Main lines in Devon - Plymouth to Exeter - Cornwall Railway Society

Devon Main line
from Plymouth to Exeter

Credits, Many thanks to all contributors - please see a list on the home page.

Courtesy the Mike Morant collection

A sad day for all as the Westerns bowed out of British Rail service - here we see the last train standing at platform 8 bearing the head board - 'THE END'. However it was not to be - the Westerns live on in preservation. 26th February 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

Here we are at the station - not quite sure whether this is before or after the picture above - either 'The End' is yet to be affixed or it has been removed? 26th February 1977

A stranger in the camp 170304 at Plymouth on test, 28th May 2001 Steve Widdowson

A classic picture from a classic location.Plymouth North Road Left to right 4936 Kinslet Hall, 6421, D808 Centaur, 7018 Grenville Manor 11th September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach

From an unusual location a brace of Castles depart Plymouth North Road. Copyright Mike Roach

One of the big attractions over the past two summers has been the running of Saturday loco hauled trains from Par to Exeter and return to Penzance. The date of this picture by Steve Widdowson is 1st August 2015 and this is the working from Par at Plymouth. Copyright

Mutley

Mutley 4917 6021 12.05 to Padd 11sep59

A classic collection at Mutley 4928 Gatacre Hall pilots 6002 King William 1V on the 14 coach 12.05 to Paddington . Whilst on the siding rest, nearest first, 6836 Estvarney Hall, 5092 Howick Hall, 5531, D603 Conquest. Copyright Mike Roach

The up Royal Duchy departs Plymouth passing Mutley in April 1961 Copyright Mike Roach

Looking back through Mutley Tunnel from the Exeter - Penzance day stock run. We see the 16.55 Penzance-Newton Abbot going away towards Laira. 15th August 2015 Copyright Roger Winnen

140809v Mutley Tunnel, the east end as a Cross Country set heads the last few years towards Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen N.B In this view it looks as if some pruning will soon be necessary.

Plymouth Lipsom Junction

4931 Hanbury Hall pilots 5036 Lyonshall Castle at Lipsom Junction on the 11.30 Plymouth to Paddington 12th September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach

Plymouth Laira Junction

This extremely interesting picture is from the Maurice Dart collection of China Clay lines Part 2 and It is published with his permission. In addition to his already comprehensive caption may we point out the steam issuing from the Laira Sheds which were alongside the main line. The Lee Moor Tramway was of 4' gauge. The CD is available from Wheal Martyn Museum, for details please see the home page.

An unknown class 47 brings some empty coaching stock along the embankment and under Laira bridge 31 Dec 78 Copyright Mike Roach

Crabtree - taken from a location by the rear coach in the first of the next pictures.

Bridge over the River Plym

Its 11.25am on Tuesday 8 September 1959 "Rood Ashton Hall" (Now preserved) with 6 Coaches on the 11.20am stopping train from Plymouth to Taunton (every station then still open except Stoke Canon and Sampford Peverell) about to cross the River Plym just west of Tavistock Junction. There is a note in the timetable against Plympton, Cornwood, Ivybridge, Bittaford Platform and Wrangaton saying rail service withdrawn from 2nd March 1959. 35mph speed restriction over bridge Copyright Mike Roach

Tavistock Junction.

5995 Wick Hall & 6012 King Edward V1 with the 1.30pm from Paddington Tuesday 1st September 1959 Tavistock Junction signalbox can be seen beyond the train. 5995 was an Oxley (Wolverhampton) locomotive, and 6012 was an Old Oak King, but it had been a Laira engine in the early 1950s.Copyright Mike Roach

Tavistock Jct 6300 with a freight bound for Cornwall - it's 16.25 on the 1st September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach. N.B. The metals bearing away to the left led to Marsh Mills and eventually, Tavistock and Launceston.

37667 with the flask in tow passes Tavistock Juntion Yard. 12th February 2016 The former connection to Imery Marsh Mills was an extension of one of these sidings which curved around to the right. Copyright Craig Munday

The short section between Plymouth and Plympton is covered on the last map of the Cornwall Scorrier to Plymouth page.

Plympton

Plympton Signalbox in 1973. Copyright Chris Osment

Plympton station site seen on 29th October 1976. The station closed to passengers 2nd March 1959 but lingered on for goods until ist June 1964. The signalbox remained in situ, as can be seen, for many years after closure.

Another view of Plympton Signalbox - a very short section of the platform remains to support the front wall of the box. 29th October 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

Mike Roach Ticket Collection

Hemerdon Bank with a ruling gradient of 1 in 42 was quite a testing ground for east bound trains and for unfitted goods trains there was a need to pin down sufficient brakes before making the steep descent.

A Freightliner on Hemerdon July 1970. Note the ragwort inside the railway fence; next door to the allotments outside the railway fence. Copyright Mike Roach

4975 and 5003 coast down Hemerdon Bank with the down "Cornishman" at 3.23pm on Friday 3 June 1960, a few minutes late, and non-stop from Exeter St. Davids. 4975 was named Umberslade Hall and was a Newton Abbot loco. 5003 was named Lulworth Castle and was also Newton Abbot loco from March 1959.Copyright Mike Roach

A 9F gets stuck into Hemerdon Bank in June 1963. Copyright Mike Roach

Entering Hemerdon Woods is 2-8-0 no. 2879 with a light load. 2879 was sheded at Swindon. Friday 3 June 1960. Copyright Mike Roach

The 12.00noon from Penzance to Manchester, 3.45pm off Plymouth, enters Hemerdon Woods at 4.02pm. The train engine is D804. The pilot engine is 6875 HIndford Grange of St. Blazey Shed. The load is no less than 15 coaches. The date is Friday 3 June 1960. Copyright Mike Roach

A Plymouth to Cardiff train enters Hemerdon Woods behind 7808 and 4922 on Friday 3 June 1960. 7808 was named Cookham Manor, and is preserved. 4922 was Enville Hall and was a Bristol Bath Road loco. Copyright Mike Roach

Hemerdon Gallery 1

Hemerdon Gallery 2

6870 and 4708 with 13 coaches forming the 8.20am Penzance to Paddington past milepost 241 at 11.43am on Saturday 5th September 1959. 4708 was an un-named 2-8-0 express freight loco. 6870 was named Bodicote Grange and was sheded at Penzance, and would normally be removed at Newton Abbot. Copyright Mike Roach

6873 Caradoc Grange with the 7.55am Penzance to Swansea at the top of Hemerdon Bank at 11.25am on Tuesday 15th September 1959. 6873 was a Laira engine right through the 1950s. The Granges were very similar to the Hall Class, but had smaller driving wheels, making them good at climbing gradients. They could be distinguished from the Halls by the raised piece over the cylinders. Copyright Mike Roach

6938 Corndean Hall with the 7.30am Penzance to Manchester at the top of Hemerdon Bank at 10.55am on Tuesday 15th September 1959 photographed from Sparkwell Bridge. Hemerdon Box semaphore distant signal can be seen between the last coach and the edge of the picture. 6938 was a Newton Abbot loco at the time, but was moved to Laira 2 months later in November 1959. Copyright Mike Roach

6936 Breccles Hall has arrived at the top of Hemerdon Bank with an unfitted freight train. It has stopped to obey the sign to the right of the loco chimney.The train guard will be running alongside the train as it very slowly moved off, pinning down brakes on each wagon in turn, using an extension bar, until at least 50% were pinned down. Finally he will signal to the driver and climb aboard his brake-van as it passes him. Sparkwell Bridge was a good place to see this procedure in operation. It was really hard, dangerous work for the guard, and unfortunately, at the bottom of the bank, the whole procedure had to be reversed and the brakes released one-by-one. The procedure is now consigned to the dustbin of history. 6936 was a Cardiff Canton locomotive, and on the closure of Canton to steam, it would move to Cardiff East Dock Shed. May 1962 Copyright Mike Roach

A lovely picture featuring a very nearly a full house at Hemerdon. 5959 Mawley Hall and 5065 Upton Castle pass a recessed goods train with the 11.30am from Paddington to Penzance. If on time Penzance would be reached at 7.10pm On the up loop a coal train awaits the passage of an up service at 4.05pm on Wednesday 9th September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach. One wonders if anybody has ever managed to photograph four trains at this location. 5959 was an Exeter loco but would move to Tyseley the same month; 5065 was sheded at Old Oak Common.

5924 Dinton Hall at the stop board. Since the guard is not visible, and is not walking up to the front of the train, it is possible that the train has a "fitted head", i.e a proportion of the wagons with vacuum brakes. 5924 was a Bristol, St. Phillips Marsh, locomotive. October 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

7916 nears the summit with a milk train in October 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

A milk train approaches Hemerdon summit behind 7916 its October 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

Hemerdon as Peak 46021 nears the summit with a very mixed freight on 31st August 1978 Copyright Mike Roach N.B. Box vans, one truck, oil tankers, Presflo cement wagons.

An HST romps up the bank at Hemerdon as if it wasn't there 1st September 1980 Copyright Mike Roach

Hemerdon bank down loop It's a dull day as a 47 on a down parcels waits to leave the loop, this has long since been removed. 1st December 1973 - Copyright Roger Winnen

An unusual working at Hemerdon loop. This ECS train went right through the loop and out the other end. At this time no trains were scheduled to use the up loop. So once a day a train (usually a parcels train) was signalled through the loop to ensure that points, signals and track circuits were used at least once a day to keep them working. In 2014 the up loop is still there. The down loop was removed many years ago. This picture taken on the 31st Aug 1978 Copyright Mike Roach

Nearing the top of the Hemerdon bank a class 47 approaches the loops and is signalled on the through line, passenger trains rarely used the loop. The down loop visible and the crossover used to return banking engines back down the incline. The sign by the home signal warns drivers to stop to 'put down brakes'. It's December 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

The tail of a Motorail trains nears the top of the climb up Hemerdon. April 1973 Copyright Mike Roach

Motorail at top of Hemerdon. Down loop still in use but signalbox has gone. May 82 Copyright Mike Roach

37206 with a mixed consist - Hemerdon 28th May 81 Copyright Mike Roach

T o the east of Hemerdon 50042 Triumph heads the 12.30 Paddington to Plymouth on Saturday 2nd April 1977 Copyright Roger Geach

Slade viaduct

Cornwood

5055 Lydford Castle passes through Cornwood at speed May 1962 Copyright Mike Roach

Blatchford viaduct, just east of Cornwood

Ivybridge Station closed 5th October 1964

A fascinating picture of Ivybridge Goods yard - the date is 31st August 1986. The yard has ceased to carry 'ordinary goods traffic' but a shed has been constructed for the loading of china clay which as been transported from Lee Moor Clay pit by road. 22 wagons were counted at this location. Copyright Mike Roach

Another view of Ivybridge - this time by Roger Winnen in May 1975. Its the days before 'clay hoods' and the loads are simply sheeted down. Copyright

A down train headed by a class 47 runs over the viaduct - note the old Brunel viaduct piers are clearly visible to the left. 31st August 1978. Copyright Mike Roach

At milepost 236.25 east of Ivybridge, 6874 Haughton Grange assists 7031 Cromwell's Castle with the12.00noon passenger and mail from Penzance to Manchester. The time is 4.07pm on Friday 11th September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach

The new Ivybridge Station The station re-opened in 1994 to the east of the original station, which was in use from 1848 until 1965. The new station is located in the parish of Ugborough, and is operated by First Great Western

140809w Ivybridge Station. Taken from the last window of the last coach on an up train. Copyright Roger Winnen

Wrangaton The station closed 5th October 1964. This station was unusual in that the station buildings were high above the platform on the top of an embankment.

Wrangaton 770313a Wrangaton Station Building - on the 13th March 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

Wrangaton station looking east Oct71 - Copyright Mike Roach

Wrangaton box. A view from the west end in January 1966. The sign refers to a footpath leading to the station the main building of which can be seen to the left of the signalbox chimney. The station closed 2nd March 1959. This view January 1966 by Mike Roach Copyright

A note from Mike Roach referring the picture above. The main point about the kissing gate and sign at the footpath approach to Wrangaton Station is that this was right alongside a bridge over the railway which has disappeared along with the road over the bridge, where one could park and watch trains go by. When the A38 was dualled in the 1970s it was decided not to provide a bridge over the A38 for this very minor road which was severed and became a cul-de-sac at each end. The bridge over the railway was demolished about the same time since it did not then lead anywhere. The old layout can be seen in the Middleton Press book of the line.
Regards Mike

A Peak on a down service passes Wrangaton Signalbox, already disused, in May 1970. The footpath serving the box and also the station building, seen to left, ran generally alongside the fence but dipping down at the back of the box. May 1970. Copyright Mike Roach

A May 75 view of Wrangaton signal box from an up train. Copyright Roger Winnen

Below - along the main line - location not known.

Bittaford Closed 2nd March 1959

140802i 57604 heads the up loco hauled over Bittaford viaduct, the engine passing the site of Bittaford Platform. This closed on the 2nd March 1959 Copyright Roger Winnen

Out in the country east of Bittaford.

West of Brent

140809x The Aish Emergency Crossovers located a couple of miles west of Brent. Copyright Roger Winnen

West of Brent Station but only a mile or so from the station. Two freight trains pass alongside Brent Up Goods Loop. May 62 Copyright Mike Roach

I believe that it is on the embankment half a mile (may be a mile) west of Brent Station. The 2800 is on a track relaying train obviously, because you can see the track panels with the concrete sleepers, and the mess van at the front. The machinery on the well wagons is used in the relaying. 3849 was a Laira engine at the time. It was only at Laira for just three months from April to July 1962. So this dates the photograph very accurately. 3849 was then sent away to Banbury. The locomotives disposal date was 31st August 1965 Copyright Mike Roach

Just to the west of the former Brent station the main lines crosses the River Avon by means of this substantial bridge. Here we see an up train hauled by a Peak. At the time the east end of the Brent up loop was evidenced by the rails on the right. October 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

Brent Station closed to passengers 5th October 1964. It had previously closed to goods 5th April 64. The Kingsbridge branch had closed on 16th September 1963

Brent Station in June 1962. The outer face of the island platform was used by Kingsbridge trains. Copyright Mike Roach

Brent. It would be inteesting to know what 5573 is doing. It would appear to be setting off wrong line in the Plymouth direction on the up main? Courtesy of the Mike Morant Collection 160709_W_BR_5573_Brent

Mike Roach writes :-

5573 was at Newton Abbot Shed from December 1957 to December 1962 when it was transferred away to Whitland. I photographed the loco on the Kingsbridge Branch on Saturday 1 July 1961, and I have seen a picture of it on the Branch the previous Saturday. A month later I photographed it at Wadebridge and Bodmin General but it was not formally transferred to St. Blazey so perhaps it was on loan.

The previous summers would have been similar but lets assume that this is a Saturday in June or July 1961. The train is the 10.55am Saturdays Only Kingsbridge to Paddington. The train would have arrived in its normal platform in Brent at 11.30am. 5573 would then have propelled its coaches out towards Newton Abbot over the crossover and onto the up main. It would then have worked its train westwards through the up platform out under the road bridge from which the photo was taken and into the up loop. The 11.15am Plymouth to Paddington arrived in the up platform and 5573 propelled its coaches out of the loop and on to the back of the Paddington train. Departure from Brent was scheduled at 11.45am and arrival at Paddington at 4.18pm.

Three pictures below we see 5573 on a Kingsbridge branch train in November 1959

Many thanks Mike for your reasoning behind the otherwise rather strange movement depicted in Mike Morants Picture.
However there is a further suggestion sent to Mike Roach from Charles Fennamore - Mike thinks this is more likely the case.
BRENT
Charles Fennamore thinks that the coaches are being pushed rather than pulled as we thought, and has come up with an alternative explanation as follows. Its much earlier in the day, which is still a Saturday. The 5 coaches are ECS on their way from Plymouth to Kingsbridge to take up their booked working to Paddington at 10.55am. They have been dropped off in the up platform and 5573 has come out of the up loop to pick them up. The loco is now pushing the coaches eastwards clear of the crossover. It will then run towards the photographer over the crossover onto the down main clear of all the points and then push the rake of coaches into the branch platform on the right. Finally 5573 will run around and go onto the front of the train ready to form the 9.55am Brent to Kingsbridge arrive 10.30am.
Was there a suitable train up the main line from Plymouth in 1961 to drop the coaches off ? Yes there was and it was the 7.40am St Austell to Birmingham Moor Street. This departed Plymouth at 9.10, and Brent at 9.45am. So the picture was taken just after 9.45am when the main train had departed for Birmingham. The previous train was an hour earlier and was a combined Penzance to Manchester and Plymouth to Liverpool train which was probably too long already to take an extra 5 (and sometimes 6) coaches. The only snag with bringing the coaches up on the St Austell train was that it only started running on Saturday 8 July 1961. However in 1960 and earlier years the 7.40am from St Austell had operated right through the 3-month currency of the Western Region Summer timetable. On Saturday 9 July 1960 the train had been hauled by 4934 Hindlip Hall of Newton Abbot Shed from Plymouth onwards.
The angle of the shadows seems to confirm the time of day as being quite early.

Brent 6th November 1959 a down parcels for Plymouth pauses at the station Note a Kingsbridge branch train is standing on the far side of the island down platform - Copyright Mike Roach

Brent 5573 makes steam ready to set off as 6829 Burmington Grange passes through light engine on the up road. 6th November 1959 - Copyright Mike Roach

5573 at Brent - with the 12.24 to Kingsbridge 6th November 1959 Copyright Mike Roach

Brent on the 6th November 1959 - a general view of the well filled goods yard with the cattle pens in the foreground. Copyright Mike Roach

An interesting view of Brent taken by Sid Sponheimer. A consignment of two bridge girders is tabled in the Kingsbridge platform and goods yard. Date unknown but the fact that the 'Kingsbridge branch' seems to have been removed from the station nameboard suggests that it is after closure of the branch (16th September 19630 . Copyright

Brent. The Kingsbridge branch comes in from the right. A Class 22 heads a Castle on the 12.30pm from Paddington to Plymouth. This 14-coach train included a 3-coach portion at the rear for Kingsbridge. The train would have to draw up twice in the platform, where the railwayman in the picture would uncouple the rear three coaches. The Class 22 in the loop would then pick them up, shunt them across and add them to the 2 coaches of the branch train. The whole operation took less than 5 minutes.The mainline train was running 26 mins late that day. Jun1962 Copyright Mike Roach. (Apologies for the slight defect on this image)

Brent signalbox in 1972 from an unusual angle, note the goods shed, and open country beyond. Copyright Chris Osment

The RW picture taken at South Brent shows 33017 and 33022 on a RPPR spcl which started at Paddington and was worked by two class 40s , 40081 and 083 as far as Newton Abbot vice a Deltic. 33017 and 33022 worked the train from Newton Abbot to Par and back to Newton Abbot. This gave a rare sight of a 33 into Cornwall. Does RW have any shots of them in Cornwall , I do but cant find them at the moment. The first class 33 working into Cornwall were on the 18 plus specials which brought 33s to St Germans at easter time , i think the first one were in 1970

Marley Tunnels

140809y The east end of the Marley Tunnels. Copyright Roger Winnen

A view of the west end of Marley down yunnel 150815g Dead straight through Marley Tunnel 869yds with a glimmer of light showing through, the second bore of this tunnel was opened in 1893. Seen on the 15th August 2015 from the rear of the Exeter - Penzance (Using sleeper stock) Copyright Roger Winnen

Rattery

Rattery box D1030 Western Musketeer on the down Cornishman on a misty day in October 1969 Copyright Mike Roach

Rattery signalbox from a down train in September 1971 Copyright K Jenkin Note, the box perched rather precariously over the A385 as it rises up alongside the line, before the train plunges into the Marley tunnel not far ahead.

Tigley The marvellous picture below by Mike Morant gives us a glimpse of Tigley Signalbox - this was opened 1st May1908 and closed 28th June 1964. (Chris Osment)

Collett 2800 class 2-8-0 no. 2887 hauled this special from Exeter St. David's to Plymouth and is seen here at Tigley on the ascent of Rattery bank. The Cornish part of the tour from Plymouth to Penzance and back was hauled by Bulleid original pacific no. 34002 Salisbury. 2887 then did the honours by returning the participants to Exeter. 2887 was a Taunton allocated engine at this time but was withdrawn in the month following this outing Note this railtour ran on the 3rd May 1964. Tigley signalbox in the distance had a matter of weeks of life left - it closed 28th June 1964. [Mike Morant collection

Totnes

Pre-grouping label. Courtesy Mike Morant collection

In May 1969 industrial action resulted in this most unusual working - full milk tankers are being worked down to Cornwall, to St Erth. They had originated from Torrington. The class 47 locomotive was number 1643 and the load was 30 tankers. Note the two lenghty sidings behind the down platform. Copyright Mike Roach

Totnes A nice study of a peak at the down platform on 30th August 1976. Note the bay platform is still available for rail use. The footbridge has since been replaced after being struck by a 'too high' rail vehicle. Copyright Roger Winnen

Totnes (History). The old foot bridge & also the working Milk Depot 29th Aug 1978 Copyright Mike Roach

Totnes the old foot bridge. 29th August 1978 Copyright Mike Roach

Totnes from Castle 29th Aug 1978 Copyright Mike Roach

140809z A modern picture of Totnes Station taken from the back of the up locomotive hauled Par to Exeter summer Saturday working. The signal box, luckily preserved as a refreshment facility, adds character to the picture. Copyright Roger Winnen

FIRE at Totnes Station.

Totnes down platform buildings - the heart has been destroyed by fire. 14th April 1962. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Totnes station down platform buildings 14th April 1962 - the sun shines through the shattered windows and onto the platform. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Totnes station - the up platform on the day of the fire. A '55' waits to continue its journey. 14th April 1962 Copyright Sid Sponheimer N.B. The signalbox here is one of those 'lucky one's to be given listed status in July 2013.

Totnes Signalbox 12th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Just east of Totnes station and over the river Dart lies Ashburton Jct where the Dart Valley Railway, now the South Devon leaves the main line. Here is a very early picture of the area just as work was starting to form Totnes Littlehemptson. It is the 1st November 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

A picture taken in 1962 by the late Cedric Owen of a railtour which was later to visit the branch to Totnes Quay and also the Ashburton branch which closed to all traffic on the 10th September 1962. More pictures in the Quay branch section which follows. Copyright the late Cedric Owen

Totnes Quay branch plus a railtour visits.
A short branch led from the east end of Totnes station down to Totnes Quay.

1466 and 1369 on Totnes Quay April 1965 Copyright Mike Roach

1363 on Totnes Quay Sep 65 Copyright Mike Roach

1369 on Totnes Quay Sep 65 Copyright Mike Roach

1369 on Totnes Quay Sep65 Copyright Mike Roach

1466 & 1369 on Totnes Quay Sep65 Copyright Mike Roach

Another view of 1369 on Totnes Quay Sept 1965 Copyright Mike Roach

1466 on Totnes Quay September 1965 Copyright Mike Roach

1363 receiving attention at Totnes Quay - undated. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

6998 Burton Agnes Hall at Totnes Quay. It looks if she hasn't turned a wheel for a little while. Name and Number plates in safe keeping. Undated Copyright Sid Sponheimer

1363 and Burton Agnes Hall at Totnes Quay. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A fine view by the late Cedric Owen of the one and only passenger train, of 13 brakevans, to visit the Quay Branch. 8th September 1962. Copyright the late Cedric Owen. Note the mass of wires and arms on the telegraph post - a feature long forgotten.

The same train is seen after having reversed into Totnes station pulling out across the main lines to gain the Ashburton branch at Ashburton Junction. 8th September 1962. Copyright the late Cedric Owen.

On the Totnes pictures by Cedric Owen (one of the great characters of the era!) - the engine had been condemned and taken out of service in the week prior to the special. It was specially steamed for the trip and then finally taken off for scrap. Thanks for that Roy

Dainton Bank & Tunnel (West)

An up freightliner service climbs Dainton bank behind a class 47. April 1970 - Copyright Mike Roach

Dainton signal box at the left of this shot taken on 30th May 1957 and the two locos are Collett large prairies no. 4179 on the left with no. 5195 on the right. Both locos were allocated to 83A Newton Abbot when this shot was taken. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection

Below and above we have pictures of Dainton Signal Box'es. The lower one in 1960, the more recent one above in 1987. Chris Osment makes the following interesting comment " -- After the 1965 replacement Type 37A 'Plywood Wonder' signal box at Dainton Tunnel was closed in 1987, it was moved to Westbury and became the club-room of the Westbury Sailing Club, just off Station Road". Chris says "Judging from recent pictures on their website, it is still in use today.

Dainton 8th Aug 1960 13.00 Plymouth to Wolverhampton Copyright Mike Roach

Dainton Bank & tunnel (East)

140802j Leaving Dainton Tunnel note the gradient change. Copyright Roger Winnen A recent picture.

Dainton work mid March weekend 2016 Copyright Graham Mann Network Rail

Inside Dainton tunnel during an engineering possession Mid March 2016. Picture courtesy Graham Mann. Programme Manager Network Rail

Dainton bank 4555&3205 en route to the Dart Valley at Dainton Bank 2nd October 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A lovely shot with the full train in view. 45407 and 45110 climb Dainton Bank with the Past Time Railtours 'Mayflower' 15th August 1999. This ran from Paddington tto Plymouth and return. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection. 160710_Heritage_M_BR_45407_45110_Dainton_15-8-99

Dainton east bank D805 Benbow 9.30 Paddington to Falmouth 8th August 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

Dainton 4105 proceeds Light Engine to Totnes to take up duties. 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

Dainton 4082 Windsor Castle 13.10 Plymouth to Manchester 8th August 1960 - Copyright Mike Roach

There is plenty of power in this shot from the Mike Morant collection as 6017 King Edward 1V forges its way up Dainton bank on the 17th February 1957, No. 6017 was an 83D Plymouth Laira Engine when this shot was taken but moved to 84A Wolverhampton Stafford Road in February 1959 and was withdrawn from there in July 1962

Here we see 5064 piloting 6022 on the 23rd May 1957. 5064 was built in June 1937 as Tretower Castle, its name was quickly changed in September 1937 to Bishops Castle. The loco was withdrawn in January 1963. 6022 King Edward 111 was built in 1930 and withdrawn on 30th September 1962 and was cut a year later. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection 160709_W_BR_5064_6022_23-5-57

Stoneycombe

Its the 29th May 1957 as 7813 and 5972 climb past Stoneycombe sidings which served the massive quarry alongside the notorious Dainton Bank. The piloting engine is 7813 Freshford Manor - this was built in January 1939 and withdrawn in September 1965. The second steam locomotive is no. 5972 Olton Hall is a 4-6-0 Hall class locomotive. In the 2000s the locomotive achieved fame after it was used to haul the "Hogwarts Express" in the Harry Potter films. Built in April 1937 at Swindon railway works it was first allocated to Carmarthen, South Wales where it remained until 1951 then allocated to Plymouth Laira TMD. Its last shed allocation was to Cardiff East Dock, before it was withdrawn in December 1963, and acquired by Woodham Brothers, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan for scrap in May 1964. Thankfully it survived. Mike Morant Collection 160709_W_BR_7813_5972_Dainton_29-5-57

140809za A summer 2014 Saturday view of the former Stoneycombe Signal Box. The heavy flat roof was necessary to protect the signalman from 'flying rocks' from the nearby quarry. Copyright Roger Winnen

Between Stoneycombe and Aller Junction

Bullied original light pacific no. 21C141 with steam to spare climbs Dainton Bank with a light load of GWR passenger stock in July 1947. This was one of the Exmouth Junction route knowledge outings along the South Devon Coast line and over the hills of Dainton and Hemerdon. This picture courtesy of the Mike Morant collection.

Aller Junction

Looking a picture with perfectly positioned 'Clag' 6024 King Edward 1 accelerates away from Aller Junction on the 9th May 1998. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection 160710_Heritage_W_BR_6024_Aller_9-5-98

4702 drops down the final few feet of Dainton Bank and approaches Aller Junction with an up milk train from St. Erth. Jul61 Copyright Mike Roach

A nice study of Aller Junction and signalbox as a Skipper from Paignton joins the up fast for Newton Abbot on 21Mar87 This scene has changed forever, gone is the pointwork, gone is the box, gone are the trees, the land has been bulldozed, part of the Kingskerswell by-pass project. This comment dated May 2013 By June 2013 it was learned that the bridge from which this picture was taken had already been closed to the public and was to be removed over Christmas 2013. Copyright Roger Winnen

Aller Junction Signalbox 26th June 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

Aller Junction signal box after closure, looking very sad with its windows removed. 29th May 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

Aller Junction on the 7th July 1984 as an HST service heading for Paignton heads down grade to Aller Junction Copyright Mike Roach

A very recent view of the bridge from which a lot of photographs of Aller Junction have been taken. This is included at the bridge is scheduled for demolition over Christmas 2013. This picture 7th July 2013 Copyright Roger Winnen

A fine view of the condemmed bridge at Aller on the 30th March 2013 Copyright Roger Winnen

Newton Abbot Gallery 1 Steam

A lovely colour shot taken in August 1958 as a Castle assisted by 4925 Eynsham Hall starts away on its journey with a service to Plymouth. There is plenty of activity in the shed behind where steam raising is in progress. The shed closed as a diesel shed in 1970 but continued as a coach servicing and refueling point until 1981. Mike Morant took this picture and has kindly allowed us to use it.

The GWR 6800 Class or Grange Class was a mixed traffic class of 4-6-0 steam locomotive, built to replace the GWR 4300 Class 2-6-0. There were 80 in the class, all built at the Swindon works Copyright John Cornelius

Newton Abbot May 1962 5055 Lydford Castle on an express for Plymouth. Note the extensive trackwork leading to the engine shed. Also the young man hoping to speak to the driver. Copyright Mike Roach

Newton Abbot 4904 Binnergar Hall arriving in May 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

Newton Abbot May 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

6836 Estevarney Grange & 5036 Lyonshall Castle double-head out of Newton Abbott 1960s Adrian King Collection

Newton Abbot Gallery 2 Diesel

D802 Formidable leaving Newton Abbott in its heyday. From the Adrian King collection.

Newton Abbot Gallery 3 The re-oranisation and re-signalling phase.

Newton Abbot plays host to 24054 'ADB968006' on the 17th August 1980. The loco accompanied by an 08 appears to be in the 'sick bay' with a 'Not to be moved' sign fixed to its cab door. Copyright Steve Widdowson

An HST departs on the 21st April 1984. Note the signals, the box, the lines to the shed, and the David and Charles rolling stock. Copyright Roger Winnen

Newton Abbot shed with at least four locos resident. Also quite a bit of spare coaching stock in evidence on 19th April 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

4993 Dunster Castle in a deplorable condition & D838 Rapid come off the train at Newton Abbot running out onto the up through line on the 8th Aug 62 Copyright Michael Forward. This train will have arrived from the Plymouth direction and stopped short at the west end of the very long island platform to uncouple and release 4993 and D838 over the crossover. The train will then be propelled slowly up the platform to join stock from the Kingswear branch already standing at the east end of the platform. 8th August 1962. Copyright Michael Forward.

A fine photograph copyright John Cornelius of the broad gauge loco 'Tiny' which for many years was a resident of Newton Abbot shed until made redundant in 1927. Thankfully, it was preserved, being transferred to sit on the platform at Newton Abbot opposite the shed. It now resides at the South Devon Trust Museum at Buckfastleigh.

D1009 Western Invader & 6950 Kingsthorpe Hall at Newton Abbot. This train is most probably the 12 noon Penzance to Glasgow 8th Aug 62. Copyright Michael Forward

3814 heads west through Newton Abbot on a mineral train, seen beyond the empty coaching stock in the next road sits a brand new Swindon built Inter City unit. 8th August 1962. Copyright Michael Forward.

Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection. Mike writes - At the side of Newton Abbot shed circa 1947 are Collett Hall class 4-8-0 4937 Lanelay Hall which is coupled to an unidentified Bulldog 4-4-0 possibly 3451. 160601_W_GWR_4937_3451_MB056

You can almost hear the roar, you can certainly see the smoke, as on the 8th August 1962 D1057 Western Chieftain comes off shed at Newton Abbot Copyright Michael Forward

1048 Western Lady and 1041 Western Prince awaiting - awaiting a tow away into preservation Newton Abbot c1980 Copyright Steve Perryman

A summer evening in July 1985. What a multitude of signals. The David and Charles Exhibition coach is prominent on the left hand side. Copyright Mike Roach

A pleasant summer view of Newton Abbot West Signal Box on the 7th July 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Newton Abbot 19Apl81 Signals Copyright Roger Winnen

Western Gladiator was built at Swindon 16th February 1963 and wittdrawn just 12 years later in 1975. It was scrapped at Swindon in August 1977.Copyright John Cornelius Note the fine array of signals

W_GWR_5350_MB189 GWR Churchward 4300 class mogul no. 5350 at Newton Abbot circa 1947.
[Mke Morant collection]

5049 Earl of Plymouth, built in April 1936 as Denbigh Castle renamed in August 1937. It is seen here on a down service running into Newton Abbot in August 1958. Courtesy Mike Morant Collection. 160709_W_BR_5049_Newton_Abbot_8-58

A pleasing array of signals at the east end of Newton Abbot on the 26th August 1975 . Note the East Signalbox in evidence. The main lines keep to the right whilst those to the Teign Valley and Mortonhampstead went to the left of the box. Copyright Roger Winnen

Newton Abbot East Box 7th July 1988 Copyright Mike Roach

A sight to please all gardeners and railway enthusiasts alike. In the park adjacent to Newton Abbot station. Copyright Mike Roach

A lovely shot courtesy of the Mike Morant collection. Malachite liveried Bulleid West Country Pacific n0. 34020 'SDeaton' with the first style branding skirts the Teign Estuary at low tide circa 1948/9. Southern engine crews in the west country were required to have route knowledge of the GWR route from Exeter to Plymouth and this shot depicts such a training exercise with 34020 in charge of a motley selection of mixed GWR rolling stock. 160601_S_BR_34020_DKJ

4076 Carmarthen Castle in charge of the up Torbay Pullman, which in its shortened version, which Mike believes ran only in 1931, however viewers corrections are welcomed. 4076 was built in 1924 and saw the end of its days while allocated to 87F Llanelly in February 1963. The location is obviously in South Devon and is near Teignmouth. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection 160601_W_GWR_4076_Torquay_Pullman

Teignmouth

Teignmouth Signalbox 1973/4 Copyright Chris Osment

Teignmouth station from the road bridge 50025 Invincible calls with a down service on the 25th November 1978 Copyright Mike Roach. Note the signal box is still in use.

Teignmouth Signal box on the 7th July 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

A view from the west end of the platform at Teignmouth box on 7th July 1984. Copyright Mike Roach

A nice clean and tidy station front at Teignmouth on the 7th July 1984. Copyright Mike Roach

Teignmouth station exterior on the 25th November 1978 looking grand in the bright sun light. Copyright Mike Roach

140816q Newly painted Teignmouth Railway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

140816s Detail of the up platform canopy structure Teignmouth Railway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

57 602 heads the up Summer Saturday working from Plymouth to Exeter using the day stock of the sleeper train. Note the introduction of the new GW Green livery. When we've got used to the garish colours of the FGW blue one wonders how long this will last. 1st August 2015 Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Just three bridges to pass under and 57 602 Restormel Castle will be out passing the delights of the Dawlish Sea Wall. 1st August 2015. Copyright Steve Widdowson

1046 W Marquis 1a85 Paignton to Paddington atTeignmouth on 6th April 1975 Copyright Roger Geach

Teignmouth Sea Wall

Always an attraction, as a youngster is held up to watch a Class 50 hauled up train start its journey along the sea wall. Also note the wording of the sign. 25th November 1978. Copyright Mike Roach

Teignmouth 50 013 Agincourt leaves the sea wall on the 30th August 1980 Copyright Mike Roach

A class 47 sweeps along the sea wall. 30th August 1980 Copyright Mike Roach

Horse Cove

A quiet scene with the Parsons Rock mirrored in the still waters, very different to the conditions during February 2014 when tremendous seas tore away sections of this famous route. 50023 Howe with the 1302 Paddington to Paignton service at Horse Cove Dawlish on Saturday 2 September 1989 Copyright Roger Geach

47 171 hauls 1003 Western Pioneer and 1035 Western Yeoman for scrap to Swindon 21May75 Copyright Roger Geach

THE BIG STORM
In early February 2014 the Sea Wall between Teignmouth and Dawlish took a tremendous pounding from record waves blown by storm force winds. There was considerable damage to the wall in many places but particularly just beyond Dawlish station where a large section of the wall was washed away leaving both tracks swinging. To see our collection of pictures click here. Some of the pictures are our own but others have been kindly provided by Network Rail and spectators there the day after.

Dawlish

Dawlish - the view we all like to see. 23Apl76 Copyright Roger Winnen

Dawlish Signalbox in 1973 Copyright Chris Osment

Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection

Mike says :- It isn't often that I wax lyrical about a going-away shot but I fell in love with this one even before I scanned the glass negative as it shrieked "quality". This is Dawlish allegedly in 1929 and the star of the show is Churchwood Saint class 4-6-0 No. 2904 Lady Godiva fresh out of shops and about to depart in the direction of Exeter. That overhaul wouldn't spare her ladyship the ignominy of withdrawal from service only three years later in 1932 after only 26 years in service.

GWR Saint class 4-6-0 2905 Lady Macbeth enters Dawlish station prior to 1931 when the loco was fitted with outside steam pipes. 2905 was built at Swindon in May 1906 but wasn't named until April 1907. She just survived into BR days being withdrawn as a Cardiff Canton engine inApril 1948. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection 160601_W_GWR_2905_Dawlish_saintcyres

A pair of 25's 275 & 273 seen here at Dawlish with a Paignton to Coventry ' ADEX ' 22nd July 1980 Copyright the late Dave Pagett

A very recent view of Dawlish station taken on 9th October 2013 showing the relatively new footbridge Copyright Roger Winnen

A class 47 heads an ailing HST past an admiring audience at Dawlish and on towards Kennaway tunnel. August 1984 Copyright Adrian King

Its August 1984 as a Peak hammers through on an up service. Copyright Adrian King

Dawlish Sea Wall

31123 and 31304 power along the wall past those magnificent red cliffs, a lovely study by David Tozer 8th September 1979 - Copyright David Tozer

66626 takes it easy along the Dawlish Sea Wall on the 16th December 2011 Copyright David Tozer. This stretch is particularly noted for its red cliffs.

47832 leaves Dawlish behind on the 10th August 2001 Copyright Roger Geach

A 'King' at speed heading east along that famous stretch of coast. This picture is courtesy of the Michael Morant Collection

Langstone Rock near Dawlish Warren

Here is a picture of 1026 passing Langstone Rock on the morning 1020 7B52 St Blazey to Exeter Riverside freight with plenty of the airbraked vans on the front of the train .This service was photographed running late at 1340 only 10 mins in front of the 1100 Penzance to Paddington service. At 1500 1026 returned from Exeter with 7B33 the 1400 Riverside to St Blazey freight running late . This freight turn was a regular at the time. Monday 16 April 1973. Commentary and copyright many thanks to Roger Geach

A smashing picture taken from Langstone Rock showing a West Country or Battle of Britain Class loco heading towards Exeter with one of the regular familiarisation turns of Southern men on the GWR route. Probably in the early 1950's. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer (Senior)

50026 Indomitable leans to the curve with the 11.25 Paddington to Plymouth at Langstone Rock Dawlish Sun 20th March 1983 Copyright Roger Geach

Not one, but four locomotives creates a surprise and make an excellent photograph. 37669, 50031, 50004, & 50007 coming round the bend. Dawlish Warren is behind the train 3rd September 1988 Copyright Roger Geach

A fine view from Langstone Rock of 47 607 passing with an up service on the 7th July 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

37669 Light Engine Langstone Dawlish Warren 3rd September 1989 Copyright Roger Geach

Dawlish Warren Camping Coaches

Dawlish Warren Camping Coaches prior to those on site today. 20th April 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

Dawlish Warren GWR Camping coaches pictured from an up train on 23rd April 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

This is the article I found in the Dawlish Newspaper date 2nd December 2015:

AN iconic railway camp site at Dawlish Warren is to close after rising repair and restoration costs made it financially unviable.
Brunel Railway Camping Park, Beach Road, will open for its last season next summer after more than 50 years.
The eight converted railway carriages – with many original features – are run as holiday accommodation by a non-profit making association but although the operation breaks even the coaches are in need of expensive upkeep.
Tracy Baker, general secretary of the Great Western Railway Staff Association, which runs the park, explained: ‘Although the coaches break even, their upkeep and restoration is very expensive and they are in need of some tender, loving care. ‘I still think that the site could be run as a going concern and it would have been lovely to see it continue, but no one has come forward.’ Alastair MacLean, Facilities and Marketing Manager
SHOREFORM LTD. amac@tecomart.net

Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren, a 1966 view. Note thewooden station buildings on the up side, left, and the signalbox on the downside. There was a continuation of the up loop beyond the station area presumably used as a refuge for goods traffic. Copyright Mike Roach

In this view, 1966, taken from the up platform the extended loop mentioned above is clearly visible, and signalled. Copyright Mike Roach

Here is Dawlish Warren Signal Box with its 'H' type chimney, note the waters of the Exe Estuary beyond. 1966 Copyright Mike Roach

A rare picture as 08937 rests on the metals leading to Dawlish Warren yard on the 25th May 1974 . A period scene with a heritage set which is calling at the station - you can see this from the signals. Copyright David Tozer

Dawlish Warren Signalbox in 1973. Copyright Chris Osment

25264 and 25267 head a down service past the wooden platforms of Dawlish Warren on the 14th July 1979 Copyright David Tozer

Dawlish Warren 45021 passing through Dawlish Warren on 1V67, 14 December 1974. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Clay empties pass through Dawlish Warren 3rd September 1994 Copyright Roger Winnen

'Now read all of this, very carefully' ! A sign pictures at Dawlish Warren in 1973 Copyright Chris Osment

Starcross

59 047 Swiftsure hauls a down service past Brunel's Pumping House at Starcross. At the time there was an exhibition within the pumping house with a rail mounted trolley straddling a vacuum pipe. One person could sit on the trolley which was attached to a piston inserted in a length of demonstration vacuum pipe. The top of the pipe had a slot the full length which was sealed with a longitudinal rubber strip. (Brunel used leather) A domestic vacuum cleaner produced sufficient vacuum for atmospheric pressure to move the trolley along the rails. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Just east of Starcross station as 47845 hauls a service from Paignton on the14th September 1991. The pier to the left provides a boat connection across the Exe to Exmouth. Copyright Roger Geach

57602 nears Starcross passing the delightful scenery of the lower Exe Estuary { 2C51 1750 Exeter St Davids - Penzance } 1st August 2015 Copyright Steve Widdowson

57602 Restormel at Starcross with the { 2C51 1750 Exeter St Davids - Penzance } 1st August 2015 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Powderham

5014 Goodrich Castle runs alongside the country lane to the east of Starcross which borders the Powderham Estate. A delightful walk, or drive for that matter. This picture is dated 1933. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection 160601_W_GWR_5014_SRA141017

- And at the same spot as above we see the famous one Number 6000 complete with bell in 1029. Courtesy Mike Morant Collection 160601_W_GWR_6000_SRA141017

6000 King George V on a downward Plymouth Express 1933 with the Exe Estuary at high tide as the backdrop. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection 160601_W_GWR_6001_Powderham_1933_SRA130126

The power of the Peak sums this one up nicely, an over the fence view of 46 0x9 near Powderham in August 1976 Copyright Doug Nichols

Exminster

Exminster station building seen here in 1966 about two years after the station had closed to passengers. This occurred on 30th Mar 1964. Note that a start had already been made on lifting the slabs on the platform slope. However, the footbridge is still extent. Copyright Mike Roach

The grand South Devon Railway design is seen here in 1966 from the north. Copyright Mike Roach

Exminster on the 7th July 1984 as an up HST hammers by on this fast stretch of line. Copyright Mike Roach

47011 on the 1m49 St Austell Crewe Motor rail at Exminster 19Aug78 Copyright Roger Geach. Note Exminster Signal Box which has since been dismantled and moved to the Gloucester & Warwickshire Rly. There was a four track arrangement here with up and down loops plus addictional sidings. The goods traffic was withdrawn w.e.f. 4th December 1967

Exminster Signalbox caught in dramatic light conditions by Mike Roach. October 1969. Copyright

A dramatic shot as two warships power an up express past Exminster Signalbox, it looks like there has been recent rain. October 1969 Copyright Mike Roach

790728d Exminster Signal Box - Copyright Roger Winnen. Note traffic on the M5 bridge in the background.

Exminster box in the sun 17th September 1977 Copyright Roger Geach

Exminster Signalbox in 1974. Copyright Chris Osment

The interior of Exminster signalbox, looking towards the west. 1977 Copyright Chris Osment

Exminster Signalbox - the track diagram in 1977. Copyright Chris Osment

Peak 45005 1023 Manchester - Penzance passes the site of Exminster station Saturday 17th September 1977 Copyright Roger Geach

Gissens Bridge near Exminster

Gissens Bridge near Exminster 47733 Plymouth Willesden Parcels Train 15th July 2002 Copyright Roger Geach

Marsh Barton

The site for the new Marsh Barton station as seen through the camera of David Tozer on 1st August 2015. Copyright

Exeter City Basin Junction
Here the City Basin branch, which passed under the main lines was connected to both the up and down main lines. Here the signalbox, located alongside the up main controlled traffic on the main line and to the City Basin lines and also the trains from the Teign Valley line which came in here.

Near City Basin Juct

A Class 45/46 in the industrial suburbs of Exeter near City Basin Juct. 4th Apl 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter St Thomas

Remember this station as it was? Exeter St Thomas complete with its overall roof. Here it is in 1970 as a class 47, under power, see the smoke, roars through with a down service. This view just a memory thankfully caught by Chris Osment. Copyright

143620 calls at Exeter St Thomas on the 24th November 2015 Note the with raised platform.Copyright Roger Winnen

151124b The entrance stairway to St Thomas Station as seen on the 24th November 2015 Copyright Roger Winnen

151124c The grand downside buildings of Exeter St Thomas Station. The stairs to the platform can be seen on the right. 24th November 2015 Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter St Davids - The West end and approach

A maze of pointwork as a class 47 runs into St Davids. Copyright Roger Winnen

4th April 1980. Enjoy the signals, the station approach from the west. The water tower is still there on the left and of course Exeter West Signalbox. Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter West Signalbox in 1971 - on an official visit by Chris Osment

Exeter West Signalbox - the signalman answers an enquiry during an official visit in 1971. Exeter St Davids platforms in the distance. Copyright Chris Osment.

Exeter West - the track diagram. Copyright Chris Osment

Exeter signals April 1979 Copyright Mike Roach

Exeter St Davids Gallery 1 Steam Era

SR_1839_Exeter_9-9-33 Pre-smoke deflectors Maunsell 'N' class mogul is depicted here at Exeter St. Davids station on 9th September 1933. 1839 would receive its BR '3' prefix in March 1948 and would remain at Exmouth Junction until withdrawal in December 1963.
[Mike Morant collection]

S_BR_30726_slide180 Drummond T9 4-4-0 30726 at Exeter St. David's in August 1958.
[Slide taken by Mke Morant]

S_BR_34034_slide181 Okay, so this is a poor shot but it's the only one I have of double-headed Bulleid pacifics at the time of going to press so to speak. I took this very under-exposed colour slide of Bulleid light pacific No. 34034 Honiton and its unidentified pilot engine at Exeter St. David's in August 1958.
[Slide taken by Mke Morant]

_ S_BR_34038_slide114 Bulleid original West Country pacific No. 34038 Lynton at Exeter St. David's in July 1964. 34038 entered service in July 1948 with its SR number 21C138 whilst its BR number was applied shortly afterwards in February 1949. Withdrawal was from Nine Elms in June 1966. However, there's something just a tad odd about this image as 34038 was allocated to Eastleigh when this shot was taken which begs the question as to what it was doing at Exeter and to compound the enigma there's no shed plate on the smokebox door.
[Mike Morant collection]

1471 at Exeter St Davids station on a Exe valley train. 4th July 1962. Copyright Geoffery Matthews

The Exe Valley train is prepared to leave. September 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

A picture of great interest. Red Cow level crossing at Exeter St Davids. Exeter Middle signal box to the left. A 1400 heads an Exe Valley service, note the access steps hanging down from the autocoach. Over the years how much must it have cost to keep a man permanently guarding the busy crossing? Copyright Mike Roach July 62

A lovely shot of a 14xx leaving for the Exe Valley line in the early 1960's from the David Tozer Collection - Copyright

5032 Usk Castle rolls into Exeter with a down service in 1961Roger Salter collection

82040 was a rare visitor - seen here at St Davids in April 1965 Copyright Mike Roach

West Country 34106 Lydford at Exeter Central 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

A lovely colour shot by the late John Stanford as West Country 2 - 6 - 2 34092 City of Wells prepares to lift its train up the bank towards Exeter Central. Copyright the late John Stanford.

Remember the bankers up to Central from St Davids?

A view forward from the same train. February 1964 Copyright Mike Roach

Exeter St Davids Gallery 2 The Diesel Era

D819 Goliath departs with an up service from Exeter St Davids. Meantime a selection of steam power awaits duty up the bank to Exeter Central. Overlooking the scene is Exeter West Signalbox, now long gone, but railway staff provide a guard over the busy Red Cow road crossing coverage which is still provided to this day. D819 was built 25th April 1960, withdrawn on 3rd October 1971 and cut up at Swindon on the 3rd March 1972. From the Mike Morant Collection 160710_Diesel_BR_D819 _Exeter

Motorists take the Motorail to avoid the jams. Here in August 1983 47282 brings in a service heading east. Copyright Nick Gaskell

50048 Dauntless heads west, probably for Paignton August 83 Copyright Nick Gaskell

50015 'Valiant' is entering Exeter with an unspecified freight April 1986 Copyright Nick Gakell

6L 1033 at platform 4 at St Davids on the 27th April 1973. This platform is no longer accessible from the 'Southern lines'. Copyright David Tozer

With the regulator open 33012 leaves St David's with a stone train originating from Meldon Quarry and bound for somewhere on the Southern Region. 1980s Copyright David Tozer

An usual view caught by Roger Winnen as a class 50 heads an up service into St Davids. Eleven signals visible. Note the water tank set high up overlooking the station throat. Nowadays this is the position occupied by the signalling centre. Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter Middle Signalbox 1973 Copyright Chris Osment

The track diagram at Exeter Middle Signalbox in 1973, Copyright Chris Osment

A close up of the picture above showing more detail of the platform arrangements. Copyright Chris Osment

Exeter Goods Yard box. Located on the goods lines around the back of the station and behind Exeter Middle box alongside the road bridge over the river. The road had just crossed the main lines at Red Cow Level Crossing.

Exeter Goods Yard Box 1972/3 Copyright Chris Osment

A lovely shot by Exeter Middle Box in 1983 of 33022 bound for Meldon at Red Cow. One wonders what is of interest in the couplings? Copyright Nick Gaskell

D819 Goliath departs with an up service from Exeter St Davids. Meantime a selection of steam power awaits duty up the bank to Exeter Central. Overlooking the scene is Exeter Middle Signalbox, now long gone, but railway staff provide a guard over the busy Red Cow road crossing coverage which is still provided to this day. D819 was built 25th April 1960, withdrawn on 3rd October 1971 and cut up at Swindon on the 3rd March 1972. From the Mike Morant Collection 160710_Diesel_BR_D819 _Exeter

33062 heavily leaden with one speedlink wagon. From the collection of Nick Gaskell Copyright

47492 Off to Brum. Copyright Nick Gaskell

50003 Temeraire also heads east - 1983 Copyright Nick Gaskell

P317 bears the attractive but short lived livery as it stands at platform 3 at Exeter St Davids in April 1979, in the distance Exeter West Box and an attractive array of semaphores. Copyright Mike Roach

A very sad day for many as we saw the Western Class of diesels finally exterminated from British Rails stocks. However, many have lived on in preservation for which we have to be very thankful. Red nameplated D1013 Western Ranger leads D1023 Western Fusilier and the 'Western Tribute' railtour over Red Cow level crossing. Apart from the train note Exeter Middle box. Seen on 26th February 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

A class 47 brings in a 'mixed bag' of a train. August 1983. Copyright Nick Gaskell

45112 is captured by several cameras as it rolls in with a train from the north. August 83 Copyright Nick Gaskell

40084 & 40081 7th October 1977 - Copyright David Tozer

Exeter Middle Signal Box Class 40 081 + 40xxx return to their railtour stock 9th October 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter St Davids. April 1986, the 33 is on its way to Barnstaple. Copyright Nick Gaskell

On Saturday 16th August 1986 33 211 was in charge of the service to Barnstaple. The 33 hauled service was quite an attraction. Copyright Roger Smith

In early 1985 extensive track work was carried out at Exeter St Davids. The centre track between platforms 2 and 3 being removed. Graham Mann was the Network Rail Operations Manager responsible at the time and through his camera we are treated some views of the work being carried out.

Exeter St Davids 1 1985 relaying Red Cow crossing and big changes to the point work are overlooked by Exeter Middle Box. Copyright Graham Mann

Exeter St Davids 2 1985 The relaying Red Cow Crossing track work involved the removal of the level crossing timbers and of course closure to road traffic. Copyright Graham Mann

Exeter St Davids 3 1985 relaying. The view from Platform 2 - the scale of the work can be realised by this and the following two pictures. Copyright Graham Mann

Exeter St Davids 4 1985 relaying - looking west from the station. Not a semaphore in sight!! Copyright Graham Mann

Exeter St Davids 5 relaying 1985 View looking east from the junction into the station. Copyright Graham Mann Very many thanks to Graham for the above selection.

It's the 17th May 1986 as the Severn Explorer CRS Railtour returns to Cornwall. A 'grabbed shot' by Rober Winnen of the demolition of Exeter Middle Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

140802o A high light of the summer service in 2014 was a loco hauled set of 'day coaches' off the night Riviera running empty from Penzance to Par and available to passengers from Par to Exeter and Exeter to Penzance. An extremely popular working with enthusiasts, and one travelled in such comfort reminiscent of the old days. Here 57604 arrives at Platform 1 with the return 17.50 to Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Class 33 Eastleigh at the broad gauge goods shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

Exeter East Signalbox

Exeter East Signal Box in 1973. Situated on the down side just over a quarter of a mile east from Exeter Middle box. It was bombed during the WW2. After bombing its functions were split into two a second box, Exeter Riverside, being created virtually opposite in the goods yard. Copyright Chris Osment

Exeter Riverside Signalbox, situated almost directly opposite Exeter East signalbox but located in the yard. 10th April 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

Entertainment at Exeter!
Incidents and accidents occur, thankfully, very rarely on the railways, however, at Exter St Davids on May 17th 1977 the points failed, or were switched beneath a DMU and the consequences were there for all to see from platform 5. Many thanks to John Cornelius from sharing his picture of the event with us.

Gently back on the rails - 17th May 1977 Copyright John Cornelius

Exeter Riverside - the Goods Yard.

A rare visitor 7098 at Exeter Saint Davids c1970 Copyright Steve Perryman

If you want to see more in this direction go to Devon Main line Exeter (Ecl) to Taunton.