Diesel railtours in Cornwall & Devon Part 1 1960 to 1989

Diesel Railtours
in Cornwall & Devon
1960 to 1989

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

If you would like to save your pictures of any of these railtours for posterity and have any story to tell please let the Webmaster have them. No rewards offered other than to you the knowledge that your work has been published and the pleasure that your pleasure has been shared with others - world wide. Thank you.

Some of the following pictures have been copied from very old and deteriorating slides- whilst apologising for the quality we hope you will understand and accept that we've done the best we can.

Railtour - Halwill to Torrington and Bideford
27th February 1965
Little is known about this railtour, apparently a special train chartered for the last day of public services on the 'light railway' between Halwill Junction and Torrington. This was the last passenger train on that last day of public services to cover the line between Torrington and Halwill Jct, though other railtours covered the line as far as Meeth. (See the steam railtour which traversed the line a month after its closure w.e.f 1st March 1965. Any offers of more information would be very much appreciated.

At Halwill Junction, making our way towards the special located in the Torrington bay on the last day of the public services on this line. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The train, with headboard duly affixed stands in the bay. 27th February 1965 Copyright Si Sponheimer

A general scene at Halwill Junction, as seen from the Torrington bay platform. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Hole station 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The illuminated sign at Hole station. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Hatherleigh from the back of the departing train, some people who may have taken photographs are crossing the line - where are those pictures now - do they still exist? 27th February 1965. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A very interesting shot, the approach to Meeth over the level crossing. 27th February 1965.

Spectators watch as the train departs Meeth. 'Dig those crazy cars' is Sid's comment on this picture. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The signal is up at the train departs Petrockstowe over the level crossing. There are a couple of spectators. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Petrockstowe is still visible in this picture, note the lattice signal post. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Open country ahead as the DMU turndles downhill towards Dunsbear halt. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Dunsbear Halt 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A slight climb to Yarde station which served a small gathering of houses. One might think with the advert for Car Ferries that this was a major station. A minor road crosses the line here. Being a light railway there was no requirement for level crossing gates or barriers, trains had to stop for cars! 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Much interest on board as the train approaches Watergate Halt again over an ungated level crossing. The platform can just be seen beyond the crossing. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Leaving Watergate down the grade towards Torrington through the 'forested section'. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Watergate after track lifting, the road crossing can be seen beyond the platform. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

In this view from the rear cab the line has just completed its descent from Watergate and levels out to cross the river on this long viaduct. Thankfully this crossing has been been preserved as a cycle route. 27th February 1965. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

We've arrived at Torrington and the headboard receives some attention. Thankfully this station has survived remarkably intact due to the efforts of the Tarka Valley Railway Group. 27th February 1965

A second view at Torrington as the headboard continues to receive attention. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

It would appear that the railtour proceeded at least to Bideford where it is seen on the platform for a return to Torrington. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Back again at Torrington where the train awaits, amongst other things, for its passengers to rejoin, and the signal to clear. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

Time for a view of the station from the road bridge. Quite of stock can be seen in the yard, a class 22 63XX shelters from any weather in the shed. The shed now sees use a cycle hire depot. The headboard appears to have been left on the rear of the train. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

We re-cross the bridge over the river at Torrington. 27th February 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

The last picture in this sequence by Sid is of the departure from Meeth Halt. Not a soul to witness it, a few cows seem vaguely interested. 27th February 1965. Copyright

With many thanks to Sid Sponheimer, without his pictures we'd have no record of this special train.
The line was to see one more passenger train, that was exactly one month later when a steam charter passed through. See our steam railtours section for the 27th March 1965 for this one.

18th June 1966
Plymouth Railway Circle
Plymouth Area Brake Van Tour

Locos Used D2177 & D2178 Stock Used 6 or 7 brake vans
Route :

Loco(s)   Route D2178 Plymouth Marsh Mills - Tavistock Jn D2178 Tavistock Jn - Laira Jn - Mount Gould Jn - Friary Jn - Sutton Harbour D2178 Sutton Harbour - Friary Jn - Mount Gould Jn D2178 Mount Gould Jn - Cattewater Jn - Cattewater (as far as tunnel) D2178 Cattewater - Cattewater Jn D2178 Cattewater Jn - Plymstock D2178 Plymstock - Cattewater Jn - Friary Jn - Plymouth Friary D2178 Plymouth Friary - Friary Jn - Mount Gould Jn - Lipson Jn - Plymouth - Cornwall Jn - Millbay Docks D2177 + D2178 Millbay Docks - Cornwall Jn - Plymouth D2177   Plymouth - Devonport Jn - Stonehouse Pool Quay   D2177 Stonehouse Pool - Quay - Devonport Jn - Plymouth
Notes :
(1) Route confirmation required - reported as the only passenger train ever to use the direct chord between Plymouth Marsh Mills and Tavistock Jn.
(2) D2178 failed at Millbay Docks.
Information kindly supplied by Bernard Mills

D2178 at Friary on the 18th June 1966 Copyright John Ball

The railtour visits the Stonehouse Pool branch with D2177 18th June 1966 Copyright John Ball

3rd October 1970 The 'Exmoor Belle'

Organised jointly by L.C.G.B., P.R.C. and L.C.G.B.
This tour ran from Exeter to Barnstaple, and Ilfracombe (Last day of service) and thence via Bideford and Torrington and on to Meeth siding. (The tour apparently caused some local agitation being run over a line from which all passenger services had been withdrawn, Barnstaple - Torrington on 4th October 65 and between Torrington and Halwill Junction 1st March 65)

Combe Rail Combe Rail is a charity dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Ilfracombe line. "Devon Belle" is our quarterly e-newsletter, and is distributed free to Combe Rail members. If you're interested, you can download back issues here: http://www.combe-rail.org.uk/newsletter/
Try clicking the above link - you'll find many interesting pictures of the Ilfracombe line - KJ

Timetable for Saturday 3rd October 1970.

The timetable in force at the time lasted from 4 May 1970 to 2 May 1971. On Saturdays until 26 September there were 7 trains a day. On weekdays and Saturdays from 3 October there were only 5 trains a day each way.
So there was only one Saturday with these times - the last. Thus the times in force on that last day were: - St. Davids dep 04.05 08.45 13.35 16.00 17.46 Barnstaple Jct dep 05.21 10.02 11.31 14.42 17.20 19.03 i.e Barnstaple Junc Ilfracombe arr 06.00 10.39 12.08 15.19 17.58 19.40 Ilfracombe dep 08.10 10.50 12.20 15.28 18.10 19.55 Barnstaple arr 08.48 11.28 12.58 16.05 18.53 20.35

As can be seen the 'Exmoor Belle' times fitted very easily into the public timetable on that day. I am indebted to Mike Roach for supplying the public train times - the railtour timings come courtesy of 'Six Bells Junction.

3rd October 1970
L.G.C.B. / P.R.C. / R.C.T.S.
Exmoor Belle Rail Tour
DMU Used51328+59498+51313Route :
DMURoute
as listedExeter St Davids - Cowley Bridge Jn - Crediton - Eggesford - Barnstaple Juncton - Barnstaple Town - Mortehoe & Woolacombe - Ilfracombe
as listedIlfracombe - Mortehoe & Woolacombe - Barnstaple Junction
as listedBarnstaple Junction - Torrington - Yarde Halt - Meeth Siding
as listedMeeth Siding - (reverse of outward route) - Barnstaple Junction - Eggesford - Crediton - Cowley Bridge Jn - Riverside Yard - goods lines - Exeter West Box
as listedExeter West Box - Exeter St DavidsNotes :
This was the last day for services over the Barnstaple - Ilfracombe line. The running of this service over the freight only Barnstaple - Meeth line caused protests by a number of locals who felt it wrong for enthusiasts to travel over a line no longer available to the local populace.
Sources : David Hills (compiled from contemporary reports) & John Broderick

Timings (Booked & Actual)
(from John Broderick)
LocationBookedActual
Exeter St Davids10.20d10.20d
Cowley Bridge Jn10/2310/22
Crediton10/3010/30
Coleford Jn10/3610/37
Copplestone10/3810/41½
Eggesford10/5210/52
Umberleigh11/0911/06
Barnstaple Junction11.20a ~ 11.30d11.15a ~ 11.31d
Braunton11/4111/43
Ilfracombe12.00a ~ 12.15d12.08½a ~ 12.20d
Mortehoe & Woolacombe12.26a ~ 12.32d12.33a ~ 12.37½
Braunton12/4212/47
Barnstaple Junction12.53a ~ 13.00d12.58½a ~ 13.06d
Instow13/2813/32
Torrington14p00a ~ 15p10d14.03½a ~ 14.16d
Watergate14p27a ~ 14.23d14.27½a ~ 14.33d
Yarde Halt?14.45a ~ 14.53d
Meeth Siding14.58a ~ 15.03d15.16a ~ 15.29d
Petrockstow?15.37a ~ 15.42d
Torrington15/5016.16½a ~ 16.18d
Bideford16p10a ~ 16p15d16.37a ~ 16.42d
Instow16/2516/51½
Barnstaple Junction16.53a ~ 17.16d17.15a ~ 17.17d
Umberleigh17/2517/26
Eggesford17/4317/42
Copplestone17/5617/53
Coleford Jn17/5817/56½
Crediton18/0518/02
Cowley Bridge Jn18.15a ~ 18.20d18/12
Exeter Riverside (goods loop)18/2818/15
Exeter West Box18.33a ~ 18.35d18.21½a ~ 18.22d
Exeter St Davids18.36a18.23a

We paused at Barnstable Town only for sufficient time to exchange tokens. Leaving Barnstable we crossed over the Pottington Swing Bridge after which a single line once trailed in serving Rolles Quay.

We now proceeded for some way along the river bank before passing through Wrafton and Brauton. We were timed at Braunton at 11.41 and were actually two mins late! Beyond Braunton the line commenced a six mile climb to Mortehoe and Woolacombe.

Having completed the climb to Mortehoe was passed straight trough and continued on the 1 in 36 descent to Ilfracombe.

We now returned to Barnstaple Jct, in this direction we called at Mortehoe and Woolacombe for four and half minutes - time for a picture or two!

The next part of our railtour was over lines not due to close that day but nevertheless already closed to passengers and thus very interesting. As we travelled down the other bank of the Taw we could reminisce over our journey on the line across the waters which we could never repeat again. There were attempts to open the line as a tourist attraction but they came, unfortunately, to naught.

On now, passing Yelland Power station and after passing through a tunnel we round a curve to Instow station which is proceeded by a level crossing. The signalbox here is still in existence as a listed building- however the station closed 4 Oct 65.

There now followed a run up alongside the River Torridge the shores of which we had just joined.

Beyond Bideford we skirted the ever narrowing Torridge estuary to come to a bridge which carried the line over the river soon after which it plunged into a tunnel. The line then crossed another bridge before arriving at Torrington Station.

Beyond Torrington which we left at 14.03 we crossed the bridge over the Torridge and then followed the twisting course of the former narrow gauge railway towards Meeth. Watergate being the first station along this section. At the time the name 'Watergate' was appearing on many newspapers associated with the 'Watergate Scandal' and President Nixon. Watergate station, a very basic platform, barely long enough for one coach, was followed by an ungated crossing. Beyond this was, in effect, a village green and it was here that the train driver wisely chose to stop rather than block the road.

Yarde was next, a basic concrete platform followed by an ungated level crossing. This time the driver stopped before the crossing and participants eagerly de-trained to view the scene. Other than a row of houses adjacent to the station there appeared to be little potential traffic.

As Petrockstow is preceded by an ungated level crossing we paused momentarily before the crossing then continued past Dunsbear Halt to Meeth siding. On our return journey we passed through the overgrown platform and siding at Dunsbear Halt and continued on to make an inspection of Petrockstow where we could stop without fouling the crossing. However the stations are shown in the order in which the occurred on the outward trip.

We arrived at our destination, Meeth Siding at 15.16 (13 mins after we should have left!). However, the loop at Meeth Siding was about 150 yards short of the end of the truncated line towards Meeth Halt. The track at the halt had already been lifted. Being enthusiasts we had to explore the line to its extremity and this is what the majority of the party did. We were running late and despite several blast on the horn for us to return there was little movement in that direction. The driver decided wisely to come and collect us, proceeding down towards the end of the line in a very cautious manner. We finally left Meeth at 15.29 - 26 mins late - but who cared!

19th - 21st May 1972 The Great Western
Wirral Railway Circle

Locos Used1045 'Western Viscount' Stock 15 including sleeping cars
Route :
1Z43 : Crewe to Penzance
1Z41 : Penzance to Crewe

Date(s)Loco 19th May 72 20th May 72 class 47? Crewe - Chester - Wrexham - Shrewsbury - Hereford - Bristol Temple Meads 2oth may 1972 1045 Bristol Temple Meads - Penzance 1045 Penzance - Bristol Temple Meads 21st May 1972 class 47 Bristol Temple Meads - Crewe

720520a Penzance station on the 20th May 1972 Many thanks to Bernard Mills for giving us this picture. Copyright Bernard Mills

26th Oct 1974 Hemyock Branch Railtour

The Hemyock branch closed to passengers 9th September 1963. However it remained open serve a dairy complex at Hemyock until 1st November 1975.
On 26th October 1974 the Plymouth Railway Circle organised a brake van tour of the line. Our train comprised two brakevans coupled to a class 25. We departed from platform 2 at Exeter St Davids - the journey along the main line was quite a thrill, viewing the countryside from the open platforms of the two brakevans. On arrival at Tiverton Junction, which closed to passengers on the 5th October 1964 and to goods8th May 1967 we were routed across the down main and into the branch platform of the station. It is thought that our passenger carrying train may well have been the last ever. Can anyone advise otherwise? Likewise if anybody else has pictures to offer and are willing to place them on line, then we'd be pleased to have them.

On arrival at Exeter our party of 22 gathered under the leadership of Mr. Lord. We found our train of two brakevans at platform 2. After a short while our motive power consisting of 25 225 arrived and couple up. On time we started to move snaking out over the extensive pointwork by Exeter East Signalbox to gain the to gain the up main line. With the regulator opened up we were soon speeding along sampling the lot of a goods guard as we bounced and rattled along. Soon alongside us on the down side we noted the havoc that was being wrought amongst the green fields - these were being torn up as the construction of the M5 was under way.

We were in the Tiverton Junction Hemyock platform for but a few minutes before setting off. The line curved sharply to the right to pass though a cutting which was spanned by a road bridge. Our first stop was at the site of Coldharbour Halt and siding. These had closed with the closure of the branch line to passengers on 9th September 63. However at this location there remained a level crossing, which had to be opened and shut.

From here on the line resembled a country lane twisting and turning, very little in the way of earthworks had been necessary in its construction. Our next stop was at Uffculme where we came to a stand alongside the mill while the gates were opened for us to proceed through to the platform. The sidings here remained open until 8th May 1967.

Culmstock was next, here again we paused to open the level crossing gates before the train could enter the platform. A delightful spot with the 'local' close by.

The last stop before Hemyock was at the level crossing prior to Whitehall Halt. The platform very much overgrown here.

At Hemyock lay the Milk Depot which was the reason for the continuance of the branch beyond its passenger days. The former passenger terminus buildings which lay alongside the river Culm had sadly already been swept away. The sidings, some of which extended across the road into the depot, lay behind the station in an area cut into the hillside. Here the party were able to enjoy the spectacle of some shunting whilst empty milk tankers were placed in the depot and the full ones drawn out.

Once the train was assembled we commenced our return journey. Due to the number of sharp curves on the branch the train had to be 'loose coupled'. The result of this 'loose coupling' was most noticeable in the brake vans where were subjected to a series of violent forward and backward jerks each time the locomotive pulled forward or eased up. The writer remembers being concerning at the possibility of breaking his ribs against the brakevan varanda as we made our erratic progress along the twisting line.

Many thanks to Mr. Bernard Mills of the Plymouth Railway Circle for organising this memorable railtour.

17th May 1975 The 'Atlantic Coast Express'

Locos UsedD1063, 25161 & 25224
Route :

Loco(s)Route1063London Paddington - Ealing Broadway - Slough - Reading General - Newbury - Westbury - Frome avoiding line - Castle Cary - Taunton - Exeter St. Davids1063 Exeter St. Davids - Crediton - Okehampton - Meldon Quarry1063Meldon Quarry - Okehampton - Crediton25161 + 25224Crediton - Eggesford - Barnstaple Jn - Torrington25161 + 25224Torrington - Barnstaple Jn - Eggesford - Crediton - Exeter St. Davids1063Exeter St. Davids - (reverse of outward route) - London Paddington
Notes :
(1) Contemporary reports at the time list the 25's as 25224 & 25274. It is also mentioned that 1063 Western Minitor was a last minute substitute for the booked train loco, 1053 Western Patriarch, which derailed at Old Oak Common as it left with the stock.

Leaving Paddington at 07.55 the train ran to time arriving at Exeter at 10.49 departing at 11.24. Meldon was enjoyed from 11.38 to 12.01, Returning to Crediton 1063 was removed and replaced by a couple of 'rats' 25224 & 25261.

A generous stay of 14.22 to 15.31 allowed participants to explore Barnstaple, and in fact this is just what they did. They explored the closed rail route towards Ilfracombe, at least crossing, in their masses, the old rail bridge over the river Taw and as far as Barnstaple Town. The railbridge was in a sorry state with holes in the decking through which the fast flowing waters of the river could be seen. However all participants crossed and recrossed the river and many sampled the unique views available from the remaining signals without any mishaps. We have to be very grateful that the strong arm of H & S inspectorate missed this railtour.

On then skirting the banks of the Taw past the former port of Fremington and the power station at Yelland before a short tunnel was negotiated followed by Instow and Bideford. By now we were alongside the River Torridge whose narrowing route we followed to Torrington (16.20) where the train reversed. A short stop was made at Bideford - we returned to Exeter on time.

On return to Crediton 1063 Western Monitor was detached and proceeded light to Exeter from whence it returned the railtour to London later in the day. Haulage was taken over by 25224 & 25261.

With an hour and nine minutes to spare at Barnstaple what do you do but explore. Note, we have used the island platform and the metals towards Ilfracombe although disused since 8th Oct 1970 are still in situ. Already groups are forming to make mass peaceful trespass along the rusty metals. Although the last passenger train ran in Oct 1970 as stated there was one last train - this consisted of a class 25 and an inspectors saloon which ran over the bridge on 26th Feb 1975. (Less than three months before our visit). The bridge was demolished in 1977.

Back on board the train now, we made that delightful run skirting the river Taw, past Yelland Power Station, through the tunnel then over the level crossing at Instow to join the banks of the river Torridge.

At Torrington there was sufficient time to view the run round of 25224 & 25261 and, beyond the station walk out onto the next bridge over the River Torridge. 17 May 75.

27th May 1975 The Great Britain Railtour

This was in the 'free and easy days', note various people out on the track to take pictures - no hi viz vests!

27th June 1976
Branch Line Society Cornish Clay Railtour
DMU Usedset P577 (51091+59422+51063)Route :
DMURoute
as listed(1) Plymouth - Saltash - Liskeard (main line) (1)
as listedLiskeard (branch bay) - Coombe Jn - Moorswater (2)
as listedMoorswater - Coombe Jn - Liskeard (branch bay)
as listedLiskeard (main line) - Bodmin Road - Lostwithiel - Carne Point
as listedCarne Point - Lostwithiel
as listedLostwithiel - Par - St. Blazey
as listedSt. Blazey - Par Bridge Crossing (3)
as listedPar Bridge Crossing - St. Blazey - Goonbarrow Jn - St. Dennis Jn
as listedSt. Dennis Jn - Goonbarrow Jn
as listedGoonbarrow Jn - Carbis Wharf (4)
as listedCarbis Wharf - Goonbarrow Jn - Pontsmill GF
as listedPontsmill GF - Pontsmill Siding
as listedPontsmill Siding - Pontsmill GF - Par
as listedPar - St. Austell - Burngullow Jn - Drinnick North - Parkandillack
as listedParkandillack - Drinnick North GF
as listedDrinnick North GF - Drinnick Mill, Nanpean Siding (5)
as listedDrinnick Mill, Nanpean Siding - Burngullow Jn - St. Austell - St. Austell Goods (6)
as listedSt. Austell Goods - St. Austell Up Loop
as listedSt. Austell Up Loop - Par - Lostwithiel - Bodmin Road - Liskeard - Saltash - PlymouthNotes :
(1) Conveyed stock (2-car DMU) for Looe service ECS from Plymouth to Liskeard (regular ECS move combined with tour to save a path).
(2) To final crossing (end of BR).
(3) Stub of Fowey line. To level crossing, nearly MP 282½.
(4) To just before last overbridge.
(5) To start of Wharf platform.
(6) To 25 yards short of loading platform.
Sources : Kevin Driscoll & Malcolm Be

Timings (Booked & Actual)
(from Kevin Driscoll & Ian Umpleby)
M.C
LocationBookedActual
0.00Plymouth08.45d08.45
4.18Saltash08/5408/55
17.63Liskeard (main line)09.12a09.14
N/ALiskeard (main line)ECS 09.25d?
N/ALiskeard (branch bay)ECS 09.35a?
17.63Liskeard (branch bay)09.55d09.57
19.72Coombe Jn10/0210.05 ~ 10.05
20.28Moorswater10.10 ~ 10.1510.12 ~ 10.22
20.64Coombe Jn10/2310.30 ~ 10.30
22.73Liskeard (branch bay)10.30a10.38
N/ALiskeard (branch bay)ECS 10.35d?
N/ALiskeard (main line)ECS 10.45a?
22.73Liskeard (main line)10.55d10.53
32.04Bodmin Road11c09 ~ 11c1111.08 ~ 11.11
35.37Lostwithiel11/1611.16 ~ 11.17
39.62Carne Point11.28 ~ 11.3511.30 ~ 11.40
44.05Lostwithiel11.50 ~ 11.5511.57 ~ 12.00
48.36Par12/0312/10
48.72St Blazey12.06 ~ 12.1212.12 ~ 12.17
49.14Par Bridge Crossing12.17 ~ 12.2912.19 ~ 12.35
49.36St Blazey12/3212.38 ~ 12.39
54.54Goonbarrow Jn12/4712.56 ~ 12.56
61.35St Dennis Jn13.02 ~ 13.0713.09 ~ 13.14
68.16Goonbarrow Jn13.30 ~ 13.3513.30 ~ 13.32
69.68Carbis Wharf13.55 ~ 14.0513.49 ~ 14.07
71.40Goonbarrow Jn14*25 ~ 14*4214.39 ~ 14.40
75.60Pontsmill GF14.45 ~ 15.0014.56 ~ 14.59
76.04Pontsmill Siding15.05 ~ 15.1015.01 ~ 15.20
76.28Pontsmill GF15/1515.22 ~ 15.24
77.62Par15.22 ~ 15.2715.30 ~ 15.41
82.23St Austell15/3615/51
84.32Burngullow Jn15*40 ~ 15*4815.57 ~ 16.04
89.12Parkandillack16.25 ~ 16.3516.28 ~ 16.47
91.19Drinnick North GFrev16.54 ~ 16.59
91.38Drinnick Mill, Nanpean Siding16.55 ~ 17.1017.04 ~ 17.16
94.20Burngullow Jn17/3017/33
96.29St Austell17/3517/37
96.52St Austell Goods17.40 ~ 17.4517.47 ~ 17.56
96.58St Austell Up Loop17.50 ~ 17.5317.59 ~ 18.02
101.19Par17c59 ~ 18c0018.09 ~ 18.09
109.03Bodmin Road18/1118.21 ~ 18.22
118.14Liskeard18/2418.38 ~ 18.38
131.59Saltash18/3918/54
135.77Plymouth18.50a19.06
Many thanks to Six Bells Junction Railtour files.

Branch Line Society Cornish Clay Railtour gaining access to the Looe & Moorswater Branch. 27th June 76. Copyright Roger Winnen

Branch Line Society Railtour at Liskeard branch platform. 27th June 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

- and again - the remains of the run round loop lie on the ballast. Liskeard Branch Platform. The Looe Train stands behind the Branch Line Society Railtour, a rare thing indeed! Copyright Roger Winnen

The Railtour at the entrance to Moorswater Clay driers. Copyright Roger Winnen

Heading along the branch towards Moorswater Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Cornish Clay Railtour at Moorswater. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

Railtour at Moorswater. Copyright Roger Winnen

On now to Lostwithiel - we're on the down platform. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Passing the Cornwall Railway workshps. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The railtour passes Coombe Junction Platform. Note the state of the fenceposts. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

At Lostwithiel Station. note the classic up platform station building. The signal if off for the Railtour to proceed to Carne Point, at Lostwithiel Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

The tide is fairly well in as we stop just outside Carne Point - we weren't allowed further in. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The way ahead to the clay loading facilities looks very tempting but this is a far as we went. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

DMU at St Blazey Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

A chance to explore.

Passing through Bugle on the Carbis Branch. The former downside of the platform is trackless. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen. The area to the right - former sidings is now a housing estate.

The delights of drop down windows - a look back at Bugle station. The area the right was once a terminus for the Par Treffry Tramway. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The gates at Rosemellyn are opened - ahead the chimneys of Carbis dries come into view. Copyright Roger Winnen.

the railtour stops short of Carbis Dries at the over bridge and participants make their way ahead. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The bridge end of the unit at Carbis. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

On the Parkandillack Branch. Copyright Roger Winnen

The railtour reaches the dries at Parkandillack. Spectators are in position on the overbridge. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The works at Parkandillack. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Parkandillack. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The railtour now retraced its outward route to Drinnick Mill where an opportunity was taken to reverse on to the short branch down to Nanpean Wharf.

The journey right down to the Nanpean Wharves could not be completed as the DMU clearly exceeded the 'loading gauge' at this point. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen. Note the distination blind reads 'Pen Mill''

A look back along the wharves at Nanpean shows just how far the DMU didn't get!! The chimney of Drinnik Mill Power station is in the distance. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

DMU at Nanpean Wharves. Copyright Roger Winnen. Note the units destination blind now shows Kingswear. - A young KJ tries to escape the camera.

As we exit the Nanpean branch the shunters cabin comes into view. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A leisurely coast back towards the main line at Burngullow. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The signalman at Burngullow box notes our return. 27th June 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Rogers final shot as the BLS DMU departs Liskeard heading for Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks Roger for your coverage of this railtour.

30th October 1976
Westerns South Western Railtour

Locos Used - 1009 'Western Invader' & 1023 'Western Fusilier'Stock Used12 coaches vb 90mph
Route : 1Z08 throughout

London Paddington - Slough - Reading - Southcote Jn - Newbury - (via Westbury & Frome avoiding lines) - Castle Cary - Taunton - Exeter St Davids1009 + 1023 Exeter St Davids - Crediton - Okehampton - Meldon Quarry1023 + 1009 Meldon Quarry - Okehampton - Crediton - Exeter St Davids - Exeter Central - Honiton - Yeovil Junction - Tisbury - Salisbury - Basingstoke - Southcote Jn - Reading - Slough - London Paddington

On a dull autumn day 1023 Western Fusilier and 1009 Western Invader provide the highlight of the day as they return through Okehampton from Meldon Quarry with the 'Westerns South Western' railtour 30th October 1976 Copyright Roger Geach

13th November 1976 The 'Cornishman'

4th December 1976 The 'Cornish Clay'

1023 Western Fusilier at the back of the Western China Clay which had just returned from a visit to Carne Point on 4th December 1976. Copyright Roger Geach

26th February 1977 'The Western Tribute' Railtour
Has anybody got any more pictures of this railtour in Devon please

1013 'Western Ranger' leads 1023 'Western Fusiler' on the final 'Western Tribute' approaching Exeter St Davids, 26 February 1977 Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Passing through on the through line the 'Western Tribute' has caused quite a large congregation of enthusiasts at the London end of platform 3/4. David Tozer has caught it nicely with those semaphores in the frame. 26th February 2014. Copyright David Tozer.

Western Tribute at Laira bridge. 26th February 1977 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The return 'Western Tribute' waits at Plymouth. 26th February 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view of the 'Western Tribute' prior to departure on 26th February 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

16th April 1977 Thames Tamar Express

The first ever Class 33 hauled railtour to visit the Fowey branch. Waterloo dept 08.27, Exe 11.58, Ply 13.06, Lostwithiel 13.44/46, Carne Point 14.03 - 14.27, Respryn appox 14.55, Plymouth 15.47, Bere Alston 16.04/13, Plymouth Friary 17.21 - arrived back at Waterloo at 22.07. The locomotives used were 33 104 & 33106

30th April 1977 The Royal Duchy

Lea Valley Railway Society

Class 47??? to Par then DMU sets B800 & B802

London Paddington - Reading - Westbury - Fairwood Jn - Castle Cary - Exeter St Davids - Newton Abbot - Totnes - Plymouth - St Germans - Par

DMU Par - Burngullow Jn - Parkandillack - Burngullow Jn - Par - St Blazey - Goonbarrow Jn - East Caudledown - Goonbarrow Jn - Carbis Wharf - Goonbarrow Jct - St Dennis Jn - Meledor Mill- St Dennis Jn - Newquay - Par - Lostwithiel - Lostwithiel - Bodmin Road - Bodmin General - Boscarne Jn - Wadebridge - Boscarne Jn - Bodmin General - Bodmin Road - Liskeard - St Germans - Plymouth.
47??? Plymouth - Exeter St Davids - Bristol Temple Meads - Bath Spa - Chippenham - Swindon - London Paddington

Bodmin General 30th April 1977 Copyright Roger Geach. N.B. This is Bodmin General as owned by British Rail. Note the original loco shed and all the necessary fitments.

9th October 1977 MTK Railtour Operated by M.T.K. & D.T.G.

Locos Used 25052, 25223, 40081, 40084 & D1062 Stock Used load 12 VB
Route : 1Z35 throughout London Paddington - Castle Cary - Yeovil Pen Mill - Yeovil Jn - Honiton - Exeter Central - Exeter St Davids 25052 + 25223 Exeter St Davids - Dawlish Warren - Newton Abbot - Paignton D1062 Paignton - Kingswear - Paignton 25052 + 25223 Paignton - Newton Abbot - Exeter St Davids 40084 + 40081 Exeter St Davids - Bristol Temple Meads - Bath - Chippenham - Swindon - Didcot - London Paddington

40081 & 40084 Exeter Central MTK railtour 9th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

40081 & 40084 leave Central 9th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

The MTK railtour stands at Exeter St Davids. 9yh October 1977 Photographed by Roger Geach, Copyright

40081 & 40084 run round at St David's 9th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

40084 & 40081 running round over Red Cow Crossing 9th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

40084 & 40081 returning to London approach Cowley Bridge Junction 9th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

16th October 1977
Railway Pictorial Publications Railtours
Deltic to Devon (and Cromptons to Cornwall) Railtour

Locos Used33017, 33022, 40081 & 40083Stock Used5008+4750+5089+21194+13347+13352+26090+5042+4753+4776+26109+26073
Route : 1Z30 throughout

LocosRoute40083 + 40081London Paddington - Reading - Westbury - Yeovil Pen Mill - Yeovil Junction - Honiton - Exeter St Davids - Dawlish - Newton Abbot33017 + 33022Newton Abbot - Plymouth - Bodmin Road - Par33017 + 33022Par - Bodmin Road - Plymouth - Newton Abbot40081 + 40083Newton Abbot - Exeter St Davids - Taunton - Westbury - Reading - London Paddington
Notes:
(1) This tour was booked to use a class 55 'Deltic' but an industrial dispute on the E.R. involving fitters meant that none of the class were being refuelled or given maintenance since the Wednesday prior to the tour hence the E.R. CM&EE were not able to supply a class member for the tour. Due to this all happening so close to the tour running date R.P.P.R. elected to run the tour with alternative motive power rather than postpone or cancel. A letter given to passengers on the tour explained the situation and also the fact that this was the first time any R.P.P.R. tour left the originating station without the advertised motive power. A full refund was offered to any passenger not wishing to participate in the tour as a result of the non-availability of the advertised Deltic.

The RW picture taken at South Brent shows 33017 and 33022 on a RPPR spcl which started at Paddington and was worked by two class 40s , 40081 and 083 as far as Newton Abbot vice a Deltic. 33017 and 33022 worked the train from Newton Abbot to Par and back to Newton Abbot. This gave a rare sight of a 33 into Cornwall. Does RW have any shots of them in Cornwall , I do but can't find them at the moment. The first class 33 working into Cornwall were on the 18 plus specials which brought 33s to St Germans at Easter time , I think the first one were in 1970 . Few pictures seen of these workings. Roger Geach N.B. In Jan 2013 Roger located the picture below of the railtour at Par. Note the participants wandering all over the track!

40081 & 40083 Deltics to Devon Cromptons to Cornwall Railtour passes through Exeter Central 16th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

40083 & 40081 Deltics to Devon and Cromptons to Cornwall at Marsh Barton 16th October 1977 Copyright David Tozer

The railtour passes Totnes 16th October 1977 Copyright Roger Geach

Deltics to Devon and Comptons to Cornwall Railtour stands at the up platform at Par on the 16th October 2015. Copyright Roger Geach. N.B. Nowadays I think that the authorities would frown on the trespassing seen here!

5th March 1978 Deltic Ranger Re-run

Deltic Ranger railtour re- run
Deltic 55003 from Paddington to Paignton and return to Newton Abbot then 46003 from Newton Abbot to Par and back .
46003 seen on Dainton Bank en route to Par 5 Mar 78

2nd April 1978 'The Atlantic Coast Express'

This was a railtour run by the Lea Valley Railway Club and featured two class 33's with 4TCset 418 + RMB 1872 + 4TCset 410. It ran from London Waterloo dept 08.25 and returned there at 22.20.

Exeter St Davids, with 33105 leading. Copyright Jeremy Doe.

6th May 1978 The Camel Train

The Camel Train was run by the Lea Valley Railway Club

DMU's Used B803 (51450+59546+51522) + C558 (?51579?+?59264?+51588)

Route : (two round trips made)
Plymouth - Saltash - Liskeard - Bodmin Road - Bodmin General - Boscarne Jn - Wadebridge - Boscarne Jn -Bodmin General - Plymouth

This railtour was operated by two Closs 101 Met Cam units which were brought down from Bristol especially to operate this railtour. Unfortunately one of these failed as can be seen in the pictures which follow. the reasons for using these units are though to be as in a note added in march 2017 by Neil Phillips. I've seen photos of the DMU tour to Wadebridge you mention - I'd hazard a guess that Class 101 Met-Cams were specified because these were short-frame units (57') more suited to the line's sharp curvature than the local long-frame (63' 6") units. So yes, sending one of the latter down the line was almost certainly another crossed-finger event! There's at least one photo of the tour on the website and guess what? ........... there's ANOTHER 40th anniversary coming up (30th April)!!! These Met-Cam units were making a return visit to Cornwall - they were two of five 3-car sets which first arrived in Cornwall (from Scotland) around May/June 1974 and were given WR set numbers P800-804. I have August 74 photos of P800 in the bay at Truro and P803 near Middleway Crossing on the Newquay branch. P800/1 must have been in good shape and arrived in all-blue livery but P802-4 went through Swindon Works before reaching the South West - Swindon looked at their low-density seating, classified them as Cross-Country units and turned them out in blue/grey livery like the WR's Class 119/120 C-C units. They were therefore the very first Class 101 Met-Cam units to receive this livery, some years in advance of any others.

The headboard carried on the Lea Valley Railway Clubs charter train.

The 'Camel Train' arriving at Wadebridge 6th May 1978. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The leading unit, number B800, from Plymouth featured this off white colour scheme which was rarely seen in Cornwall and soon disappeared all together. 6th May 1978 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A general view of the first train of the day standing at Wadbridge. For the 'white set' this was its first and last visit, it was subsequently declared a failure at Boscarne Junction. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A final view from the Wadebridge end, the line behind the photographer which led to the level crossing and to sidings were taken out of use in 1971. The line to Padstow had closed w.e.f. 30th January 1971. 6th May 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

The train has just arrived at Wadebrdge - Ian Croft stands on the platform with the headboard in hand. This can be placed on the train once the guard has transferred the tail lamp to the back. 6th May 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The Lea Valley Railway Clubs train stands at Wadebridge ready to make its first journey back to Plymouth. The Cornwall Railway Society had acted as local ticket agents for this train and had generously been given permission to place our headboard on their train - it's first trip on B.R. metals. 6th May 1978. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

We are under way leaving Wadebridge behind. 6th May 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

The front unit lays a smoke trail along the Camel Valley as it proceeds towards Polbrock Bridge. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Passing Grogley Halt - the line to Ruthern bridge which turned off to the right through the trees closed on 1st January 1934 and was removed in 1936. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

We arrive at Nanstallon, the second man has got out to unlock and open the level crossing gates. The road at this point drops steeply to the right eith side of the crossing. There was until 1960 a siding alongside the main line towards the crossing. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Leaving Nanstallon in peace - our unit trundles on the short distance to Boscarne Junction. One wonders how long it will be before the Bodmin and Wenford relays the metals along this section - soon we hope. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Oh dear, we've reached Boscarne Junction Exchange Platform and passengers are asked to leave the train whilst the 'white unit' which has been declared a failure is shunted to the sidings. The footpath, being heavily used in the picture, led to the low level platform which served the railcars on the service to Bodmin North. 5th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The failed unit at Boscarne - this was unloaded at the platform first, we then rolled back to allow any passengers who wished to alight to get out on the platform - it must have been a record number for that tiny platform. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A view by Sid Sponheimer as the defective unit is propelled into the sidings at Boscarne. From here to Plymouth the remaining unit was uncomfortably full! 6th May 1978. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A view of some of those who 'behaved' staying on the platform, 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bodmin General. Now down to a three car unit Ian Croft supervises as our headboard is transferred to the font of the train. What a shame that the elegant good shed didn't survive into preservation. 6th May 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bodmin General Goods shed 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The train slows right down as it approaches Bodmin Parkway. We are looking back in this view having just crossed over the upper reaches of the River Fowey by means of Bodmin Road viaduct. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bodmin Parkway 6th May 1978 - from the 'Camel Train' Railtour. Note that at that time the Bodmin/Padstow platform line had been lifted and we are running on what is now the part of the run round loop for the Bodmin and Wenford. Both up and down platforms have temporary waiting rooms. The signalbox is still open. Copyright Roger Winnen

The goal is reached - we're at Plymouth, platform 8. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

We're still at Plymouth, however our train has been made to 2 x 3 car sets by the addition of Cardiff set C558, and there is plenty of room for the journey back to Wadebridge. 6th May 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Meantime, while we were at Plymouth, Sid Sponheimer with the permission of station staff has ventured across to view the defective white DMU. This has been brought from Boscarne to Bodmin Parkway by a class 50, which is seen disappearing back west. The defective unit sits in disgrace in the siding. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

On our return journey the two units occupy the platform at Bodmin General whilst photographers dash to get a picture. This view by the winner of the race Roger Winnen. What a shame that both the goods shed and the engine shed were demolished soon after this picture was taken. 6th May 1978 Copyright.

The final shot of this session wast taken by Roger Winnen as the train returning after its second trip is seen here passing through Grogely Halt. 6th May 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen.

6th May 1978 'Cathedrals Express'
Loco Used 40118 1Z08 throughout
Cardiff Central – Newport – Bristol Temple Meads – Bridgwater – Taunton – Exeter St Davids – Exeter Central – Honiton – Yeovil Junction – Salisbury – Basingstoke – Southcote Jn – Reading West Jn – Didcot Parkway (1) – Swindon – Bristol Parkway – Newport – Cardiff Central

The Cathedrals Express leaves Exeter behind and heads for Honiton 6th May 1978 Copyright David Tozer

25th June 1978 'The Devon Quarryman'

This railtour hauled by 33103 and 33109 comprised of 4TC 418 + RMB 1872 + 4TC 420.
It ran from Paddington Dep 07.53 thence via Bristol Parkway, Bristol Temple Meads to Exeter arr11.51. It departed Exeter at 11.58 for Okehampton and then returned to Crediton where a reversal was made for Meeth. On return it took the Southern route - dep Exeter SD at 18.30 and thence to Basingstoke, then to Reading and arrived at Paddington five minutes early at 22.32.

The following details courtesy of Six Bells Junction Railtour Files
25th June 1978
R.P.P.R.
The Devon Quarryman
Locos Used33103 & 33119
Stock Used (3)4TC's 418 & 420 + RMB 1872Route : 1Z34 throughout (4)
Loco(s)Route
33119 (1)London Paddington - Slough - Twyford - Reading - Didcot Parkway - Swindon - Westerleigh Jn - Bristol Parkway - Stapleton Road - Bristol Temple Meads - Bridgwater - Taunton - Exeter St Davids
33103 (2)Exeter St Davids - Okehampton - Meldon Quarry
33119 (1)Meldon Quarry - Okehampton - Crediton
33103 (2)Crediton - Okehampton - Barnstaple - Torrington - Meeth clay depot
33119 (1)Meeth clay depot - Torrington - Barnstaple - Crediton Exeter St Davids - Exeter Central - Honiton - Yeovil Junction - Salisbury - Basingstoke - Reading - London PaddingtonNotes :
(1) 33103 on rear.
(2) 33119 on rear.
(3) Formation: 33119+420+1872+418+33103
(4) Timing sheet gave the headcode as 'train 1234' - this is presumed a typo and should have read 1Z34?
Sources : Alan Costello (information taken from RPPR Railtour Pictorial Booklet),
Adrian Brown & Colin Marsden

Timings (Booked and Actual)
(from John Clifford)
LocationBookedActual
Paddington07.52d07.53
Southall08/0508/06
Slough08.13a ~ 08.15d08.15 ~ 08.16
Maidenhead08/2208/22
Twyford08/2708/27
Reading General08.33a ~ 08.35d08.31½ ~ 08.35
Didcot08/5308/54
Challow09/0209/07
Swindon09.15a ~ 09.25d09.19 ~ 09.29
Wootton Bassett09/3209/36
Hullavington09/4109/44½
Westerleigh Jn09/5209/54
Bristol Parkway09/5709/58
Stapleton Road10/0610/04½
Bristol Temple Meads10.10a ~ 10.17d10.13 ~ 10.23
Worle Jn10/4010/39
Uphill Jn10/4210/41
Bridgwater10/5310/51½
Taunton11/1011.12a ~ 11.13d
Whiteball Tunnel11/2611/30
Cowley Bridge Jn11/4811/47
Exeter St Davids11.51a ~ 11.55d11.51 ~ 11.58
Cowley Bridge Jn11/5812/02
Crediton12/0612/09½
Okehampton12/35?
Meldon Quarry12p50a ~ 13p00d?
Okehampton13p15a ~ 13p20d13.17 ~ 13.26
Crediton13.50a ~ 13.55d13.51 ~ 13.56
Eggesford14/2014/17
Barnstaple Jn14.45a ~ 14.47d14.42 ~ 14.42
Torrington15/1715/13½
Meeth Clay Co. Sidings16.00a ~ 16.10d15.53 ~ 16.14½
Torrington16/5516/52
Barnstaple Jn17.25a ~ 17.27d17.19 ~ 17.26½
Eggesford17/5217/53½
Crediton18/1218/11
Cowley Bridge Jn18/2218/17
Exeter St Davids18.25a ~ 18.30d18.20 ~ 18.30
Exeter Central18/3418/32
Exmouth Jn18/3818/35
Pinhoe18/4118.40½a ~ 18.45½d
Chard Jn19.15a ~ 19.23d19.21 ~ 19.24½
Yeovil Junction19.38a ~ 19.50d19.39½ ~ 19.58
Templecombe20/0520/15
Gillingham20/2520/24
Wilton South20/3520/40
Wilton Jn20/3620/41
Salisbury20.40a ~ 20.44d20.44½ ~ 20.46½
Tunnel Jn20/47½20/50
Worting Jn21/2221/16½
Basingstoke21.25a ~ 21.33d21.28 ~ 21.32d
Southcote Jn21/5121/49½
Reading General21.54a ~ 21.56d21.56 ~ 21.57
Twyford22/0322/02
Maidenhead22/0822/07
Slough22.13a ~ 22.15d22.12 ~ 22.14
Southall22/2522/22
Paddington22.37a22.32

The Devon Quarryman was a railtour run by the RPS on the 25th June 1978. It ran from Paddington via Swindon, Westerleigh, Bristol Temple Meads and thence to Exeter. The train was topped and tailed by 33103 & 33119. From Exeter it went to Okehampton and then on to Meldon Quarry, Reversing from Meldon to Crediton it then reversed once more to traverse the line to Meeth. The return route was via the 'Southern' to Bsingstoke and thence to Paddington. Many thanks for these pictures Jeremy - memories are made of this. The following pictures were received in July 2017

The railtour at Okehampton. 25th June 1978 Copyright Jeremy Doe

Devon Quarryman Meldon Quarry 25th June 1978 Copyright Jeremy Doe For info the gentleman by the buffer beam in the Meldon Quarry photo is my grandad Rudley Lethbridge, who was a driver on the line based at Torrington until transfer to Reading during the war.

Devon quarryman Barnstaple 25th June 1978 Copyright Jeremy Doe

Devon Quarryman at Meeth 25th June 1978 Copyright Jeremy Doe

The Devon Quarryman as viewed through the eyes and camera of Clive Nye.

016 PICT0148 Devon Quarryman At Okehampton. 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman at Okehampton 25th June 1978 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman 33 119 at Meldon Quarry 25th June 1978 Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman 33 119 at Meldon Quarry 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman 33 119 at Barnstaple 25th June 1978 Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman at Barnstaple 25th June 1978 . Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman at Meeth 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye

Devon Quarryman at Meeth. 25th June 1978. Copyright Clive Nye

Many thanks to Clive for his collection.

30th September 1978 'Wadebridge Wanderer' Mainline Steam Trust

Locos Used 25073, 25074 & 25080 Route : 1Z86 throughout

Derby - Nottingham - Coventry - Leicester - West Ruislip - Greenford - Drayton Green Jn - Hanwell - (via GWML) - Bath - Bristol Temple Meads - Plymouth - Royal Albert Bridge - Liskeard - Bodmin Road - Bodmin General - Boscarne Junction - Wadebridge (Down Platform)2508012.00 Wadebridge (Down Platform) - Boscarne Junction - Bodmin General - Bodmin Road - Liskeard - Royal Albert Bridge - Plymouth 25073 + 25074 Plymouth - Newton Abbot - Exeter St Davids - Honiton - Yeovil Junction - Salisbury - Basingstoke - Reading - Leicester - Coventry - Nottingham - Derby

If memory serves correctly two 25's were scheduled to work the train however one failed and 25 080 had to valiantly struggle on with a big train. There was some doubt whether it would make the grade up to Bodmin General on the outward and return runs - but it did!

However our first picture by Roger Geach tells us that the journey up from Bodmin Road to Bodmin General wasn't easy. It stalled for a time in Cardinham Woods.

25080 did in fact stall on the climb from Bodmin Rd to Bodmin and stood for a bit in the cutting at Cardinham woods. Slipped on the wet rail i think , it eventually got going and here's a picture off a very overgrown bridge in Cardinham woods . 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Geach

The goal is reached as 25080 with its train of seven coaches rolls into Wadebridge 30th September 1078 Copyright Roger Winnen

Cameras at the ready participants rush off the train to get that view. 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

25080 looks sadly ahead at the site of the level crossing and the line on to Padstow. The line to Padstow closed 30th January 1967, however the crossing remained in use to serve the Quay sidings until 2nd April 1974. This picture 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The last full length train to stand at Wadebridge station. 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

With the customary wreath in place 25080 has gained its position at the front of the return working to Bodmin General where it will have to run round once more. 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

From Polbrock Bridge. Many heads hand out of windows, we wonder what the shot which the young man took through the fence was like? 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

From this and the previous view one can really appreciate the length of the train. Not far ahead lies Grogley Halt. 30th September 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

25080 makes it around the final curve as it hauls its long train up from Boscarne. 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The last ever long locomotive hauled passenger train to leave Bodmin General and then head out onto the Cornish Main line. 30th September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

17th December 1978 Bodmin Lions Club
(The very last train to Wadebridge)

DMU's Used2x 3-car Met-Camm sets (B803+B804)
Route :
DMU Route as listed Bodmin Road - Wadebridge   as listed Wadebridge - Bodmin Road as listed Bodmin Road - Wadebridge as listed Wadebridge - Bodmin Road
Source : Roger Geach

Timings (Booked Only)   (from Roger Geach)

Location Booked (out)Booked (rtn) Booked (out)Booked (rtn)Bodmin Road10.00a??.??a 14.00d??.??aWadebridge??.??d11.00d ??.??d15.00d

Its the morning of the 17th December 1978, a cold and frosty start to a day that remained very cold but bright. Note the hands in pockets, the frost on the box roof and on the field beyond, however the signalman is doing fine - he's got a good fire going. This box survives as a flourishing cafe providing an excellent cup of tea. Copyright Roger Winnen. P.S. Note the box is called 'Bodmin Road,.

Making a Christmas Card scene the two Bristol based units B804 (leading) & B803 roll in. Note the frost or is it driven light snow on the telegraph poles. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The units stand in the down main platform on arrival. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Not quite a headboard but a head 'banner', still it serves the purpose. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The train has now crossed to the up main and with the signal cleared for the Bodmin and Wadebridge branch the train proceeds onto the now preserved Bodmin & Wenford Railway. What a shame this point was taken out before the B & W took possession. Note the branch track no longer serves the platform. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The familiar monument of the hill tells us that we are near Bodmin General. It was a pity that this livery didn't stay light grey for long - it was soon replaced with BR Blue. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bodmin General B803 now prepares to lead the way to Wadebridge. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

On now past Boscarne Exchange Platform (High Level), the low level platform once served by railbuses is still there as its lamp post. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Lower down the Camel Valley. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Passing Grogley Halt at good speed there are at least six spectators to witness the occasion. The car is parked more or less on the Ruthernbridge Branch. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The six car train makes its first of two visits to Wadebridge. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The Lions Club banner is moved to what will become the front of the train. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

No excuse is made for including people in these pictures - perhaps you were there making history? 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

No good including the people but leaving out the place. A lone participant explores the sidings whilst the last but one passenger train at Wadebridge waits in the down platform. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

"Your carriage waits, Sir". The goods shed door needs some paint. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen .

Various conversations are going on, probably those on the far platform are discussing the loco shed which once stood in the undergrowth. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Whilst preparing Rogers slides for this web site I was about to remove the two spikes one can see hanging from the roof on the left and right hand sides of the picture when I discovered that these are icicles! It is still a cold day! 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A people picture - these are Left to Right. The late Gordon Dobbs Chairman, the late Alan Millburn, and Mike Nicholas. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A view through a nice clean cab window of the arrangement at Boscarne Junction. We are looking towards Bodmin North and the Wenford branch to the left whilst to the right one can see the High Level Boscarne Exchange Platform and the line to Bodmin General. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Back at Bodmin General. Note the sizable train of vans. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The DMU's return to Bodmin General for another and final run to Wadebridge. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The train comes down the grade from Bodmin General to pass Boscarne Exchange Platform. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Leaving Boscarne and passing over the level crossing. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The sun is getting low on a winters day as the rails get their last polish by a passenger train. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

This is the last ever passenger train to leave Wadebridge for the National Network - I wonder how many people behind the windows of the properties alongside the line realised what was happening? 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

A last view of the very last train. One hopes that before too long the B & W may get here. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

14th April 1979 Pixieland Express

37178, 37084 westbury { 0600 Worcester SH - Penzance } 14th April 1979 Copyright Steve Widdowson

37279 at Newquay with the Pixieland Express { 0600 Worcester SH - Penzance} 14th April 1979 Copyright Steve Widdowson

37178 reached Penzance with the 0600 Worcester SH - Penzance ' F&W railtours Pixieland Express 14th April 1979 Copyright Steve Widdowson

12th April 1980 'The Atlantic Coast Express 1V'
Another train run by the Lea Valley Railway Club was the Atlantic Coast Express IV

Locos Used25080, 25225, 31163 & 31304
Stock Used13441+5244+25250+25970+13093+14041+1913+5075+25964+25962
London Paddington dep 08.1n - Exeter St Davids - Torrington - Meeth - Barnstaple - Crediton - Meldon - Exeter St Davids - London Waterloo

20th October 1979 Wirral Railway Circle
Atlantic Coast Express
Locos Usedat least 25052, 25223 & 47515Route : 1Z76 throughout
Date(s)Loco(s)Route
19/10-20/1047515Crewe - Chester - Wrexham General - Shrewsbury - Wellington - Wolverhampton - Birmingham New Street - Proof House Jn - St Andrews Jn - Bordesley Jn - Kings Norton - Worcester Shrub Hill - Cheltenham Spa - Stroud - Swindon - Didcot Parkway - Reading West Jn - Southcote Jn - Basingstoke - Salisbury - Yeovil Junction - Exeter Central - Exeter St Davids
20/1025052 + 25223Exeter St Davids - Crediton - Okehampton - Meldon Quarry
20/1025223 + 25052Meldon Quarry - Okehampton - Crediton
20/1025052 + 25223Crediton - Barnstaple - Torrington - Meeth
20/1025223 + 25052Meeth - Torrington - Barnstaple - Crediton - Exeter St Davids
20/10?????Exeter St Davids - ??? - Crewe

The ACE stands at Crediton. 29th October 2016 Copyright Andrew Jones

The lady checks her notes at the ACE prepares to leave heading for Meldon Quarry. 29th October 1979 Copyright Andrew Jones

Meldon Quarry,the first destination has been reached and the locos run round. The headboard will have to be moved. 29th October 1979 Copyright Andrew Jones.

The ACE reaches Torrington. 29th October 1979. Copyright Andrew Jones

A rather distant shot as the railtour reaches its final outward destination typifies the China Clay country in North Devon. 29th October 2016 Copyright Andrew Jones

A lovely shot as the ACE crosses the viaduct over the river Tor just before entering Torrington station. This route is now a popular cycleway (Up hill all the way to Meeth) This picture 29th October 1979

The railtour returns to Torrington and framed by the road overbridge the participants gather around on the track. 29th October 1979 Copyright Andrew Jones

Returning past Instow level crossing box. Andrew comments that some vintage cars await passage. Luckily this box is a listed building and still guards the crossing. 29th October 1979 Copyright Andrew Jones.

20th April 1980 'The Penzance Pullman' R.P.P.R.
This train hauled from Paddington to Plymouth and return from Penzance by 50028 'Tiger' visited the Newquay branch as far as St Dennis Junction and then ran on to Penzance in the care of 37299 and 25155. Shunter 08844 was used for shunt release at Penzance.

This railtour was run to commemorate the end of normal express passenger locomotive hauled services between Paddington and Penzance

12th July 1981 Merrymaker Worcester Shrub Hill to Newquay

Just look at the fares. Copyright Steve Widdowson

47444 stands at Newquay having run round the 0735 Worcester Shrub Hill - Newquay Merrymaker 12th July 1981 Copyright Steve Widdowson

47444 at Newquay - note the length of the train 12th July 1981 Copyright Steve Widdowson

47444 University of Nottingham stands ready for the 17.40 departure from Newquay for Worcester Shrub Hill. 12th July 1981 Copyright Steve Widdowson (What a fine view the house overlooking the station had)

28th November 1981 Deltic Devonian

Loco Used55016 'Gordon Highlander'
Route : 1Z40 throughout

LocoRoute55016Finsbury Park - Canonbury Jn - Dalston Western Jn - Channelsea Jn - Stratford - Temple Mills East Jn - South Tottenham - Upper Holloway - Gospel Oak - Willesden Junction HL - Acton Wells Jn - Acton Main Line - Twyford - Reading - Southcote Jn - Newbury - Westbury - Taunton - Exeter St Davids - Exeter Central - Pinhoe - Yeovil Junction - Templecombe - Salisbury - Andover - Basingstoke - Woking - Wimbledon - East Putney - Point Pleasant Jn - Clapham Junction - Kensington Olympia - Willesden Junction HL - Gospel Oak - Upper Holloway - South Tottenham - Temple Mills East Jn - Stratford - Bethnal Green - London Liverpool Street

Timings (Booked Only)
(From John Kappler)
M.CLocationBooked
0.00Finsbury Park08.34d
1.22Canonbury Jn08/47
2.17Dalston Western Jn08/40
4.27Victoria Park Jn08/45
5.09Channelsea Jn08/47
5.51Stratford08c50 ~ 08c52
6.22Temple Mills East Jn08/55
9.28Tottenham South Jn09/05
9.74South Tottenham09/09
12.72Upper Holloway09/15
14.00Gospel Oak09/20
18.24Willesden Junction HL09c39 ~ 09c41
19.09Acton Wells Jn09/43
19.70Acton Main Line09.48a ~ 09.49d [FL]
21.25Ealing Broadway09/52
24.55Southall09/56
34.05Slough10/03
39.68Maidenhead10/07
46.50Twyford10/11
51.47Reading10/16
53.31Southcote Jn10/19
68.55Newbury10/32
81.78Bedwyn10/43
94.41Woodborough10/53
103.55Lavington10/58
110.17Heywood Road Jn11/06 [AL]
112.54Fairwood Jn11/08
115.78Clink Road Jn11/11 [AL]
118.00Blatchbridge Jn11/13
130.69Castle Cary11/23
158.32Taunton11/46
169.20Whiteball Tunnel11/56
187.72Cowley Bridge Jn12/13
189.12Exeter St Davids12.15a ~ 13.15d
190.06Exeter Central13/18
191.03Exmouth Jn13/20
192.65Pinhoe13/22
206.44Honiton13/35
221.72Chard Jn13x48 ~ 13x50
238.56Yeovil Junction14/06
243.20Sherborne14/13
250.08Templecombe14/20
256.11Gillingham14/25
275.12Wilton14/43
275.67Wilton Jn14/44½
277.61Salisbury14p48a ~ 14p58d
278.68Tunnel Jn15/01
395.05Andover15/17
311.03Worting Jn15/31
326.48Woking Jn15/49½
347.77Hampton Court Jn15/57½
354.05Wimbledon16/05
356.69East Putney16/12
357.40Point Pleasant Jn16/14
358.55Clapham Junction16.17a ~ 16.19d
359.17Latchmere Jn16/22
361.78Kensington Olympia16c30 ~ 16c32
363.66North Pole Jn16/37
364.19Mitre Bridge Jn16/39
364.71Willesden Junction HL16c41 ~ 16c43
369.10Gospel Oak17/00
370.18Upper Holloway17/05
373.15South Tottenham17/12
373.62Tottenham South Jn17/20
376.68Tempel Mills East Jn17/27
377.39Stratford17c31 ~ 17c33
380.32Bethnal Green17/39
381.42Liverpool Street17.42a [P11]

55016 Godon Highlander with the Deltic Devonian at Liverpool Street on Saturday 28th November 1981 Copyright Roger Geach

Deltic Devonian 28th November 1981. Copyright Clive Smith

The 'Deltic Devonian' on the approach to Exeter St Davids. Note the semaphore signals, and Exeter Middle Signalbox, also note Row Cow Level Crossing guarded by rail staff and a policeman. A number of enthusiasts have gathered on the platform end. 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

55016 Gordon Highland runs into the station. 21st November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

55016 at Exeter St Davids 21st November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The Deltic Devonian at rest at the platform where it had a timetabled stop of an hour. 28th November 2019. Copyright Clive Smith

Another shot of the 'Deltic Devonian' at Exeter St Davids, again a historical note, The central line is in position and see the fine arrays of semaphore signals. The trespass on the board crossing wouldn't be tolerated these days! 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Roger Geach captures the excitement as 55015 draws the crowds at Exeter St Davids on the 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Geach

Clive Smith catches the scene as 'Gordon Highlander' roars away from Exeter Central and heads for Black Boy tunnel. Copyright.

Roger Winnen has now got ahead of the Devonian using a service train and on arrival at Yeovil Junction has dashed across to the then disused platforms on the SE side of the station from whence this view was obtained. 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The Deltic eases its long train alongside the platform. 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Equipment casing unfortunately block this three quarter front view as Gordon Highlander stands at the platform. 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The gentleman in the front window is obviously savouring the fumes and recording the roar as the Deltic heads away towards Salisbury. 28th November 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen.

With the Deltic roaring away in the distance a few photographers remain to catch that last view as one young man negotiates the virtually disused tracks. Note the Junction signal box is just visible over the back of the train. Copyright Roger Winnen.

19th September 1982 The Western Whistler F & W Tours

Locos Used37206, 37299, 40025 & 40164
Route : 1Z21 throughout

Loco(s)Route40164Crewe – Stoke-on-Trent – Stafford – Colwich – Hednesford – Walsall – Perry Barr North Jn – Soho South Jn – Birmingham New Street40025Birmingham New Street - King’s Norton – Bromsgrove - Worcester Shrub Hill - Cheltenham – Gloucester40025Gloucester (rev) – Bristol Parkway – Bristol Temple Meads – Weston-Super-Mare – Taunton – Exeter – Totnes – Mount Gould Jn37206 + 37299Mount Gould Jn. – Plymouth – Liskeard – Lostwithiel – Carne Point37206 + 37299Carne Point - (reverse of outward route) - Plymouth40025Plymouth – Exeter – Taunton – Bristol Temple Meads - Bristol Parkway – Gloucester40025Gloucester – Cheltenham – Worcester Shrub Hill – Bromsgrove – King’s Norton – Birmingham New St. – Wolverhampton – Stafford – Stoke-on-Trent – Crewe

Western Whistler 40025 coasts down Dainton bank near Littlehempston with 1Z21 05.15 Crewe to Carne Point railtour. Copyright Clive Smith

40 025 pauses at Totnes on the downward leg of the railtour 19th September 1987 Copyright Steve Widdowson

40025 seen here at Rattery summit on full throttle crawling up the bank. The engine's sound was incredible and could be heard ages before it eventually passed us. One of my favourite photographs taken at 1/125 of a second at F4 exposure. If it had been going any faster the shot would have been impossible. Copyright Clive Smith

40025 passes the Laira Washing Plant. 19th May 1982 Copyright Clive Smith.

After uncoupling from its train 40025 is seen by Tot Hill park near to Friary. Although long closed Lucas Terrace Halt on the old Plymstock branch can be seen to the left and the Shellstar fertiliser depot to the rear. Copyright Clive Smith

40025 has now arrived at Mount Gould Junction - we are looking north. Copyright Steve Widdowson

Western Whistler Mount Gould looking south Copyright Steve Widdowson

With class 37s 299 & 206 having taken the railtour on to Carne Point from Mount Gould, 40025 rests on Laira Depot awaiting refuelling and the trip back to Crewe. Copyright Clive Smith.

Over half its working day done 40 025 at Plymouth on the 19th September 1987 Copyright Steve Widdowson

40025 reaches Hemerdon summit at a snail's pace with the 15.47 Carne Point to Crewe return railtour. The secondman is standing in the doorway to get a better listen to the English Electric engine noise from the crawl up the bank. Apologies for the poor quality image. This was now around 18.00 and my Canon AE1 was flashing red for exposure on 1/125 of a second so this was taken unbelievably at 1/60 shutter speed, normally used for stills! Copyright Clive Smith. 19th September 1982

16th October 1982 Almost 'The last train to Torrington'

33027 stands on Torrington viaduct/ The coaches water tanks were being filled up, one by one and the train had to draw forward - this became the last train ever to enter the Torrington to Meeth section. 16 October 1982 Copyright Paul Barlow

Having arrived at Torrington and had its coach water tanks topped up the train then ran a shuttle back to Bideford before starting the return run to London Waterloo.

33027 Earl Mountbatten of Burma 1400 Torrington to Bideford stands at Bideford Copyright Paul Barlow

33025 Sultan on1500 Bideford toTorrington at Bideford Copyright Paul Barlow

33027 Torrington with the 1400 to Bideford 16 October 1982 Copyright Paul Barlow N.B. The steep hill leading up to Torrington is clearly visible in the picture.

Sultan at Torrington. 16th October 1982. Copyright Paul Barlow.

33025 runs round 33027 1600 Torrington to Waterloo Barnstaple 16 October 1982 Copyright Paul Barlow

6th November 1982 'The last train to Torrington'
This train loaded to 15 coaches was hauled by 31158 & 31174 (31174 led to Torrington). It left Bristol Temple Meads at 10.08 departed from Exeter St Davids at 12.41, arriving at Torrington at 15.15. Departure from Torrington was at 16.07. It was a miserable day with rain falling as the train returned towards Bideford in very poor light, here a short stop from 16.19 to 16.32 was made.

Bristol Temple Meads 6th November 1982 31174 31158 Last Train to Torrington Copyright Guy Vincent

We enjoyed looking at Paul Barlow's interesting feature on the 'Last Train Beyond Torrington' that ran on 16th October 1982. Three weeks later on Saturday 6th November I was at Bristol Temple Meads and witnessed the arrival and departure of what the station announcer proclaimed was ''The Last Tain to Torrington''. This was a mammoth 15 coach special hauled by class 31 locos 31174 and 31158. The empty stock was formed up at Malago Vale carriage sidings so it arrived from the west and departed from platform 5 eastwards before travelling over what used to be known as the Bristol Avoiding Line from North Somerset Junction to Bristol West Junction via St Philips Marsh. This tour was organised by British Rail and also appears on the SBJ railtour site. Best regards. Guy Vincent.

The railtour at Torrington 6th November 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

The railtour, complete with a wreath has arrived at Torrington. 6th November 1982. Copyright Chris Osment

Chris Osment reports that prior to the locomotives running round the staff for the section from Barnstaple to Torrington (One train working) was placed on the front couplings for a photograph. 6th November 1982 Copyright Chris Osment.

Railtour participants explore the bridge over the river at Torrington. Copyright Roger Winnen

A view of that very last train taken by Roger Marsh - just see the length! The mayor is in attendance. Copyright

Torrington 6th November 1982 Before the wreath was transferred from the leading loco outward to the leading loco for the return journey. Copyright Chris Osment

The traditional wreath is carried by the leading locomotive once the pair has run round the very long train. 6th November 1982. Copyright Roger Marsh

26th January 1983 'The very last train to Torrington'

I have been following the interesting discussions about the final few trains to Torrington on the website which mentions the trains in 1982. I did actually photograph what was probably the last train in 1983. As part of an attempt to revive the line and gain political approval there was a special train of dignitaries who travelled on TDB975023 (single car unit) which worked a special to Torrington and back conveying the Devon Euro MP Lord O'Hagan, members of the Committee of the North Devon Railway Line Development Group and local government officials. This happened on 27 January 1983. I attach a couple of photographs as proof!

kind regards Keith Gale

TDB975023 at Torrington 26th January 1983 Copyright Keith Gale

TDB975023 on Fremington bridge. 26th January 1983 Copyright Keith Gale

Cornish Branch Lines Railtour
20th November 1983.

DMU Used P465 (51322+59474+?????) (1) + P469 (51326+59480+51311) & P470 (51328+59471+51313)
St Austell - Burngullow Jn - St Austell - Par - Bodmin Road GF- Bodmin General- Boscarne Junction - Bodmin General - Bodmin Road GF - Bodmin Parkwayas - Lostwithiel - Carne Point - Lostwithiel - Bodmin Parkway - Lostwithiel - Par - St Austell
Notes

This tour was run to mark the closure of the Bodmin Parkway, Bodmin General, Boscarne Junction and Wenfordbridge Freight Line. Curvature prevents passenger stock from travelling Boscarne Junction to Wenfordbridge.

Sources : Andy Pullar & Alan Osborn

Timings (Booked & Actual)
(from Alan Osborn)

LocationBookedActualSt Austell10.10d10.18Burngullow Jn10.15 ~ 10.2010.24 ~ 10.25Drinnick Mill Jn?10.35 ~ 10.36Parkandillack Clay Quarry10.40a ~ 11.05d10.47 ~ 11.07Drinnick Mill Jn11c13 ~ 11c3011.16 ~ 11.20Burngullow Jn11.38 ~ 11.4311.33 ~ 11.43St Austell?11.48 ~ 11.49Par?11.55 ~ 11.56Lostwithiel?12/03Bodmin Parkway12.05 ~ 12.1012.08 ~ 12.18Bodmin General12.25 ~ 12.3012.30 ~ 12.35Boscarne Junction12.45a ~ 13.55d12.44 ~ 14.03Bodmin General14.10 ~ 14.1514.13 ~ 14.21Bodmin Parkway14.30 ~ 14.3514.28 ~ 14.36Lostwithiel14.40 ~ 14.4514/43Carne Point15.05a ~ 15.35d14.57 ~ 15.39Lostwithiel15.55 ~ 16.0015.54 ~ 15.55Bodmin Parkway16.03a ~ 16.08d16.03 ~ 16.15Lostwithiel?16/19Par?16.26 ~ 16.29St Austell16.26a16.37

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour parkandillack 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

An 'On train' view - looking back at the bridge from which the previous photos were taken - Parkandillick Copyright Diane and Andrew Jones

Parkandillick Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones

Parkandillick - the scramble for photographs! Copyright Andrew and Diane Junes

The train also called at Drinick Mill. Nanpean Wharf. Seen here descending towards the wharf. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour arrives at Boscarne. 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour Passengers examine Boscarne Level crossing. (Definitely not suitable for low bodied vehicles) 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour - Boscarne the Bodmin General end of the train. 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour Posing for pictures 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour With an hour to spare some explored the beginning of the Wenford Branch 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 'You have been warned! Notices at Dunmere level crossing' 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 'Where you there? - some of the passengers' Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 'What a contrast with the current tidy and well established station' Copyright Mike Roach

Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 ' But hopeful signs' Copyright Mike Roach

The train comes to a stand at Carne Point. Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

- And finally a picture down stream to the loading area - note the line clay hoods. It could be a wintery day with frost on the trees, but the white is really china clay dust. The ship is the "Dihoma" of Helsinki. Cornish Branch lInes Railtour 20th November 1983 Copyright Mike Roach

3rd March 1984 The Goonbarrow Belle
Hertfordshire Railtours [Despite its name it never got to Goonbarrow!]

Locos Used37182, 37185, 50004 & 50030 Stock Used13513+3050+3127+1671+3091+3093+3085+3086+3150+17121
Route : 50030London Paddington - Plymouth37182 + 37185 Plymouth - Saltash - Liskeard - Bodmin - Lostwithiel - Carne Point 37182 (2)Carne Point - Lostwithiel 37185 - Par - Burngullow - Parkandillack - Burngullow - Plymouth 37185 - Bere Alston - Plymouth - Plymouth Friary - Laira Jn- Newton Abbot - Heathfield - Newton Abbot - London Paddington Courtesy Six Bells Junction.

Golant 3rd March 1984 Goonbarrow Belle 37185 & 182 Copyright Mike Roach

Golant 3rd March 1984 Goonbarrow Belle returns from Carne Point 37185 & 182 Copyright Mike Roach

Golant 3rd March 1984 The tail end of the Goonbarrow Belle returning from Carne Point 37185 & 182 Copyright Mike Roach

Heading for Parkandillack the Goonbrrow Belle is seen at Foxhole. 3rd March 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Near Little Treviscoe. The Goonbarrrow Belle heads for Rarkandillack 3rd March 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Against a backdrop of China Clay waste the Goonbarrow Belle is seen at Drinnick Mill returning from Parkandilllack 3rd March 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Drinnick Mill. the tail end of the train is just passing over a lofty bridge near the village of Nanpean. The front of the train is crossing a granite bridge over the lower lines which served the power station. 3rd March 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Drinnick Mill - the headboard proudly proclaims Goonbarrow yet it never got there! 3rd March 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

The Goonbarrow Belle returns to Burngullow - still a busy day ahead. 3rd March 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

28th April 1984 'Royal Albert Bridge Special' Organised by Cornwall Area Manager Rusty Eplett

Rusty Eplett's railtour took us firstly down to Carn Point on the Fowey branch. 29th April 1984 Copyright Peter Butt

Next it was down to Boscarne where we had a lunch stop. 29th April 1984 Copyright Peter Butt

Another view at Boscarne - maybe you'll see yourself here? If you have an pictures and would like to share them please let us have them. 29th April 1984 Copyright Peter Butt

The coupled 2 x 3 car DMU's start to move away across the Royal Albert Bridge, it will stop and wait for the passengers at St Budeaux Ferry Road. The group on the down platform are witnessing the unveiling of the plaque on the wall. Those on the up platform are getting ready to walk the bridge. 29th April 1984 Copyright Derek Buttivant

Our train stopped at Saltash. Passengers gather on the down platform for the unveiling of the plaque to commemorate the anniversary and also ready commence the walk across the bridge. Note the covered footbridge which Saltash had and in the background the Baptist Chuch later destroyed by fire. 20th April 1984 Copyright Peter Butt

The unveiling of the plaque at Saltash station. 29th April 1984. Copyright Peter Butt

We're off, the leaders are already on the west main span. 29th April 1984 Copyright Derek Buttivant

The masses cross the bridge. This view serves to illustrate just how narrow the bridge appears to be. Rumour has it that during WW2 there were plans to lay sleepers between and outside the running rails to permit the passage of road vehicles along what was in effect a long level crossing. Can anyone prove or deny this? 29th April 1984 Copyright Derek Buttivant

Midway across the bridge the dignitaries stop for a photograph standing proudly, and rightly so, amidst the dignitaries is Rusty Eplett Manager Cornwall Railways. 29th April 1984 Copyright Derek Buttivant.

At the 'English end' of the Royal Albert Bridge we had to leave British Rail property and make our way up the bank alongside the signalbox. It had been hoped that we would have continued our 'track walk' as far as our waiting train at St Budeaux Ferry Road. 29th April 1984 Copyright Derek Buttivant

If you have any more pictures of this rarely permitted walk and you'd be willing to let us show the world please let us have them - full credit given. K. Jenkin took, so he thought, a full film of 36 only to discover there was no film in his camera!!!

A very popular idea on this railtour was to take everyone's photograph. These were then processed while we were at Plymouth and given out on the return journey. What a nice touch. Sorry to show my photograph but it is the only one I have to show you. RKJ

12th May 1984 'The Avon Explorer'
More information on this railtour which the CRS chartered to Swindon see the CRS History section.
Penzance - Bristol - Avonmouth - Hallen Marsh Jct - Filton Jct - Dr Days Junction - Bath - Swindon. Return direct via Bristol Temple Meads. A number of commuters for West - super - Mare mistakenly joined our train here. The train was non-stop Bristol to Exeter - they enjoyed our cheap refreshments but got home rather late!!

The Avon Explorer - the first of the Cornwall Railway Society railtours awaits departure from Penzance 12May84 Copyright Roger Winnen

9th November 1985 The Penzance Fryer
The first class 40 to venture into Cornwall.
Route out and back. Manchester Victoria, Preston, Birmingham New St, Camp Hill, and Bristol Temple Meads to Penzance. Class 47's were used to and from Man Vic to Preston.

A further amusing note on the Six Bells Junction site - Harry Harper comments: On the outward journey a domestic 4 ring + grill & oven cooker was delivered by porters barrow to one of the brake vans, together with bottled gas. This must have been a worry to the caged live pigeons already located there. Luckily the birds were released at Penzance, tickets having been sold through the train with prizes for the fastest 'owner'. One prize went to a Class 25 basher - It must have been the fastest thing he ever followed!

D200 (40122) Salutes Carn Brea with its castle and monument on the 9th November 1985. Pictured very near the site of Carn Brea Station Copyright Sid Sponheimer

40122 Penzance Mounts Bay in view 9th November 1985 Copyright Roger Geach

Looking very smart Class 40, 40122 arrives at platform 1 at Penzance with the Penzance Fryer . 9th November 1985 Copyright Mike Roach

40122 alias D200 stands trimphant at the buffers - platform 1 Penzance. 9th November 1985 Copyright Roger Geach

Destination reached - the masses leave the railtour. 9th November 1985 Copyright Roger Winnen

40122 at rest at the buffers, platform 1, Penzance. 9th November 1985 Copyright Mike Roach

From the balcony. 40122 awaits the removal of its train. 9th November 1985 Copyright Mike Roach

40122 and stock drawn out of Penzance by station pilot. 9th November 1985 Copyright Roger Geach

003A Penzance Fryer Railtour with 40 122 awaits departure at 15.45 on Sat. 9th November 1985. Copyright Clive Smith.

40122 Preparing to leave Penzance. Note the masses of spectators on the wall. 9th November 1985 Copyright Roger Geach.

Roger Winnen saw the 'Penzance Fryer' on its return journey as it approached the site of Carn Brea station on a very damp and dismal afternoon. 9th November 1985, Copyright Roger Winnen

21st December 1985
The Gunnislake Goliath Railtour with a Hastings DEMU set

'Gunnislake Goliath' railtour on 21st December 1985. Run by Hertfordshire Railtours, the tour visited Friary then Plymstock before moving on to Saltash and finally crossing the Tamar a second time, this time to Gunnislake. An unusual feature of this tour was the use of police to stop passengers alighting at Plymouth Friary or Plymstock. Two police officers travelled on the train between Exeter and Plymouth and were backed up by patrol cars on the ground. These units were not unknown in Devon having worked the Saturdays only Brighton to Exeter St Davids in the 1970s being replaced by 33s after April 1977. Quite a sight thumping away up the bank to Exeter Central on the return !.

Z851221b Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

Z851221c Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

Z851221d Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

Z851221e Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

Z851221f Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

Z851221g Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

Z851221h Hastings Goliath Railtour Copyright Clive Smith

4th May 1986 The Cornishman Branch Line Society

DMU Used51302+59469+51317
Route : Plymouth – Penzance – Long Rock (via carriage reception line) – St Erth – St Ives – St Erth –Burngullow Jn – Parkandillack – Burgullow Jn – Par – St Blazeyas listedSt Blazey – Par Bridge – St Blazey – Goonbarrow Jn – Carbis Wharf – Par – Lostwithiel – Carne Point – Lostwithiel – Plymouth

The BLS Cornishman at Long Rock - lots of interest. The old goods shed, the Royal Mail stock stabled during the day, the loading bank. 3rd May 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

26th April 1986 Plymouth Railway Circle
Farewell to the 118's

DMU's Sets P460 (51302+59469+51317) & P461 (51303+59470+51318)

Route :- Plymouth - Saltash - Liskeard - Lostwithiel - Par - St Austell - Burngullow - Parkandillack - Burngullow - St Austell - Par - Bugle - Carbis Wharf - Bugle - Par - Lostwithiel - Carne Point - Lostwithiel - Liskeard - Coombe - Moorswater - Coombe - Liskeard - Saltash - Plymouth

Notes :
(1) Per normal practice, passengers were required to walk between platforms whilst the DMUs as empty stock traversed the link.

(2) The above copied from the Six Bells Junction site - highly recommended.

The railtour on the outward journey at Treesmill 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

A splash of colour as the PRC railtour takes to the Parkandillack branch. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

Climbing up through clay country - Carpalla 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

At Parkandillack the railtour went very nearly to the end of the line. The line originally continued in a curve below the foot of St Dennis village to St Dennis Junction. 26 April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

All aboard once more the railtour re-traces its route back to Burngullow. St Dennis Church can just be seen amongst the trees atop the hill. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

The returning railtour passing through an area know as High Street on its way back to the main line. 26th April 1986. Copyright Roger Winnen

The first sighting Mike Roach got of this Farewell to the 118's Railtour was after it had visited Perkandilack. The railtour is caught here running into the Newquay side of the island platform at Par. 26th April 1986 Copyright

Here Mike has dashed over to Middleway Level Crossing and caught the railtour as it heads Bugle alongside the route of the former canal. 26 April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Roger Winnen was on the bridge at Bugle to see the railtour head beneath towards Carbis. The metals serving the downside of the island platform had been removed in 1964 from which time the Carbis branch trains ran along the down side to the double track between here and Goonbarrow Junction.

The railtour leaves Bugle heading for Carbis. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

The railtour heads away alongside the main branch line. 26th April 1986 Copyright RogerWinnen

Rosemwllyn Crossing gates are now open so the railtour can proceed towards Carbis Wharf. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

Having left the main Par - Newquay line at Bugle the railtour has negotiated Rosemellyn level crossing, which required the opening and closing of the gates, and now creeps slowly towards the terminus of the Carbis branch. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

However it was to go very little further and stopped short of the road bridge. Here the traditional 'bail out' took place as participants scrambled to get 'that view' and walk to the terminus, approximately two hundred yards further on. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

From the road overbridge one can see why the railtour didn't proceed any further - unclipped catch points bar the way. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

Here the 116's are seen at Tresmill climbing towards the summit at Treverrin tunnel. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

A going away shot at Tresmill where the sun provides good illumination of the unusual livery on the rear set. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

After a reversal at Lostwithiel the railtour heads down the picturesque branch towards Fowey, even then railtours usually terminated at Carne Point - the BR boundary. 26th April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

At Golant residents must have been surprised to see the 'garish' BT livery on the first unit 26th April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

The railtour continues past the site of Golant Halt and on over the level crossing, which provides 'boat access' over the railway, towards Carn Point. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

Roger Winnen took this lofty view of the railtour stationary at Golant. One of those figures on the road below is Mike Roach who took both the pictures above. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Wnnen

Another striking view from the camera of Roger Winnen of the participants on the Farewell to the 118's railtour on 26th April 1986 as photographers spill out not only on the harbourside but also out on the uncovered river bed! Copyright Roger Winnen

Golant, on the return journey from Carn Point. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

The railtour now returned to Lostwithiel and thence made its way to Liskeard and Moorswater.

It is doubtful if the infant in arms witnessing the colourful BT unit passing through Lostwithiel will remember anything of this unusual event! 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

Already down on the Moorswater branch Mike catches the back of the PRC charter as it crosses the lofty Moorwater viaduct. 26th April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

As the railtour creeps past the platform at Coombe towards the catch points which guard the passenger lines from Moorswater runaways, the location of the former run round loop is clearly visible. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

The tail end of the train creeps towards the 'tight' road over rail bridge ahead. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

Having passed over the catch points and under the very restricted clearance road bridge the train heads towards the Moorswater dries. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

This is as far as the railtour went - time to 'bail out' for another look around, stretch the legs, explore, and take pictures. 26th April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

The 'BT unit heads the railtour back towards Coombe and Liskeard. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

The railtour returns towards Coombe and that tight bridge. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach.

Here's the 'tight bridge' and in the distance the train crew can be seen removing the point clips from the catch points. 26th April 1986. Copyright Mike Roach

The units make a smokey departure as they head up the bank towards Liskeard. The line to the right descends alongside the river to Looe. 26th April 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

It's 'all change' as passengers have to leave the train while the charter makes it's way around the 'link line' back to the main station at Liskeard. 26th April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

Empty of passengers the train makes its squealing way around the link line. 26th April 1986. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Having ground its way around the link line the pair of 116's are about to gain the main line at Liskeard. There has only ever been one railtour on which passengers were allowed to remain on board over the link line. 26th April 1986 Copyright Mike Roach

17th May 1986 'The Severn Explorer' - a CRS Railtour

The Severn Explorer at Worcester where John alighted on 17th May 1986. Copyright the late John Fill

860517a 50002 Superb awaiting departure from Penzance on the 05.38 Severn Explorer Railtour. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517b Walter Julian Chairman of the CRS photographs the scene at Bridgenorth. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517d Members of the society view City of Truro complete with headboard. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517e City of Truro and 4930 Hagley Hall departs Bridgenorth. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517f The engine shed at Bridgenorth. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517g D1062 Western Courier arrives at Bridgenorth with a service from Kidderminster. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517i LMS 2-8-0 8233 with a train of Gresley teak and LMS coaches at Bridgenorth. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517j Visiting the workshops at Bridgenorth. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517k D1013 Western Ranger and 3205 now on the South Devon Railway stands outside of the engine shed at Bridgenorth. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517l Disposal of the ashes at Highley. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517m Our return train to Kidderminster. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517n 50002 Awaits departure from Kidderminster with the return railtour to Penzance via Gloucester and Severn Tunnel Junction where a reversal took place. Copyright Roger Winnen

860517o A row of Class 37s are seen at Severn Tunnel Junction during the engine run around. Copyright Roger Winnen

8th June 1986 Chopper Topper Railtour
This railtour was ill fated as one of the class 37's (37196) became derailed at Truro at a point at the west end of Truro Viaduct. The 37's had been used to take the tour train to Falmouth while the 20's went to Penzance for fuel. Julian Stephens has caught the disgraced 37 slumped on the points awaiting collection. The notice 'Customers Collection' is very appropriate.

Craig Munday reports that having waited for hours at Hayle for the 20's to pass, the barrow crossing lights turned red and the engines 'twittered past'.The tour was re-run on 31st August 1986.

31st August 1986 Re-run of the Chopper Topper

4th September 1988
The 'Devon Ranger'
A DMU railtour run from Penzance by the Cornwall Railway Society

Surprisingly showing our destination as St Ives 'our DMU' stands at platform 4 at Penzance station. The roof at Penzance is, as can be seen, receiving attention. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Devon Rambler pauses at Liskeard, Our train is now something 'Special' , the destination screen has been changed. Copyright Roger Winnen

After Liskeard we called at Plymouth and Newton Abbot to pick up passengers by which time we had a full train. At Exeter we called hoping to collect a Burco boiler from platform 2 ready filled with hot water for tea, and coffee, for our thirsty passengers. However, here a problem occurred as the refreshment room staff had not only failed to fill the boiler, which had been sent up the day before but had also lost it. There was a delay while the boiler was retrieved from a stockroom and filled from a geyser using a large teapot. To add to the complications one handle on our Burco broke making the journey across on the footbridge hazardous to say the least. Back on the platform we met a very irate inspector who was threatening to send our train on without uis as we were holding up 'The Aberdeen' which wanted the same platform. So, slightly late, we got under way on the railtour proper.

After a pause at Crediton where we had acquired the token for the section to Okehampton and Meldon, our next stop was at the station at Bow. This had closed 5th June 1972, The station buildings now form an attractive residence, presumably it was the owners of the property who manufactured this unofficial nameboard. Copyright Roger Winnen

Participants stroll the platforms and enjoy the scene. Don't the station buildings and train look very grand silhouetted against a light sky? Copyright Roger Winnen

Bow - the up platform shelter was still reasonably intact wanting only re-glazing and painting. something which undoubtedly it never got. Copyright Roger Winnen

On then to past Okehampton and out to the Quarry at Meldon. En route we passed through a new short tunnel which took us under the then under construction A30 Okehampton by-pass.

The A30 Okehampton by-pass. The railway, as can be seen, is very close to this road, however a screen of trees prevents a view in either direction. Copyright Roger Winnen

Our first sight on approaching Meldon was of these stone hopper wagons which seem to be somewhat derailed! In the background to the right lies the Okehampton by-pass under construction. Copyright Roger Winnen

Using the units access ladder any, in fact almost all of the participants de-trained to take a look, for about a quarter of an hour, around the quarry terminal. Copyright Roger Winnen

Against this pile of aggregate our DMU looks rather lost! Copyright Roger Winnen

As can be seen members were free to explore the site. Copyright Roger Winnen

Lunch was taken at Okehampton station, a chance again to stretch one's legs. Copyright Roger Winnen

Sampford Courtenay was one of the intermediate stations between Coleford Junction and Okehampton. This closed 5th June 1972 although the goods facilities had been withdrawn 3rd April 1961. This picture, on our railtour 4th September 1988. Copyright Roger Winnen

The grass grown platforms, still see the occasional train operated by the Dartmoor Railway, one can only hope that before too long regular services return on this line and to this station. (This comment in August 2013) Copyright Roger Winnen

We now continued our journey back towards Crediton passing slowly through North Tawton, here the trackbed has been raised such that leaving the train at this location was dangerous.

Crediton signalbox from an unusual angle. Copyright Roger Winnen

Crediton signalbox and the level crossing - the double track from hereon is operated at two independent single lines. The left hand towards Okehampton and Meldon, and the right hand towards Barnstaple. Copyright Roger Winnen

Another chance for a 'leg stretch' at Crediton. Copyright Roger Winnen

The station at Crediton sits on the outskirts of the town which lies on the higher ground to the north east of the station. Copyright Roger Winnen

From Crediton we passed straight through Exeter and headed on along the Dawlish Seawall to Newton Abbot. Here we encountered our second problem with an urn, this time the element within the urn had failed and therefore no hot water was available for tea from thereon. Another small hitch occurred when we had started off up the Heathfield line and it was realised that we didn't have the keys to a level crossing further up the branch. A member of staff had to make the trek back to Newton Abbot to collect the keys!!

Newton Abbot on a lovely sunny day. Copyright Roger Winnen

Newton Abbot, the points are set and the Heathfield branch (HB) light on the signal is illuminated. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Leaving the main line we headed up the branch which runs alongside the River Teign. ahead lies the first crossing of the Teign and beyond that can be seen Newton Abbot racecourse. Copyright Roger Winnen

Ahead of us can be seen bridge A383 Newton Road. The sidings here were a popular venue on 'race days' with the crews perhaps taking rather longer to complete their duties whilst observing the races from their 'mobile grandstand'. Copyright Roger Winnen

After a pause while the gates of an intervening level crossing were opened and closed we came to Teigngrace. Here the traditional dash up the platform was made to capture that rare shot, Teigngrace closed w.e.f. 2nd March 1959 Copyright Roger Winnen

Here's the tail end' of our train at Teigngrace. Copyright Roger Winnen

Heathfield - all of the station buildings have gone, the large bridge in the background carries the A38. Copyright Roger Winnen

Heathfield. Copyright Roger Winnen

While we spent an hour at Paignton for a 'tea stop' our unit was taken out to Goodrington sidings to wait time. Copyright Roger Winnen

Here the train departs for Goodrington. Copyright Roger Winnen

Lydham Manor departs with a train for Paignton. Copyright Roger Winnen.

'Our unit' looks little lost amongst the 'big trains' stabled at Goodrington. Copyright Roger Winnen.

After our 'tea stop' at Paignton we retraced our route back to Newton Abbot and then set off for our final visit of the day which was to Plymouth Friary. Leaving the main line just before Laira we took the 'Speedway curve, a line which bypasses the depot, slicing between the old steam shed and the modern diesel depot sites. We paused on Speedway curve to change crews, at least inspectors. We lost our obliging inspector who had been with us for much of the day to be replaced by a gentleman who stuck to the rules. On arrival at Friary we weren't allowed to change ends with headboards for run home. No, as these obscured the marker lights on the DMU and as such these had to removed all together. This struck a rather sour note, however, we thanked our lucky stars that 'Mr. Jobsworth' hadn't been with us all day.

Looking into the site of Plymouth Friary station from the road overbridge. Members of the party gather on the platforms and track enjoying that last visit to Friary. What a pity our inspector hadn't permitted a visit by our DMU to the buffer stops. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The site of Friary station is now occupied by housing. Copyright Roger Winnen.

In fading light, after a glorious day, passengers queue to climb the well worn ladder up in the train for our journey home. Copyright Roger Winnen

Laira depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

Aview of the Laira depot site not normally available to passngers as our train travels between Mount Gould and Lipson Junctions to rejoin the main line. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A final thank you to Roger Winnen who has made all of his photographs of the memorable railtour available to this web site.

22nd October 1988
'Cornwall Compton Farewell'

Good morning Keith,
In recent days some interesting images have been posted taken within the confines of Penzance station. As this is well known as being, quite literally ''the end of the line'' (or, for those of you that live there maybe the beginning?) would it be an idea over time to add to the "Penzance Gallery'' a sub-section containing a class by class collection of locos; steam all types and diesel from 08 to 70. One good quality image of each class in or close to the station. As an example there is a super photo of GWR Green 47484 taken on 2nd July 1985. Many rarities will only have arrived on railtours so photos will likely exist somewhere.
Just a thought and I'll fully understand if you decide not to pursue the idea as I know you put in a lot of work on a daily basis and the site's capacity has limits!

I've attached some scans of photos from a miserable October 22nd 1988 when 33211 and 33207 arrived from London Waterloo with Network South East's Crompton Cornish Farewell railtour. These were followed on 29th by 33031 and 33033 with 'The Crompton Cornish Swansong' relief railtour that ran due to the popularity of the earlier one.

Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year

Guy

Cornish Compton Swansong 33207 33211 with Penzance CCF Railtour 22.10.1988 Copyright Guy Vincent,

33207 and 211 continues their run round. 22nd October 1985. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Cornish Compton Relief. 29th October 1985.

33033 and 33031 at Penzance with the relief / additional Network South East 'Crompton Cornish Swansong' railtour from London Waterloo on another grim Saturday afternoon, October 29th 1988. This train was run due to the previous week's 'Crompton Cornish Farewell' being over subscribed by around 400 requests for tickets. Happily several passengers, myself included, were able to travel on both trains. 33033 was released from a CEM Light Overhaul at Eastleigh Works just a couple of days before and was the first of 12 examples similarly treated for use on Channel Tunnel construction trains, receiving Railfreight Triple Grey livery with Construction sector markings. 33021 042 050 051 053 056 063 064 202 204 207 were the other locos although 33050 / 051 did not receive full overhauls as they were in generally good condition.

nb Note the red Ford Fiesta parked on the narrow island platform. Once it was common to see staff motor vehicles parked and being driven within 'station limits', H&S has seen to it that this will never, ever happen again!!

Guy Vincent.

33033 and 33031 seen at Par on the 29th October 1988 Copyright Guy Vincent.

The relief Cornish Compton has arrived at Penzance with 33033 and 33031. W55009 sits in platform 29th October 1988 Copyright Guy Vincent

The Compton Cornish scales the bank towards St Austell. 29th October 1985. Copyright Julian Stephens.