Southern Main line to Okehampton

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

Plymouth North Road

Devonport Kings Road

The driver of T9 30120 awaits the guards green flag with the up ACE on 6 May 1961. Copyright Mike Roach

A London and South Western Railway pre-grouping luggage label From the Mike Morant Collection

Mike Roach collection

Devonport Kings Road, A D63XX passes through on tthe 28th August 1964 the last full weekend of passenger operation, It closed to passengers on the 7th September 1964 and entirely on the 4th January 1971. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

34023 Blackmoor Vale (now preserved) departs Devonport Kings Road heading for Plymouth in July 1962 Copyright Mike Roach

Devonport Kings Road, just prior to demolition - the picture February 1970. Copyright Mike Roach

Devonport Kings Road, such a grand station, viewed here in February 1970. Copyright Mike Roach

Devonport Albert Road Halt.

This is the site of Devonport Albert Road Halt - we're looking into the mouth of Devonport Park Tunnel. This halt opened 2nd June 1890 and closed 13th January 1947. The line then passed through Ford tunnel and under the GWR. This picture 11th February 1974 Copyright K. Jenkin.

Ref Ford Tunnel - notes kindly supplied by Colin Burges
On the walls near the east end of Ford Tunnel are vertical white lines indicating the position of Devonport Tunnel above. In Ford Tunnel trains can be heard overhead, just like on the Underground.

Ford viaduct

31844 with a local train at Ford Viaduct in July 1962 Copyright Mike Roach

Demolition of this viaduct proved a hard nut to crack - a lot of concrete had been poured into the structure.

Sid Sponheimer catches a Bullied in the sun - it has just crossed Ford viaduct and is heading for the tunnel en route to Plymouth. Taken from Camperdown Street we 34002 'Salisbury' with the 11.30 Brighton to Plymouth 28th August 1964 S Sponheimer Copyright.

The same view today from Camperdown Street updated 10th January 2016 Copyright Bernard Mills N.B.The properties in the distance prove the location.

The demolition of Ford viaduct.

What a shame this occurred before somebody had the brilliant idea of turning disused railways into footpaths/cycleways - this could so easily have been a traffic free route out from the centre of Plymouth to the banks of the Tamar had a pathway been provided alongside the singled Southern line from St Budeaux towards Bere Alston.  Demolition commenced at the tunnel end to facilitate removal of the waste via Ford Station site.

Demolition work on Ford Viaduct - the GWR Keyham viaduct is visible in the background. 1986 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Looking towards the former Ford Station. Demolition of Ford Viaduct in progress. Picture taken on 1st Novovember 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

With much of the viaduct still standing demolition is in progresses towards the west. 1986 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The job is nearly completed. Looking towards the former Ford Station .Demolition of Ford Viaduct in progress. Picture taken on 1st November 1986. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

For more pictures of Ford Viaduct try this link:-  www.google.co.uk/search?q=ford+viaduct+plymouth&biw=751&bih=472&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=0CDIQ7AlqFQoTCKiOnKGHwccCFQwfGgodtRoGsg&dpr=1

Ford station

Ford Platforms SR plus viaduct 31Aug75 Copyright Roger Winnen

Ford SR Dec63 The station was demolished in the 1970's and the cutting filled in the 1980's. Copyright Mike Roach.

Swilly Bridge

Swilly Bridge Copyright Sid Sponheimer N.B. This is a heavily touched up image which has been acquired from what was a double exposure. The Warship crossing the bridge and parts of the bridge is all that is about original. The view beyond the bridge is pure guesswork. The original picture was taken in 1960.

Swilly Bridge - viewed from Camels Head side looking towards Plymouth Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Swilly Bridge - a view taken in August 1965 by Bernard Mills Copyright

Camels Head Halt - named after a nearby public house.

A rarely photographed location as 31859 approaches Camels Head Halt in February 1964. Camels Head Halt Opened officially on 1st November 1906 but may have opened in September along with the commencement of the suburban service. It didn't last all that long closing on the 4th May 1942 Copyright Sid Sponheimer N.B. It looks as if the nameboard has survived 22years of closure.

Views from Wolseley Road of the former Southern Line

A view taken by Bernard Mills on the 10th January 2016 As can be seen considerable changes have taken place.Copyright Bernard Mills.

The same spot in August 1964 as 34002 Salisbury makes for Plymouth. Very interestingly this particular locomotive hauled the last steam train to Penzance on 2nd May 1964. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The two colour slides (above and below) of the SR line as they are very historical  on many fronts. Not only are the WC's 34002 and 34080 no longer with us, neither is the SR line , nor the pre-fabs although in fairly recent history a handful of Prefabs were soldiering on at Ernesettle not a million miles away. However the road has changed in the meantime from a normal 2 track road to 5 believe it or not. Plymouth Citybus Atlanteans gone except a couple of preserved examples.  SS

34080 '74 Squadron' in August 1964 - Copyright Sid Sponheimer. N.B. Sid's motorcycle is neatly parked by the pavement - the girder bridge which formed a feature of this line and was clearly visible from trains crossing Weston Mill viaduct on the GWR route can be seen on the right.

Camels Head girder bridge.

34096 Trevone having crossed Camels Head bridge (in background) now heads for St Budeaux Victoria Road with an up train. Aug64 Copyright Mike Roach

D7095. Leaving Camels Head S.R. - Copyright Sid Sponheimer. Undated but of great interest, a Hymeck hauls a service on the southern line heading towards Exeter. Behind it can be seen the girder bridge and beyond that Camels Head Halt platforms. To the right down the street in the middle foreground the corrugated iron building was the Camels Head tram depot - this was used until 1930.

Camels Head Tram Depot and a good view of the girder bridge 1960's Copyright Sid Sponhiemer

Camels Head Tram Depot with an up service approaching. 1960's Copyright Sid Sponhiemer

Trevone continues towards St Budeaux, the GW line to which the old Southern route was diverted was close by just round this corner. Aug64 Copyright Mike Roach

34086 '219 Squadron' Leaving St .Budeaux Junction on Southern route towards Plymouth. August 1964 - Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Weston Mill Halt

​Weston Mill Halt lay in a cutting on the old Southern alignment just before St Budeaux Victoria Road. It was opened on Wednesday September 26th 1906 in connection with a suburban service between Plymouth and Saint Budeaux for Saltash Railway Station.
The station suffered from a lack of use would have led to closure but the main factor was that it had wooden platforms which posed a fire risk to nearby houses in the event of an enemy attack during World War 2.  It closed from Sunday 4th may 1942. (This was over a year after the Plymouth blitz).
To find this site go to http://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore and type in Camels Head then  select One inch 1895 - 1903 Hills

Weston Mill Halt . The bridge over the Southern at Weston Mill Halt, with St. Budeaux behind the camera. The lane goes off right and down to the old tram depot. Copyright Colin Burges

Weston Mill Halt. The halt was beneath the houses on the other side of the bridge Colin Burges

St Budeaux - the bridge over Wolseley Road.

Wolseley Road bridge. Note the lack of traffic . A shame such a nice bridge was demolished. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

34096 Trevone From Bullpoint August 1962 - Copyright Sid Sponheimer

St Budeaux  Victoria Road.

Courtesy Julian Stephens Collection

St Budeaux Victoria Road. A Battle of Britain class 'opens up' as it heads for Okehampton and Exeter. Copyright Late Jon Wood Collection

34062 Battle of Britain class '17 Squadron' at St. Budeaux Victoria Road on a down service in February 1964 - Copyright Sid Sponheimer

An unknown Class 52 Western at St Budeaux Victoria Road in July 1964. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Departure to Plymouth from St Budeaux Victoria Road on 5th February 1990 Copyright Roger Winnen

A striking picture as 37688 on the Network Rail Test Train 3Q91 calls at St Budeaux Victoria Road late at night 12th January 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

The crew of 37688 powering the 3Q91 Network Rail test train visit the token box at St Budeaux Victoria Road 12th January 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

St Budeaux at 02.39 on the 7th February 2017 as 37057 is seen with 1q06 at St Budeaux Victoria Road on the return of a test trip to Gunnislake. Copyright Craig Munday

The odds of getting this shot are a chance in a million picture , or something like that. The bracket signal tells us that the GW line was also still double track at this time and consequently there are two 'bow string' bridges. This was singled and the down loop taken out of use w.e.f 2nd July 1973, also the former Southern line on which Andrew is travelling was singled w.e.f. 7th September 1970. Picture dated 1969, Copyright Andrew Jones.

Under the Royal Albert bridge

A 'West Country' alongside the Tamar taken from the Tamar bridge. A lovely picture, note the narrow gauge railway serving the munitions depot in the hillside. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

Ernesettle MOD depot loop.
We are most grateful to Nathan Stockman, train crew,  for these privileged views of the loop.

1 Ernesettle South Ground Frame - Ernesettle Headshunt on right has a buffer stop just out of view. Copyright Nathan Stockman

2 Only slightly further on from photo 1 - Show remains of spur off to the right, this went to an oil terminal Copyright Nathan Stockman

3 Ernesettle North Ground Frame. Copyright Nathan Stockman

4 Ernesettle Gate to Ernesettle M.O.D. - notice how neat the track work is here, lines that are used daily are in much worse states than this! Copyright Nathan Stockman

5 This is the only photo taken looking towards Plymouth (rest are towards Bere Alston), just shows north end of loop.Copyright Nathan Stockman

It is suggested that you refer to Google Earth for a view of the trackwork inside Ernesettle depot.

Ernesettle - Narrow Gauge Line

In addition to the standard gauge loop and sidings there was a 2' 6" narrow gauge railway system serving various sheds within the depot together there were two branches, one of 700 yards to the ammunition bunkers. This line rose from near sea level to approximately an altitude of approximately 100 feet giving a ruling gradient of about 1 in 20.  Its course took it from the main site out around the hill into which the bunkers were excavated. Another branch about four hundred yards long crossed the main standard gauge line by means of a bridge and dropped down to run out along a jetty. Various 4 wheeled diesel locos have served at the depot. Please click on this link for more information including Ernesettle Castle  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ernesettle
​To see this location on Google earth type in 'Royal Albert Bridge Inn' - the bunkers are about 400 yards NNW from here. 

A view of the narrow gauge line to the bunkers taken on the 22nd December 1974. Copyright Roger Winnen

An enlarged view of the picture above. It looks as if the locomotive is at the lower end of the train to keep control. The cutting to the left maybe a recess into which a runaway train or vehicle would be diverted by means of a catch point. This is, however, supposition! Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view from a main line train taken on the 12th July 1980. Note the track has been lifted. Copyright Roger Winnen

From the Royal Albert Bridge - a chance, and very rare shot of one of the MOD narror gauge locos out on Ernesettle jetty. It looks as if the loco maybe pushing the van, note the figure walking ahead, perhaps for safety reasons as the drivers view is impaired. May 1972 Copyright John Ball

Ernesettle seen from Cornwall

A Gunnislake service viewed from the Cornish bank of the Tamar. In this view we are looking at the south end of the Ernesettle Ordnance Depot. A narrow gauge tramway served storage facilities located in the hillside on the far bank and along the jetty. Copyright Roger Winnen 28th July 1990

A Gunnislake service viewed from the Cornish bank of the Tamar. Looking towards the north end of the Ernesettle site. Copyright Roger Winnen 28th July 1990

Tamerton viaduct

A marvellous reflection as the 0929 Gunnislake to Plymouth coasts over the viaduct on Friday 27th February 2015 Copyright Roger Geach

Tamerton Foliot  Closed 10th September 1962. Goods withdrawn 1956

41216 calls with a Plymouth bound train 1961 Copyright Mike Roach

Last day at Tamerton Foliot.  The question is what was the last day. The station was officially closed with effect from 10th September 1962. The last trains ran on Sunday 9th September, and this is one of the last trains that day.

The last passenger train to stop at Tamerton Foliat comes in behind 34080 Battle of Britain Class 74 Squadron. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Tamerton Foliot Last train Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Last train leaves Tamerton Foliot Halt behind 34080. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

34080 leaves Tamerton Foliot with the last service. The question is - is young Sid Sponheimer being told off fro trespass? It looks like it! Copyright Fred Speare.

Tamerton Foliot was reduced to the status of Halt on 5th January 1959 and closed to passengers on 10th September 1962. This picture taken just before the last train. The young man in the motorcycle gear is no less than Sid Sponheimer. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Tavy Bridge 

A classic photograph at a classic location as Black Five 45407 'The Lancashire Fusilier' makes an impressive sight exiting the Tavy Bridge with the 09.05 Bere Alston - Plymouth Friary "Tamar Belle" leg of a memorable tour. 37410 'Aluminium 100' is out of sight on the rear. This was 27th March 2007, day three of five days of tours advertised as"The Cornish & Devon Branch Week". Copyright Clive Smith.

On Saturday 24th July 1994 the Cornwall Railway Society chartered a boat for a river trip down the Tamar from Calstock and then up the Lynher river to St Germans.  We asked the skipper to take us up to see the Tavy bridge at close quarters, this he did, however he didn't want to pass underneath the bridge as he feared that (a) the boat might 'ground' the shallow water and (b) that if he had taken us under the bridge that there was a possibility that on a rising tide we wouldn't be able to return due to the superstructure of the boat hitting the bridge!!  A train which we had hope to photograph crossing the bridge didn't materialise.

The Tavy bridge. presumably the white notices advise the span under which the channel passes. 23rd July 1994 Copyright Roger Winnen.

The northern end of the bridge. 23rd July 1994 Copyright Roger Winnen.

The southern end of the bridge received a re-paint some years ago but, in 2014, the northern end still awaits similar treatment. 23rd July 1994. Copyright Roger Winnen

Laira 2-car set P480 crosses the Tavy Bridge with the 14.15 from Gunnislake to Plymouth on 15th January 1983 Copyright Clive Smith

Tavy Bridge from the river in 2015, a picture from the river. Will the 'brown spans' of the bridge ever be re-painted one wonders? Copyright Clive Smith

Tavy Viaduct with the 14.48 Plymouth - Gunnislake crossing on the 1st July 2017 Copyright Chris Harvey

A view downstream in the early 60's. Ernesettle MOD just visible on the left hand side. Ernesettle Jetty can be seen mid picture. Copyright Mike Roach

Bere Ferrers

A most interesting 1963 picture of Bere Ferrers taken by Mike Roach. Today the Chris Groves heritage display occupies the sidings and head shunt alongside the platform and out to the headshunt beside the main line. However, look to the extreme left and see the stock stabled in the yard behind the station. Copyright

A look at Bere Ferrers in the early '70's.

The 1002 Gunnislake-Plymouth service approaches Bere Ferrers on the 23rd August 1971. Note the former up main is now in use as a single track and has been slewed to provide an approach to the station former down platform on which the buildings stand. The truncated former down main is visible to the right. Copyright Ron Kosys

Smoke indicates that the 10.02 Gunnislake to Plymouth is departing. 23rd August 1971. Copyright Ron Kosys

A nice view complete with the up waiting room. Bere Ferrers 10th August 1972 Copyright Ron Kosys

Bere Ferrers 10th August 1972 Copyright Ron Kosys

Underneath the arch, an interesting view looking in the Plymouth direction. Bere Ferrers 10th August 1972 Copyright Ron Kosys

Bere Ferrers as in December 1991. What a shame heritage DMU's with their fabulous views no longer ply the route. Copyright K. Jenkin

Bere Ferrers in its early days of being owned by an enthusiast. Rolling stock has already taken its place on the former goods yard area. Copyright K. Jenkin Dec 1991.

Looking into the throat of the heritage display at Bere Ferrers. The station is in the distance. Copyright K. Jenkin

150 120 calls at Bere Ferrers station on the 4th June 2015 Copyright John Ball

'The Tamar Belle'  Heritage Centre -  this has been set up and run by Chris Groves - well worth a visit

The three diesels present have all, very recently had a repaint and given names. Here is ' Lord St leven' 4th June 2015 Copyright John Ball

A.S. Harris. 4th June 2015 Copyright John Ball

Number 4 'Earl of Mount Edgecombe' 4th June 2015 Copyright John Ball

An interesting shot as a down train approaches the road over bridge at Bere Ferrers. Note the crossover which is under the last coach of the train, but also note the shed to the extreme right which appears to have facilities for storing not one but two maintenance trolleys. August 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

Finally looking north from the road bridge as a service from Bere Alston slows for the station stop. December 1991. The sand box seen in the picture above this one still exists. Copyright K, Jenkin

The location of this picture is uncertain at the moment. August 1963. The distant signal should give a clue. Copyright Mike Roach

Serious accident at Bere Ferrers  24th September 1917


 A troop train full of New Zealand soldiers train left Plymouth Friary station at 15:00, the soldiers had not eaten since 06:00 that morning and had been told that at the train's first stop, which they were told would be Exeter, two men from each carriage could collect provisions from the brake van.

However in response to a signal the train made an unscheduled stop at Bere Ferrers station at 15:52. The length of the train meant that the back carriages were outside the station and those aboard assumed that this must be Exeter station. Eager to break their ten-hour fast and ignoring the 'two from each carriage' rule, many jumped down, some onto the down-line track.

An Express from Waterloo had left Exeter on time at 14:12. As it approached Bere Ferrers the driver noticed the stationary train and gave a prolonged blast on his whistle, but there is a sharp turn on the approach to the station and the driver was unable to see the soldiers on the track ahead until it was too late.

The express was travelling at 40 mph and nine soldiers were killed instantly before the express managed to come to a halt a quarter of a mile beyond the station. A tenth died later in Tavistock Hospital. One of the survivors said "We never thought of express travelling at 40 miles per hour. They don't travel at that rate in New Zealand. It was a wonder more of us were not killed." The inquest revealed that the men instinctively exited the train from the same side they had entered, placing them on the railway's other track

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The memorial to the ten New Zealand Soldiers tragically killed at Bere Ferrers station - this stone is to be found in Bere Ferrers Churchyard. Photographed on the 4th June 2015 by John Ball. Copyright

Bere Alston  See other pictures under Callington branch

Looking from Bere Alston towards Calstock and its lovely viaduct on the Callington line. Mar62 Copyright Mike Roach

An undated picture taken from the footbridge at Bere Alston. This picture courtesy of the Mike Morant Collection

An interesting 'going away' shot as Hurricane heads for Plymouth. Note the Gunnislake branch metals rising up from Calstock alongside the stock parked on the level sidings. The current single line from Gunnislake joins the single line from Plymouth approximately at the base of the signal seen to the left of the departing train. The right hand bridge once for the Gunnislake branch is currently redundant. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

34065 Hurricane pauses with a down train . Note the water spray over coal to keep down the dust. This loco was known as a poor steamer was scrappped in 1964 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

31840 at Bere Alston with a freight in 1962 Copyright Mike Roach

Mike Roach collection - Note the now unusual spelling!

30193 stands at the outer face of Bere Alston island platform. It looks as if 'an observer' is watching the 'coupling up' after the loco has run round. The guard wanders up the platform to check on the proceedings. This picture courtesy of the Mike Morant Collection.

This time it's 30225 standing at Bere Alston preparing for yet another battle up to Callington. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection

Bere Alston, as it was. 1960's Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The view from a train arriving at Bere Alston station. An undated picture but most certainly prior to 1970 when the signalbox closed and the branch was diverted across to the down main platform. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection

Class 150249 at Bere Alston. The driver is changing ends, he has already switched on the tail lamps. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

150 249 ready to set off for Gunnislake. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

150 249 sets off for Gunnislake. There is a possibility that the exposed face of the island platform will again bear the feet of passengers. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

Bere Alston station. When the service is extended to Tavistock it is likely that the island platform face towards the far end in this view will be extended towards the existing running line to provide a landing for passengers requiring a Gunnislake service. The Gunnislake shuttle trains will terminate in a bay created here by the aforementioned platform extension. Passengers from 'main line trains' will therefore be able to leave from either side of trains to or from Tavistock at the modified station. A separate access from road level will be provided to the island platform. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

Bere Alston station buildings in the Mid 80's Copyright David Antony

Looking from the former island platform at the main building in the 1980's. Copyright David Antony. A further tale from John Root Interesting to see these I can just remember through services between Plymouth and Exeter. I don't know if they are still there but the inside of the waiting shed on the disused island platform at Bere Alston was a time capsule. Kept locked from around 1970. I saw inside it in the 90's: Southern green and yellow paint -Fireplace- stove, Advertising posters for summer season holiday travel in '1969 etc. Western Region had a lot to answer for in destroying the 'Withered Arm' Yes, bit of it were uneconomic but bits of it weren't- looking at the last season of holiday traffic receipts at Ilfracombe under Southern Region control compared to the first season under Weston Region: The trains re-timetabled not to connect with anything or hour long waits for Barnstable connections at remote stations like Yeoford. Death by a thousand cuts and willful neglect??

There were no passengers about when 37688 visited Bere Alston with the Network Rail Test Train on the 3Q91 12th January 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

An interlude at Bere Alston with Ron Kosys.
He spent two holidays in the westcountry 'railroving' in 1971/72

The downside running in board at Bere Alston 23rd August 1971 Copyright Ron Kosys

Bere Alston 23rd August 1971 The steps of the former footbridge stand forlornly at the far end of the island platform. Copyright Ron Kosys

Standing by those abandoned steps at Bere Alston we look towards Tasistock. Note the section of removed rail. 23rd August 1971 Copyright Ron Kosys

This view at Bere Alston on 23rd August 1971. Note the downgrade towards either Plymouth or Calstock. Copyright Ron Kosys

A member of the train crew carrying the staff walks towards the points at Bere Alston 23rd August 1971 Copyright Ron Kosys

Almost a year later unit P480 stands at Bere Alston. The slight leaning of the unit suggesting that once this line was elevated to permit high speed running of through trains. 10th August 1972 Copyright Ron Kosys

Bere Alston again on the 10th August 1972. The running in board hopefully announces that one should change for the Callington branch however this closed six years earlier on the 7th November 1966 Copyright Ron Kosys

Bere Alston with 1q06 37057 6th February 2017 Copyright Craig Munday

37057 with its headlights piercing the gloom at Bere Alston at 01.12 on the 7th February 2017 with the 1Q06 on the outward journey to Gunnislake. Copyright Craig Munday

37 057 was operating at Test Train to Gunnislake in the early hours of 7th February 2017.

37057 on return to Bere Alston with 1q06 taken at 02.26 7th February 2017 Copyright Craig Munday

Maybe one day we'll be able to travel this way again. Mike Roach Collection

Shillamill area

Just on the outskirts of Tavistock on the section which is likely to reopen.

835 Pegasus Copyright on outskirts of Tavistock by the Comprehensive School - the train crew climb down. This is on the section which it is proposed to re-open. Copyright Steve Perryman

835 Pegasus Copyright on outskirts of Tavistock by the Comprehensive School Copyright Steve Perryman

The site of Callington Road overbridge. It is in this area that the New Tavistock station is proposed. Copyright Colin Burges.

Map location of  Callington Road bridge – proposed site of new Tavistock.station. This view can be zoomed  to show the location of both previous stations at Tavistock.  http://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore/#zoom=17&lat=50.5430&lon=-4.1602&layers=168&b=1

Within Tavistock on the section which probably won't reopen.

816 Eclipse stands under Glanville Road bridge with a recovery train. Copyright Steve Perryman

816 Eclipse with recovery train at Glanville Road bridge Tavistock August 1969 Copyright Steve Perryman

1046 Western Marquis from the old Launceston Road bridge at Tavistock. Copyright Steve Perryman

Tavistock North  Closed 6 May 1968 Goods closed 28th February 1966

Bannawell Street viaduct looking north. 11th February 2014 Copyright Mike Bojko

Bannawell Street viaduct looking south. 11th February 2014 Copyright Mike Bojko

Bannawell Street viaduct 24th November 2017 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The aftermarth of a very serious incident at Tavistock North station. The date is the 17th July 1961 and the damage to the down main line as it crosses Tavistock Bannawell Street viaduct and in the foreground is the conseqence of a runaway goods train becoming derailed just after the station. Closer examination will reveal several men working on the track.also note a pair of wheels against the viaduct wall. A train, presumably an engineering train, stands at the up platform. The photograph is taken looking, in the foreground, at the probable location of the new Tavistock station once the line through from Bere Alston is reopened. This photograph is copyright from the Maurice Dart collection.

34076 41 Squadron dwarfs Tavistock North signalbox as it pulls away on the up ACE. There must have been some extremely good views possible from the loft signal. September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach

Battle of Britain Class 34076 41 Squadron has plenty of steam as it pulls away from Tavistock North with the Up ACE. September 1959 Copyright Mike Roach

We think the sign means something!!! Tavistock North in August 1969 Copyright Steve Perrymen

D842 Royal Oak at Tavistock_North_August 1969 Copyright Steve Perryman

34063 239 Squadron which has been running through some snow to get to Tavistock North. The bitter winter of '62' . This is the day after the Tavistock South closed. 30th December 1962 Copyright Ian Pollock

Tavistock North station , looking very smart. November 2017. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Between Tavistock and Lydford the GWR Marsh Mills to Launceston single line shared the same valley with the double track Southern line Devonport Kings Road to Exeter.

A class 55 heads a train for Launcston July 1961 Copyright Mike Roach

Same spot as above. A short Southern freight heads for Lydford. July 1961 Copyright Mike Roach

Bere Alston to Meldon; Trains after closure.

In late 1967/early 1968 some (18 if I remember correctly) withdrawn/condemned mainly GWR design Hawksworth Brake Thirds/Composites (built at Swindon up until 1953/4) were moved from Plymouth to Lydford Up sdgs for storage with the intention they should be modified at Swindon, or possibly Cathays, to become Civil Engineers Department Mess Coaches for use on the WR by Operators of the new Plasser & Matissa Ballast Cleaning and Track Relaying machines...a mess coach being allocated to each machine. 

I remember accompanying the Lydford Signalman one Saturday afternoon to seek out some good seat cushions from these old coaches to send down on a train for Tavistock North staff!


Within a few days of the closure of Bere Alston to Meldon Jn to all traffic on Sun 5 May 1968 these coaches were moved to Crediton Down sdgs for further storage.
A loco (Warship, Western or D63xx ) was sent light (or with a BV) to Lydford from either Laira or Exeter/Okehampton to haul them to Crediton.

After the Bere Alston to Meldon line was closed on 5 May 1968 besides the move of these coaches from Lydford to Crediton the line was used by a fully fitted freight of about 35 wagons, mostly Vanfits and open Clay wagons, hauled by Warship D827 Kelly from Tavistock Jn to Exeter Riverside (preceeded by a loco with snow plough that got stuck near Sourton) on the afternoon of 21 Feb  1969.. that was the only train since closure ever diverted via Tavistock.

The line was temporarily and specially re-opened  as the GW Plymouth /N.Abbot line was shut on 21 February 1969 due heavy snow in the Hemerdon area and by chance the Exeter driver of this freight, who was in Tavistock Jnt  Yard  knew the SR Tavistock route and was prepared to run that way.

Prior to recovery by Engineers trains of the line from Meldon Viaduct back to Bere Alston between September 1969 and March 1970 using Laira traincrews and Warships, but at the end often Westerns, a large quantity of concrete drainage channels etc were recovered (for re-use elsewhere) from the long cutting just south of Tavistock ..these were ferried by Wickham Trolley and trailers then still kept at Tavistock North Down sdg  to Tavistock North Up platform for sorting and re-loading into Grampus wagons which were worked up from Tavistock Jn Yard either specially or in the Ernesettle trip specially extended to Tavistock from Bere Aston where it had normally to run round & cross to the Down line to gain access to Ernesettle.


I also had some trips in Autumn 1969 between Tav North & Lydford on the recovery trains which came up in the mornings from Tav Jn with ety Hyfits (opens) for slprs for re-use - mainly concrete ones, chairs & fish plates and bogie bolsters & ganes for re-useable and scrap rails in 60' & 45' lengths, the loco after positioning wgns as req'd then rtnd LD to Laira then loco came up LD in afternoon to collect  the loaded wagons.....only the Up line was used...trains hauling from Tav Jn or Lipson sdgs to Lydford, run round, then propel to site..once Lydford was recovered trains ran round at Bere Alston and propelled to site and hauled  back to Tav Jn/Lipson sdgs...probably as Tav North run round in plats was restricted to about 20 wgns is the reason trains did not run round there.
I once cycled on a Sat afternoon from Tavi to Lydford to hitch a ride back in the Brake Van..the Guard even borrowed a spanner from my cycle tool kit to take off a vac pipe from a bogie bolster and fit onto a hyfit wagon (which was missing a vac pipe) at the front of the train so as to provide a vac head/ brake force to save a complicated shunt at Lydford which would have entailed barring over the previously signal box worked main line crossover points..I and my cycle alighted at Tavi North after the loco crew had stopped the train near Brentor to pick mushrooms..those were the days!.

I just wonder if anyone has any photos/information of these last train workings on the Bere Alston/Meldon line after its shortsighted closure and savage dismantling?

Can you help, if so please contact us.
Tony Hill

Brentor Closed 6th May 1968 Goods closed 4th April 1960

Brentor station, a grand building in the style of those on Southern stations. There was a steady climb to this station which although itself was on the level, the climb continued unabated, except for a short level section at Lydford to a summit at Scourton Down. Copy right Sid Sponheimer

Brentor station, Sid Sponheimer, who took this view wonders now why ever he took to the icy roads! The single track GWR line to Tavistock South and Marsh Mills accompanies the double track Southern along the valley Copyright Sid Sponheimer. Brentor Church lies on top the distant Tor. The signalbox here closed in October 1961

Sid was on the platform to witness the departure of a train for Plymouth. To prove it was in the 60's Sid has left his duffle bag on the platform. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The last passenger train ever calls at Brentor station on the 4th May 1968. Copyright John Ball

Looking grand. Brentor station from outside the gate, complete with the letterbox. 24th November 2017 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Brentor station, looking towards Lydford, the former trackbed is now a paddock and the formation lost 24th November 2017 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Lydford Closed 6May68  Closed goods 7sep64 GWR section closed 31dec62 passenger and goods

Courtesy the Julian Stephens collection

A down service headed by 34032 Camelford coasts into Lydford from the Okehampton direction in about 1962. The centre platform to the left served both the Southern and GWR routes. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Lydford with 34032 Camelford standing with a service for Plymouth July 1962 - Copyright Sid Sponheimer

4570 stands at the Southern up platform at Lydford. July 1962. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A view looking across the centre platform towards the southern down platform. 1962 ish. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

Turning a little further right we see the centre plaform again - GWR trains from Launceston to Tavistock and Plymouth running into the near face. To the left is the platform used by GWR services to Launceston. 1962 ish Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

A difficult photo into the sun shows the road set for a Southern train to head for Tavistock North, Bere Alston (For Callington) and Plymouth. To the left were extensive Southern Siding. The double tracks leading off to the right are the 1943 re-instatement of the connection between the two lines.provide a connection between the Southern and GWR routes. Brentor Church sits atop the lofty Brentor just to the right. 1962 'ish Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

From Wickipedia.  The station, known then as "Lidford", was opened on 1 June 1865 with the Launceston and South Devon , a 7' broad gauge line that connected with the South Devon and Tavistock Railway to offer a service to Plymouth Milbay. This line eventually became a part of the GWR.

On 12 October 1874 the LSWR (Southern)  was opened from Okehampton. A standard gauge line that carried trains direct from Waterloo, whereas passengers to the GWR's Paddingtyon station had to travel on the branch line to Plymouth and then change onto a main line train.

On 17 May 1876 a junction was opened between the two lines and LSWR trains could now reach its new station at Devonport by running over the GWR's route, which was now a mixed gauge line On 1 June 1890 a new line, built by the Plymouth, Devonport and South Western Railway gave the LSWR a route to Devonport independent of the GWR. The GWR line was converted to standard gauge on 20 May 1892.

The connection between the two lines was removed in 1895 but was replaced in 1943 to give flexibility should the railway lines around Plymouth be damaged by World War 2 bombing. Other connections were installed at Launceston and St Budeaux..

The station had been renamed "Lydford" on 3 June 1897. Trains were withdrawn from the former GWR branch on 31 December 1962 but continued on the main line until 6 May 1968. Goods traffic ceased on 7 September 1964.

The original station had a passing loop and two platforms, with the station offices on the platform used by trains towards Plymouth. The LSWR built their platforms alongside the original ones, so the original booking office became a waiting room on an island platform with both companies opening new offices on their respective outside platforms.

From 1 March 1914 the LSWR took responsibility for the GWR platforms. The GWR signalbox was closed on 8 January 1917, when signal controls were combined in a single box on the central platform with two lever frames – one for each line – placed back to back. The signalman had trains from Tavistock on his left when working the GWR frame, but on his right when working the LSWR one.

Goods traffic was handled in a yard at the north end of the station between the two lines with access from both.


Lydford remains - 1975 Copyright K. Jenkin

Bridestowe  Closed  6th May 10 68  Closed goods 5th June 1961

Bridestowe Copyright Roger Winnen

Nr Bridestowe with Dartmoor looking grim 34005 Barnstaple 62 Copyright Mike Roach

Meldon Jct

Meldon Jct 73166 leaves with an up service - Copyright Mike Roach

Meldon Junction Trackless - seen here in July 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

Mike Roach looks the other way at Meldon Junction. The surface was laid in to facilitate lorry movements to and from the quarry over the viaduct. July 70 Copyright

Meldon Viaduct 

A short train leaves Meldon Viaduct in June 1964 bound for Meldon Junction. Note the catch point to protect the viaduct from runaways. Copyright Mike Roach

A Battle of Britain class heads an up train across Meldon viaduct Mar62 Copyright Mike Roach

Meldon viaduct Preserved loco 34023. Blackmoor Vale crosses over in July 62 Copyright Sid Sponheimer. In the light of the suggested possible re-opening of this line wouldn't it be lovely if this picture could be repeated in the future?

34066 'Spitfire' crosses Meldon Viaduct in August 1962 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

31895 starts its crossing of Meldon viaduct in June1963 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A very interesting view taken on a cold frosty day with an overnight dusting of snow . Although bot tracks remain on the viaduct, the left hand one, towards Okehampton, has been fenced off. February 1970, Note the notice in the foreground - detail below. Copyright Mike Roach

Obviously a very dangerous place at certain times of the day, Co-operation with the local signalmen was essential to ensure that trains were not passing when blasting was occurring. Feb 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

Another picture of the same notice, but is it elsewhere - not only has the wording been crudely adjusted but the sign in the upper picture has suffered more damage. Copyright Andrew Jones

There is a story to tell here. Mike Roach having captured the pictures above for posterity was walking down the valley below the viaduct when there was a tremendous crash behind him. With a 'melt' taking place a large section of frozen snow lodged on the girders of the bridge above had detached and fallen just behind him. He was extremely lucky, and we are lucky that he is still with us to this day to tell the tale. Copyright Mike Roach

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The viaduct on the 2nd August 2010. Copyright David Tozer who asks in December 2014 'Will we ever cross here in a train again' ?

Meldon Quarry - also see pics in railtour sections

Meldon Quarry Signalbox in a bad way as a member of staff clips or unclips the points. In 1973, copyright Chris Osment

LCDR 'T' class 0-6-0T tank No. 500S was a Kirtley design built at the company's works at Longhedge in 1890. Transferred from service stock and renumbered from 607 to 500S, it moved to foreign territory at Meldon Quarry on the LSWR in 1938 and remained there until withdrawal in November 1949. Courtesy the Mike Morant collection

A sad shot of USA 0-6-0 DS 234 standing looking very forlorn waiting for the scrap man to collect it from Meldon Quarrry. It was withdrawn in late 66. USA - this picture taken on 4th March 67. Copyright Tony Hill

More at Meldon Quarry in 1981 - Kevin Redwood

​My father Norman Redwood worked for the Western Region Civil Engineers and his job took him around the Region visiting railway yards and depots.
Sometimes during the school holidays he would take me along, and after I also started work on BR I continued to go with him a few times.
One of his duties was periodically to collect ballast samples from each of the WR ballast quarries and I twice went to Meldon Quarry with him. Here are five views of Meldon in July 1981 when new plant was being installed though at the time the old equipment was still in use.

                                                                                                                 Many thanks for your pictures Kevin

Meldon Quarry 1 Laira allocated 08668 which had recently taken up residence as the quarry pilot. The Southern main line is over to the left. 9th July 1981 Copyright Kevin Redwood

Meldon 2. The new quarry plant which had not yet been commisioned seen at the top of the picture . 9th July 1981 Copyright Kevin Redwood

Meldon 3 A general view of the loading hoppers with the new plant visible higher up 9th July 1981 Kevin Redwood

Meldon 4 The concrete loco shed and a miscellaneous selection of older engineering wagons awaiting loading 9th July 1981 Copyright Kevin Redwood

Meldon Quarry 5. A view of the older plant taken on the 9th July 1981. Copyright Kevin Redwood.

Meldon Quarry. Dust hangs over the workings. There were two class 33's there at the time. 5th May 1990 Copyright Ron Kosys

Okehampton   Other pictures in the Coleford Jct to Okehampton section.

 The DARTMOOR  RAILWAY  SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION  
Operate passenger services on an irregular basis between Meldon Quarry and Okehampton with some continuing to Sampford Courtney.  

The DRSA have a most excellent and very much recommended website, for much more detail, photographs etc - please click on the link below:- 
http://www.dartmoor-railway-sa.org/resources

80036 On one of last steam workings from Ply 10.57 Sept 64 Copyright Mike Roach

Okehampton, 80064, this formed the 11.10 to Exeter Sep64 Copyright Mike Roach

Okehampton 4th May 63 From Plymouth Copyright Mike Roach

Okehampton 4th May 63 From Plymouth Copyright Mike Roach

Okehampton 4th May 63 13.18 to Bude Copyright Mike Roach

80036 on the turntable at Okehampton 1964 Copyright Mike Roach

Okehampton Steam Shed. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Okehampton Shed 31836 ieft hand side, 31841 right hand side and 31818 rear June 1963 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

30313 at Okehampton Shed. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Coming on to shed Okehampton Shed is T9 30338 Undated Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Okehampton Shed On the turntable is T9 30338 Undated Copyright Sid Sponheimer

It's good to see the still familiar buildings of Okehampton station in the background in this view of Mike Morant's. Ivatt 2MT 'Mickey Mouse' 2-6-2T number 41291 berthed in the small Okehampton sub-shed in August 1964. Courtesy Mike Morant collection

Now looking from the station towards the shed we see Maunsell 'N' class mogul no. 31831 at Okehampton shed in August 1962. 31831 had been an Exmouth Junction mpd stalwart since 1950 but would move to Brighton during the month after this shot was taken. The shot and caption courtesy the Mike Morant collection

LSWR Drummond T9 'Greyhound' 4-4-0 at Okehampton in the 1930's but after July 1932 when the number prefixes were removed. No. 280 was built at Nine Elms works in 1899 and was withdrawn in 1951 whilst allocated to Fratton Shed although she was stored there for three years and never wore a BR identity. Picture and caption many thanks to Mike Morant

South East and Chatham Railway Maunsell designed "Woolworth" mogul No, 1828 in lined green SR livery at Okehampton. No. 1828 was built at Ashford in 1924 from a kit of parts made by Woolwich Arsenal. This loco worked on until withdrawal from Redhill Motive Power Depot in 1964 as BR No. 31828. Courtesy Mike Morant collection.

.An Exeter to Plymouth service calls at Okehampton in April 1968, shortly before the shortsighted closure on 6/5/68 of the Meldon Quarry to Bere Alston former main line. Copyright Andrew Jones.

The last down Brighton. D868 Zephyr waits time at Okehampton Saturday 4th March 1967 Copyright Tony Hill

4 March 1967 was also the date that the 0110 Waterloo to Plymouth Passenger & News,
1040 Plymouth to Brighton and 1650 Plymouth to Eastleigh ran for the last time, thus ending regular loco hauled services on the former Southern Exeter to Plymouth main line.

Okehampton - pre resurection

47033 Okehampton 14th April 1988 Exeter Riverside - Meldon Copyright Ron Kosys

Okehampton 14th April 1988 Even the signalnox is 'To be let'. Copyright Ron Kosys

Later 47033 returns through Okehampton with a full load. The Meldon-Bristol Copyright Ron Kosys

Okehampton returns to its rather unkempt state. Fortunately now, in 2017 things look a lot better. Hopefully soon a passenger service will be rsumed. The date of this picture is 14th April 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys

Okehampton Station towards Meldon 11th January 2010 Copyright Andrew Jones

We finish up this section with what is relatively modern motive power seen in 'old tyme' sepia finish. 45 060 'Sherwood Forester' at Okehampton on the 24th January 2016 . An interesting effect created by Martin Duff Copyright