St Austell Ecl to Lostwithiel Incl

CORNWALL RAILWAY GALLERY
MAIN LINE -St Austell Ecl to Lostwithiel Inc

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

If you do not see what you require

Go to the Links page and select Cornwall Centre, then on their home page select 'Cornwall Image Bank'. There is a selection of photographs by John Vaughan, Arthur Trevan, George Ellis and others.
You could always visit the Cornwall Centre at Alma Place, Redruth. Very near the station.

If you wonder what Cornwall looks like under the snow click here for a journey by Mike Roach in the winter of 1986.

N.B Click on picture to obtain an enlargement and further details

Down the bank to Par and on to Lostwithiel

Julian Stephens writes 'Some members may recall this fascinating display which was situated in a garden adjacent to the main line just west of the bridge over the A390'. Copyright Julian Stephens. N.B. It is understood that the owner was requested by BR to place a cross on the home signal signifying that it was not in use to save confusing drivers on the main line.

This was taken from a home signal mounted in a garden at Holmbush with the owners kind permission Here we see Immingham based 47294 at 14.25 on 7th June 1986 with the 1C29 09.35 Paddington - Penzance. Copyright Julian Stephens

50026 Indomitable and 48 Dauntless pass with the 2C83 12.00 Pz to Ply 25th April 1987 Copyright Julian Stephens

A dramatic picture. 50033 Glorious was hauling the 1C11 06:45 Swindon to Penzance on 7th February 1987 when it failed near Menheniot. 37207 William Cookworthy was sent to assist. The picture was taken at Holmbush near St. Austell with the train running some 90 minutes late. Copyright Julian Stephens

Class 25 5180 comes up the bank, we get a peep into St Austell Goods yard. The Laira 25 was the driver training loco. 5Nov71 Copyright Paul Cambridge

Holmbush Crossing

Holmbush Crossing 68067 Hornet Northern Belle 30th July 2016 Copyright Jamie Dyke

Holmbush Crossing 57605 'Totnes Castle' passes Holmbush Crossing with the 1015 Penzance to Par ECS 30th July 2016 Copyright Jamie Dyke

An interlude now in the Par area brought to us through the camera of Julian Stephens almost exactly, at the time of placing this crop of delightful pictures on the site, 32 years ago. Many thanks Julian.

50050 Fearless near Merthen Farm with the 1V73 the 07.30 Aberdeen - Penzance on the 11th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

50050 Fearless climbs away towards St Austell passing Carlyon Golf Course on the 11th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

50039 Anson with the 1V73 passing Merthen Farm Taken at 21. 05 on the 12th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

50048 Dauntless with the 1V73 taken at Post Office bridge Par on the 17th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

50022 Anson with the 1A01 Penzance to Paddington at Five Arches TPO. 17th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

A smashing panorama of St Austell Bay with Par in the foreground. The steam drifts away from the chimneys at the driers at Par docks as 50039 Implacable pulls away towards Treverrin with the 1C86 the 18.10 from Penzance taken from Lansescot on the 18th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

It would appear that even in 2018 that the wonderful semaphores which make this scene will be there for a while yet. 50050 Fearless with the 19.22 Penzance to Paddinton TPO on the 18th June 1986 Copyright Julian Stephens

Continuing now - Carlyon Bay (Golf Course) and Par Bank

47805 coasts with the 1220 Penzance to Puddington 25th July 1991 Copyright Roger Geach

45134 leaves Par behind and heads up the bank towards St Austel with a Bristol Penzance working 29th March 1984 Roger Geach

Near Par Harbour at 10.24 14th June 1986 50001 Dreadnought approaches with the 1A46 09.12 Penzance to Paddington. Copyright Julian Stephens

Originally thought to be in the Carn Brea area. However correctly positioned as being on the bank east of Par.by Roy Hart, The chine clay dry in the foreground was a clue as was signal wire to Par Harbour up distant. However, a fresh update from Brian Grigg, a retired S & T man who tells us that the train shown is heading east down the bank. Brian was in fact in the house on the right of this picture very recently. (April 2018). Many thanks to Brian. Photo credit Newton Abbot Library

A very rare view of a wagon train being banked up the Par Bank by a class 45. 2nd August 1957. Copyright the Late Jon Wood Collection

140809zd A funny caption but this is the approach to Par from the west taken from the back of a train heading west. It was the 20.03 departure from Par Station 9th August 2014 . Copyright Roger Winnen

Par

Par 4th July 1979 Peak 46 043 with power applied as it climbs away from Par past that fine bracket signal. The location, the footpath leading to 'Val's Plaice' a popular 'chippery'. Copyright Mike Roach

DERAILMENT PAR STATION C-RIGHT PAUL WALKEY

Par from the Paddy Bradley Collection.

Much appreciated comment on the above picture by Roy Hart.
1895-1900. The engine is of the 1901 class; these were light and ideally suited for the china clay branches. Rebuilt as pannier tanks, some survived at SBZ shed until 1950-51.
The section of the signal box shown is the western end extension, added in 1893 following the gauge conversion.
The engine is standing on the branch platform. Notice the lightly-laid track (the branch -Cornwall Minerals Railway- had never been broad gauge). Compare with the bullhead rail of the main line, visible background right. In the foreground is some old-style point rodding. Point rods were painted red in those days.
Thanks Roy

Par. As seen in May 1970 Copyright the late John Vines. They used to serve super pasties in the new long gone up platform buildings.

Par, an important interchange with the Newquay branch often produces quite a crop of passengers. Here in this undated view the 'crop' just detrained from the DMU and waits for an up service for which the board has been pulled off. The main line climbs steeply away to the west, a siding aptly known as 'Chapel Siding' extends alongside towards the obvious building in the middle distance. Nowadays the 'crop' often carries multi-coloured surfboards. Copyright John Cornelius

Nice and crisp and clear an everyday scene then. Just one passenger awaits an up service nobody else in sight, a bus crosses the bridge. Copyright John Cornelius

P461 has arrived from Newquay and young parents see to their children on the seat while two cases are abandoned on the platform. Copyright John Cornelius.

37207 William Cookworthy passes through Par with the 07.50 St Austell to Plymouth charter formed of four first class mark 1s on 6th July 1985. I have no idea what the purpose of this train was. The loco looks immaculate with the BR and Cornish lizard arrow on its sides and on the front the legend 'Cornish Railways', BR arrows flag, the St Piran flag of Cornwall and the Cornwall coat of arms with motto 'One And All'. A sight to make any Cornish native proud. Copyright Clive Smith

37204 awaits departure with the 21.05 Par to Plymouth on Saturday 14th June 1986. The stock is an air-conditioned set from the earlier Paddington to Newquay. 50018 had then failed on the 17.55 Newquay to Par with its return stopper to Newquay at 18.55 subsequently cancelled. Cue 37204's appearance from St Blazey to provide a spirited run to Plymouth. Copyright Clive Smith

50040 'Leviathan' leaving Par with the 17.50 Plymouth to Penzance. 30th June 1986. Copyright Andy Stace

PAR 1987 A full house at Par, HST set 253058 sits at the rear of a Paddington Penzance late afternoon at Par, while 50016 Barham accelerates away from the speed restriction to the west of the station for the climb to Treverrin tunnel. Meanwhile 47089 Amazon awaits a path east with a mixed freight and a pacer its next departure to Newquay. Copyrght Martin Baker

This is a very interesting picture. 50 149 Defiance, temporarily modified for trials is seen here passing through Par with a train of CDA's on the 27th June 1988 Note how there have been problems with the track of the up main line here two areas of ballast have been removed where the track has been 'pumping' - there would appear to be a definite dip in the track while 049's rear bogie passes over it. In the background a DMU has been placed in Chapel sidings. 27th June 1988 Copyright Andy Stace.

37671 runs round prior to heading west, its 20.15 on the 19th July 1989 Copyright Julian Stephens

37671 has run round and waits to buffer up and couple. It is 20.15 on the 19th July1989 Copyright Julian Stephens

Picture 1 :- D1640 waits to depart Par with the rarely-photographed Freightliner service to Park Royal, London on April 2 1970. Ran asthe 4A64 1525 Par to Park Royal . With hindsight, one of several missed opportunities to photograph the whole train in its siding alongside the station.
Few pictures exist of this train which ran for only a short period of time , around two years only. The return working ran at night as the 4c64 0136 Park Royal - Par arriving at 0715 hours.

Picture 2 :- The well-trodden path from Par station to St Blazey, with D1929 departing Par in fine style on May 2 1972 on the 0800 BTM -PZ. As with so many lineside locations, vegetation has now dramatically changed this view

A Peak at Par heading a train of rock for the sea defences at Penzance. 3rd June 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen

Par Signalbox in 1979. Note the cast nameplate. Copyright Chris Osment

Par signalbox, now in 2013, a listed structure. One of two boxes left which controlled broad gauge traffic - the other one is at Williton on the West Somerset Railway. This picture dated 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Par signalbox from the west in 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

It's the 16th July 1985 as 37 196 returns to its home depot after its naming ceremony at Truro - seen here approaching Par - the boards are off for the Newquay platform. The boards are off for an interesting engineering train to head west.. 16th July 1985. Copyright Roger Winnen

On the evening of 27th August 1986 37430 "Cwmbran" arrived at Par Station with Directors Saloon GE No 1 in tow. I believe the journey started at Carnforth.
The coach was owned by Sir William McAlpine. It was serviced and stabled overnight at BZ before leaving on the following morning as the 09:05 Par to Bristol.
Cheers Julian Stephens Many thanks Julian for sharing these pictures with us.

The McAlpine saloon arrives at Par, 27th August 1986. Copyright Julian Stephens

The saloon was stored, turned, and serviced at St Blazey overnight. 27th August 1986. Copyright Julian Stephens

50149 runs into Par with an interesting mix of stock. 11th April 1988 Copyright Ron Kosys

The McAlpine saloon leaves Par. 28th August 1896. Copyright Julian Stephens.

After its overnight stay the saloon heads for Bristol. What a wonderful view from that balcony. 28th August 1986. Copyright Julian Stephens.

An unusual visitor to Cornwall disgraced itself as it failed to start at Penzance at the commencement of the return journey. It was hauled dead with the railtour train by the 37''s used for the St Ives section of the tour to Par where it was 'dumped' for later recovery. 17th May 1997. Copyright Steve Widdowson

A very fine picture of the refurbiished 1890 signal box at Par box and the refurbshed 1976 HST in GWR green set. The LA15 set working 1C72 to Penzance 27th August 2016 Copyright Craig Munday N.B. Quite a contrast with the view above.

The back of Par Signal Box is looking pretty smart too, with its new nameboard and gleaming paintwork. August 2016 Copyright Craig Munday Note the skillful brickwork as the chimney tapers.

A close up of the finished item. August 2016 Copyright Craig Munday

A taste of the winter to come maybe? It's been 6 winters since the Duchy has seen a decent snowfall. Maybe the mild Autumn may hold some clues? Here's Feb 1986 with 50009 pausing at Par with a down morning stopper. Copyright Craig Munday N.B. Many years ago this loco took the CRS Special to Portsmouth Harbour for a visit to the Isle of Wight. This picture received in November 2016.

Unit 55033 waits for the road to Newquay April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

Dear Keith,
Following your publication of Roger's pictures, perhaps a few historical notes may not go amiss:
Par box dates from the late 1870s ( no exact date seems to be known). It is the last Network rail box to have signalled broad gauge trains -the other survivor is Williton on the West Somerset Railway.
As built, Par was only half the length of the present structure (a look at the rear of the box, where you can see the old chimney breast, shows this). The structure was doubled in length following the conversion of the gauge and the introduction of a new layout, in 1893. For some years prior to this, traffic from the branch (always standard gauge) had to be transshipped at Par, hence the double track goods shed, only demolished in 1965.
Further expansion occurred in 1913, when the present lever frame (57 levers) was installed. During world war 2, the layout at Par was expanded again: the down refuge siding was extended eastwards to form a goods loop (still there) and various signals had 'calling on' arms added, to speed up the addition of bankers to heavy wartime up trains.
Par box still works nearly fifty levers and today has a miniature panel to control the St Austell/Burngullow area.
I notice that a GW style nameboard has been added, replacing the pathetic little BR 1980s enamelled one. The original one on the branch side escaped the 1980s vandalism. Is it still there, I wonder?
Par box is listed Grade ll.
As CRS members may know, Lostwithiel box is also listed. Here, however, the correct and proper 9- pane windows have been replaced with ugly modern ones. It would not surprise me if these are listed too!

Roy Many thanks Roy.

A Class 121 'Bubble car' awaiting its next turn of duty at Par on the 12th July 1980. Copyright Andrew Thompson.

Class 46 Clay hoods (that's a long train) 12th July 1980 Copyright Andrew Thompson

37413 at the head of the 1520 St Blazey to Exeter Riverside depts Par 27th September 1993 Copyright Roger Geach

Par up starter and calling on arm seen on 5th November 1971 Copyright Paul Cambridge

An unusual view of Par station with a heritage DMU arriving from Newquay. Perhaps the platforms are deserted as it is Helston Flora day - 8th May 1979. Copyright Mike Roach

A splash of colour at Par as 37411+DB999504 wait with an EWS spcial 9th June 1997 Copyright Julian Stephens

Par. the train crew are obviously proud of their charge, camera are out! _37411+DB999504+37668 9th June 1997 Copyright Julian Stephens

Par 50 027 Lion calls on the 30th June 1984 Copyright Mike Roach (50 027 Lion was the first of the class to go prowling around Cornwall - it was here on crew training - though not named at the time)

The connecting service for the DMU from Newquay was powered by 45 029 seen here about to set off towards Plymouth. 8th May 1979 Copyright Mike Roach

PAR Signalling Depot Old Signal Box Par 22nd April 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen This picture raised a query which is answered by Roy Hart below.

A query had been raised with Roy Hart as to whether this was the old box formerly at Blackwater West - his answer follows. This is the spot allright, but not the box. I note that the picture dates from 1976: by that time the signal depot had been shut for about 8 years. GW signal depots were made up of
1. Old wooden signalboxes, re-erected.
2. Buildings made up of bits of old signal boxes, such as the characteristic windows

The building in the picture is a 2.
The Par signal depot was a collection of about 7 or 8 such huts and boxes. The old Pinnock Tunnel box (closed 1959) stood next to the main line. Old Blackwater West stood off the picture to the left. It was what the Signalling Record Society call a type 25. There was only one other like it in Cornwall: St Germans. It was, if you like, a wooden version of type 5 (Roskear/St Erth).

Here is a picture of the site of the old Par signal depot. It is of interest because the view is impossible today. By the time of this picture (1976) most of the buildings (a collection of old signal boxes and huts made from signal box components) had been demolished, including the former Blackwater West box. The building in the foreground is an example of the use of 'bits' of signalboxes being assembled into a box-like structure.

Regards Roy Many thanks Roy

Once a regular and popular sight - the 37's. A rather dirty member of the class 37 279 brings a train of 'clay hoods' cautiously over the points as it heads for the Newquay platform at Par and thence probably on to Goonbarrow for Rocks Driers 8th May 79 Copyright Mike Roach

Par, 37669 rests in the headshunt at 16.15 on the 21st May 1966 Copyright Julian Stephens

Ron Kosys writes - 50043 Eagle arrving at Par on the 10th February 1988 - a TOTALLY dull and dismal day, This was taken before the trees took the place over completely. The vans at the head of the train could have been attached at Tavistock Junction for bagged clays of various descriptions or could even have been worked through from Heathfield carrying Ambrosia products. At this time, Ambrosia moved some of their output via the Speedlink network. This was roaded to Heathfield where it was loaded into vans. These vans were normally worked through to St Blazey (rather dropped off at Tavistock Junction) as the next train on this loco diagram was the 6B43 1505 St Blazey to Gloucester – and this saved reattaching the same traffic as it called at Tavistock Junction en route to Gloucester. Shame all this traffic was lost forever. Copyright Ron Kosys

Class 60 015 at Par with 12 x HEA's 30th March 1996 Copyright Steve Widdowson

The last Silver Bullet train at Par 37670+37669 on the 22nd July 1995 Copyright Julian Stephens

Old and new signs at Par. Copyright Mike Roach

The really striking livery of 43186 decorate the Queens Jubilee really looks grand at Par on 1st September 2012. The picture taken by Maurice Dart in the evening sun is his copyright

Par at dusk 7th July 1987. An atmospheric picture by Andy Stace Copyright

140809a On summer Saturdays in 2014 rail enthusiasts were delighted by a locomotive hauled working between Par and Exeter with a return to Penzance. Here 57604 Stands at Par with the SO 11.25 service to Exeter. Note the Cornish flags either side of the centre lamp bracket. Copyright Roger Winnen

Those very same signals as featured in the picture above as 37204 prepares to go into the down loop east of Par station. An unusual angle for this shot. 11th June 1986 SaintsWay Copyright Julian Stephens

The delights of Par - the signals. For years now we've heard rumours concerning the removal of the semaphore signals at Par - dread the thought. However in 2018 they are still there. John Cornelius, a former signalman, brings us three close ups.

PR 52 Copyright John Cornelius

PR53 Copyright John Cornelius

PR 5 Copyright John Cornelius

A nicely framed shot by Ron Kosys as 150 308 approaches the bracket signal for Par Down Loop. Copyright

47474 on the Penzance vans departing Par. The location is just east of the down loop at Par. Tues 17th July 1990 Copyright Roger Geach

Treesmill

46042 on the down Leeds to Penzance at 1510 hrs on the dull 6th Feb 1978 . Copyright Roger Geach

Treesmill. A good spot to photograph the once very frequent clay workings between Par and Lostwithiel. The 37's often worked in pairs. Here we see such a combination together with the clay hoods, now just a memory in September 1985 Copyright Mike Roach

Treesmill, a delightful spot to spend a few hours. Here, a beautifully lit shot, as 47145 heads up the grade towards Treverrin Tunnel with a full load bound for Carne Point on the Fowey branch. One wonders if the bungalow adjacent to the bridge is owned by a railway enthusiast? This picture taken in September 1985 Copyright Mike Roach

Treesmill 47 061 on the 27th August 1979 Copyright Mike Roach

Treesmill 27th August 1979 Motorail with an interesting collection of motorcars Copyright Mike Roach

Treesmill 37175-17061986@1915hrs@Stoneybridge near Treesmil Copyright Julian Stephens

47845 1330 Penzance to Plymouth at Treesmill 19th August 1992 Copyright Roger Geach

Treverrin bank at 11.15 on the 7th January 1987 as 50031 Hood coasts towards Par with 1C11 06.45 Swin- Pz, It had just passed 50016 Barham, which can be seen beyond the bridge, slogging up to the tunnel with 1A50 Penzance to Paddington. Copyright Julian Stephens

37673 Heading for Moorswater 12th April 1988 Copyright Ron Kosys

50149 Defiance at Tywardreath returning from Heathfield via Tavistock Junction to St.Blazey on the 28th April 1988 Copyright Ron Kopsys

Near Treverrin The 565 yard tunnel lies at the summit of the line between Par and Lostwithiel

Near Treverrin 47620 climbs with the Royal Train at 09.55 on the 9th June 1989. Her Majesty had spent the night at Ponts Mill and was travelling to Bodmin Parkway en route to the Royal Cornwall Show Copyright Julian Stephens

Treverrin Tunnel

140809b 57604 app the west end of Treverrin Tunnel. Copyright Roger Winnen

140809c Treverrin Tunnel East Portal. The summit of the line lies in the tunnel, Light can just be seen at the far end of the tunnel. Copyright Roger Winnen

47052 1b03 0730 Paddington to Penzance climbs the last section of the bank at 1 in 64 to Treverrin tunnel in August 1974. A light engine waits at the signal just before the curve which leads around to Milltown Viaduct. Copyright Roger Geach

Milltown

50049 Defiance coasts down the bank and over Milltown viaduct with the 1155 Penzance to Plymouth. 26th March1984 Copyright Roger Geach

50010 Monarch at Milltown Lostwithiel 4th September 1987 Copyright Roger Geach

47708 is certainly under full power as it tackles the grade at Milltown with the 1235 Paddinton to Penzance on the 26th July 1991 Copyright Roger Geach

Enthusiasts were delighted when in the summer 2014 loco haulage of the day stock of the night sleeper was introduced. The train ran empty stock to Par and thence carried passengers from there to Exeter and worked a return service later in the day to Penzance. Here the train is seen at Milltown on the 24th August 2014. Copyright Craig Munday

An up clay train bound for Carne Point makes a fine sight on Milltown Viaduct on the 19th March 2015 Copyright Ron Westwater.

Milltown viaduct from a very different angle as 66092 crosses the viaduct with the 6G06 0740 Goonbarrow-Fowey 27th April 2015 Copyright Ron Westwater

Milltown viaduct 1C76 1003 London Paddington to Pz with 43040 leading and 43042 at the rear crossing Milltown Viaduct on the 22nd February 2018 Copyright Richard Hay

2A85 1257 Penzance to Newton Abbott. A150xxx crossing Milltown Viaduct on the 22nd February 2018 Copyright Richard Hay

With the cutting vegetation cut well back we get an unusual view of 66092 with a empty CDA working for Goonbarrow leaving Lostwithiel and climbing Treverrin Bank. The date is 21st April 2015. Copyright Craig Munday

66027 bites into the bank out of Lostwithiel Copyright Craig Munday taken Mid March 2016

50024 Vanguard near Lostwithiel 22nd April 1987. This spot was far more open years ago as one can see. 50024 heads west from Lostwithiel climbing towards Milltown with a Penzance service. Copyright Roger Geach

50001 Dreadnought climbs the bank out of Lostwithiel to Treverrin Tunnel with the 09.15 Brighton - Penzance on Saturday 19th July 1986. Copyright Clive Smith A smashing scene dominated by the spire of the local church St Bartholomew and punctuated by the red semaphore signal.

37672 nears Lostwithiel on the 4th September 1987 with a train of Clay Hoods. Copyright Roger Geach

You can almost hear the roar of the twin Maybachs as a Western climbs out of Lostwithiel with a down service. The metals of the Fowey (Carne Point) branch lie in the foreground) It's the 18th April 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen

Lostwithiel Fowey branch junction. The Fowey branch originally ran right in to the bay platform. However in 1972 the direct connection to Lostwithiel station was taken out and the branch connected to the main line beyond the river crossing enabling the branch bridge over the river Fowey to be removed.

With a characteristic roar 1016 Western Gladiator puts its back into the two mile climb ahead to Treverrin tunnel with the 2b10 08.42 Plymouth to Penzance. It is passing the junction for the branch line to Carne Point. The date is 25th February 1975 the loco had another ten months to run being withdrawn in December 1975. Two a half years later in August 1977 she fell victim to the cutters torch at Swindon. Copyright Roger Geach

50009 Conqueror with a Penzance to Plymouth service 31st December 1987

Lostwithiel 1977A 46026 The Leicestershire & Derbyshire Yeomanry arrives with a set of clay hoods. Copyright Terry Baker.

Lostwithiel 1977B Peak 46002 descends into Lostwithiel from Par with loaded clay hoods, taken from inside the old goods shed. Terry Baker

The fine goods shed was removed for safe keeping then sadly vandalised at the preservation site by fire.

A super picture by Roger Geach showing 50018 Resolution running downhill towards Lostwithiel with the 1135 Penzance to Plymouth service on the 5th Sept 85 Copyright Roger Geach. Note the branch line from Carne Point running up to join the down main and the protective catch point.

The 'old order' a string of clay hoods arriving at Lostwithiel. After a heavy downpour, 50043 Eagle runs into Lostwithiel on the morning of 20th January 1988, with a train of loaded hoods for Fowey. Copyright Ron Kosys

A classic view. Lostwithiel Jct 50149 and 37673 meet at the Fowey branch junction. 5 Sep 88 Copyright Roger Geach

140809d The 07.36 Paddington-Newquay passes the junction with the Fowey Branch at Lostwithiel. Copyright Roger Winnen Lots of interest in this picture, the branch to Carne Point, formerly Fowey turns off to the left to follow the river Fowey whereas the gradient of the main line as it commences the climb towards Terverrin tunnel can clearly be seen.

37674 ‘St Blaise Church 1445-1995, entering Lostwithiel with a rake of CDA empties from Fowey in 1996. This location once had three bridges, the third with direct access to the Fowey Branch, was on the left hand side. The locomotive is entering on the up main line and will shortly enter the sidings adjacent the station. Currently all shunting is carried out on the Plymouth side of the level crossing opposite the old milk factory. The class 66’s, although environmentally superior, in this more enlightened period, really do not compare with the 37’s for character and presence. 1996 Copyright Andrew Jones

This photograph in 1996, at Lostwithiel, shortly after 37674 was named ‘St Blaise Church 1445-1995 at St Blazey on the 21st December 1995. Released from English Electric, Vulcan Foundry as D6869 on the 23rd August 1963 she continued in service until the 17th May 2007, officially removed from stock on the 9th September 2007. A working career of 44 years. The loco still exists at the Wensleydale Railway. I suppose the 37’s were the diesel version of a ‘Black Five’ and still, today, serve important roles on the Network. The class totaled 309, with many rebuilds and upgrades throughout their life. 36 are currently in Preservation. Was the class 37 the most successful Diesel Electric design from the modernisation period? It certainly gets my vote! Andrew Jones Copyright

50 046 Ajax with CDA hoppers passes over Lostwithiel Viaduct. Copyright Jarrod Cotter

25217 takes charge of the train towing a 'dead' 50018 Resolution away from Lostwithiel with the 08.42 Plymouth to Penzance on the 30th July 1976 Copyright Roger Geach N.B. D418 was built in April 1968, named in April 1978, withdrawn 22nd July 1991 and finally ended its days being scrapped at Glasgow in 1993. Another interesting factor is this picture clearly shows the supports for the single line bridge which carried the Fowey branch over the river Fowey. This bridge was removed after track rationalisation which saw the junction for the Fowey branch being moved further west. This was after 6th November 1972 when the direct route from the Fowey branch into the confines of Lostwithiel station was removed.

Here’s a shot from taken on the 18th April 2019 of 66126 crossing the River Fowey in Lostwithiel with a freight at just after 5pm. The boat in the foreground and the late afternoon sun in my favour made for a nice picture - one I celebrated with a pint in the nearby Globe! 17.00 18th April 2019. Copyright Will Kilner.

Lostwithiel

Lostwithiel long before our time - thought to be 1922. Note the luxury of a covered footbridge - nowadays the inhabitants would appreciate the luxury of a footbridge whether covered or not. Today there are complaints of being stranded the wrong side of the line due to the crossing gates having been closed and consequently missing trains. Note the shunter with his pole waiting for the train standing on the up line. From the Alan Harris Collection

It is delightful that this sign remains on the up platform at Lostwithiel, possibly Cornwall Railway Vintage. Note the brackets still in position for the lower suffix 'Change for the Fowey branch'. Alas we cannot do that now! Copyright John Cornelius

More modern signage. Copyright John Cornelius

Lostwithiel Down Platform - official graffiti - 23rd June 2019. Copyright Mike Bokyo. Looks good.

A view of Lostwithiel Down Yard with a rake of clay trucks - this is before the days of clay hoods. Note the water column still extent, those trees give Lostwithiel a tropical look. September 1962 Copyright John Thorn

A privilaged view taken by Ron Kosys accompanied by his railway staff uncle. 37674 ready to set off for Carne Point. 21st August 1988 Copyright Ron Kosys

A charming picture of Lostwithiel as we'd like to remember it. May 1970, Copyright the late John Vines.

Three studies of Lostwithiel Station taken in April 1971 by Alan Harris. Copyright

Lostwithiel (2) Doesn't it look charming. Copyright Alan Harris.

Lostwithiel (3) Looking almost tropical with the palms. But look, modernisation has crept in - we have lifting barriers instead of gates. Copyright Alan Harris

50039 Implacable on the 0835 Penzance to Paddington at Lostwithiel 22 july 1976. The downside buildings have been demolished and building work is ongoing , it is just a simple tation now. Note the clay hoods in the former Fowey bay - these sidings were disused in 2014 and had been for sometime - due to be lifted soon. However there was a -rebirth in the Autumn of 2015 the sidings were brought back into use to establish an 'Artificial Quarry' in connection with extensive track renewals. Copyright Roger Geach

50041 'Bulwark' arriving at Lostwithiel with clay hoods for Fowey. 1st July 1986. Copyright Andy Stace

Lostwithiel as we would like to remember it. With the footbridge forming a 'header' to this picture we see the old crossing gates, the water tower and clay truck - no hoods. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

An interesting study by John Cornelius. Note that by this time the clay was being transported in 'Hoods' examples of which lie in the yard behind the box, Copyright John Cornelius

1001 County of Buckingham at Lostwithiel on a down train. Note the sidings quite full with loaded clay trucks. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

In contrast her is 1001 County of Buckingham in Cashmores Scrapyard Aug 64 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Lostwithiel, change for Fowey. Not for much longer - this picture by Mike Roach taken in December 64 Copyright

A very nice study of Lostwithiel Signalbox - many thanks to John Cornelius. Copyright. N.B. Some interesting stock in the yard.

Lostwithiel Station. The 'old order' of cement trains. A Class 47 with presflow cement wagons, probably ex Chacewater, passes through Lostwithiel. 18th April 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen

47 252 with 10 milk tankers on the 4th July 1979 Copyright Mike Roach

Lostwithiel D1064 Western Regent stopping with a ten coach train. July 1969. The down platform buildings weren't to last much longer! Copyright Mike Roach

The very first class 37 to migrate to Cornwall was 37 142, in 1979. This was the loco originally intended to be named “ William Cookworthy ”, but this honour went firstly to 37 207. Here is 37 142 arriving at Lostwithiel in August 1981 on a rare passenger working – look at the ‘up’ platform station building back then ! - 50 045 “ Achilles “ totally expired on 1E22 09.45 Newquay – Leeds shortly after leaving the seaside town, and was believed to have been rescued at St. Dennis Junction. Copyright Colin Moss

37 181 / 101 .... Here’s the proof of the working week in Cornwall, of 37 101 (Gateshead loco) is paired with then St. Blazey allocated 37 181 on a long rake of empty clay hoods from Carne Point, Fowey, seen arriving at Lostwithiel, for run round, then bound for Rocks Driers on the Newquay branch .14th August 1985. Copyright Colin Moss

Lostwithiel in 1978.. A fine study. Copyright Jim Lewis

Lostwithiel up station building on 1st August 1977. The poster advertises 'England', the country over the border! Copyright Mike Roach

Lostwithiel Buildings
Yes, the wooden building was the main up side structure. Being listed BR had an obligation not to destroy it but no obligation to maintain it. So, apart from setting up some timber baulks to stop the canopy sagging it eventually got in such a dangerous state that they were allowed to demolish it on safety grounds. The downside buildings went, I think, in 1974 and caused a big outcry from the townsfolk and enthusiasts. Nick Trudgian

37 267 emits a throaty roar as it accelerates its load of clay hoods through Lostwithiel station. on the 4th July 1979 Copyright Mike Roach. Note the large baulkes of timber supporting the station canopy as mentioned in the note from Nick Trudgian above.

Lostwithiel Mid 80's 37 002 37's doubleheaded 37196 Tre Pol & Pen and 37207 William Cockworthy approach with a train from Carne Point. Note the masses of clay hoods in this picture. Copyright Andrew Thompson

Lostwithiel Mid 80's 37 002 37's doubleheaded 37196 Tre Pol & Pen and 37207 William Cockworthy Copyright Andrew Thompson

37675 Lostwithiel 22nd January 1988 Lostwithiel-Fowey Copyright Ron Kosys

The views that on the day one might not bother with but thank heavens Roger did. The timber building was soon to be demolished. Lostwithiel Station building on the 23rd August 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

Lostwithiel Station looking rather worse for wear on the 23rd August 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen. Note the clay hoods in the sidings.

July 1985, this view hasn't changed much over the years. 50050 Fearless still exists. Copyright Mike Roach

Lostwithiel Crossing Signal Box in 1973 . Note this view has the 'H' chimney. Copyright Chris Osment

Lostwithiel signalbox, In 2013 this box was one of the very few in the country to be listed - its future would therefore appear to be bright. Here an HST in an early colour scheme approaches with a down service. April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

In early December 2015 came the good news that the Cornwall re-signalling project and the end of semaphores was to be put back by ten years. So here we are on the last day of 2015 as Craig Munday mans the box at Lostwithiel. Copyright Craig Munday

Again the last day of 2015 as Craig works at the small panel which controls the single line operation over the Pinnock and Lagin viaducts. 31st December 2015. Copyright Craig Munday

50033 Glorious calls with a down service on the 4th July 1979. This locomotive still exists being one of the preserved class 50's. Copyright Mike Roach

Jim Lewis got this interesting shot of clay hoods in the yard and on the main line in 1980. Copyright

The down side yard at Lostwithiel was still very much in use in this smashing picture by Andrew Jones of 37669. April 1995 Copyright Andrew Jones

37 207 William Cookworth gets token for Carne Pt from Chargeman Ralph Mutton in Aug, 1984

Lostwithiel Goods Shed.
Here we see three views of the old shed, it looks pretty disused. Perhaps within months of these photographs being taken the shed was dismantled and transported to Lanteague (Close to Shepherds on the old Chacewater to Newquay branch). The idea was that it was to provide accommodation for a railway preservation project envisaged there. However, sadly the project came to nothing and the shed was burnt - a terrible shame. These pictures are from the Pat English Collection.

A class 47 complete with clay hoods in tow passes through the Goods shed at Lostwithiel. Copyright Roger Winnen

Lostwithiel Goods Shed is being dismantled for re-erection and preservation elsewhere. Elsewhere turned out to Lanteague - here the preservation failed and the shed timbers were burnt - sacrilege. 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen.

Lostwithiel running in board, looking grand. Behind it are piles of - 'FIREWOOD' the Goods Shed later to be cremated - those responsible should hang their heads in shame. 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Between Lostwithiel and Bodmin Parkway 37065 heads the long gone Fitzgerald Lighting Train towards Lostwithiel. A beautifully lit picture taken on Monday 12th July 1999 Copyright Roger Geach

Looking west from the end of the down platform. The sky nicely illuminates the lenses of the sinal. The connection to the down sidings can be seen though the mesh of the barriers. 18th April 2015 Copyright John Cornelius

Litter Pick at Lostwithel Down yard

Councillor Tim Hughes arranged the litter pick with Network Rail and DB Schenker, to improve the first impressions of Lostwithiel for train passengers.

The Town Council invited other groups to take part in the litter collection. As well as other councillors, volunteers from the Business Group, Town Forum and Environment Group took part.

The litter pick follows on from Mayor Pam Jarrett's Lostwithiel Improvement Projects (LIPs) Day on 14th March which saw around 40 volunteers turn out for a day of cleaning, litter picking, weeding and minor repairs around Lostwithiel. Well done.

Lostwithiel litter pick 14th March 2015. Copyright Kat Smith. N.B. The bright sunlight shows up a length of platform extension carried out many years ago.

Down Sidings at Lostwithiel station back into use as an Artificial Quarry - 2015

An exciting event on 1st July 2015 saw the down sidings at Lostwithiel back into use as an artificial quarry. This picture kindly supplied by Paul Rundle who works for Colas and can thus give us these privileged shots. Copyright

The Railvac is delivered to Lostwithiel Down sidings on 14th October 2015 seen here, prior to entry, note the rusty sidings metals. Copyright Craig Munday

Further activity occurred in Lostwithiel down yard on 14th October 2015 when a 'Trac Vac' machine was delivered to the site by 70804. Copyright Paul Rundle

Lostwithiel as 0C54 waits signal ready for Westbury. 11.50 14th October 2015 Copyright Paul Rundle

Catching the last rays of the sun, the Rail Vac is seen in Lostwithiel Yard, a mecca in the last few weeks for rail road track machines for the relaying work taking place. Copyright Roger Winnen

Possibly the very last train to leave Lostwithiel Down Goods yard - 22nd October 2015

Roger Winnen arrives at Lostwithiel aboard 150247 and spots 66847 already in the yard. 22nd October 2015 Copyright

66847 coupled up to the Rail Vac and ready to go. 22nd October 2015. Copyright Roger Winnen

Could this be the last train ever to leave from Lostwithiel Down Goods Yard. A sad day. 22nd October 2015 Copyright Roger Winnen

Here is local engine 37672 at Lostwithiel on clay CDA on the 26 7 1991 . This was the former 37189 and was a Plymouth La loco from 4 1987 but did not arrive at La as 37672 until July after refurb at Crewe works. This one was a regular Cornish engine until it was transferred away during 1998. 37672 was named the Freight Transport Association 14th September 1987. . Copyright Roger Geach

And finally before we leave Lostwithel we see 50149 berthed in the sidings to the east of the crossing on the 1st July 1988 Copyright Steve Widdowson

With the last cement to Moorswater workings due at the beginning of December 2021 Craig takes a last look.

66093 on the clay to Carne Point and 70807 on one of the last cement workings. Lostwithiel 19th November 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

70807 on one of the remaining cement workins - 6C36 seen at Lostwithiel on the 19th November 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

For Pictures from Lostwithiel to Plymouth look in the next section

For more pictures of this area and many other locations in Cornwall please click below to see a wonderful selection of Cornish railway pictures which have been made available to us by Andy Kirkham. All his pictures are, of course Copyright.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/52554553@N06/albums/72157636828119615/with/10419848883/