CORNWALL RAILWAY GALLERY
MAIN LINE - St Germans Exc to Plymouth Order of listing
In this section, we travel from St Germans Excl to Plymouth.
Credits, Many thanks to all contributors - please see a list on the home page.
Members and general visitors to the CRS site will be interested in visiting http://www.railmaponline.com From the opening page a full map of the UK can be accessed which can then be enlarged to show every railway line in the UK. Not just today's network but lines from the past have been overlaid. As you zoom in sidings and even tramways become visible.
A valuable tip from Guy Vincent.
A valuable tip from Guy Vincent.
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.
A most excellent collection of old railway films has come to the net from Cornish Memories.Com Just click here to see them http://cornishmemory.com/items/browse?search=diesel
The first entitled Bodmin Rd to Padstow is actually from Padstow to Bodmin Road - it lasts for 11 mins and includes Padstow station, Little Petherick Creek bridge, lineside and on train sequences including Wadebridge, Grogley, Nanstallon, Boscarne Exchange (See the Bodmin N connection), Bodmin General and Bodmin Road.
The second entitled Plymouth to Fowey is actually Lostwithiel to Fowey. A film of almost ten minutes comprises a fascinating journey in both directions along the branch - see Golant, a run past the busy docks and round the bend into Fowey Station. Plus a glimpse inside Fowey Box.
The third Plymouth - Saltash two minute film is actually from Lostwithiel to Plymouth. Lostwithiel station views, approach to Liskeard, Shillingham tunnel, glimpse of the Weard loop, The Royal Albert Bridge and the road bridge under construction, glimpse of Devonport Docks then the approach to Plymouth including Plymouth West Signalbox - this closed 26th November 1960.
Cornwall Memories. Com deserve a very hearty congratulations on making these long gone scenes available to the world. What memories they stir up.
The first entitled Bodmin Rd to Padstow is actually from Padstow to Bodmin Road - it lasts for 11 mins and includes Padstow station, Little Petherick Creek bridge, lineside and on train sequences including Wadebridge, Grogley, Nanstallon, Boscarne Exchange (See the Bodmin N connection), Bodmin General and Bodmin Road.
The second entitled Plymouth to Fowey is actually Lostwithiel to Fowey. A film of almost ten minutes comprises a fascinating journey in both directions along the branch - see Golant, a run past the busy docks and round the bend into Fowey Station. Plus a glimpse inside Fowey Box.
The third Plymouth - Saltash two minute film is actually from Lostwithiel to Plymouth. Lostwithiel station views, approach to Liskeard, Shillingham tunnel, glimpse of the Weard loop, The Royal Albert Bridge and the road bridge under construction, glimpse of Devonport Docks then the approach to Plymouth including Plymouth West Signalbox - this closed 26th November 1960.
Cornwall Memories. Com deserve a very hearty congratulations on making these long gone scenes available to the world. What memories they stir up.
N.B Click on picture to obtain an enlargement and further details
St Germans Viaduct
The date is 31/5/2003, and the location is the hill above St Germans station, With the River Tiddy on the left, and the Lynher in the background, the 1535 Paddington - Penzance is captured rounding the curve between St Germans viaduct and the station, on a gorgeous Cornish evening. Copyright Chris Harvey
Lynher viaduct
Treham
Wivelscombe or Shillingham tunnel
Situated to the east of St Germans station was the 452 yard Wivelscombe or Shillingham tunnel. This tunnel was opened in 1908 in conjunction with the new double track line which avoided the old timber viaducts on Brunel's original route.
Note from Colin Burges - Carved in stone above the mouths of Shillingham Tunnel is the date 1907. I wonder if it had been intended to open the new route in that year or whether it simply marked the completion of the tunnel. Many thanks Colin. N.B. The route opened to traffic in May 1908.
Passengers were bussed between Plymouth and St Germans
Wivelscombe Slips A further note from Roy Hart
The 'St Germans deviation' of 1908 was designed to replace the old single line and its many wooden ' Brunel' viaducts. On the old line was a crossing loop and signal box at Wivelscombe. The new line has a tunnel ( familiar to us all) and known as Shillingham - - presumably to avoid confusion with Wiveliscombe (note the spelling difference) on the old Barnstaple line in Somerset.
The new line at Wivelscombe (Shillingham) has always been subject to landslips ( note the steel nets protecting the line from slips at several points today). In November 1942 there was a huge slip which required 7 months of single line working through the tunnel, requiring two temporary signal boxes (Shillingham East and Shillingham West) from December 1942 until May 1943. Many thanks Roy
The 'St Germans deviation' of 1908 was designed to replace the old single line and its many wooden ' Brunel' viaducts. On the old line was a crossing loop and signal box at Wivelscombe. The new line has a tunnel ( familiar to us all) and known as Shillingham - - presumably to avoid confusion with Wiveliscombe (note the spelling difference) on the old Barnstaple line in Somerset.
The new line at Wivelscombe (Shillingham) has always been subject to landslips ( note the steel nets protecting the line from slips at several points today). In November 1942 there was a huge slip which required 7 months of single line working through the tunnel, requiring two temporary signal boxes (Shillingham East and Shillingham West) from December 1942 until May 1943. Many thanks Roy
Additional information concerning this derailment comes from Neil Phillips.
I read the 1961 ‘Earth Slip Near St Germans’ report with interest, because the location and date rang a bell. The train in trouble was the 2C74 05.10 St Austell – Plymouth local hauled by NBL Type 2s D6302 and D6324 working in tandem (not in multiple due to different control systems between Pilot Scheme and Production locos). Both locos were damaged badly enough to require returning to NBL in Glasgow for repair. They came back later that year – D6324 in October and D6302 in December – sporting those rather ugly Mark I headcode boxes in lieu of discs, the first WR hydraulics to be so converted, but still devoid of yellow warning panels since these only started appearing from January 1962 (ignoring D845’s experiment). D6302 gained the yellow panels during a visit to Swindon Works the following August but it’s not clear how long D6324 ran without them. Both locos received oversized yellow areas compared to the rest. Interestingly they remained the only converted members of the class for around 3 years, rebuilding of the other disc-fitted Type 2s commencing from late 1964. This makes it possible to identify the loco approaching Shepherds station in John Thorn’s photo dated September 1962 (posted last year to the Chacewater – Newquay branch image collection) as D6324. This photograph has now been up-dated.
To illustrate how far ahead these two rebuilds were, the 13 D8xx Warships were converted between 9/63 and 9/65, and the D6xx Warships between 12/64 and 5/67 (2 ½ years to do 5 locos.….these Far West exiles were clearly not a priority!)
Best regards, Neil Phillips
I read the 1961 ‘Earth Slip Near St Germans’ report with interest, because the location and date rang a bell. The train in trouble was the 2C74 05.10 St Austell – Plymouth local hauled by NBL Type 2s D6302 and D6324 working in tandem (not in multiple due to different control systems between Pilot Scheme and Production locos). Both locos were damaged badly enough to require returning to NBL in Glasgow for repair. They came back later that year – D6324 in October and D6302 in December – sporting those rather ugly Mark I headcode boxes in lieu of discs, the first WR hydraulics to be so converted, but still devoid of yellow warning panels since these only started appearing from January 1962 (ignoring D845’s experiment). D6302 gained the yellow panels during a visit to Swindon Works the following August but it’s not clear how long D6324 ran without them. Both locos received oversized yellow areas compared to the rest. Interestingly they remained the only converted members of the class for around 3 years, rebuilding of the other disc-fitted Type 2s commencing from late 1964. This makes it possible to identify the loco approaching Shepherds station in John Thorn’s photo dated September 1962 (posted last year to the Chacewater – Newquay branch image collection) as D6324. This photograph has now been up-dated.
To illustrate how far ahead these two rebuilds were, the 13 D8xx Warships were converted between 9/63 and 9/65, and the D6xx Warships between 12/64 and 5/67 (2 ½ years to do 5 locos.….these Far West exiles were clearly not a priority!)
Best regards, Neil Phillips
Wivelscombe Tunnel - 2022 Views Mark Howells
Castle Farm Bridge - Forder
The 08.50 Penzance - Cardiff Central 43194 heads away from Castle Farm Bridge near Forder, Saltash with 43194 leading and 43005 the rear power car. The sunshine was somewhat watery with thin cloud but this may well be the last for a while as rain is forecast for the next week. Note the grape vines on the field ridge beyond the train.
Copyright Clive Smith
Forder Viaduct
This was Day 2 of Past Time Rail's 'Devon And Cornwall Branch Week' . Following trips to Penzance, Falmouth and St Ives the previous day, 45407 was shedded at St Blazey overnight departing from there at 11.05 as the 5Z20 with 37410 on the rear. The ECS headed to Mount Gould where the 37 then took the train to Laira Junction where the Black 5 then took the stock back to Plymouth station where it then formed the 13.42 to Par Docks and Newquay. A very busy day for me and my camera as was the week ! . This location outside Saltash was sadly lost to photographers a few years later when the farmer put extensive fencing around the mound of land overlooking the river. A photo from the other side of the creek can be found in this site's archives taken by long standing contributor Roger Geach. Regards Clive Smith
Forder Viaduct and Antony Passage in Autumn 2018 Mark Lynam
Yesterday (20th October 2018) I visited Saltash for some shots of the Forder viaduct with perfect conditions, the sun was shining, the tide was coming in and there was barely any wind, making for some great reflections.
Thanks,
Mark Lynam Thanks also to you Mark - superb pictures.
Thanks,
Mark Lynam Thanks also to you Mark - superb pictures.
Heading up the county after passing over Forder viaduct looking south towards the main course of the river, up until 1964 a long siding could be seen stretching from the site of Defiance Platform and heading west. This formed a reminder of the Brunels route west. Prior to a deviation being opened inland which passed through Shillingham tunnel, and over the viaducts at Lynher and Forder the main line was a single line keeping close to the river bank traversing four of Brunels famous timer viaducts at Forder, Wivelscombe, Grove and Nottar.
In this extremely rare and very historical view taken by Sid Sponheimer one can see a train stabled on this siding (the former main line) and beyond this Forder Viaduct - the buidings on the skyline are of Trematon Castle. We have to be extremely grateful to Sid for rescuing this picture and allowing us to use it. Copyright.
To see our relatively recent pictures of the pre 1908 route - the Weard Deviation click here
Defiance Platform
A most interesting picture showing Wearde signalbox which closed 31st October 1965 (Ref Track diagrams Sect 14 Tony Cooke). The down refuge siding which had been made into a loop in 1943 was closed the same day as the signalbox. The line seen diverging off to the left in the distance is the route of the original main line into Cornwall. This was retained as a siding for holding coaching stock - it was also taken out of use on the 2nd November 1964. It is understood that the loco approaching is D868 on the 13.20 Penzance to Paddington in either March or April 1962. This photograph from the collection of the late Keith Holt.
An additional note from Roy Hart for which many thanks :- Dear Keith,
The comments and the picture are interesting. When the new inland route was opened, in 1908, the stub of the old line was kept as a storage siding. It was connected to the main line by a compound crossover (single slip) and consisted of a long loop with hand-operated points at each end, which enabled engines to run round. In latter years the siding held older stock used for summer extras which would otherwise occupy the limited carriage space at Plymouth. Each spring the coaches had to be drawn out and taken to Laira or Millbay for cleaning, battery charge etc.
Wearde box was opened in 1908, replacing an older, smaller one. The box was of wooden construction but was fitted with a brick 'skirt' as some protection from bomb splinters, in 1941. Also during world war 2, the trackbed of the old pre-1908 single line between Saltash and Wearde was utilised to provide a long down goods running loop. The wartime need for long waits in loops saw a water column erected at Wearde (seen in the photo). Defiance platform was named after H.M.S.Defiance, a training ship moored below the railway at this point.
Roy
The comments and the picture are interesting. When the new inland route was opened, in 1908, the stub of the old line was kept as a storage siding. It was connected to the main line by a compound crossover (single slip) and consisted of a long loop with hand-operated points at each end, which enabled engines to run round. In latter years the siding held older stock used for summer extras which would otherwise occupy the limited carriage space at Plymouth. Each spring the coaches had to be drawn out and taken to Laira or Millbay for cleaning, battery charge etc.
Wearde box was opened in 1908, replacing an older, smaller one. The box was of wooden construction but was fitted with a brick 'skirt' as some protection from bomb splinters, in 1941. Also during world war 2, the trackbed of the old pre-1908 single line between Saltash and Wearde was utilised to provide a long down goods running loop. The wartime need for long waits in loops saw a water column erected at Wearde (seen in the photo). Defiance platform was named after H.M.S.Defiance, a training ship moored below the railway at this point.
Roy
A note from Roy Hart. Dear Keith, Yes, Wearde loop indeed, taken from the up side of the main line immediately East of the box. In the background is the stretch of the Hamoaze known as 'battleship trot' and, fittingly, on it is the battleship HMS Howe, which was laid up at Plymouth from 1951 till 1959, when she was towed away for scrap. Roy Many thanks Roy.
The lighter image. Note the access steps to the down platform looking in reasonable condition though the handrail has broken off on one side of the upper flight of steps. The hand rail leading down to the up platform also looks in need of attention. In the foreground lower left can be seen the metals of the former main line, the siding seen next but one above. 1960's Copyright Sid Sponheimer.
The access steps to the down platform are still there there today whereas those to the up platform of timber construction vanished long ago. The original Brunel Route passed through the redundant arch on the left, this was served by the very short lived single faced Defiance Platform - this survived from March 1905 to 1907 when the platforms seen here opened. These were closed wef 27th October 1930. This picture 3rd June 1989 Copyright Alan Harris
Defiance – some notes by Maurice Dart Reference to the left hand picture.
The original single line structure opened on 1st March 1905 named Defiance (Wearde Halt). It officially closed in 1908 when a new structure on the new double line called Defiance Halt opened.
This new platform officially closed to passengers on 27th October 1930. However it remained open for many years as an unadvertised halt to serve the naval facility, local residents, and flower growers.
An extract from the GWR WTT No. 6 from Sept 1938 to July 1939 shows the 12.45pm Meheniot to Millbay and the 5.05pm Wearde to Millbay calling shown as ‘to pick up only’. Also shown is the 4.40pm Millbay to Wearde calling to set down passengers and the 11.15pm from Millbay to Liskeard calling on Saturday nights to set down passengers.
The original single line structure opened on 1st March 1905 named Defiance (Wearde Halt). It officially closed in 1908 when a new structure on the new double line called Defiance Halt opened.
This new platform officially closed to passengers on 27th October 1930. However it remained open for many years as an unadvertised halt to serve the naval facility, local residents, and flower growers.
An extract from the GWR WTT No. 6 from Sept 1938 to July 1939 shows the 12.45pm Meheniot to Millbay and the 5.05pm Wearde to Millbay calling shown as ‘to pick up only’. Also shown is the 4.40pm Millbay to Wearde calling to set down passengers and the 11.15pm from Millbay to Liskeard calling on Saturday nights to set down passengers.
Combe by Saltash Viaduct
140809o Eagerly looking forward to the Royal Albert bridge one tends to not to notice the quite considerable and elegant structure of Coombe by Saltash Viaduct. This was rebuilt in 1893 when the timber structure was replaced. Here we seen modern flats which overlook the viaduct but also view the river Tamar beyond. There was once a small goods yard located between the end of the viaduct and Saltash station. Here an immaculate 57604 heads the summer Saturdays loco hauled working on out of Cornwall and soon to enter England.
Saltash
Saltash station - aerial view. Copyright Roy N. Keith in the care of and provided by Mr. Paul Keith . It it must be assumed that to get this amazing picture that the photographer was perched on the top of the nearest pier of the Royal Albert bridge. Also note the complicated design of the footbridge which gave access to the platforms as well as providing a level pedestrian route between close by roads and lanes, a board crossing by the signalbox was presumably for the use of the signalman collecting the tokens or simply for platform trolleys. Note also the goods vans parked in the rather cramped goods yard, and also beyond a modern road coach and a double decker bus. A very prominent feature in this view is the Baptist Church, the second church building on the site, a grand building which was destroyed by fire on Christmas day 1987. The present Church was dedicated and opened in March 1992.
Quite sure it was 6410 which was at Laira from September 1959 to August 1960. It spent most of the time before and after in South Wales. Withdrawn November 1962.
An early Christmas present from Andrew Vines.
Here is a trio of pictures at Saltash, which Dad took on the same business trip as the recent views posted of Truro. Thanks to 'Warship' aficionados Steve Harrod and Martin Street for identifying the loco coming off the bridge as 854 'Tiger', on the then newly introduced 1C16 08.15 Bristol-Penzance service, which replaced the long-standing overnight Manchester-Penzance at the May timetable change. How complete the station facilities look, with bookstall, covered footbridge and a canopied building on the down platform - a sad contrast to the scene today.
Andrew (Received 1st December 2020)
Here is a trio of pictures at Saltash, which Dad took on the same business trip as the recent views posted of Truro. Thanks to 'Warship' aficionados Steve Harrod and Martin Street for identifying the loco coming off the bridge as 854 'Tiger', on the then newly introduced 1C16 08.15 Bristol-Penzance service, which replaced the long-standing overnight Manchester-Penzance at the May timetable change. How complete the station facilities look, with bookstall, covered footbridge and a canopied building on the down platform - a sad contrast to the scene today.
Andrew (Received 1st December 2020)
A view along the up platform, note the platform trolleys, the sack trucks and the distant view into the good yard . The distant view of the yard is framed by that very substantial footbridge not only with steps down to the up and down platforms it also provided access to the adjacent roadways. The bridge was very wide to accommodate the rush of foot traffic off the 'Autos. This 1970 view by the late John Vines Copyright.
Emerging through the mist 1028 Western Hussar rolls into Saltash and Kernow on the 23rd August 1971 with the 1025 Manchester - Penzance. Copyright Ron Kosys. Note the buildings in use on the up platform and the platform awning, not forgetting the semaphore signals. (Pity about the other bridge in the background!!)
After having just taken the standard 'train-on-bridge' shot I thought I would go for something different using the open windowless east side of the Two Bridges pub beer garden drinking 'shed' to create a framed picture. Perhaps my fifth pint had unleashed my artistic side. The train is the 13.28 Exeter St Davids - Penzance operated by 'Castle' HST power cars 43088 and 43194 on the 17th October. For the beer afficianados the pint is a small batch brew from the St Austell brewery called Harlequin at 4.8%.
Regardssssh, Clive Smith
* A long Penzance to Paddington train crossing the Saltash bridge
behind 1061 Western Envoy on 12 April 74. This was when Plymouth signal plan was ongoing and the Paddington
trains to and from Penzance did not drop off the rear / front coaches for the
duration of the work. Information courtesy of Roger Geach.
Saltash up platform nearly completed 11th October 2021
Saltash up platform building gets a new coat of paint in October 2016
It is understood that the refurbished up platform building in now named 'Isambard House'.
Royal Albert Bridge Take a look at the articles section for an exciting tale by Peter Butt.The article is complemented by some 'heart stopping' pictures taken from high up. Peters article details a visit to the RAB and a walk over the top.
The Royal Albert Bridge - a view from the Devon side long before the road bridge which was opened on the 26th April 1962. Road traffic was carried by a ferry which landed on the slipway to be seen close by the foot of the bridge on the Cornwall side, the landing on the Devon side was somewhat to the left way off this picture. Postcard from the Paddy Bradley Collection.
From the collection of the late David Bartlett of Bradford-on-Avon (Copyright). A b/w photo taken during the autumn of 1959 showing early preparatory works underway on the foundations of the Tamar Road Bridge which took just two years to build. Construction started in July 1959 and the bridge opened to traffic in October 1961 with a formal ceremony by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother taking place the following April. The Tamar Rail Bridge of course celebrated its centenary in 1959 hence David's visit.
Guy Vincent.
From an e-mail sent by Peter Bragg - "Later father was signalman in a box one end of the Royal Albert as Monitor HMS Roberts was towed to a berth opposite Ernesettle, her topmast touched and bent back as she passed under, all traffic was stopped until an inspection revealed no structural damage, but paint marks.
Then there is the old saw tale that only one of H M Warships passed over the Royal Albert Bridge instead of under it!!
Then there is the old saw tale that only one of H M Warships passed over the Royal Albert Bridge instead of under it!!
A bit of World War Two history, now it can be told.
During the war a temporary 'level crossing' was laid across the Royal Albert Bridge such that military road vehicles could use the bridge, possibly in the event of the ferry being put out of action. Courtesy of Tony Cooke we now have a copy of the works order for the removal of this decking after the war.
During the war a temporary 'level crossing' was laid across the Royal Albert Bridge such that military road vehicles could use the bridge, possibly in the event of the ferry being put out of action. Courtesy of Tony Cooke we now have a copy of the works order for the removal of this decking after the war.
Saltash – cab view from Royal Albert Bridge August 1973 Copyright Trevor Tremethick. This fine picture shows the probable exit from the decking on the Cornish side. Up the platform ramp then exiting through the position occupied by the 'replaced' building into the tarmaced parking area outside the station, thence up the hill towards the Baptist Chapel.
Flashback to 29th April 1984 when passengers on a 'Rusty Eplett' special were allowed to walk across the Royal Albert Bridge. Andrew Jones, the chap facing the camera carries his daughter 'Siena' in backpack, perhaps the youngest person ever to have been 'walked'' across the Royal Albert bridge! Copyright Andrew Jones
Road traffic on the Royal Albert Bridge
During WWII longitudinal sleepers were placed between the rails over the RAB to allow military road vehicles to drive across in emergency. These were signalled as a train using a pilotman and token. Were any such moves ever made? Quote John Roberts
During WWII longitudinal sleepers were placed between the rails over the RAB to allow military road vehicles to drive across in emergency. These were signalled as a train using a pilotman and token. Were any such moves ever made? Quote John Roberts
Pictures taken by Graham Mann. Network Rail Programme Manager during re-ballasting operations of the Royal Albert Bridge in 2013.
1026 Western Centurian creeps up to pass Royal Albert Bridge Signalbox on the 10th August 1972. Token working over the bridge ended in 1961. After that date, the interlocking was electrical between Saltash and RAB box. The box closed on the 2nd July 1973 when the line was singled back to just beyond Bow String bridge. Copyright Ron Kosys.
Before we finally leave the bridge Clive Smith sent in this almost mid-summer picture of that famous structure. 7438 and 50038 Formidable cross the Royal Albert Bridge on a glorious midsummer evening with the 18.15 Penzance to Bristol TM on the 14th June 1983. Probably not best to be pointing a camera westwards late evening but thankfully the low sunlight wonderfully illuminates the famous bridge and the train.
Copyright Clive Smith
A feature of 2018 and of several summers in the past has been the working of the day coaches from the overnight sleeper on a special run from Penzance to Exeter and back. On a particularly nice day- the 23rd June 2018 the loco 57 605 and coaches cross the Royal Albert Bridge - the time is 12.20. Copyright
Ron Kosys focusses on the St Budeaux end of the Royal Albert Bridge on the 10th August 1972.
Peak 084 rolls off the Royal Albert Bridge with an up freight on the 10th August 1972. Copyright Ron Kosys. Further advice from Tony Hill ;- it is working the midday Penzance to Crewe 4M05 Parcels and Perishables service ..note the wide variety of
pre- nationlisation and BR parcel vans; thought to be, from Engine:-
LMS BG, three SR PMVs, BR MKI BG, LNER six wheel Stove, BR BG, LMS BG, then possibly a Departmental bogie coach, BR CCT, BR BG, and an SR BY Bogie van. Load 12. It all goes by road now !
The following two pictures are off the same negative the first in black and white the second colour. Obviously taken before the singling of the line between the RAB and St Budeaux station. Although not obvious from the first picture it is obvious from the second colour view that the down loop has not received much traffic - the rails are definitely rusty. Well done in your editing Ron. The down main line and the down loop were taken out of use w.e.ef. 2nd July 1973.
Many thanks Ron
Clive Smith focusses on the St Budeaux end of the Royal Albert Bridge on the 14th October 2021.
There has been a substantial vegetation clearance between the old signal box and the bridge in recent weeks. On my visit mist had covered the river and was just burning off at 10.15. Two 2+4 Castle HST sets were due within fifteen minutes of each other so this was ideal. There's still a few too many trees and I get the impression the clearance has taken place to provide a storage area for materials for rail bridge work. Contractors have been working on the road bridge for aeons and they have metal storage units parked in the bottom section of the car park which detracts from another potential photo location further to the right of this position.
Regards, Clive Smith
Regards, Clive Smith
Many thanks Clive.
Saltash Passage Present and Past
Clive Smith
N.B. Article dated 20th August 2018
As the six month countdown begins for the end of HSTs on the Londons I took the opportunity to record their crossing of the Royal Albert Bridge from the Devon side; a location I had not visited for 35 years to take pictures. The grey iconic bridge was brighter than the grey skies and the even greyer Tamar as the sun remained resolutely hidden behind clouds, a far cry from a few weeks back. At least the two services produced 'FGW Dynamic Lines' liveried examples to brighten the scene. I suspect the IETs would look quite striking in this livery.
How the location has changed since 1983. Trees have obviously grown but so too have the properties opposite St Budeaux Junction box with new builds and large extensions proliferating, a reflection of the property boom and stunning views. The Tamar Road bridge itself has changed since 2001 with widening and strengthening with extra lanes added. The 1983 trackside view of the two bridges from the bridge lower car park is now difficult to obtain with a major redevelopment of the bridge offices currently taking place. Car parking is temporarily severely restricted.
Regards, Clive Smith Many thanks Clive.
As the six month countdown begins for the end of HSTs on the Londons I took the opportunity to record their crossing of the Royal Albert Bridge from the Devon side; a location I had not visited for 35 years to take pictures. The grey iconic bridge was brighter than the grey skies and the even greyer Tamar as the sun remained resolutely hidden behind clouds, a far cry from a few weeks back. At least the two services produced 'FGW Dynamic Lines' liveried examples to brighten the scene. I suspect the IETs would look quite striking in this livery.
How the location has changed since 1983. Trees have obviously grown but so too have the properties opposite St Budeaux Junction box with new builds and large extensions proliferating, a reflection of the property boom and stunning views. The Tamar Road bridge itself has changed since 2001 with widening and strengthening with extra lanes added. The 1983 trackside view of the two bridges from the bridge lower car park is now difficult to obtain with a major redevelopment of the bridge offices currently taking place. Car parking is temporarily severely restricted.
Regards, Clive Smith Many thanks Clive.
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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.
140809r Crossing over the former Southern Main Line west of St Budeaux. Copyright Roger Winnen. Between the end of the Royal Albert bridge and St Budeaux the was until 2nd July 1973 double track, prior to this two virtually identical 'bow string bridges' crossed the former double track 'Southern' main line at this point. The Southern was reduced to single track in September 1970.
St Budeaux Ferry Road
6438 on the Saltash Shuttle pulls away from St Budeaux Ferry Rd for Plymouth on the 22nd August 1962 (passengers can be seen walking up to the bridge). Copyright Sid Sponheimer. The bracket repeater signal just in the picture on the left hand side is of interest. Until 2nd July 1973 the main line was double track as far as the Royal Albert Bridge and there was a down loop situated between Bow String bridge and the RAB. The signal refers to the down main and the loop. A down train is signalled through on the main line.
St Budeaux Ferry Road 1960 A single car 'bubble car' was insufficient for the traffic and had to haul an additional coach - no auto working here - the DMU had to run round at Plymouth - Copyright Sid Sponheimer Note the buildings both on the up and down sides, and in the background the Southern Railway Goods shed on 'the other line'.
140809r St Budeaux Ferry Road Station. Copyright Roger Winnen. This picture was taken as the summer Saturday loco hauled train passed through the station, hence the gentleman with a camera on the down platform. Notice also the repeater signal for the entry to the single track which lies just beyond the bridge.
6C97 at St Budeaux (Ferry Road)
Colas Rail 70816 top and tailed with 70812 headed to Cornwall from Westbury with the RDT (Rail Delivery Train) as 6C97 for a rail drop at Shillingham between Saltash and St Germans over two nights, pictured is 70816 at St Budeaux Ferry Road awaiting the possession to be given up to return to Westbury on 23rd August 2020 - Copyright Alan Peters
St Budeaux Ferry Road Signalbox & Junction
A picture full of interest. A smart timber signalbox, the milepost, the fire buckets and the 'H' type chimney. Behind lies the Southern Main Line heading, to the right, towards Ford and Plymouth, Wolseley Road bridge is in situ, now just a memory. Picture dated October 1965 is by Mike Roach - Copyright
A most interesting picture by Sid Sponheimer feauturing St Budeaux Ferry Road Signalbox, and also the entrance to the Bull Point branch. Note the gate across the branch metals and also the signals specifically from the Bull Point branch, these would have permitted trains from Bull point to go either on the Southern or Great Western lines. Also note the falling gradient of the Bull point branch away towards the waterside terminus. As can be seen from the main line signals this train is destined for Cornwall. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.
A down freight headed by a class 41 comes off Weston Mill viaduct and heads for St Budeaux Junction, The original alignment here was at a lower level to cross Brunel's original timber viaduct which lay slightly north of this replacement structure - the replacement took place in 1903. Weston Mill viaduct spanned Weston Mill Lake, which has relatively recently been infilled and provides another road access to the Naval Base. Again, until recently, there was a public footbridge alongside and part of Weston Mill viaduct, a handy short cut now closed on security grounds. Copyright Sid Sponheimer
Dear Keith,
I can give an approximate date for Sid's picture: The signal is St Budeaux down home with fixed distant for Royal Albert box. The lower arm reads across the wartime emergency connection to the Southern. The distant signal on the doll is for St Budeaux Victoria Road. The picture therefore pre-dates the closure of the SR line into Devonport (1964).
The D600 warships were notoriously unreliable and the decision was made (after many embarrassing failures) to confine them to west of Plymouth where, I suppose, it was thought they would do less harm.There was a rule in the early diesel years that failures could not simply be shunted into sidings ( for PR reasons, one supposes) and I recall seeing one of them shunted into Camborne goods shed after failing!
I remember seeing the whole class (I think) lined up for scrap at Laira.
Roy Hart
I can give an approximate date for Sid's picture: The signal is St Budeaux down home with fixed distant for Royal Albert box. The lower arm reads across the wartime emergency connection to the Southern. The distant signal on the doll is for St Budeaux Victoria Road. The picture therefore pre-dates the closure of the SR line into Devonport (1964).
The D600 warships were notoriously unreliable and the decision was made (after many embarrassing failures) to confine them to west of Plymouth where, I suppose, it was thought they would do less harm.There was a rule in the early diesel years that failures could not simply be shunted into sidings ( for PR reasons, one supposes) and I recall seeing one of them shunted into Camborne goods shed after failing!
I remember seeing the whole class (I think) lined up for scrap at Laira.
Roy Hart
What a smashing colour shot from Sid Sponheimer. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, ignoring the smart warship in the foreground cast your eyes along the southern alignment in the background, you can see it disappearing away towards Camels Head and possibly see the platforms. Also there appears to be somebody standing on the 'six foot' by the rear of the locomotive. 1964 Copyright Sid Sponheimer
Bull Point branch Just after St Budeaux Junction a short branch led down to R.N.A.D site at Bull Point. The connection with the main line received a new ground frame in 1973 but the branch has been disused and was lifted some time ago. See separate section.
Weston Mill Viaduct
140802s A 'modern' picture taken in 2014. 43163 in Plymouth livery on what seems to be the 17.26 Newquay-Paddington. The cross over which 43163 has just reached is used for Gunnislake bound trains to cross from the down main to the up main. The Gunnislake services quickly come to a turnout leading them onto the Gunnislake branch proper. Copyright Roger Winnen
A Warship this time heads west towards St Budeaux with a substantial train. This view, as others in this series were taken from a footpath alongside the Bull Point Branch. Sadly this view is no long possible as the river bed has been completely covered with infill and a new entry to the Naval Base and a large car park created beyond the viaduct. Copyright Sid Sponheimer
A DMU heads west. The waterways visible in this picture have completely disappeared, and in March 2014 the construction of a controversial Waste Disposal Incinerator plant over the still waters in the immediate foreground is well advanced. Sad, but true. This picture dates from the early 1960's Copyright Sid Sponheimer
Camels Head Creek taken from the shoreline in the 1960's - this area is now totally reclaimed land with a road and the entrance to the Naval Base. 1960's The white buildings seen underneath the second span of the viaduct are at Bull Point. If it were possible to take this picture from this position nowadays the majority of properties in the background would be hidden by the Giant Waste to Energy Plant. Copyright Sid Sponheimer
140802q Crossing Weston Mill Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen (Note - there used to be a very handy footpath accompanying the this bridge - it was on the left hand side in this view - you can just see it leading up the side of the cutting in the distance. Unfortunately, though understandably, as this took the general public directly over what was once mud but is now one of the entry roads into the dockyard it has been closed, for security reasons. The branch into Devonport Docks turned off to the right in the distant shadows)
Hi Roger,
Good to see you at Marsh Mills the other week.
Your picture on the CRS website today of WMV stirred memories! The collection of blue portacabins and two storey building behind were the first buildings put up as site offices by the contractors Kier Ltd who had just started the huge Submarine Refit Complex job in the Dockyard. Though your pic was taken on a Sunday, I was in that building the following day having just been transferred to this contract from Head Office (I was a Quantity Surveyor then).
From my desk I could see the Viaduct’s southern end so observed what passed by, particularly the shunting moves to & from the Dockyard branch. Little did I know then, how involved I was to become with that line!
Thanks for posting it and sending me down ‘memory lane’.
Cheers,
Paul Burkhalter
Devonport Dockyard junction at Keyham
150 248 on BLS South West Rambler", disappears into the gloom under the bridge and into the base where it ran to the Exchange Sidings. No photographs were allowed inside the base with the exception of an official photograph of the DMU at the exchange sidings. This picture appears on page 92 of Paul Burkhalter’s excellent book ‘Devonport Dockyard Railway'. Recommended reading for those with a thirst for details of the once extensive Dockyard Railways. On the return run the railtour paused at Barracks Platform, before departing for Par.
11th March 1995 Copyright Roger Winnen
The junction for Devonport Dockyard taken in the 1960's' . This is particularly interesting on several counts - the run round loop on the Dockyard branch and crossover on the main line were removed in June 1973 (Ref Tony Cookes Track Diagram Section 12) . Also Camels Head Creek, before infilling, can be seen both to the left and right of the viaduct. One can imagine the Bull Point branch running from its junction with the main line on the far bank and down almost on the shore towards the left. Also notice that smashing footpath alongside Weston Mill viaduct. Copyright Sid Sponheimer
Additional information from Paul Burkhalter. I can add a small comment, that while the crossover to form a loop to the headshunt was removed in 1973, the headshunt itself remained in-situ (but unused) until about 1992, when I had it lifted as part of an upgrade to the branch. Every sleeper was rotten, and the rails in very poor condition, so I guess it hadn’t seen any maintenance for decades!
The footpath that went across “Shaky Bridge” was closed in the 1990s I think, as BR/Railtrack/NR didn’t want the liability of maintenance. It was finally removed when WMV was refurbed recently. Many thanks to Paul.
The footpath that went across “Shaky Bridge” was closed in the 1990s I think, as BR/Railtrack/NR didn’t want the liability of maintenance. It was finally removed when WMV was refurbed recently. Many thanks to Paul.
Flask Traffic to Devonport Dockyard 27th January 2016
Keyham
This picture taken from a Roger Winnen News report shows the situation during an 'engineering occupation ' - the main work was taking place was the renewal of the up main line at the end of Weston Mill viaduct. The Keyham station site was once much larger than we see here - there were several loops and a shed in the goods area. For the majority of the time the one remaining loop is unoccupied and it is a rarity to see anything in the loop. It will be noted that the points in the loop have been set into the loading dock. 30th November 2014 Copyright Roger Winnen.
Ford Halt Closure w.e.f. 6th October 1941 due to enemy action.
Keyham Viaduct
Dockyard Halt
Further notes on Devonport tunnel kindly supplied by Colin Burges. On the walls near the east end of Devonport Tunnel are vertical white lines indicating the position of Ford Tunnel beneath. In Ford Tunnel are similar marks and trains can be heard overhead, just like on the Underground.
Devonport
Just to the east of Devonport Albert Road a couple of lines dived off to the right under a road bridge into the Goods Yard which in fact closed 15th April 1957. However the yard saw re-use as a Civil Engineers depot. This view was taken by poking a camera over the rather high side of the bridge. The rails into the depot were removed in 1971. Copyright Sid Sponheimer
Devonport Junction.
Devonport Kings Road closed to passengers 7th Sept 1964, the first picture below was taken by Mike Roach during the following week. All passenger trains for the 'southern route' were diverted over the wartime connection at St Budeaux on to the former Southern Main Line onwards to Okehampton and Exeter. The section beyond Kings Road through Ford and onto just east of St Budeaux being closed to all traffic wef 7th September 1964. Kings Road remained in use for good traffic until 4th January 71.
A most interesting picture from Sid Sponheimer. Taken looking west - the GW and Southern lines have just parted company at Devonport Junction. Both road bridges carry Molesworth Road. On the Southern line, to the left, the next stop is Devonport Kings Road, on the GW line the next stop is Devonport. However just before the bridge until June 1921 lay Wingfield Villas Halt. The loco is 31857. The Southern lines were closed completely, having served Devonport King Road Goods depot after closure to passengers, in March 1971 and removed in May 1971. The cutting was completely filled in. Copyright
De la Hey Avenue bridge. Plymouth. Jul62. Copyright Mike Roach. You may wonder why this is included? This bridge is just to the east of Devonport Jct. The signalbox, out of sight to the left, controlled both Cornwall and Devonport Jcts. Take a closer look at this picture. There was a derailment here in summer 62. The parapet of the bridge has been damaged - a wagon fell in the street here. Look behind the 'Nelson' hoarding. you'll see a van on its side. Yet, it was reported in the paper, that despite this happening in the middle of the night nobody in number 55, just visible left, nobody woke up!!
Cornwall Junction - Stonehouse or Victoria Park Viaduct
Victoria Park or Stonehouse Pool viaduct. Atop the piers of this structure which carried the line from Cornwall Junction to Millbay has been placed an enormous piece of 'steel art'. However, look a bit more. This picture represents a moment in history, the original viaduct is being dismantled - the spans to the left have already gone. Beyond this viaduct lies Cornwall Loop Viaduct. This picture captured by Mike Roach in October 1965 - Copyright
Battle of Britain class 34078 '222 Squadron' leaving North Road in January 1964. This picture is of great interest as it shows the former locomotive stabling point located in the triangle created by the lines to Millbay, the polished track on the right hand side and the Cornwall loop on which the loco is travelling and the direct curve over Stonehouse Park. Of the rusty metals in the stabling area three of these led to a turntable, there were two holding sidings. Most of these lines were taken out of use in 1963/4 and the turntable taken out of use in 1964. The metals to Millbay ceased to be used in September 1971. Copyright Sid Sponhiemer.
This photograph was kindly supplied by Andy Miller, unfortunately, we do not have any copyright information. Nevertheless a most interesting picture. Access to the up main from the turntable was removed in October 1963 and the turntable was completely isolated March 1964 when the turntable was officially taken out of use. Ref Track Layout Diagrams Sect. 12 Plymouth by R.A. Cooke. Further information kindly supplied by Roger Winnen - The engine on the turntable at Plymouth is a Saint Class Engine numbered in the 29xx series, these were built without side windows to the cabs.
The last one in that class which survived was 2920 Saint David and it was withdrawn in October 1953.This engine is possibly Saint David, this photo was taken after nationalisation from 1948.
From the same position as above but turning to look further west Battle of Britain class 34078 '222 Squadron' continues over the viaduct which linked the Cornwall Railway metals with North Road station. Of great interest are the metals of the direct route from Cornwall to Millbay station over the former viaduct. These lines were closed on the 16th January 1964 and lifted in the following June. It can be seen that colour light signals for Cornwall Loop Junction, to the extreme left are still in position. Copyright Sid Sponheimer. Note the ancient gas light in the foreground with the on/off chains to the gas tap awaiting a hook on a pole!!
Obscure details!
It is one of those obscure details which tends to catch my eye while I miss the obvious. I don't recall any mention of the mileage anomaly caused by the closure of Millbay, which is denoted by the boundary marker on the Cornwall Loop adjacent to the Pennycomequick staff club. I only have it on a Publisher file which includes a picture of some Brutes in a Newton Abbot car park.
Cheers, Colin Burges See below
It is one of those obscure details which tends to catch my eye while I miss the obvious. I don't recall any mention of the mileage anomaly caused by the closure of Millbay, which is denoted by the boundary marker on the Cornwall Loop adjacent to the Pennycomequick staff club. I only have it on a Publisher file which includes a picture of some Brutes in a Newton Abbot car park.
Cheers, Colin Burges See below
Plymouth North Road
A Castle waits to set off from Plymouth North Road. Roger Tabb is the fireman but has just time enough to take this quick snap shot from the cab on a rather misty day. Note the colour light signals have been installed but the white cross indicates that they are not in use yet. Just visible though the metalwork of the semaphore gantry on the platform is the roof of North Road West signalbox. Copyright Roger Tabb.
Highly recommended film . click on the link below for fascinating footage from the BBC of a journey from Plymouth North Road - it was called that then, to King Tor Platform on the Princetown branch. Note the exterior of the old North Road station, the Devonian accents, and when on the platform the North Road West Signalbox.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/devon/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8473000/8473201.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/devon/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8473000/8473201.stm
Copyright John Cornelius N.B, Plymouth friary had closed 15th September 1958 so all trains over the Southern Route, via Okehampton started at North Road. As a result of the closure of Friary in 1958 the term 'North Road' was dropped, however it is still to this day known by some as 'North Road'! The train is standing at a one time through platform converted to being a terminal platform in 1974.
Here on 14th May 1960 one can see almost the full length of the 'auto', whether it was proceeding to or from Laira or merely changing platforms is not known. The location is just east of the main station complex. Mutley, once served by these trains, is just round the corner. May 1960. Copyright Mike Roach.
Plymouth - Gallery 1
See next two pictures :- Not content with a very rare passenger appearance the previous weekend on a York - Plymouth relief train, 37024 decided it would pay a second visit to the west country, this time going all the way to Penzance. The loco makes a splendid site and noise at Plymouth on the 10.30 York - Penzance relief on a very wet 27th July 1985. I believe the loco was allocated to March depot at the time and is still going strong as 37714 on the Great Central Railway. Unfortunately relief trains are by and large a thing of the past and overcrowding sadly the accepted norm at busy times.
Regards Clive Smith
Regards Clive Smith
With reference to photo 10 above. Trevor Tremethick writes : - The 'Thor' nameplates were transferred to D1677 after the
original 'Thor', D1671, was scrapped in 1966 following a fatal accident. 1677
was a Landore engine and I rode down from Plymouth to Truro on the train
pictured.
Reference picture 18 Roger Geach writes - A picture for you of a wet Plymouth at 1655 hrs with 1034 on the first up milk 6A19 1350 St Erth - Acton with 17 milk tanks during a shower. This service only ran for a few weeks in the Spring and Autumn as a relief service to the main train.The main milk train 6a21 1640 St Erth - Acton milk was worked by 1058 that day and conveyed 12 milk tanks at Plymouth arriving at 1900 hrs .
Reference picture 18 Roger Geach writes - A picture for you of a wet Plymouth at 1655 hrs with 1034 on the first up milk 6A19 1350 St Erth - Acton with 17 milk tanks during a shower. This service only ran for a few weeks in the Spring and Autumn as a relief service to the main train.The main milk train 6a21 1640 St Erth - Acton milk was worked by 1058 that day and conveyed 12 milk tanks at Plymouth arriving at 1900 hrs .
Plymouth Gallery 2
Due to the ever increasing number of Plymouth station pictures we've had to expand to a second gallery. With reference to the first picture below - John Geach writes - Due to late running D1033 Western Trooper stands at platform 6 with the 0845 Paddington to Plymouth via Bristol service. D1027 Western Lancer stands on the right with the 1045 Pd -Plymouth. On platform 4, out of view 1072, Western Glory has arrived with the 1030 Paddington - Penzance all between 1459 and 1515 hrs on a dull Sunday 4 Aug 1974.
Due to the ever increasing number of Plymouth station pictures we've had to expand to a second gallery. With reference to the first picture below - John Geach writes - Due to late running D1033 Western Trooper stands at platform 6 with the 0845 Paddington to Plymouth via Bristol service. D1027 Western Lancer stands on the right with the 1045 Pd -Plymouth. On platform 4, out of view 1072, Western Glory has arrived with the 1030 Paddington - Penzance all between 1459 and 1515 hrs on a dull Sunday 4 Aug 1974.
Plymouth North Road, East box.
The first box opened 1876 with 19 levers, it closed Nov 1908 being replaced by a new box - this box with 48 levers lasted until 25 August 1939 when it was replaced by the box seen here which had 185 levers. This box lasted until 26 Nov 1960 when replaced by the Plymouth Panel. Credit for this information to the late Larry Crosier. Trevor Tremethick asks that we note the interesting stock in the siding adjacent to the box.
The first box opened 1876 with 19 levers, it closed Nov 1908 being replaced by a new box - this box with 48 levers lasted until 25 August 1939 when it was replaced by the box seen here which had 185 levers. This box lasted until 26 Nov 1960 when replaced by the Plymouth Panel. Credit for this information to the late Larry Crosier. Trevor Tremethick asks that we note the interesting stock in the siding adjacent to the box.
And finally - Bernard Mills is a well known photographer particularly in the Plymouth district and also throughout the 'Empire' - he was also a Western Fan and decorated his car as seen below.
Tailpiece - Plymouth in the snow 1985 Clive Smith
Aerial views of Plymouth Station from the 7th Floor - Clive Smith
Now here's somewhere you'd all like to get, however its very security conscious and only those who work there or who have business there can gain entry.
Clive Smith who worked at intercity House from 1999 to 2012 was one of those lucky people who during lunch and tea breaks could go to a window and get those high level shots we all dream of. Many thanks for taking and sharing your pictures with us Clive.
Earlier in his career Clive had worked in London in 1987 working for BR at Paddington in what was called the Telephone Enquiry Bureau (T.E.B.). He then worked at the platform information office and ticket office.
Clive Smith who worked at intercity House from 1999 to 2012 was one of those lucky people who during lunch and tea breaks could go to a window and get those high level shots we all dream of. Many thanks for taking and sharing your pictures with us Clive.
Earlier in his career Clive had worked in London in 1987 working for BR at Paddington in what was called the Telephone Enquiry Bureau (T.E.B.). He then worked at the platform information office and ticket office.
Many thanks Clive