
 
                     Best wishes Andrew       
Many thanks Andrew
For further reading and pictures of the route you might like to try this link.    http://www.brucehunt.co.uk/Rattlebrook.html
Redruth
Mike Hitchens

Picture
180404zd A named peak enters Redruth Station Copyright Mike Hitchens

19th September 2018

19/9/2018

 

DR73905 Plasser & Theurer 08-4x4-4S-RT Switch & Crossing Tamper.
By Mick House.

 

DR73905 departed yesterday from Taunton (8 minutes early at 11.21) and arrived at Truro (14 minutes late at 16.16). Words & Photos By Mick House.
Picture
DR73905 in Truro yard. Copyright Mick House.
Picture
DR73905 in Truro yard. Copyright Mick House.
The Marches Cornishman
Karl Hewlet

Here are the timings for Pathfinder Railtours, 'The Marches Cornishman' to Penzance on Saturday 22nd September using two DRS class 37's.  This looks almost like a re-run of the ill fated Mazey Day tour of last year of 66523 and 37059:

Shrewesbury To Penzance
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U10861/2018/09/22/advanced
Penzance To Penzance Via Slopers Sidings
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U10862/2018/09/22/advanced
Penzance To Shrewesbury
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U10863/2018/09/22/advanced

Kind Regards,   Karl (Friends Of Penmere Station).  Many thanks Karl
Weather forecast for Saturday.  The chance of rain rises from 24% at12.00 to 70%  at15.00.  We hope the predictions are completely wrong!
Class 57 on the Clays
Craig Munday
A busy afternoon at Par. I was showing a group around the box at Par when I became aware that the passage of 6P24 was not all is should be. We expect the distant (repeater) for PR100 to click back to on after 12 or so minutes. This gives us information that the train is "up the hill" and about to be swallowed up into Treverrin Tunnel. It was clear after 20 minutes that the clay had probably stopped. 

The train eventually was declared a failure and assistance summoned from Long Rock with 57605 being scrambled up to us. Penzance crew Nigel Gilbert (Newquay class 57 fame - the very same locomotive too), and Driver Tim Comer. 

Two trains were sent to Lostwithiel around the errant clay train by implementing Single Line Working (the first time an IET has been signalled this way I suppose). 

The loco went into assist with the usual banging of detonators (I still jump after 30 years, and coupled onto the rear. The ensemble trundled back to St Blazey, and the class 57 back to its depot.
 
Picture
180918b 57605 Totnes Castle giving assistance from the rear to the 6P24 clay climbing up the bank from Lostwithiel. Copyright Craig Munday.
Picture
180918c 57605 6P24 clay Driver Tim Comer and Nigel Gilbert from Long Rock (Newquay class 57 fame) Copyright Craig Munday
Picture
180918d 57605 Totnes Castle on the 6P24 clay about to depart from Par. Copyright Craig Munday
Picture
180918e 57605 on the 6P24 clay at St Blazey. Copyright Craig Munday.
Thanks very much Craig, a job well done!
Gays the Word
Peter Murnaghan

Back on the 25th August Peter Murnaghan took a look at the Newquay Branch which somehow got involved with a 'Pride' event. At the time I was having severe problems with the Broadband Connection. This was coming and going.  I did attempt to upload the following pictures, however unfortunately they were lost somewhere. Although my broadband does seem to be back it does drop out whenever there is a phone call - so it still needs more attention.  BT found a faulty printed circuit board. My apologies to Peter Murnaghan for his pictures not appearing on site- a technical hitch.
Picture
Goodies handed out at Par Station in connection with a 'Gay Pride' event. 25th August 2018. Copyright Peter Murnaghan
Picture
Totnes Castle on the 10.26 St Erth to Exeter. Copyright Peter Murnaghan
Picture
1130 Newquay - Paddington nears St Blazey 25th August 2018 Copyright Peter Murnaghan
Picture
HST passes the Demelza area. 25th August 2018 Copyright Peter Murnaghan
Picture
The 09.57 Penzance - Paddington at Par on the 25th August 2018. Copyright Peter Murnaghan
Pinhoe Station
David Tozer

Picture
Pinhoe Station along wait by David Tozer
The last train to call at Pinhoe was as follows:-
2020 Waterloo - Exeter (St David's) at 2357 on Friday 14th September.

The next scheduled departure being the
0510 Exeter (St David's) - Waterloo on Monday 24th September at 0519.
When I took this photo on Tuesday 18th September 2018 (at 1212) a guy was sat in the up platform shelter. I Guess he would have a long wait for the next train.
No trains between Crewkerne and Exeter due to flood defence work on the line.
Dave Tozer

Plymouth Miniature Railway
Clive Smith

For the Plymouth Miniature Railway Website giving further details please click here https://plymouthminiaturesteam.co.uk/
Picture
Ticket check? Plymouth Miniature Railway. 2nd September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Loco loading and traverser area. Plymouth Miniature Railway 2nd September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Plymouth Miniature Railway. 22nd September 2018 Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Plymouth Miniature Railway. 2nd September 2018. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Plymouth Miniature Railway. In the wooded section. 2nd September 2018 Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Leaving the tunnel, note intricate pointwork.. 2nd September 2018 Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Plymouth Miniature Railway, note multigauge trackwork. 2nd September 2018 Copyright Clive Smith

September 18th, 2018

18/9/2018

 
Ponsandane Yard Penzance July 1976
Roger Winnen

Picture
760703i 47224 Is seen shunting at Ponsandane with the old goods shed visible far right. Ponsandane was completely remodelled within a year or so following the building of the new HST depot. Copyright Roger Winnen
Scenes on the Newquay Branch
Saturday 10th July 1976 Roger Winnen

Picture
760710a From the fenced off closed platform a Class 50 is seen approaching Roche Station on 08.20 Par to Newquay - Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710b Sign Post on the A30 to GWR Station Roche. This sign vanished many years ago, no doubt its in someone's collection Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710c Class 25 and a Class 50 head over Goss Moor with a working to Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710d A Gloucester Cross Country Unit Set P582 heads for Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710e The Class 25 returns as a light engine from Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710f A Class 47 crosses Goss Moor. Today trackside vegetation has nearly obliterated this view!. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710g An unamed Class 50 seen also on Goss Moor crossing the old A30 a scene of many accidents over the years. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760710j D1022 Western Sentinal descends the Luxulyan Valley viewed from the Treffry Aquaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

17th September, 2018

17/9/2018

 
D1013 Western Ranger departs Penzance
Roger Winnen

Picture
760703h D1013 Western Ranger is seen departing Penzance possibly on the 18.00hrs to Bristol Temple Meads - Copyright Roger Winnen
34052 Lord Dowding hauls the Royal Duchy to Par
David Tozer
Picture
180916a 34046 masquerading as 34052 Lord Dowding heads the Royal Duchy to Par seen passing Paddleford overbridge Rewe. Copyright David Tozer
Green Train in green surroundings
Guy Vincent

This morning you put up a picture taken by Mark Lynam of 158961 on the Cornish main line, a relatively unusual event but to possibly become more common once sufficient Turbos are delivered for service in the Bristol area.   Yesterday (15th) 158961 worked a Cardiff-Portsmouth diagram and today it was a case of the same with this view of the unit arriving at Freshford with 1F13 1108 Cardiff Central-Portsmouth Harbour.  Just caught in the last days of 100 per cent matching foliage as autumn is about to take a hold. 

Best regards

Guy V

Picture
180916m Freshford 158961. Copyright Guy Vincent
Many Thanks Guy
Class 52 Westerns at Hayle on a Summer Saturday
3rd July 1976
Roger Winnen

Picture
760703b D1022 Western Sentinal heads the 14.00 Penzance to Birmingham seen approaching Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760703c An unidentified Western crosses Hayle Viaduct on a Saturday Holiday Express. Copyright Roger Winnen. Having received an EMail from Guy Vincent he has established this engine to be D1071 Western Renown carrying the small air vent on the cab front. Many thanks Guy.
Picture
760703d D1010 Western Campaigner works the 16.10 from Penzance to Paddington seen at Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
760703e As D1010 awaits depsrture a Class 47 is seen arriving at Hayle with a down train possibly Worcester Shrub Hill to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

16th September 2018

16/9/2018

 
Demolition of Westbury Staff Association Club
Guy Vincent

Demolition has started of the the former British Rail Staff Association club opposite Westbury station.  The club closed about 4 years ago and the site quickly became derelict.  Now it is to be cleared, levelled and surfaced in order to provide an extra 145 badly-needed car parking spaces.  The club buildings were originally put up in about 1947 when the GWR / BR established a hostel and canteen here for arriving traincrew requiring accommodation. In the late 1960s the hostel, aka 'the White House' (a large C shaped concrete building that surrounded the club on 3 sides) was closed.  BR continued using part of this building for traincrew mess facilities and booking-on and for office and managerial staff.   A BR staff training centre was also established here in the early 1980s.  Privatisation saw the 'White House' become redundant as each business found smaller and cheaper space on the station and in the freight yard and the main building was demolished in 2007.  The club struggled on for some years but dwindling membership and the smoking ban from 2007 sealed it's fate.  Once works are complete however the front of the station will at least look tidy and parking will be much easier.

Note: These railway clubs were once very common but in recent years have started to disappear. Taunton and Bristol (outside Temple Meads) spring to mind. However one club that is still going is the GWRSA, close to Yeovil Pen Mill station

Many Thanks Guy

The IETs at Penzance during this weekend
Roger Salter and Andrew Triggs

Picture
180914a 802006 Failed on crew training and was stabled in Platform 4 overnight at Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter
Picture
180914b 802003 attached 802009 arrives at Penzance on the 07.30 from London Paddington Copyright Roger Salter
Picture
Today Sunday 16th September we had our first official Class 800/3 9 car working to and from Penzance, 800309 working 1C79 10.57 from London Paddington and then returning with 1A98 17.35 to London Paddington, the return working being captured passing Marazion Copyright Andrew Triggs

11th Kingsbridge Vintage Bus Running Day
Sat 15th September 2018
Roger Winnen

There was a very large attendance at this years Transport Event. A number of members from the CRS gathered for a memorable day out. Departing Penzance at 06.30 for Totnes with had an extra service to Kingsbridge utilising the Devon General Signal Decker of 1946. Hoping to depart on the tour to Burgh Island at 10.10 we found it full, however there was another bus running at 10.30 this being a double decker gave us scenic views of the Devon Countryside. After returning to Kingswear we embarked on a tour to Slapton Sands and Torcross and finally travelling on the School Bus Kingsbridge to Brent following most of the former Branch Line.
Well done to the organisers of this event! Three Cheers

Picture
180915a On arrival at Totnes Railway Station our connecting bus to Kingsbridge HTT 487 being a 1946 AEC Regal formally with Devon General was waiting. - Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915a The Troon Bus at the Kingsbridge 2018 Rally new to Western National in 1994 being the first Dennis Dart purchased. Now owned by the Cornwall Bus Preservatiion Society. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915b A flavour of things in the past. KUO 972 built in 1950 These Bristols worked many of the routes in West Cornwall. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915c A tour to Bigbury on Sea was well worth it as extensive views of Burgh Island could be seen from the Double Decker. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915d Arrival at Bigbury on Sea with the third generation Sea Tractor crossing to Burgh Island. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915e Travelling on the School Bus the 14.50 from Kingsbridge to Brent we passed closed Railway Stations on the Brent to Kingsbridge Branch. Here the bus is seen at Gara Bridge which also had a station. In order for the bus not to ground on this bridge, passengers were asked to alight to cross the bridge on foot to avoid any damaged to the underside of the bus then rejoin the bus for our next station. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915f The conductor edging the bus forward over the bridge. - Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915f Viewed throuth the windscreen of our coach we pass Avonwick Station the first station out of Brent on the branch to Kingsbridge. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180915g The oldest bus in the rally today was Colin Billington Bristol H of 1933 new to Western National and rebuilt after a major restoration in 2009. Copyright Roger Winnen
Glorious Devon
Andrew Triggs

This is Glorious Devon (although the sun wasn't always 'playing ball' all of the time alas) covering 67006 working The Torbay Flyer and King Edward 11 on the P&DR
Picture
180915a Recently repainted 'Royal' 67006 heading the 06.42 Letchworth Paignton Torbay Flyer at Teignmouth, viewed from the famous skew bridge at 11.40. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
180915b The ECS stock at Goodrington sidings. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
180915c The 14.25 Paignton & Dartmouth Railway service to Kingswear with 6023 King Edward 11 passing Goodrington Sands beach huts. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
180915d 6023 Heading away up Goodrington Bank for Kingswear.Copyright Andrew Triggs
Restormel
Chris Harvey
 
Chris was out and about fairly early on a bright morning to catch two trains in that lovely valley.  Many thanks Chris
Picture
Restormel - 08.28 Penzance to Glasgow (This is the back end) 15th September 2018 Copyrght Chris Harvey
Picture
Restormel again. This time the 09.00 Penzance to Paddington. Copyright Chris Harvey. 15th September 2018.
To come next week - The Plymouth Miniature Railway - a selection of pictures captured by Clive Smith. Note Clive says - he has been enjoying the beautiful Italian Amalfi Coast and the lovely island of Corsica, I will still be reading the site daily, sitting by the Pool! Now there's devotion!!

15th September 2018

15/9/2018

 
John Cornelius
Memorial Service
Picture
Just to let you know.  John's memorial service is to be held on Wednesday October 10th at 2pm at Shepton Beauchamp Church. Please let all know.
                                              Jane Cornelius
The Mark Lynam
Cornish Collection

Picture
66847 10.36 12th September 2018 Liskeard Cement Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
66847 Coombe Junction 12.41 on the 12th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
150207 & 153325 12th September 2018 Moorswater Copyright Mark Lynam Note the liveries!
Picture
150202 waits at the buffers at Newquay on the 13th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
158766 2C47 Plymouth - Penzance at Chacewater at 15.34 14th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
158961 at Apex summit working 2P2 Plymouth - Penzance on the 14th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam
Picture
57313 passes the site of Chacewater station with the 16.26 Penzance to Par on the 14th September 2018 Copyright Mark Lynam
Many thanks Mark
Wet St Erth
Mike Hitchens

Picture
A wet day at St Erth as a Peak enters the station on route to Penzance. Mike Hitchens collection

14th September 2018

14/9/2018

 
The Northern Belle
​at Exminster
David Tozer

Picture
57514 & 57513 pass Exminster at 10.37 on the 14th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer
Picture
802003 & 802009 pass Exminster at 10.15 on the 14th September 2018 Copyright David Tozer
The Northern Belle at Par
Richard Kitson 

Picture
opped and tailed by 57313 and 57314 the down Northern Belle arrives at a sunny Par prior to the ecs movement to Penzance. 14.34 on the 14th September 2018
The Northern Belle
Winchester to Par and ECS to Penzance
Andrew Triggs Roger Winnen

Picture
180914a 57314 arrives Penzance with the ECS of the Northern Belle. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180914b 57313 tails the Northern Belle at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180914c Departing ECS to Long Rock for fuel. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
180914d The Northern Belle returning from Long Rock viewed from Ponsandane Footbridge. Copyright Andrew Triggs
Picture
180914e The Northern Belle passes Marazion with the 16.26 from Penzance with 57313 leading. Copyright Andrew Triggs
IET Failure
​causes chaos!!!
Total failure of one the new 802 sets caused mayhem on the normally busy main line between Exeter and Taunton.  389 passengers directly affected plus many more intending travellers.  To read all about it  please use the link below.
​http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?board=26.0
4555 at Paignton & Goodrington
Michael Forward

Picture
860812a 4555 is seen at Paignton with an Auto Coach. Copyright Michael Forward
Picture
860812b 4555 is seen climbing from Goodrington with a heavy load on route to Kingswear. Copyright Michael Forward
Thanks Michael
Reflections on the Visit to 
The Helston Railway
by members of the Cornwall Railway Society
Roger Winnen

The Cornwall Railway Society paid a visit to the Helston Railway on Thursday 13th September, 2018. Approx. twenty members and friends turned out for a most interesting visit to the line now with its extension to Truthall Halt with looked splendid, shining in the autumn sun. Much use was made of the excellent buffet facilities serving bacon rolls and a selection of very nice food and drink.
Many thanks must go to Ken Wood, Barbara Barnes, Peter Galasinni and staff of the Helston Railway for laying on a most memorable visit for our society. Peter is also one of our CRS members.
Many thanks to you all.
Roger Winnen
Picture
180913a We are now changing for the Helston Branch at Gwinear Road! False! Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913b The Buffet is open! Its worth a bacon roll and a cup of tea. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913c A most enjoyable buffet at the terminus of the Helston Railway. Left to right Richard Horwood, Eric & Diana Dowson. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913d Our guard Peter Galassini watches Ken Wood attach the CRS Headboard. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913e Arrival at Trevarno Station, onboard we see Peter Galassini, Gerry Chandler, Keith and Valerie Jenkin and far right Roy and Nway Hart from Burma, formally from Redruth. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913f The Mk 1 Suburban Coach at Trevarno. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913g The sun came out as the train returned to Trevarno. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913h On the next trip to Truthall Halt we see the construction of the engine shed at Trevarno. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913i On arrival at Truthall Halt Diana Dowson is seen in conversation with the guard. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913j Christine Simmonds looks at the photgraphs inside the pagoda at Truthall Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913k It was nice to see Maurice Dart onboard, darting around on his travels. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913l Alan Burton the Station Master from Truthall Halt aboard the last train of the day returns to Prospidnick. Valerie is looking miles away!. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913m Depsture from Truthall Halt in the afternoon sun. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913n Back at Prospidnick we see Mike Hitchens and Richard Horwood aboard our Diesel Locomotive. Copyright Roger Winnen
Picture
180913o John Gallagher and Peter Bragg back in the buffet for refreshment after enjoying a very nice day. Copyright Roger Winnen
Apologies from our Magazine Editors
​The editors of the CRS magazine regret the omission of the name of the author of the article ‘Bere Alston to Meldon - after Closure’ in the Autumn 2018 CRS magazine. This was not intended, but was entirely due to an unfortunate oversight on their part. The author of this excellent article was Tony Hill. The editors sincerely apologise for the omission of his name.”
Newquay HST's
Colin Burges
​The last H.S.T. of the summer timetable will leave Newquay today and the units are unlikely to return next year, other than as specials or run by Cross Country.

What was once a summer Saturday procession was down to two on the last occasion yesterday. I caught the 0857 Plymouth and the 1728 Newquay. Light rain caused wheelslip part way up Luxulyan bank, but the driver managed to get the train up to line speed again. I spoke to him at the "quay" and he told me progress was down to 15 m.p.h., with no sanders to aid traction. I asked him what power was needed on the bank and he replied that notch three or four was sufficient for the 1:37 climb. He had passed out on the Hitachis but didn't know what the future held for Newquay; he said there might be gauge infringement in Luxulyan Tunnel.

For my own web pages, I will be looking at examples of massive development not being matched by the provision of rail transport. Sherford, the new town taking shape to the east of Plymouth is close to Oreston, on the Yealmpton Branch. The massive Airbus factory in Bristol is close to North Filton. And the Duchy's "Poundbury Light," Nansledan, is not far from the Newquay Branch. So on arrival at the quay I headed for the new town (starting price for a "coach house" £250,000) to find a vantage point for a shot.
Picture
From an earth heap at the growing Nansledan "urban expansion," the 1130 S.O. Newquay to Paddington, The Atlantic Coast Express, can be seen at middle right crossing Trenance Viaduct. The ocean can be seen at right. 8th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges
Picture
The same train has just passed Trencreek Crossing and is now closer to the camera. 8th September 2018 Copyright Colin Burges
Picture
I waited twenty minutes to take this shot and then didn't get the train fully in the frame. The modern-day ACE heading towards Quintrell Downs.th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges
​With six hours before my train home, I rode out to Trevose Head along roads which aren't for the faint-hearted. I went down to the gates of the lighthouse and then climbed to the coastguard lookout for the fabulous view of the Cornish coastline. On the way back I hesitated at the turning for the lifeboat station but thought I really ought to take a peak. When I looked down from the top of the long flight of steps I realized it was the one on stilts and clad in copper that I had seen many times in pictures. Thinking of the brisk sou-westerly I was going to face on the way back, I hesitated again. Then along came a car and two young ladies in short skirts got out and hurried down the steps. Thinking I should learn more about the work of the R.N.L.I., I locked up my bike and followed.

A little later, after reading some of the many wall displays, I was very glad that I hadn't gone away for it became obvious that a launch was imminent. I do seem to have the good fortune of something interesting happening when I turn up at places.
Picture
Picture
The radio mast erected, the engines started and the pin is pulled to release the hauser. Picures by Colin Burges. Copyright
Picture
​It clearly not being a "shout," I asked an officer about the launch. He told me it was for a christening at Padstow - a lifeboat tradition. "They'll be back in an hour." "There wouldn't have been the two young ladies on board in an emergency," I said rather stupidly. "Oh yes there would," he replied. "They're crew members and sisters."
Picture
The 1728 Newquay to Paddington waiting to depart from the emasculated terminus. The train occupies only part of one of the three longest platforms in Cornwall. 8th September 2018. Copyright Colin Burges
Having not thought of it earlier, I asked this driver whether he could tell if the rear power car was slipping. I think the light only warns of wheelslip somewhere. Of course, in theory the rear power car has a cleaner rail.

Remembering that when the 50s bowed out there was a mass outpouring of grief, I have been looking for some interest in these old things whose era has been far longer than the hydraulics or the English Electrics; longer even than the "Kings." Then along came Anthony Christie and a handful of fanciers unknown to me. Newquay had gone back to sleep and there were barely 40 passengers for this last-but-one train.

Cheers, Colin.  Many thanks Colin
Cornish Branch line Survey Part 2 
Clive Smith
British Rail Western Region got on board the railtour bandwagon in 1983 with a superb railtour of load 7 top and tailed by class 37186 and 37 187. The train left Bristol TM at 08.15 and headed via the  now long gone Taunton Goods Line to Carne Point, Parkandillack and Boscarne Junction. This was  advertised as the penultimate passenger  train to Boscarne Junction before  the closure of the freight line from Bodmin Parkway to Wenford Bridge. The next day would see BR run the final train with a DMU from St Austell visiting the same Cornish branches. Many thanks Clive.
Picture
Cornish Branchlines Survey Railtour 19th September 1983 37 187 ticks over after having arrived at Bodmin General. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Cornish Branchlines Survey Railtour 19th September 1983 37 187 on the blocks at Bodmin General, then just part of a soon to be closed freight line. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Cornish Branch Lines Survey Railtour - 37 186 steaming the train nicely, has now headed the tour to Boscarne Junction. Most of the train's participants seem to be milling around the sidings having risked life and limb to get off the train. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Cornish Branch Lines Survey Railtour 19th September 1983 - 37 187 waits at the other end of the train. Copyright Clive Smith
Picture
Cornish Branch Lines Survey Railtour. 19th September 1983. Boscarne Junction crossing gates. 'The end of the line' or so we thought then. It still is but who knows if trains will return to Wadebridge or Wenford Bridge? Copyright Clive Smith.
Picture
The NEXT DAY. The Cornish Branch lines DMU Railtour at Boscarne. 20th September 1983. Many thanks to Mike Roach for this view. Copyright.

13th September, 2018

13/9/2018

 

Today’s visit to The Helston Railway.
By The Cornwall Railway Society.
 

Picture
Photo by Mick House.
Picture
Park Royal Class 103 DMU, W56169 & W50413. Photo by Mick House.
Picture
97649 Ruston & Hornsby 28 tonne 0-4-0 diesel shunter. Photo by Mick House.
Picture
With CRS Headboard attached the train with Brake van Daisy ready to depart Prospidnick heading for Truthall Halt. Photo by Mick House.
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CRS train approaching Truthall Halt. Photo by Mick House.
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Arriving at Truthall Halt. Photo by Mick House.
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About to depart Truthall Halt. Photo by Mick House.
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Departing Truthall Halt heading back to Prospidnick. Photo by Mick House.
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Truthall Halt. Photo by Mick House.
Variety at Penzance
18th May 2013
Roger Winnen

Picture
130718aa 31285 With an ultrasonic test train at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen
Southampton Central
1st August 1976
Roger Winnen

Picture
760801a The signal gantry at the west end of Southampton Central. Copyright Roger Winnen
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760801b DEMU 1101 built 1957 departs Sothampton for Portsmouth Harbour. These were later known as Class 205 units Copyright Roger Winnen
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760801c A BRCW Class 33 heads an express from Southampton. Copyright Roger Winnen
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760801e 47321 Departs Southampton probably for the Midlands and North of England. Copyright Roger Winnen
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760801f Unit 431 used on the push pull basis of the London to Bornemouth and Weymouth trains from 1967. These were rebuilt MK1 carriages which lasted until the production of the Wessex 442 units in the late 1980s. Copyright Roger Winnen

12th September 2018

12/9/2018

 
  Thursday 13th September 2018
Cornwall Railway Society

A visit to the Helston Railway from 12.00 noon.

Directions if you are coming by car. Take the B3303 road from Camborne to Helston, turn left on the approach to Crowntown and follow the road to Prospidnick turning left after passing under the Railway Bridge. The Railway is signposted.
Travelling by bus from Camborne Bus Station Route 38 Departs at 10.40 alighting at the opposite the Crown Inn at Crowntown at 11.04. Retrace your way back to the road junction turning left for Prospidnick. Walking distance 1 mile.
Buses return from Crowntown route 38 at 15.52 hrs for Camborne this being the last bus or the route 38 at 17.14 to Helston arr 17.24 then returning on the service 39 being the 17.54 Helston to Camborne via Carleen arr 18.35.

Trains depart Prospidnick Halt for Truthall Halt at 12.30 13.30 14.30 15.30
The Sleeper in Trouble
Andrew Triggs

Picture
180912a Last nights Sleeper arrived at Penzance this morning 187 late, 57602 having failed with an oil leak between Somerton and Athlney, 57604 being despatched to rescue the formation, one shot for CRS as it approached Marazion
Thanks Andrew

Runs round at Lostwithiel 
Richard Kitson

This mornings picture - many thanks Richard.
Picture
Lostwithiel the Cement 66847 runs round. 12th September 2018 Copyright Richard Kitson
 Possibly the last "Summer  Saturday" with HSTs on the Torbay Line,
Martin Duff
8th September, 2018

Picture
Saturday 08/09/2018 was the last day of “Summer Saturday”  (such that it is these days) operations.  It was possibly the last time Cross Country and GWR HST’s would visit Goodrington Yard at the same time.  I recorded the HST’s for the 16.37 to Leeds and the 17.00 to Paddington just before they moved forward into Paignton.  I spent the afternoon on the branch, and was disappointed to find that I was the only person out with a camera at Goodrington, given the significance of the day – obviously of no interest to anybody other than me!!
Thanks Martin

Cornish Branch Line Survey Railtour
Part 0ne  Clive Smith
​British Rail Western Region got on board the railtour bandwagon in 1983 with a superb railtour of load 7 top and tailed by class 37186 and 37 187. The train left Bristol TM at 08.15 and headed via the  now long gone Taunton Goods Line to Carne Point, Parkandillack and Boscarne Junction. This was  advertised as the penultimate passenger  train to Boscarne Junction before  the closure of the freight line from Bodmin Parkway to Wenford Bridge. The next day would see BR run the final train with a DMU from St Austell visiting the same Cornish branches.
Regards, Clive Smith                          Many Thanks Clive.
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(1) One of the traincrew poses for pictures from the cab of 37 187 at Carne Point.19th November 1983 Copyright Clive Smith
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(2) 37 186 is now viewed on the train at Parkandillack. . Enthusiasts on board decamp down to the track unencumbered by health and safety regulations to go for a stroll in the adjacent green pastures, now occupied by a waste incinerator. 19th November 1983 Copyright Clive Smith
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(3) 37186 viewed against a marvellous Parkandillack clay tip. Once such an ubiquitous feature of the Cornish landscape, the 'Cornish Alps' have largely been re-shaped and 'greened' to blend in with the environment. 19th November 1983 Copyright Clive Smith
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(4) 37 187 at the other end of the train. 19th November 1983 Copyright Clive Smith.
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(5) 37 186 waits to leave for Drinnick Mill and Burngullow. 19th November 1983 Copyright Clive Smith.

11th September 2018

11/9/2018

 
Thursday 13th September 2018
Cornwall Railway Society

A visit to the Helston Railway from 12.00 noon.

Directions if you are coming by car. Take the B3303 road from Camborne to Helston, turn left on the approach to Crowntown and follow the road to Prospidnick turning left after passing under the Railway Bridge. The Railway is signposted.
Travelling by bus from Camborne Bus Station Route 38 Departs at 10.40 alighting at the opposite the Crown Inn at Crowntown at 11.04. Retrace your way back to the road junction turning left for Prospidnick. Walking distance 1 mile.
Buses return from Crowntown route 38 at 15.52 hrs for Camborne this being the last bus or the route 38 at 17.14 to Helston arr 17.24 then returning on the service 39 being the 17.54 Helston to Camborne via Carleen arr 18.35.

Trains depart Prospidnick Halt for Truthall Halt at 12.30 13.30 14.30 15.30
West Somerset Mineral Railway
Brendon Incline
John Thorn

An answer in response to several queries concerning how the winding engine moved stock on the incline.  Many thanks John
Picture
The Brenon Hill Incline Winding House in the late 60's Copyright John Thorn. The incline falls away to the right.
Picture
Brendon Incline. The top of the incline was raised above the surrounding hillside on an embankment that was high enough for the level track to cross the B3224. A sketch by John Thorn.
West Somerset Mineral Rly.
Robert Lindley
We are most grateful to Rob Lindley who continues to explore the route of the long lost W.S.M.R. and send us details of his findings. This time we see the bridge which carries the West Somerset Railway over the course of the W.S.M.R.  Many thanks indeed to you Rob.
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West Somerset Rly. the bridge crossing the West Somerset Mineral Railway 8th September 2018 Copyright Robert Lindley
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West Somerset Rly. the bridge crossing the West Somerset Mineral Railway Looking south towards Washford and the Bredon Hills 8th September 2018 Copyright Robert Lindley
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West Somerset Rly. the bridge crossing the West Somerset Mineral Railway looking north towards Watchet which is a quarter mile. 8th September 2018 Copyright Robert Lindley
Steep Holme Railway
John Thorn

A while ago John Thorn teased us that we haven't covered the West Somerset Minerals Railway.  Viewers will note that with many thanks to Robert Lindley our coverage of this long forgotten line is continually expanding. In jest, and more recently, John has suggested that we've not got a mention of the railway on Steep Holme, an island between Weston super Mare and Newport. It cannot be said that this is really within our coverage on a Freedom of the South West Railrover. However if you use the link below you'll find much of interest.  Perhaps a boat trip for Roger to organise??  http://discovernorthsomerset.co.uk/steep-holm-during-the-second-world-war/
David Hibberd   
We are sad to report the loss of long standing member of the Cornwall Railway Society and supporter of our website. David passed away on the 25th August. A large number, including CRS members, attended his funeral yesterday at Treswithian Downs Crematorium.  Our sympathies go to his wife Pauline and other family members.
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