Par to Newquay branch

Par to Newquay
Its branches are covered as separate items - see Cornwall Galleries Menu

Credits, Many thanks to all contributors - please see a list on the home page.
References are made to Track Layout Diagrams Section 11 by Tony Cooke

* St Blazey - for the depot and Par Harbour see separate section

Enjoy a video journey over the branch to Newquay

David Tozer kindly sent in the link below to a feast of nostalgia. Travel along the branch to Newquay and back viewing the scene from the front of a heritage DMU - what wonderful things they were! See all the signal boxes and railway staff. Ride into platform 1 at Newquay, see the freight on the line, the class 22's. Marvelous stuff compliments to A.C. May for an excellent production.
http://cornishmemory.com/item/MISC_260_06
14 minutes of joy.

For exclusive pictures of the first IET to visit Newquay see our News section for October 15th 2018

A Newquay bound DMU stands at platform 3 awaiting its next journey - is that a shunters pole leaning against the station noticeboard. '65 ish. Mike Morant Collection

A view further along the platform with a bubble car at the platform - a fine collections of vans stands alongside the Broad to Narrow Gauge Transshipment shed now just a memory. Mike Morant Collection

Approaching Par

St Blazey. 66085 had brought the loaded JIA hoppers in from Treviscoe ready to form up the afternoon's 6C53 to Exeter Riverside. 6th October 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

66206 & 66085 St Blazey An uncommon sight was two such locos working side by side this week, and 66206 was seen on the Goonbarrow empties passing 66085 which had recently arrived in the yard from an overnight trip down with the JIA wagons. The light was rather special too at day break, so a snap was taken on the I phone. 16th August 2017 Copyright Craig Munday

St Blazey Signalbox

St Blazey Signal Box from a passing train - taken in 1979 by Chris Osment Copyright. Clayhoods in evidence in St Blazey Yard

Taken on an official visit 28th May 1982 Copyright Mike Roach

A general view of the interior of the box at St Blazey by Charles Fennamore . Note the numerous token carriers.

Interior shots of St Blazey box. They include the CCTV equipment for Middleway & St Blazey bridge CCTV crossings, the block instrument to Par & Electric Token machine for the Single line to Goonbarrow.

ST BLAZEY SIGNAL BOX additional notes from Roy Hart for which many thanks.
St Blazey box opened in 1908, replacing an old Cornwall Mineral Railway box on a site opposite. In 1908 and for some years afterwards, the box has a dual function: note that the nameboard is off-centre.
This is because as built, the Par end of the building was a 2-storey yard and control office, with windows down almost to floor level, and with a separate entrance and staircase. The nameboard was therefore central to the 'signal box' part of the building. This arrangement came to an end about 1920, but the altered brickwork is still visible - and the signalman has a great space at the Par end of the box.
When the old cast iron nameplates were needlessly and foolishly removed in the 1980s they repeated the old position of the nameboard.

St Blazey station 3q50 returns from Newquay. 37099 17th May 2017 Copyright Craig Munday Another remarkable picture from Craig.

Par Loop (The first bit of double track between any two stations in Cornwall, Par - St Blazey)

Par Loop 50 022 Courageous 15th September 79 Copyright Mike Roach

A very recent view from St Blazey Signalbox of a Newquay to Paddington service taking the sharp curve of the double track section towards Par. A full St Blazey Yard is on the right with 66078 resting in the sidings, 19th July 2015. Copyright Craig Munday

150 120 returns from a trip to Newquay. Seen here at the site of St Blazey station at 15.25 on the 25th March 2016. Those lovely semaphores complete the picture. Copyright Craig Munday

Looking towards Middleway from just beyond old St Blazey station. St Blazey yard on the left. Copyright Charles Fennamore

Middleway Level Crossing

Middleway. Warship class 803 Albion pulls over Middleway Crossing 21st August 1971 with the 09.52 Paddington to Newquay Copyright Ron Kosys

Warship class 803 Albion heads for St Blazey Bridge Crossing. 21st August 1971 with the 09.52 Paddington to Newquay Copyright Ron Kosys

A heritage DMU, Newquay bound approaches Middleway crossing. The situation here was unusual in that beyond this location the line ran on a straight embankment turning to a slight right hand bend before St Blazey Bridge crossing. Either side of the embakment are watercourses, a stream on the left and to the right the former canal to Par harbour. Middleway signalbox lay on the far side of the stream with the various signalling cables carried on a bridge over the waterway. October 1977 Copyright Mike Roach

A view taken from the road on the west side of Middleway crossing. 8th May 1979 Copyright Mike Roach

Middleway Crossing on the 15th September 1979 as 47 146 heads for Newquay. The crossing signalbox to the extreme right controlled gates and signals by a system of rods and levers which crossed a stream in front of the box. Note also the unusual level crossing light - blanked out this side. Copyright Mike Roach

An interesting view of Middleway Bridge Crossing Ground Frame, a big name for a little box! Note the point rods and signal wires crossing the stream in front of the box. 1973 Copyright Chris Osment.

Another view of the hut - this time in 1981. Taken by the late John Fill. Copyright

No CCTV cameras or barriers, juts nice gates and a human operator. A 1981 view by the late John Fill Copyright

Middleway Crossing in 2018

Middleway Crossing Cottage. 14th August 2018. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Middleway Crossing - the track in need of some weed killer! 14th August 2018 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The history of MIDDLEWAY Box : This was believed to be built by the Cornwall Minerals Railway, in 1876. It worked with the original CMR box at St Blazey. Middleway was a fully- fledged signal box at that time. In 1908 the present St Blazey box was built and Middleway became a ground frame, controlling the gates and also 'slotting' the neighbouring St Blazey signals. Slotting meant that the signals were dual controlled, with the levers in both boxes reversed in order for the signal arm to be lowered. Technology improved, and in 1931 Middleway became a crossing keepers post, where the one remaining lever (out of the original 7) -the gate bolt -was released electronically by a lever in St Blazey box. Thus it remained until the next technological advance had the crossing controlled by CCTV from St Blazey. Many thanks to Roy Hart for this valuable information.

Middleway Crossing 55009 10th February 1988 Copyright Ron Kosys

Note on the picture above :- Former ‘Town car’ 55009 approaches Middleway Crossing with a train from Newquay on a very changeable 10th February 1988, still carrying it’s ‘West Midlands’ logo.

Tyseley had an allocation of ‘Bubbles’ for the Stourbridge shuttle, as well as strengthening various other services around the West Midlands network.
The very frequent Stourbridge shuttle operated (and obviously still does....) between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge TOWN by a Class 121 bubble CAR, hence it was known by those in the Midlands rail industry as the ‘town car’.

The term is still used today even though it is now successfully operated by a Parry People Mover, prior to which it was operated by a Class 153 single unit.

Many thanks to Ron Kosys for both the picture and the bonus information

It's evening in 1985 as a Newquay bound service leaves Middleway crossing and heads for St Blazey Bridge level crossing. As can be seen the signal for this crossing is pulled off so the gates are across the road. 1985 Copyright Mike Roach

A Class 37 6xx pulls its load of empties over Middleway Crossing on the 2nd August 1987 Copyright Roger Smith

750907d Back on the 7th September 1975 Double Headers on their way to Newquay nearly clear of Middleway Crossing. Pictured are 25094 and D1071 Western Renown. Copyright Roger Winnen

A beautifully lit 66027 leaves Middleway crossing behind. Copyright Craig Munday taken Mid March 2016

Par area from above.

With Gribben head,Par docks and St Blazey all in the shot a FGW 125 set passes by Par Middleway. 10th August 2017 Copyright Ron Westwater

66206 heads over St Blazey Bridge level crossing and on towards Lostwithiel and a FGW lurks in the top corner of the frame. 10th August 2017 Copyright Ron Westwater Note also the lime kilns just passed by the locomotive. The houses centre right occupy the site of the Aberdeen Steam Sanitary Laundry.

St Blazey Bridge crossing

St Blazey Bridge Crossing 3st May 1967 - Copyright Keith Jenkin

St Blazey Bridge Crossing Box in 1973. The narrow road crossing has been widened to cope with the increasing traffic and the wooden gates replaced with barriers. Copyright Chris Osment

St Blazey Bridge Level Crossing on 4th July 1979. Here we see the unusual sight of 25 155 'propelling' a train of wagons towards Ponts Mill This rare event captured by Mike Roach Copyright

St Blazey Bridge Crossing cottage - the B.R. totem style name pronounces it to be called 'Crossing Cottage'. 1th August 2018 Copyright Andrew Triggs. 14th August 2018

A superb shot of Middleway crossing taken from taken from the lane leading from St. Blazey Bridge Crossing to Kilhallon. 50030 Repulse on the late running 9 coach 1C01 00.12 Paddington to Newquay at 08.33 on 25th July 1987 Copyright Julian Stephens.

Passing Pontsmill

It's 1985/6 as the young Craig Munday standing at the junction of the Pontsmill branch with the main Par - Newquay line catches 37205 with a train of clay hoods. Copyright Craig Munday

Pontsmill YTS scheme of 85.86 we were given a massive privilege of working alongside all sorts of Railway folk, including train crew at St Blazey. One day, I was taken out to Pontsmill with Percy Wherry on 08801. We were locked in whilst 37205 passes with clay hoods to Goonbarrow. Copyright Craig Munday

A Class 25 and a Peak on the 08.45 Newquay to Manchester taken from Penpillack Hill. on the 7th September 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen

50010 Monarch is seen at 14'06 14th June 1986 climbing away over Pontsmill viaduct with the 1V39 0918 Birmingham to Newquay. Copyright Julian Stephens N.B. Julian apologises for the 'arm waving' which for some strange reason was part of the scene in those days!!

Ponts Mill viaduct seen in good light due to the recent clearance of vegetation. A GWR 150 heading for Newquay at 1835. Mid August 2019 Copyright John Hird.

Luxulyan Valley

Luxulyan Bank. 5564 on the 4.25pm Par to Newquay FridaY 5 August 1960. Copyright Mike Roach

The same train continues its assault on the bank. The Treffry Aquadct is just out of the picture to the right. The weight limit for a 55xx loco unassisted was 160 tons from Par to Luxulyan. The 5 coaches shewn would have been right on the limit, or even just over. 5th August 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

Another one from the mystery envelope of pictures bought by Alan Harris for £1. This time a view from track level of the Treffry Aqueduct/viaduct, whether the photographer had permission to be there we do not know. Many years ago we, as a group. had permission from the late Arthur Epplett, Manager of Cornwall Railways at the time, to walk from Luxulyan through the tunnel and to climb from the track up the bank on to the viaduct. We were accompanied by a Senior Railman the late Arthur Anstiss. They were the good old days. Picture from the Alan Harris Collection.

The above photograph and caption brought forth an observation by John Root, for which many thanks :-
I doubt the photographer was standing on the metals, as that photo seems to have been shot from the back of a moving train. You can see the shadow of the rear coach and motion blur in the left and right foreground edges of the picture. Just a thought! John Root. An interesting thought, I doubt if we'll ever know.

In August 1960 the Treffry Aquaduct was nearly impassable, It is very different today. Copyright Mike Roach

You can almost hear the roar as a Western climbs up the bank under the Treffry viaduct with a long Saturday train to Newquay. Summer 1976. Copyright Roger Aston

Another 52 runs quietly down the bank with a long train from Newquay. Summer 1976 Copyright Roger Aston

A lot of noise as 50047 Swiftsure heading for Newquay climbs up Luxuluyan valley. Taken off the top of the Trffery viaduct. Saturday 5th September 1987. Copyright Roger Geach

A picture taken from a most unusual point - the base of the Treffry Aquaduct on Monday 16th April 1979 by Mike Roach as a DMU climbs the bank towards Luxulian tunnel. Getting to this point involved a rather hazardous traverse across boulders in a fast moving stream! Copyright

The Luxulian valley remains reasonably quiet as 153362 coasts down the bank heading towards Par on the 10th September 2001 Copyright Roger Geach

A very unusual location for a picture as a Class 45 leaves the 50 yard Luxulyan Tunnel and heads down the valley on the 10.05 service from Newquay to Newcastle. The date is the 14th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

HST derailment - the re-railing operation.
A FGW colleague drew my attention to a fascinating YouTube film showing the re-railing of an HST that derailed south of Luxulyan on 25 May 1991. The link is below. You may think it worth putting on the CRS web site.
Kind regards, Derek

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idB1X7XGEew

This is an extremely interesting 15 minute film of the re-railing operation. Many thanks to Derek Buttivant and the FGW colleague who drew his and our attention to the expert work by the team from Laira.

On the 25th May 1991 a Saturday morning service from Newquay headed by 43035 became derailed due to spreading of the track between Luxulyan Tunnel at this spot seen here from the Treffry Aquaduct. In due course the location was accessed by road/rail vehicles presumably carrying re-railing equipment. Copyright Julian Stephens

Looking back towards the tunnel from the Luxulyan station end. On an official walk. 1st January 1973 Copyright K. Jenkin

Near Luxulyan tunnel is St Cyors Well, Luxulyan This well ran dry and stayed dry once Luxulyan cutting was dug. Picture taken 26th January 2018 Peter Murnaghan

Luxulyan

A most interesting picture taken at the Par end of Luxulyan station during the early 1960's. The signalbox along with the up loop and all sidings with the exception of Treskilliing siding closed on the 27th September 1964.. The picture is of great interest with the water tower on the left, this was fed from a local water source, the water being pumped up by a windmill. Note also to the right the clerestory camping 9906 coach parked up, what a remote location for a holiday? This picture taken by an unknown person, maybe a railway employee, was one in an envelope purchased by Alan Harris for £1. Many thanks to Alan Harris.

Many thanks to Roy Hart for this up-date. Alan Harris's picture of Luxulyan is most interesting. Note the miniature signal arm on the up starting signal. This led to Treffry siding (behind the photographer). Squire J.T. Treffry of Place House, Fowey was the originator of the Cornwall Minerals Railway. Treffry siding ended at a white gate bearing a red target: beyond, until the 1930s was the tramroad (horse worked) which led over Treffry viaduct to Colcerrow quarry. Horses left single wagons of granite or clay by the gate, to be picked up by Newquay freights. The last such traffic was in about 1933, though Treffry siding lasted till 1964. The station originally had two platforms, but in 1910 the signal box shown was built and an island platform substituted. Incidentally, the signal box closed on 27thSeptember 1964. Roy

The pagoda at Luxuylan. Formerly known as Bridges for Luxulyan until 1st May 1905 Alan Harris Collection

Luxulyan Station In December 1968. Treskilling siding remained to serve the dries for some time after the removal of the passing loop and signal box in September 1964. Copyright Andrew Jones

Note the simple shelter, No fencing at the back of the former island platform. The track on the up side of the platform was taken out of use w.e.f 27th September 1964 and the signal box located just off this picture to the right was taken out of use the same day. Copyright John Cornelius

A lovely picture as an unidentified class 50 passes Luxulyan hauling a rake of NSE coaches presumably bound for Paddington. 4th July 1987 Copyright David Ive.

With reference to the derailment in the Luxulyan valley the rear power car of the train 43029 was used to ferry passengers and their luggage from the stricken train to Luxulyan which then became 'briefly' a major interchange for a coach connection for passengers to Paddington. 25th May 1991 Copyright Julian Stephens

Goonbarrow Junction was the junction, as the name implies, for the Goonbarrow branch. Unfortunately this branch has been cut back in sections until all that remains are about two hundred yards of track used as a head shunt for Rocks driers. We have some pictures of the Rocks drier area within this section.

153333 departs with the service bound for Newquay. 25th September 2017 Copyright Craig Munday

Goonbarrow Junction. Copyright Charles Fennamore

The situation at Goonbarrow is caught by Charles Fennamore. Moorland in front and the industrial complex behind. Copyright

Goonbarrow Junction Signal Box taken from a passing train in 1979. Copyright Chris Osment.

Goonbarrow It's Saturday 28th July 1979 as Peaks meet. 46 009 heads a Newquay bound train whilst coming from Newquay is 45 039. Copyright Mike Roach

Goonbarrow Junction P460 on the 14.40 Newquay to Par. Token exchange the driver is probably Charlie Taylor the Bobby is Ian Blackburn 1st July 1983 Copyright Steve Carter

Goonbarrow 47 374 heading for Newquay crosses another service bound for Par then up the main line to the east. 30th June 84 Copyright Mike Roach

Signalman Roger Matthews leans out of the box window as 50 012 Benbow passes Goonbarrow Signalbox with a Newquay to Paddingon train - Summer 1987. Copyright Craig Munday N.B. Craig was officially visiting the box - the picture is taken from signal G24.

37690 Goonbarrow. This rather drab day at Goonbarrow is brightened up by the presence of freshly out-shopped 37690. This was not a usual loco from the St Blazey 37/5 range, so a bit of a coup. Also of interest is that the clay hoods are still in use. There was a very limited time of refurbished class 37s working these prior to the CDA coming into service in 1987. Copyright Craig Munday

What a fantastic picture from Craig Munday, Whether it was taken before midday on the 1st April 2017 or not is not known, but on reflection, an excellent picture.

Goonbarrow Alex and Isaac rest tpogether at the buffers at Rocks. 19.25 8th January 2019 Copyright Phil Hadley

Major works at Goonbarrow March 2016

Changes at Goonbarrow Signaller Gareth Thornton advises that in addition to the replacement of the up main as covered in our 'News Section' that points were removed. These were No.18 and controlled access to the siding on the up side of the loop, (long disused.) 17 & 19 were the ground signals associated with this siding. I have included a photo of our new track diagram and if you compare this with the excellent photo below it you can see the changes made. The Carbis siding is still there and is indeed all that remains of the Carbis branch. More pictures of this in our News Section for March 2016.

Goonbarrow track diagram March 2016. Copyright Gareth Thornton

The previous diagram at Goonbarrow Copyright Charles Fennamore

The site of the removed siding is in the distance. This view, looking north across the down and up main lines. March 2016 Copyright Gareth Thornton.

A shot taken during the major works at Goonbarrow re-laying operation. 19th March 2016 Copyright Graham Mann

A view from the box during the re-laying of the up main at Goonbarrow. 19th March 2016 Copyright Gareth Thornton

Peak 46021 accelerates away from Goonbarrow Jct in July 1977 Mike Roach had special permission to take this trackside picture. Copyright Mike Roach

In times gone by:- A Mantisa Trolley in action on the Clay lines at Carbis and Goonbarrow. Check out this website courtesy of Colin Burges. http://www.teignrail.co.uk/neptune.php

A look around Rocks Driers - past and present.

Goonbarrow signalbox in the distance with Rocks driers to the right. 1993 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Turning through 180 degrees we are looking north - a 153 unit in regional railways colours comes towards us from Newquay. The line to the left of the running line was formerly double track to Bugle and latterly used to provide access to the Carbis branch/ !993 Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

The 153 continues on towards the signal box opposite which stands the signalman ready to receive the token for the long section from Newquay and hand over the token for the section to St Blazey. 1993 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Looking south in 1993 the home signal is that controlling the main Newquay branch. The line with a loop is the head shunt for Rocks driers - the former Goonbarrow branch. 1993 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Rocks drier in 1993 with and 08 named Annabell in charge of a rake of CDA's. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The famous Telephone Box and the CDAs at Wheal Henry Siding. Copyright Roger Winnen 30th March 2014

Goonbarrow 66206 with the 6g06 empties from Carne Point. 6g06 25th September 2017 Copyright Craig Munday

'Isaac' stands in the exchange siding at Goonbarrow. Copyright Roger Winnen 30th March 2014

These are the only two rakes of CDA's now operational 30th March 2014 Copyright Roger Winnen

The point at the end of the run round facilities with the two rakes of CDA's visible. 30th March 2014 Copyright Roger Winnen

In recent years the branch has been cut back. This is now the terminus. Copyright Roger Winnen 30th March 2014

Dense undergrowth now covers the line as it heads to its terminus by Bugle School. Copyright Roger Winnen 30th March 2014

Action shots from Craig Munday - Loading Clay at Rocks - 6th October 2016.

Rocks Driers CDAs were being loaded at Rocks plant near Bugle. It's not often you see the wagon covers back, and the dumper trucks . 6th October 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

Rocks Driers 'Alex', the diesel shunter was seen shuffling the wagons around the complex, including using the mid-way cross-over 6th October 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

Snow up in Clay Country Winter 2019 Craig Munday
Well, that snow caught us all out didn't it? I was fortunately not stranded like many in Clay Country, but set of gingerly on the morning after to grab some shots.
I saw 66127 creep down through Treesmill with the clay empties, but the snow was absent here, almost a pencil line across the landscape where it was fading fast. Up the hill towards the North coast seemed better and Goonbarrow was still gripped by snow.
I caught 66127 on arrival as it waited at St Blazey for the late running Newquay unit. The photos were taken with thanks to the Imerys staff at Rocks.
Picture 43 shows the CDAs ready to be drawn forward for loading by 66127, with the roof covers open. The two stored diesel shunters have an uncertain future whilst the train loco shunts the wagons around the complex.
Kind regards, Craig Many thanks Craig - pictures in the snow generally show up the track layouts so well!

66127 shunting. 1st Feb2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

66127 arriving Goonbarrow. 1st February 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

66127 preparing to hand over the token. Goonbarrow. 1st February 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

A lofty view of the CDA's having been propelled in to the loading bay by the Rocks Driers. 1st February 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

Another good view of the complex at Rocks. Goonbarrow signal box is off to the left. 1st February 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

And finally once the train of CDA's has been drawn forward to permit loading of the rear of the train a good view is obtained of the shunters which face an uncertain future. Many thanks to Imery's staff who gave permission for these views. 1st February 2019. Copyright Craig Munday.

Bugle

Bugle signalbox July 1969 Copyright Mike Roach

Bugle Signal Box in 1973, the gates here protected a crossing which served only a handful of cottages. Pictured in 1973 by Chris Osment

BUGLE SIGNAL BOX Additional notes from Roy Hart for which many thanks
As with St Blazey, I enjoyed visiting this box back in the 1960s. Bugle had a 41 lever frame (same size as SBZ) which was installed in 1930 when the line to Goonbarrow was doubled. By the 1960s Bugle was very quiet, while Goonbarrow was busy.
The website photos show the box after the economies of 1964, when it became Bugle Ground Frame ( not Molinnis GF as some references say). There were now two working levers (gate bolt and up distant -the down distant was fixed) and 39 spares!

Molinnis level crossing with a service heading for Par July 1969 Copyright Mike Roach

Looking very smart and well worth saving. A recent picture of the old station building currently the clubhouse. Copyright Bill Avery

The Clubhouse came to the bowling club, Bugle Bowling Club as it was then, in 1946. It was brought there from Bugle Railway Station. There it had been the Waiting Room and it was understood that it was taken down that year and given to the Club. However, having now spoken with many people, I now have a better idea of its history. Passenger services first went through Bugle we believe in 1876. That is when we think the Waiting Room was built there. I have found photos from around 1910 and it was there then. The Signal Box there came down in 1916 to make way for the doubling of the line. Our building was gone by then, after being used for many years as the sleeping accommodation for the navvies building the railway. One of the things that I need to know now is where it was too from 1916 to 1946. We believe it was stored in the yard there. More important is its history from when it was built to when it came down.
Bill Avery (Who is seeking to repair this building) Best of luck with your project Bill

Bugle Station 1922. From the Alan Harris Collection Copyright

Bugle station 1922 - from the Alan Harris Collection. Copyright.

Bugle - taken in July 1977. Of interest is the clearly reballasted track towards Goonbarrow signalbox, this section was formerly double track from Goonbarrow to Roache but later the former down line was used solely for the Carbis branch. In this picture the Carbis branch clearly has not seen much traffic, not only is it rusty but there are signs of other activities on the railhead. The area to the left of the station is now occupied by a housing development close to the lineside. Note also post with a notice just before Molinnis Crossing. Copyright Mike Roach

Track circuits on the Newquay branch, on the left, on the left operated the warning lights. This instruction applied to trains from the Carbis branch where the train crew would be required to set the warning light in operation. Picture taken in July 1977 by Mike Roach Copyright

47119 having slowly approached the crossing establishes it is safe to proceed and accelerates away. July 1977 Copyright Mike Roach

Going back to 1973. Bugle Box, a passing shot. Complete with crossing gates and nameplate. There was until 29th November 1964 a loop here serving either side of Bugle station platform. From then until 18th August 73 the box was in use as a ground frame after which it was closed and demolished. Copyright Roger Winnen

Later in 1973. Bugle box shorn of its nameplate and soon to be demolished. Copyright Roger Winnen

Carbis branch see separate section

Par to Newquay with 5537 Nr Bugle MP 289 Friday 5th August 1960 Copyright Mike Roach

The night sleeper loco was disturbed from its slumbers at Penzance on Sunday 29th May 2016 as it was on its way to rescue a failed Cross Country HST set which had expired at the beginning of its journey to Edinburgh. 29th May 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

Roche

Roche station, soon after the up passing loop was removed in October 1965. The up platform buildings still form and interesting sight. Mike Morant Collection

Roche station platform and shelter. This had until January 1965 been a passing place, on that date the box was closed and the loop and sidings taken out of use. This picture in June 1976. Copyright Mike Roach

Roche station pedestrian crossing in June 1976 Copyright Mike Roach

Roche station in April 1973 - a nice GWR sign 'Beware of Trains' at the end of the former down, now only platform. From the milepost there's no doubt of how far we are from Paddington, via Millbay and Bristol of course. Copyright Doug Nicholls

The old lighting at Roche Station. Copyright Andrew Triggs 15th August 1983

Demelza (Between Roche and the iron bridge)

In an area known as Demelza (Poldark connections!) 47119 with no less than 13 coaches on a local train. Taken in July 1977 by Mike Roach Copyright

A service from Newquay heads through the cutting towards Roche having and is passing under the second overbridge after the iron bridge. June 1976 Copyright Mike Roach

Peak 45052 with a substantial load of 12 coaches clears the high point of the line and starts to drop down towards Roche. Copyright Mike Roach

This service heading for Newquay in June 1976. The traffic on the old A30 is evident in the background. Copyright Mike Roach

Crossing Goss Moors and the iron bridge

Always known at the 'Black Bridge' it has proved a little too low on many occasions though since the A30 has been re-routed the occasions are luckily rare.

The serious bridge bash on Tregoss Moor - the black bridge claims another victim! 10th March 2015 Copyright Craig Munday

The serious bridge bash on Another view - Tregoss Moor - the black bridge claims another victim! 10th March 2015 Copyright Craig Munday

Tregoss Signal Box and Crossing

Captured just at the right moment in time and the right light 153 120 at Tregoss Crossing on the 25th March 2016. It's a pity that motive power isn't what the sign warns us of!! Copyright Craig Munday. N.B. The signalbox was just off to the left.

St Dennis Junction

From a 1946 map kindly supplied by Roger Smith

A most interesting picture from the Cornish Memories Website httpcornishmemory.comitemWMA_P1_1_147. This is a 'share site'. In this brilliant picture you can see two locos 4294 an 2-8-0 built in 1910, to the right is 5519 of the 4575 class heading a large china clay train up from the Meledor Mil branch. Note the shunter with is pole and importantly the 'Tip Sidings' extending away to the left in the middle distance. The horizon is punctuated with five 'clay tips'. To the left of the rightmost 'tip' amongst the trees on the hill top lies St Dennis Church.

Not an unusual shot in those days, a DMU on its way to Par makes its way past the signalbox at St Dennis. The driver may be dropping his token over the horn, or maybe the signalman has left his box and is out of sight ready to exchange tokens. There was a very long loop here at one time. It was extended in 1921 to Tregoss Moor crossing however the double track section was shortened w.e.f. 3rd January 1965. This picture dated 10th August 1967. Copyright Roger Salter

This is a 1973 view of St Dennis Junction in all its isolation taken by Chris Osment. Note the distant clay tips. Copyright.

A 1973 picture of St Dennis Junction , the slightly overcast sky illuminating the track layout. Just one rail vehicle in evidence, the Tip Sidings can be seen, slightly overgrown, to the left of this. Copyright Chris Osment

Another 1973 shot of St Dennis Junction - we know the month to be April and probably a cold early spring day as the signalman has just stoked up the fire in his box the smoke putting life into the scene. Copyright Doug Nichols

The St Dennis to Meledor Mill staff. Copyright Julian Hanwell

Mist clings over the Goss Moors as a three car heritage set bound for Newquay arrives at the junction in June 1979. The 'off white' livery although a relief to the monotonous BR blue didn't survive for very long. Copyright Jim Lewis

St Dennis Jct Saturday 28th July 79 Peak 45 039 heads for Newquay crossing a smartly painted DMU working a service towards Par. Copyright Mike Roach

A most interesting study of St Dennis signal box by Charles Fennamore from the top of the branch home signal seen in the above picture. Copyright Charles Fennamore

50 021 Rodney slowly approaches St Dennis Junction Signalbox as the gentleman on duty makes his way to collect the token from Newquay perhaps from the second man on this side, or maybe the driver will drop the hoop and token off at the horn seen trackside in front of the loco. 28th July 79 Copyright Mike Roach

At St Dennis Jct coming from Par bound for Newquay on the Saturday 18th June 1983 is 50043 Eagle Copyright Mike Roach

Shot from a Newquay bound train we see St Dennis Junction signalbox, we're almost close enough to see inside the box, note the token collection post complete with its lamp for night collections. A picture taken by Doug Nicholls in June 1969 Copyright

A privileged view no doubt taken between trains by signalman Charles Fennamore. Copyright

St Dennis Junction Signal Box viewed from a Newquay-Par Dmu. 15th August 1983 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Now to take a look at St Dennis Junction at the time singling of the line was taking place - views care of Roger Smith

Looking from the old A30 road bridge towards Newquay - the points have been clipped and the metals removed from the former up loop. 19th April 1987 Copyright Roger Smith

A view from the old A30 road bridge of St Dennis Junction Signal box on the 19th April 1987 Copyright Roger Smith

Looking from St Dennis Junction from the box - the old A30 road bridge was still busy at that time. 19th April 1987 Copyright Roger Smith

Meledore & Retew branches - now in a separate section see Cornwall Galleries

At St Dennis Junction the Newquay branch joins the former Treffry Tramway line which ran to Newquay. However when the Cornwall Minerals Railway took over the line in 1874 they constructed a deviation to avoid the tight bore of the Toldish tunnel which was only suitable for horse traction. The next two pictures are taken on the deviation.

Unit 463 coming from the St Dennis Junction direction on Tuesday 18th May 1982. Where this route joins the old Treffry alignment there are some severe bends necessitating 10 MPH restrictions. Copyright Mike Roach

Another view from the bridge from which the previous shot wast taken, this time, however, looking towards St Columb Road, the line bears steadily to the right beyond this point. Here a class 50 hauls a summer Saturday long distance train away from Newquay. In the middle distance beyond the tail of the train the old 'Toldish route' merges from the left. 18th May 1982 Copyright Mike Roach

St Columb Road

St Columb Signal Box 28th April 62 Taken on PRC rail tour. Copyright Mike Roach

Two tokens from the David Hibberd collection - the top item showing an incorrect spelling of Tolcarne!! Copyright David Hibberd.

The station sign when the flower beds were tended. September 1962 Copyright John Thorn

St Columb Road. 1001 Western Pathfinder on what I believe was a Newquay to Manchester Piccadilly working 25th September 1976 and this must have been one of the last service trains, Western hauled. Copyright Steve Burdett

A view from the north of the practical yet not attractive station shelter at St Columb Road as seen on 15th August 1983. Copyright Andrew Triggs

153 plus 'a another' at St Columb Road station. Some time ago. Copyright Mike Bojko

Just to the east of St Columb Road station lay Halloon Crossing which took its name from a nearby farm. This was once a busy level crossing its load reduced by nearby road improvements. The crossing keeper lived in the pleasant cottage alongside. From the 'D' registration of the van ahead the picture must be after 1966. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Coswarth Level Crossing

They say that every picture tells a story, here is one that certainly does. It's June 1977 the lady standing in front of the cabin has closed the gates to road traffic, set the signals, and the 47 speeds past in a blur with a service, Newquay bound. Copyright Mike Roach N.B. This is now an open crossing protected by flashing lights and there have been at least two serious incidents - motorists beware!

A recent view of the former crossing keepers cottage at Coswarth. Copyright Mike Roach

Coswarth tunnel many years ago.

Coswarth tunnel 44 yards 25 June 1978 Copyright R. Winnen

Coswarth footbridge
Between Coswarth tunnel and A37 road bridge lay a footbridge, just visible in the photograph above.
Mike Roach, on hearing that the footpath was to be closed and the bridge removed suggested that a CRS party visited the site and the pictures below are of the bridge and the view.

Coswarth bridge 28th May 1982 Copyright Mike Roach N.B Perhaps the last members of the public officially on the bridge.

Looking through the short Coswarth tunnel from the footbridge, a view lost forever days later with the removal of the bridge. A 50 hauls a Summer Saturday local towards Newquay. Friday 28th May 1982 Copyright Mike Roach

Quintrel Downs Platform

Quintrel Downs Siding, East Ground Frame, taken in 1973 by Chris Osment. Copyright

Quintrel Downs - an interesting study by Mike Roach The siding referred to was removed in January 1965. This picture June 76. Copyright

A lady, obviously from the train exits the platform while Sid Sponheier quickly grabs the opportunity to grab a picture. It looks from the tail lamp like the train is heading away towards Newquay.

In this picture side stands to one side as a 37 hauled PW train approaches. The 'station staff' watches from the waiting shelter which contains the frame for operating the gates. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Quintrel Downs 50010 Monarch with a local train Friday 18th June 1982 - Copyright Mike Roach (Note the waiting shelter on the platform and the hut to the right, both railway structures have lone gone).

Detail of the platform lamp at Quintrel Downs. June 1976. Copyright Mike Roach

The old corrugated shelter at Quintrell D once housed a small signal box frame for operating the crossing gate - 15th August 1983 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Peter Murnaghan kindly sent in the following pictures the first one of which begs the question as to what the correct spelling of Quintrel Downs really is? See the note below the pictures.

Quintrell Downs Comparison of spelling by Great Western Railway and British Rail 10th June 1980 Copyright Peter Murnaghan

Quintrell Downs GWR notice referring to 'Trains and Rail Cars' at Quintrell Downs 10th June 1980 Copyright Peter Murnaghan

Quintrell Downs a 3-car Metro Cammell DMU set B804 arriving at Quintrell Downs 10th June 1980 Copyright Peter Murnaghan

Quintrel or Quintrell, that is the question?
Reference to Google tells us that the area is named after the nearby Downs. Now take a look at the 1892 / 1906 25” to the mile map courtesy the National Library of Scotland website you will find that the nearby downs are named Quintrel. http://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore/#zoom=16&lat=50.4038&lon=-5.0293&layers=168&b=1 Staying on the same website series of maps but moving forward in date you will find that gradually the extra ‘l’ is added. Another facility on this excellent website is the ability to ‘fade in’ a current map – try this and you’ll find the extra ‘l’ is in vogue. In our current age of austerity just think how much ink could be saved by dropping the extra ‘l’! Also, while looking at the Quintrel Downs location, you will note that the sidings are shown just to the west of the level crossing but no station. The station wasn’t opened until the 2nd October 1911.
A railway first appeared at this location in about 1849 when the Treffry Tramway opened from Newquay Harbour to Hendra Crazey – a location in the St Dennis area. KJ

Chapel Crossing

Chapel Crossing, Newquay branch. 10th January 2018. Copyright Craig Munday N.B. The contrast between the 153's liveries makes an interesting scene.

Trencreek Crossing

Trencreek Crossing Newquay branch 20th July 2017 Copyright Craig Munday An interesting country view, but for how much longer Craig wonders!

Tolcarn Junction

A picture of two tokens to Tolcarn/e Jct one from the Chacewater - Newquay branch the other from the Par - Newquay branch. Copyright David Hibberd.

Trenance Viaduct

Trenance viaduct - this 1906 picture is the property of the Alan Harris collection and is with his approval. Comment by Roger Winnen Re the Trenance Viaduct picture I think this is of a 35XX Great Western tank - they were built in 1884 and did operate in our part of the world - some were later modified and fitted with tenders.

This view, copyright Colin Burges, clearly shows the stone pier surrounded by 'new works'.

From 'The Railways of Cornwall 1809 - 1963' by the late C.R. Clinker :-
Trenance viaduct between Newquay and Tolcarne Junction was originally a single line, Brunel-type timber superstructure on stone piers brought into use on the 29th January 1849. The superstructure was replaced by wrought iron girders using the same piers on 1st June 1874. This in turn was replaced by the existing double line masonry viaduct in August 1939.

Re-ballasting work over Trenance Viaduct in Dec. 2013. Photographs from Graham Mann Network Rail.

Sid Sponheimer captured this scene obviously before Newquay signalbox closed as this heritage set runs in towards the terminus. Tranance hoilday park lies in the foreground. The first arch of Trenance viaduct is just visible. Copyright

A class 118 DMU crosses Trenance viaduct heading into Newquay. A view looking from the east taken on the 15th August 1983. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Roger Smith is to be congratulated on obtaining this most unusual view of the east end of Trenance viaduct (You can just see the railings) with a class 142 arriving along the, still at this time, double track towards Newquay. Tolcarne Junction was about half a mile east of this location with the line to Chacewater bearing off to the right . Copyright

Newquay

D6342 (Cl 22) at Newquay in July 1964 picture by the late Dave Pagett. Note the still fairly full sidings, by a year later the two sidings nearest to the platform had been removed.

A long shot from the car park as 50044 'Exeter' crosses Trenance Viaduct to run into Newquay on Saturday 4th July 1987. Note the Semaphores! Copyright David Ive http://www.djipix.com/view/gallery/images?category=1&subcategory=19

Taken with the signalman's permission. Roger Smith has strolled out alongside the permanent way to obtain this interesting view on the 2nd August 1987. A supermarket has already taken up a considerable area of the goods yard and cars are parked where track was formerly positioned. Copyright

A solitary gull views the scene as 142 024 sets off on its journey to Par. A classic view impossible these days, taken on 2nd August 1987. Copyright Roger Smith

Newquay Home signals Saturday 10th June 1978 Copyright Mike Roach

A bit of a mystery this one. It's from the Paddy Bradley Collection. Said to be Liskeard BUT almost certainly Newquay in the very early days when it only had one platform. Paddy Bradley Collection.

Courtesy the Paddy Radley Collection

Courtesy the Paddy Bradley Collection

The above two picture show a scenes during the reconstruction of Newquay station, ready for the opening of the Perranporth branch which came in 1905, so the picture is in the year or two before that. The group are standing around a temporary ground frame which controls points during the engineering work (the old CMR signalbox was replaced by a conventional GWR one. The old station had but one platform while the new one had three, plus a new engine shed and goods shed.).
The men are carrying flags, warning horns, detonators etc., so that they can hand-signal the trains. They will be qualified signalmen.
Roy Many thanks Roy

A Castle at Newquay, ahead a 4575x Class tank shares the same platform Alan Harris Collection

The signalman takes the token in the beautifully framed picture, It's such a shame that the signals and box have gone. Sat 4th July 1987 Copyright David Ive http://www.djipix.com/view/gallery/images?category=1&subcategory=19

Newquay on Tuesday 31st July 1979 All that remains here now is the platform on the right once double sided,but now reduced to a basic platform. The points enabling the release of incoming locomotives have gone along with the release road itself. The station buildings have been demolished and the gas holder no longer exists, sadly a very much changed scene. - Copyright Mike Roach

The LAST PEAK Class loco ever to arrive at Newquay - the date is the 28th September 1985. The train is the 09.11 from Manchester Piccadilly. Note the happy holiday makers arriving. Also see platform one building - looking in need of some maintenance and also the long gone gas holder. Copyright Clive Smith.

50 044 'Exeter' on arrival from Paddington. Crew sat on the bench on a very hot day seem in no hurry to run their charge around the train. The train formed a local service back to Plymouth. Note the scene is dominated by the full gas holder in the background. The long platform has plenty more room for longer trains though sadly no longer required these days. Saturday 4th July 1987 Copyright David Ive http://www.djipix.com/view/gallery/images?category=1&subcategory=19

In this view provided by Roger Smith the goods yard sidings are empty and rusty. The access stairway to the gas holder looks rather like a redundant diving board for a swimming pool whilst the gas holder itself has slumped down to a very low level, probably empty. Copyright

W55029 is seen at Newquay on 15th April 1972. Before the demolition of much of the original station and the reduction of the trackwork to one simple platform. Copyright Paul Cambridge

51311 of set P469 looks very smart as it stands at Newquay number 1 platform on the 12th July 1981 Copyright Steve Widdowson

An interesting study from platform 1 looking towards the buffers at Newquay as 37279 prepares to use the run round points to regain the head of the train. This was the Pixieland Express { 0600 Worcester SH - Penzance}. 14th April 1979 Copyright Steve Widdowson

You can almost hear the 'clattering' of the diesels as P582 waits to return to Par on the 4th November 1973. How nice it would be to be able to sit behind the driver again and enjoy those forward views. The good old days! Copyright Doug Nicholls.

Newquay Class 118 DMU set P460 which I think consisted of vehicles 51302, 59469 & 51317 has just arrived with the 1340 Par - Newquay on the 1st July 1983. A nice everyday shot. Copyright Steve Carter

Into more modern times at Newquay as class 142 027 stands at platform one on the 2nd August 1987 Copyright Roger Smith. Note the main station buildings together with the awnings still stand and it is still possible for a loco to run round its train.

Newquay 29th Sept 1976 . Par to Newquay service arriving Copyright Steve Burdett

It's quite early in the morning as the signalman takes the token from the driver of the overnight from Newcastle hauled by 47 323 Saturday 18th June 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

An unusual elevated view of Newquay signalbox taken on the18th June 1983 What a shame that the local 'artists' have been busy with their spraycans' - Copyright Mike Roach

Newquay Saturday 18th June 1983 47145 pulls out heading for Manchester. Copyright Mike Roach

Newquay signalbox closed on the 5th October 1987 but is obviously very much in use here on the Royal Train which had conveyed Prince Charles to Newquay on the 3rd December 1975. The large gas holder was quite a feature alongside the station but disappeared rather suddenly. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

This view taken during an official visit to Newquay Signalbox in 1973 gives a good idea of the trackwork extent at the time. Copyright Roger Winnen

This scene taken inside Newquay box is entitled 'Dog ready to go home'! It must be the end of a shift for Charles Fennamore who took this picture. There is a lot of interest here. Cast your eyes around the box and beyond. In the distance the metals can be seen starting to make the double track crossing over Trenance viaduct. Copyright

Another view of the box from Charles Fennamore - the view from the upstairs window of the house behind must have been every enthusiast's dream! Copyright

Newquay Signal Box in 1973 Copyright Chris Osment

Newquay signalbox taken in May 1977. Sadly although it didn't have much of a future, it closed in 1987 and vandals aided its demolition by setting it on fire. The diamond on the signal post indicates that the section ahead is protected by track circuits. Copyright Mike Roach

A nice day in June 1969 by the look of it. Newquay signalbox is still very much in use though by the rust on the rails it looks as if all traffic lately has been going into the platform served by the main station buildings. All that is left nowadays is the single track past the site of the box running in to one face of the platform seen in this picture. Copyright Doug Nicholls.

Newquay signalbox, Rarely does one think to take a view of the back of a signalbox, however in this case it is particularly rewarding as the view includes the track across Trenance viaduct. May 1977

To mark the closure of Newquay signalbox on the 4th Oct 1987 50035 Ark Royal and 50034 Furious worked a special from Paddington. This coincided with the first HST service from Birmingham. Copyright Steve Burdett

An interesting view taken by Peter Butt. Newquay station 'under reduction'. Most of the goods yard was removed in 1965. Two of the carriage sidings in 1968 & two more in 1969 leaving just about what we see here. The signalbox remained open until 1987. It is of interest to note the number of clay hoods here in the remaining sidings - these were numbered 6 & 7. The position of the cream coloured house looking over the scene must have been a railway enthusiasts dream, the view must have extended to Tolcarne Junction. Copyright Peter Butt

Mike Roach records that there were more coaches than passengers for this train! The motive power was 47131 July 1977. Copyright Mike Roach N.B. The gas holder is another feature, long gone.

A DMU service waits to depart from a then, pretty complete station. July 1977 Copyright Mike Roach

The last Peak to Newquay a report by Clive Smith
Roger Winnen's recent superb pictures of peaks on the Newquay branch in 1975 brought back memories.
I was fortunate to travel on the last ever peak to visit Newquay on Saturday 28th September 1985, which, compared to the farewell railtours for Westerns and 50s, was a very low-key affair . Enthusiasts you could count on one hand and not even a home-made headboard to commemorate this little piece of history !

Withdrawal of class 46s was completed in 1984 and inroads had started on class 45/0s. BR decided that from the start of the 1985 winter timetable in the west of England only Bristol Bath Road drivers would continue with traction knowledge of peaks. Only Bristol drivers would then have route knowledge to Plymouth, so the death knell was sounded for peaks in Cornwall as any drivers from depots west of Bristol wouldn't be signed to drive peaks from early 1986. This was due to 'refreshers' being compulsory for drivers who had not driven a loco class for six months. With Newquay loco hauled services being summer only, the writing was on the wall for peaks to the North Cornwall coast.
28/09/85 was to be the last possible date and 1V73 09.11 Manchester to Newquay the best train likely to produce a peak as this was a through loco from Birmingham to Newquay. However the omens were not good as this train had produced a 47 throughout the month leaving Newquay bereft of peaks for a while. Fate deigned that the summer's last 1V73 would be hauled by 45145 and so it was that this workhorse class that roamed from Aberdeen to Penzance put in its final appearance at the resort. I hope my pictures of this day pay homage to an unsung class so long a feature down here.
As an interesting footnote, when the The Western Lizard Railtour was first advertised to bring D1015 Western Champion to Newquay in March 2005, the assisting loco was scheduled to be 46035/D172 "Ixion" . However this was soon re-advertised for a 66 due to the peak's non-availability. Who knows if we will ever see a peak at Newquay again ? Many thanks Clive.

Last Peak to Newquay. Par 45145 approaches the station with 1V73 09.11 Manchester Picc - Newquay 18th September 1985 Copyright Clive Smith

With staff looking on, 45145 uncouples from the train following its arrival at Newquay with 1V73 the 09.11 from Manchester 28th September 1985 Copyright Clive Smith

Newquay 45145 ready to leave with 2C86 18.00 to Plymouth, the last ever peak loco departure from the resort. 28th September 1985 Copyright Clive Smith

The driver kindly allows an extra minute at Bugle while 45145 is captured on camera for posterity 28th September 1985 Copyright Clive Smith

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Its a summer Saturday in August 1986 and a class 50 has just arrived with a service train - out go the staff to clean and service it. Note the gas holder visible above the train - that's long gone now. While platfrom 2 is occupied by a class 142 skipper the 50 cannot uncouple and pull forward to run round. Copyright Keith Jenkin

Roger Smith who had previously visited Newquay during the summer returned to sample the resort on the 18th December 1987. A solitary bubble car stands in the gloom at the outer bay of the island platform. Roger comments on the people loading their Christmas shopping into the front of a Skoda Estelle. (The engine was in the back). Copyright.

An early view of Newquay station. From the Alan Harris Collection - Copyright

A view outside the station in the 1965's Mike Morant Collection

An interesting panorama from the end of Newquay station taken on Saturday 24 June 1995, a few minutes after an HST has arrived from the north of England. The station had been reduced to a single platform with no signalling since October 1987 yet the former platform 3 and the carriage sidings on the left were still clearly visible in a way which is not the case today. As on much of the railway today, the left side of this picture today is overgrown with trees. The rationalisation of Newquay station back in 1987 resulted in significantly fewer long distance "summer Saturday" trains running to the town, but this picture highlights that the few services which remained in the early/mid 1990s continued to be very well used in mid Summer. Copyright Kevin Fowkes.

Almost like the good old days when 47 hauled expresses departed Newquays long platforms. A defective Cross Country HST awaits to be dragged away from Newquay by a class 57 at the start of its long journey to Edinburgh. 29th May 2016. Copyright Craig Munday

153333 at Newquay about to work 2N11 1924 Newquay to Par. 12th October.

Witnessing many of the changes at Newquay station is the Great Western Hotel. This fine building is seen here in May 1977 decorated for the Queens Silver Jubilee Year. She ascended the throne in 1952 on the death of her father King George VI. A fine picture by Mike Roach Copyright

THE END
The end came for the remaining buildings at Newquay station in 1992 - here, courtesy of Roger Winnen's camera we see the demolition works of the buildings, and the single track at the only remaining platform being cut back to allow more room in the forecourt.

Demolition work at Newquay station seen here on the 2nd February 1992. Copyright Roger Winnen

The bare bones of the structure stand out against the somber sky. 2nd February 1992 Copyright Roger Winnen

A bubble car stands at the reduced platform come considerable distance back from the buffer stops. 2nd February 1992 Copyright Roger Winnen

A dismal view of the Single Car DMU standing at the only remaining platform. 2nd February 1992 Copyright Roger Winnen

At the hands of the demolition gang little remains of the station, as seen here on the 2nd February 1992. Copyright Roger Winnen

37609 at Newquay on an inspection train at 02.00 on the 4th October 2017. Copyrght Nathan Stockman

Newquay Harbour branch Treffry Tramway
This was connected into the sidings at Newquay station and ran for just over half a mile more or less on the level to towards a site where the line dropped steeply down an incline in a tunnel to emerge onto the harbour area. On the 27th September 1970 the Cornwall Railway Society travelled the branch from Par to Newquay and then followed the branch route - which is in part now the SW Coast footpath. Once across the main street the line has been lost. Although even at this time the upper end of the tunnel was buried we were were able, by kind permission of the owners of the Aquarium situated at the harbour entrance and built within the confines of the tunnel, to proceed, via a doorway into the tunnel and thus climb a short distance up the incline.
From Mr Tony Cooke, who reports from an extract from the C.M.R. Min dated 3rd December 1874 that the incline had been completed with traffic being worked temporarily by an old engine (Stationary) previously used for pumping purposes.

Newquay Aquarium Cornwall Railway Society visit 27th September 1980 Copyright R. Winnen

Newquay Harbour Tunnel 13th September 1980. Note the aquarium tanks. Copyright Roger Winnen

Newquay Harbour Tunnel 13th September 1980. Looking further into the tunnel one sees the bricked up face. One has to imagine the trucks being hauled up and lowered down the incline. Copyright Roger Winnen

A most interesting view looking up through the tunnel. Note daylight at the far end. Picture courtesy the Alan Harris Collection

Now a view looking down through the tunnel. Picture courtesy of the Alan Harris Collection

Newquay Harbour Tramway - the winding engine house. Photograph courtesy the Alan Harris Collection

The quite complicated track work at Newquay Harbour showing the bridge out to the artificial island. From a post card, part of the Alan Harris Collection.

Colin Burges provides recent pictures (2018) of the Harbour Tunnel at Newquay
Many thanks Colin

If you would like to follow the route of the Harbour Tramway from Newquay Station with the aid of a 6" map courtesy the National Library of Scotland please click below.:- (you may pan and zoom as you wish)
https://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore/#zoom=16&lat=50.4161&lon=-5.0900&layers=6&b=1

The 80 yard tunnel was opened in November 1849 and ceased to be used on closure of the tramway in 1926. According to the records of the late Mr. C.R. Clinker who reports that coal and clay traffic last carried in 1921, only fish being carried until closure. The track through the town being removed in 1928.
The tramways route through the town remains as part of the SW Coast path and can be traced from just opposite the railway station westwards through a cutting - the pathway has been attractively paved with bricks and a representation of the tramway tracks is provided by different colour bricks. This section passes under a bridge which carries the appropriately named 'Bridge road' over the route.
Further pictures of the incline and winding house are available at the very end of our Par to Newquay coverage.