Features August to December 2023
2317
Clay through the ages
- we trace methods of clay transport by rail using your pictures.
Clay through the ages
- we trace methods of clay transport by rail using your pictures.
A selection of seven views from Roger Geach and the iminent demise of the very familiar 'CDA's' prompted the ned to record various clay workings mostly in Cornwall.
Also see 2320 China Clay wagons - by Neil Phillips
A nice reflection as hauled by 1071 Western Renown 6b00 clay empties pass Golant. Note the telephone poles etc. 22nd September 1976 Copyright Roger Geach
37142 on the first Moorswater to Fowey clay seen on main line at Moorswater. Thursday 18th May 1978. Copyright Roger Geach.
37669 1500 Goonbarrow Jnct Fowey Golant 12th July 1990. Copyright Roger Geach.
37672 Moorswater to Fowey clay Golant a 27th December 1990. Copyright Roger Geach. As an aside the pink dingy looks rather abandoned!
37670 Fowey to Tavistock junction - seen at doublebois 24th July1991. Copyright Roger Geach.
37675 Tavy jnct. to Fowey clay. Derrycoombe viaduct 16th April 1992 Copyright Roger Geach
37671 on clay for Fowey at Golant a 24th October 1994. Copyright Roger Geach,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some photographs attached of 66199 with the CDA’s in the Luxulyan valley today and then later this evening around Lostwithiel with the empties coming back from Fowey.
Word from St. Blazey is that this is their final week before they are replaced by JIA’s. They are supposed to be running from Goonbarrow today (07.08), Tuesday, Thursday, then a trip to Treviscoe and Fowey on Friday, and then that’s them done!
Nice to see someone has gone to the trouble of painting one of the frames into blue again for the occasion, reminiscent of the ECC days.
Get them now or forever hold your peace..
All the best, Jon
Some photographs attached of 66199 with the CDA’s in the Luxulyan valley today and then later this evening around Lostwithiel with the empties coming back from Fowey.
Word from St. Blazey is that this is their final week before they are replaced by JIA’s. They are supposed to be running from Goonbarrow today (07.08), Tuesday, Thursday, then a trip to Treviscoe and Fowey on Friday, and then that’s them done!
Nice to see someone has gone to the trouble of painting one of the frames into blue again for the occasion, reminiscent of the ECC days.
Get them now or forever hold your peace..
All the best, Jon
66199 7th August 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.
66199 7th August 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.
66199 7th August 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.
66199 7th August 2023 Copyright Jon Hird. Note the nice touch - the blue lining.
66199 7th August 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.
Hi both,
2 photos attached of todays Fowey Docks - Goonbarrow empty CDA’s passing Luxulyan. This will be their last trip up the Newquay branch.
Thursday they will go loaded to Fowey.
Friday morning empty to Treviscoe (from Fowey)
Friday afternoon loaded to Fowey (from Treviscoe)
Friday evening empty to St. Blazey and into store (from Fowey)
So there’s still a couple of opportunities to see them if anybody wants to..
All the best, Jon
2 photos attached of todays Fowey Docks - Goonbarrow empty CDA’s passing Luxulyan. This will be their last trip up the Newquay branch.
Thursday they will go loaded to Fowey.
Friday morning empty to Treviscoe (from Fowey)
Friday afternoon loaded to Fowey (from Treviscoe)
Friday evening empty to St. Blazey and into store (from Fowey)
So there’s still a couple of opportunities to see them if anybody wants to..
All the best, Jon
Last CDA's up the branch enter Luxulyan - 8th August 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.
66199 The last CDA Train from Goonbarrow to Fowey Dock Carne Point 10th August 2023
Goonbarrow Junction 12.32 Par 13.02 Lostwithiel 13.16/14.18 Fowey 14.30
Roger Winnen
Goonbarrow Junction 12.32 Par 13.02 Lostwithiel 13.16/14.18 Fowey 14.30
Roger Winnen
66199 On the clay together with 43027 and 43187 on the 11.50 Penzance to Cardiff. Copyright Roger Winnen
66199 Departs from Par at 13.02 for Lostwithiel and Fowey. Copyright Roger Winnen
Departure of 66199 from Par. Copyright Roger Winnen
After tomorrow we won't see a rake like these CDA s leaving Par. CopyrightRoger Winnen
The pretty village of Golant as we await the trains arrival. Copyright Roger Winnen
Sea Mist over Golant as the train arrives. Copyright Roger Winnen
66199 and its long rake of CDA s reaching their destination shortly around the corner at Carne Point. Copyright Roger Winnen
66199 and its train. Copyright Roger Winnen
66199 at Golant. Copyright Roger Winnen
Nearing the site of Golant Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen
Soon to be doomed or go into preservation! The rake of CDA Wagons. Copyright Roger Winnen
Soon to be doomed or go into preservation. the rake of CDA Wagons. Copyright Roger Winnen
30 Years Aniversary of the formation of the Friends of Penmere Platform held on Saturday 26th August 2023
ITEM 2319
ITEM 2319
230826c A 1964 King Harry coach leaves Penryn on the shuttle to Penmere Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826d The celebration at Penmere Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826dd Adverting the show at Penmere. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826e A Marshall Traction engine originally in the ownership of F W Alford of Truthwall St Just. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826ee Old timetables on view. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826eee Ticket to Ride. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826f Little and large. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826h The displays of Penmere Platform on show. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826i Looking down from the Penmere Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826j The public certainally found interest in the exibits. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826k A 1936 Austin Taxi being the only one known west of Exeter. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826l The miniture traction engine stands infront of the 1936 Austin Tax1
230826m The miniture traction engine stands in front of the 1936 Austin Tax1 Copyright Roger Winnen
230826n Celebrating 30 years at Penmere is the loco Pendennis. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826o Penmere in 1957. Copyright R J Sellack
230826p Penmere Platform today no trains on strike. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826q No trains today! Copyright Roger Winnen
230826r Viewed from the Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826s The latest gadget being installed on stations.Copyright Roger Winnen
230826t Limit of shunt with the traction engine. Copyright Roger Winnen
Regarding the article in the CRS about the 'Friends Of Penmere 30th Anniversary Gala', your roaming reporter Roger Winnen had to dodge the brief but brisk rain showers we had on the day and also caught our free coach service to Penryn, so I didn't have much time to ask if he could get a group photo of the friends. I wondered if you could please put in the article a group shot of the friends I obtained afterwards?
In the image left to right are: Karl Hewlett (myself), Steve Lloyd, Janet Peacock, Phyllis Lloyd, Rosemary Ball, John Ball and David Bishop. We have another two members not in the shot, David Peacock and Daniel Cummings. In the image are three of the original working members from 1993, Karl, Steve and John. I was just 12 years old when I started, possibly the youngest on the National Network and it would not be allowed these days, I believe the minimum requirement age now is 16.
Regards
Karl.
In the image left to right are: Karl Hewlett (myself), Steve Lloyd, Janet Peacock, Phyllis Lloyd, Rosemary Ball, John Ball and David Bishop. We have another two members not in the shot, David Peacock and Daniel Cummings. In the image are three of the original working members from 1993, Karl, Steve and John. I was just 12 years old when I started, possibly the youngest on the National Network and it would not be allowed these days, I believe the minimum requirement age now is 16.
Regards
Karl.
230826u King Harry Coaches conveying visitors from Penryn to and from the site. Copyright Roger Winnen
230826v Inside the 1964 coach. Copyright Roger Winnen
Thanks Roger, a good show by one and all.
2320
China Clay Wagons
- at the end - a brief look back.
Neil Phillips
China Clay Wagons
- at the end - a brief look back.
Neil Phillips
While we are still within the month which saw the end of the CDA hopper wagons’ 35-year reign on Cornish china clay traffic, I hope a brief article on these which does not include any motive power (and includes a photo of a model) will be acceptable!
Although these wagons have been well recorded, particularly during their later years, there seems to be some confusion over numbers so I’ve researched this carefully. The story began in the early 1980s when it became apparent that the 13-ton wooden-bodied end-tipping open wagons, built by BR Swindon from 1955 to replace much older wagons to a similar design and which had become the familiar ‘clayhoods’ from 1973/4 with the addition of protective tent covers, were rapidly approaching the end of their lives – and in any case such small vacuum-braked wagons had become an anachronism on the modern railway so modernization became inevitable, including the discharge facilities at Fowey Docks. The first sign that change was in the air came in 1986 with the arrival at St Blazey of a specially-cleaned HAA hopper wagon, 351297, borrowed from the Midlands ‘merry-go-round’ power station coal delivery circuit, to test the suitability of this wagon design for the transport and discharge of dried china clay. This must have been a success as in early 1987 another HAA wagon, 353224, was modified with a G Nevilles Ltd roller-type canopy and cradle-mounted end vents (to aid discharge while keeping the canopy closed) and ladders for further testing. This showed that the concept was sound, although the end vent arrangement required a redesign and the ladders were found to be unnecessary.
Construction of a fleet of 124 CDA hopper wagons commenced at BREL Doncaster in mid-1987, five years after Shildon had turned out the last HAA. These were numbered 375000-123, with the first, 375000, arriving at St Blazey for assessment in September. This wagon displayed the revised end vent arrangement but was unique in having the smaller side vents diagonally offset, positioning one of them above the air brake distributor which on the CDA was placed above the chassis with a protective top shield, unlike the HAA where it was carried below. Although subsequent wagons had these vents on the same side, 375000 was never modified to conform. All 124 new-build CDAs had been delivered by February 1988 allowing the change-over from the old ‘clayhoods’, rounded up to 125 by the addition of 353224 which had received the new end vents in lieu of the original cradle-mounted design but retained all other HAA-derived features including the underslung brake distributor, as well as the end ladders which made it readily identifiable within a rake. The body was also mounted on the chassis the opposite way round to the production wagons.
In 1989 a further 14 CDAs were supplied by Doncaster, these being conversions from redundant HAA coal wagons which, unlike the prototype 353224, lost their original identities becoming ‘follow-on’ 375124-37 – however they did share that example’s reversed body mounting (some sources say not all 14 were like this, personally I find it hard to believe a BREL works would be this inconsistent but on the railway anything is possible!) and other HAA features. So at its peak the CDA fleet reached 139 wagons. Interestingly the CDAs’ dominance of the local china clay traffic was challenged in 1999 when CEA wagons (a covered version of the HEA hopper type used to deliver coal to the power station at Drinnick Mill in the 1980s) were briefly trialled in their place – why this was considered necessary is unknown.
A downturn in traffic saw 353224 and the final 14 additional conversions sidelined in 2004 – perhaps these ‘non-standard’ wagons having their bodies mounted in reverse compared to the new builds caused operational issues, as the CDAs always ran with their roller canopies one way round for loading purposes. After an extended period in store at St Blazey most went for scrap, but 375125/35/37 have lived on as ‘reach wagons’ or wheeled buffer stops at Fowey Docks, and after a period in splendid isolation at the far end of St Blazey Yard the prototype conversion 353224 was purchased by the National Wagon Preservation Group in 2017, remarkably still carrying its unique end ladders. As traffic has continued to dwindle the situation leading up to the end was 38 in service, 40 stored at St Blazey, 57 scrapped, three at Fowey and one preserved. So at the time of writing there are (presumably) 78 CDAs in St Blazey Yard with a few of these hopefully destined for preservation on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Since the last of the 11,162 HAA coal wagons upon which the CDA design was based disappeared from British metals in 2009 things eventually came full circle, with the 4-wheel CDAs becoming an anachronism on the modern railway just like their little wooden 13-ton predecessors four decades earlier.
I was extremely fortunate to call in at St Blazey on 14th September 1987 – my first visit in just over 10 years – and find the first CDA, 375000, on display in the yard. I took two photos at the time, sent one of them away never to be seen again and the negatives also went missing, to be fortuitously rediscovered just a few months ago. So I have been able to scan these properly, and the results are attached. The fortunate timing of my visit led to me checking rakes of passing CDAs for 375000 whenever I had the opportunity (usually only once or twice a year at the time) and it was whilst doing so at Lostwithiel in April 2000 that I managed to capture the prototype 353224 on its way to Fowey for unloading – this was a big surprise as I was unaware of its existence at the time (and had assumed that Hornby numbering their first OO gauge CDA model 353224 had been a mistake – they clearly knew more than I gave them credit for!) I did eventually catch 375000 passing through Par in August 2002, looking somewhat different to its near-pristine appearance 14 years earlier. The latest word is that this one will survive and won’t be travelling very far - although it will require some additional restoration after sitting idle in St Blazey Yard for at least the last 3½ years and is now missing some parts, including the canopy winding gear. Luckily there are plenty of ‘parts donors’ nearby…….
Best regards,
Neil Phillips
Although these wagons have been well recorded, particularly during their later years, there seems to be some confusion over numbers so I’ve researched this carefully. The story began in the early 1980s when it became apparent that the 13-ton wooden-bodied end-tipping open wagons, built by BR Swindon from 1955 to replace much older wagons to a similar design and which had become the familiar ‘clayhoods’ from 1973/4 with the addition of protective tent covers, were rapidly approaching the end of their lives – and in any case such small vacuum-braked wagons had become an anachronism on the modern railway so modernization became inevitable, including the discharge facilities at Fowey Docks. The first sign that change was in the air came in 1986 with the arrival at St Blazey of a specially-cleaned HAA hopper wagon, 351297, borrowed from the Midlands ‘merry-go-round’ power station coal delivery circuit, to test the suitability of this wagon design for the transport and discharge of dried china clay. This must have been a success as in early 1987 another HAA wagon, 353224, was modified with a G Nevilles Ltd roller-type canopy and cradle-mounted end vents (to aid discharge while keeping the canopy closed) and ladders for further testing. This showed that the concept was sound, although the end vent arrangement required a redesign and the ladders were found to be unnecessary.
Construction of a fleet of 124 CDA hopper wagons commenced at BREL Doncaster in mid-1987, five years after Shildon had turned out the last HAA. These were numbered 375000-123, with the first, 375000, arriving at St Blazey for assessment in September. This wagon displayed the revised end vent arrangement but was unique in having the smaller side vents diagonally offset, positioning one of them above the air brake distributor which on the CDA was placed above the chassis with a protective top shield, unlike the HAA where it was carried below. Although subsequent wagons had these vents on the same side, 375000 was never modified to conform. All 124 new-build CDAs had been delivered by February 1988 allowing the change-over from the old ‘clayhoods’, rounded up to 125 by the addition of 353224 which had received the new end vents in lieu of the original cradle-mounted design but retained all other HAA-derived features including the underslung brake distributor, as well as the end ladders which made it readily identifiable within a rake. The body was also mounted on the chassis the opposite way round to the production wagons.
In 1989 a further 14 CDAs were supplied by Doncaster, these being conversions from redundant HAA coal wagons which, unlike the prototype 353224, lost their original identities becoming ‘follow-on’ 375124-37 – however they did share that example’s reversed body mounting (some sources say not all 14 were like this, personally I find it hard to believe a BREL works would be this inconsistent but on the railway anything is possible!) and other HAA features. So at its peak the CDA fleet reached 139 wagons. Interestingly the CDAs’ dominance of the local china clay traffic was challenged in 1999 when CEA wagons (a covered version of the HEA hopper type used to deliver coal to the power station at Drinnick Mill in the 1980s) were briefly trialled in their place – why this was considered necessary is unknown.
A downturn in traffic saw 353224 and the final 14 additional conversions sidelined in 2004 – perhaps these ‘non-standard’ wagons having their bodies mounted in reverse compared to the new builds caused operational issues, as the CDAs always ran with their roller canopies one way round for loading purposes. After an extended period in store at St Blazey most went for scrap, but 375125/35/37 have lived on as ‘reach wagons’ or wheeled buffer stops at Fowey Docks, and after a period in splendid isolation at the far end of St Blazey Yard the prototype conversion 353224 was purchased by the National Wagon Preservation Group in 2017, remarkably still carrying its unique end ladders. As traffic has continued to dwindle the situation leading up to the end was 38 in service, 40 stored at St Blazey, 57 scrapped, three at Fowey and one preserved. So at the time of writing there are (presumably) 78 CDAs in St Blazey Yard with a few of these hopefully destined for preservation on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Since the last of the 11,162 HAA coal wagons upon which the CDA design was based disappeared from British metals in 2009 things eventually came full circle, with the 4-wheel CDAs becoming an anachronism on the modern railway just like their little wooden 13-ton predecessors four decades earlier.
I was extremely fortunate to call in at St Blazey on 14th September 1987 – my first visit in just over 10 years – and find the first CDA, 375000, on display in the yard. I took two photos at the time, sent one of them away never to be seen again and the negatives also went missing, to be fortuitously rediscovered just a few months ago. So I have been able to scan these properly, and the results are attached. The fortunate timing of my visit led to me checking rakes of passing CDAs for 375000 whenever I had the opportunity (usually only once or twice a year at the time) and it was whilst doing so at Lostwithiel in April 2000 that I managed to capture the prototype 353224 on its way to Fowey for unloading – this was a big surprise as I was unaware of its existence at the time (and had assumed that Hornby numbering their first OO gauge CDA model 353224 had been a mistake – they clearly knew more than I gave them credit for!) I did eventually catch 375000 passing through Par in August 2002, looking somewhat different to its near-pristine appearance 14 years earlier. The latest word is that this one will survive and won’t be travelling very far - although it will require some additional restoration after sitting idle in St Blazey Yard for at least the last 3½ years and is now missing some parts, including the canopy winding gear. Luckily there are plenty of ‘parts donors’ nearby…….
Best regards,
Neil Phillips
1 - First Production CDA at St Blazey - 14th September 1987. Copyright Neil Phillips.
2 - First Production CDA at St Blazey - 14th September 1987. Copyright Neil Phillips.
3 - CDA 375000 at Par - August 2002 Copyright Neil Phillips
4 - CDA 375000 withdrawn in St Blazey Yard - 11th August 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.
5 - Prototype CDA conversion 353224 at Lostwithiel - April 2000. Copyright Neil Phillips.
Vary many thanks indeed Neil - a most excellent account of a piece of history - the CDA
2321 A 'Treasure Trove'. Colin Burges using his bicycle visits the Barnstaple to Okehampton branch, Ilfracombe and the Lyme Regis branch providing his usual very detailed and informative notes.
A three of my recent rides may interest some of your readers.
Barnstaple Junction to Okehampton https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/87-barnstaple-junction-to-okehampton/
Not knowing what "stemming the tide" meant proves that I'm a landlubber. I let opinion creep into this piece when I question the value of cycle paths and insist that they should not be obstacles to railway reconstruction.
Ilfracombe https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/88-ilfracombe/
Look out for the L. & B. buffer stop. Why is there an oddly-sited bus stop on Belmont Road in Ilfracombe?
My coverage of the Lyme Regis Branch is incomplete because of a flat battery in the camera https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/89-lyme-regis/
Who has tried "The Ale Way" at Axminster?
Best wishes, Colin
Barnstaple Junction to Okehampton https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/87-barnstaple-junction-to-okehampton/
Not knowing what "stemming the tide" meant proves that I'm a landlubber. I let opinion creep into this piece when I question the value of cycle paths and insist that they should not be obstacles to railway reconstruction.
Ilfracombe https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/88-ilfracombe/
Look out for the L. & B. buffer stop. Why is there an oddly-sited bus stop on Belmont Road in Ilfracombe?
My coverage of the Lyme Regis Branch is incomplete because of a flat battery in the camera https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/89-lyme-regis/
Who has tried "The Ale Way" at Axminster?
Best wishes, Colin
The above three links provided by Colin Burges, historian, photographer and custodian of fine railway relics give us an insight into his adventures on his bicycle in which he probes quite deeply into the railway histories and also lineside features - highly recommended. These are excellent photographic records.
Item 2322 China Clay Gala 2023
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th September 2023
Photographs by Jon Hird Mark Lynam & Roger Winnen
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th September 2023
Photographs by Jon Hird Mark Lynam & Roger Winnen
230909aa 5552 Arrives at Bodmin Parkway with the 10.30 from Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909a 5552 Runs around at Bodmin Parkway to form the 11.00 to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen
Bagnell Built Saddle Tanks Judy 1937 and Alfred 1953 at Bodmin General, built for moving the clay at Par Harbour. Copyright Jon Hird
A spectacular line up at Bodmin General Station. Copyright Jon Hird
The 08 with the clay at Bodmin General Station. Copyright Jon Hird
230909b Jimmy James with the clay at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen
08359 arrives at Bodmin Parkway on 11.25 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Mark Lynam
Viewed from the buffet at General. Copyright Jon Hird
230909c Little and Large. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909d Judy on tour within the station limits. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909e 47306 on the clay. Copyright Roger Winnen
Not long after 47306 comes the other way with the clays working 13.35 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Mark Lynam
230909f 5553 Departs on the 12.45 to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909g Judy with the railtour at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909h A quick dash across the road to catch the returning special. Copyright Roger Winnen
5553 at Quarry Curve working 13.15 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin GeneraL Copyright Mark Lynam
230909j Back to the station full of atmosphere. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909k Judy gives another ride within the station limits. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909l 47306 with the freight. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909n 5553 brings in the 14.24 from Boscarne. Copyright Roger Winnen
5553 Climbing with the clay. Copyright Jon Hird
47306 with the return at Charles Gate working 14.02 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Mark Lynam
47306 The Sapper on the service train. Copyright Jon Hird
Same location this time for 08359 returning on the clays working 16.10 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Mark Lynam
230909o Running around to double head the 15.20 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen
230909p 5552 and 5553 Departs Bodmin Parkway with the 15.20 to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen
Photographs taken by Mark Lynam on Sunday 10th September 2023
08359 approaches Boscarne Junction with the clays working 10.05 Bodmin General to Boscarne Junction Copyright Mark Lynan
08359 on the return working just leaving Boscarne - 10.35 Boscarne Junction to Bodmin General. Copyright Mark Lynam
50042 near Colesloggett Halt on the A38 bridge/tunnel working 11.10 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. It sadly failed on arriving back at Bodmin General with the 47 taking over it's turns the rest of the day Copyright Mark Lynam
5553 arriving at Bodmin Parkway with the clays on 11.55 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Mark Lynam
Judy at Bodmin General giving rides around the station. Copyright Mark Lynam
5553 passes 5552 at Bodmin General arriving with 14.10 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Mark Lynam
47306 with the clay at Charlies Gate working 14.35 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Mark Lynam
47306 with the clay at Charlies Gate working 14.35 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Mark Lynam
47306 with the clay at Charlies Gate working 14.35 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Mark Lynam
5553 a few minutes later working 15.55 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Mark Lynam
Lastly the final service of day sees 5552 + 5553 double headed at Charlies Gate working 17.00 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Copyright Mark Lynam
Item 2323
Reopening the Bude branch - maybe a pipe dream?
Andrew and Diane Jones trace the route looking at the structures en-route.
Reopening the Bude branch - maybe a pipe dream?
Andrew and Diane Jones trace the route looking at the structures en-route.
Driven by the aspirations to re open the Bude Railway recently posted at Okehampton Station, I thought I would take a look at some of the remaining infrastructure on the Bude to Holsworthy section and judge the possibilities! (please see attached photographs)
The chances of re entering Bude have long since departed, but once the A39 has been crossed at Helebridge the track bed exists and spirits are raised when reaching the wonderful grade 11 listed Woolston Viaduct. Rumoured to be one of the first concrete viaducts, (where have I heard that before!).
Moving on, Trelay overbridge is intact and so is the track bed below, which is used for agricultural purposes. Beyond Titson Farm heavy overgrowth obscures the route and just before Whitstone and Bridgerule Station there is a gap reclaimed by Farm Land, the good news is that the road bridge carrying the B3254 to Launceston is in place so no major costs on this initial section.
Bridgerule station is in good condition and still retains its LSWR canopy, but just outside of the station towards Holsworthy is an extensive quarry type activity, which straddles the original track bed so possibly an issue here.
The next section is intact as far as Derrill, with an under bridge at Bounds Cross in remarkable condition and an overbridge at Hopworthy in similar condition.
Unfortunately there is another gap east of Derrill with the overbridge removed and a short section reclaimed for farming.
Derriton viaduct is reached next, just west of Holsworthy and is part of a Sustrans conversion and is also grade 11 listed.
Holsworthy station site has been redeveloped, having laid derelict for many years and would be a major headache to any reinstatement as is Coles Mill Viaduct to the east which although listed is in poor condition.
So there we have a snapshot of one short section which looks promising but has many hurdles of mixed ownership and poor forward planning by local councils.
Given that any access would require an expensive crossing of the A30 dual carriage way at Sourton it seems unlikely in my opinion that a cost effective solution will be found.
Reinstatement of the Okehampton Tavistock line would be far easier, serving a much larger population, and even that is struggling to find backers.
Will Bude ever be re connected to the national network, well it stands more chance than rebuilding the short lived canal!
I hate to be negative, but only wish that the proposers of these schemes take a cold look at the facts and possibly in my opinion put their efforts into more viable projects and not possible pipe dreams.
Even though I would love to see trains back in Bude and North Cornwall, it only took me 3 hours in my car to establish the difficulties.
Very best wishes Andrew and Diane
The chances of re entering Bude have long since departed, but once the A39 has been crossed at Helebridge the track bed exists and spirits are raised when reaching the wonderful grade 11 listed Woolston Viaduct. Rumoured to be one of the first concrete viaducts, (where have I heard that before!).
Moving on, Trelay overbridge is intact and so is the track bed below, which is used for agricultural purposes. Beyond Titson Farm heavy overgrowth obscures the route and just before Whitstone and Bridgerule Station there is a gap reclaimed by Farm Land, the good news is that the road bridge carrying the B3254 to Launceston is in place so no major costs on this initial section.
Bridgerule station is in good condition and still retains its LSWR canopy, but just outside of the station towards Holsworthy is an extensive quarry type activity, which straddles the original track bed so possibly an issue here.
The next section is intact as far as Derrill, with an under bridge at Bounds Cross in remarkable condition and an overbridge at Hopworthy in similar condition.
Unfortunately there is another gap east of Derrill with the overbridge removed and a short section reclaimed for farming.
Derriton viaduct is reached next, just west of Holsworthy and is part of a Sustrans conversion and is also grade 11 listed.
Holsworthy station site has been redeveloped, having laid derelict for many years and would be a major headache to any reinstatement as is Coles Mill Viaduct to the east which although listed is in poor condition.
So there we have a snapshot of one short section which looks promising but has many hurdles of mixed ownership and poor forward planning by local councils.
Given that any access would require an expensive crossing of the A30 dual carriage way at Sourton it seems unlikely in my opinion that a cost effective solution will be found.
Reinstatement of the Okehampton Tavistock line would be far easier, serving a much larger population, and even that is struggling to find backers.
Will Bude ever be re connected to the national network, well it stands more chance than rebuilding the short lived canal!
I hate to be negative, but only wish that the proposers of these schemes take a cold look at the facts and possibly in my opinion put their efforts into more viable projects and not possible pipe dreams.
Even though I would love to see trains back in Bude and North Cornwall, it only took me 3 hours in my car to establish the difficulties.
Very best wishes Andrew and Diane
Bude Railway Bounds Cross recently renovated.Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Bounds Cross recently renovated just need a T9 Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Hopworthy near Holsworthy beautiful condition and still railway property. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Hopworthy near Holsworthy beautiful condition and still railw...ty 1 Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones
Bude Railway looking towards Bude and Woolston Viaduct well used trackbed. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Whitstone and Bridgerule Station Well preserved after nearly ...osure Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Woolston Viaduct Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Woolston Viaduct Block detail Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Bude Railway Woolston Viaduct intricate parapet detail. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.
Many thanks Andrew and Diane - a worthwhile excursion.
Item 2324
The end of an Era -
Cross country HST's cease
- many contributors.
The end of an Era -
Cross country HST's cease
- many contributors.
The train describer at Plymouth station - 18th September 2023. Note the 16.27 departure. Copyright Paul Barlow.
High Speed Train Farewell stands at Plymouth awaiting departure at 16.27 on the 18th September 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.
43007 ready to leave Plymouth 18th September 2023. Copyright Mark Lynam
The Farewell to Cross Country passes Powderham - a lovely shot from an unusual angle. Exmouth in the background. The driver acknowledges Clives camera with a wave. 18th September 2023.
43008 pauses at Exeter St Davids 18th September 2023. Copyright Mark Lynam
43007 leaves Exeter St Davids 18th September 2023. Copyright Mark Lynam
Waiting at Oath this came first 221139, 18th September 2023. Copyright Bill Elston
Looking smashing in the early afternoon light 43008 approaches Oath, 18th September 2023. Copyright Bill Elston
And on the back 43007, Oath. 18th September 2023. Copyright Bill Elston
Exeter. Crew change for the last time. End of an Era. 18th September 2023. Copyright Andrew Hickson,
From Guy Vincent Pictures below - - A belated submission for your gallery of the last public Inter City 125 service train operated by Cross Country on 18th September 2023, the 1E73 1625 Plymouth - Leeds. Here it is passing through Bradford on Avon a few minutes behind time at 1851hrs, heading for Bristol Temple Meads where it will reverse before heading on to Leeds. A small group of locals were on hand to record this historic but sad working, fortunately re-routed from Taunton via Westbury due to a week-long engineering possession between Bristol West Jcn and Weston super Mare.
Full formation: 43008 44012 42376 42369 42097 42290 45003 41193 (set XC02) & 43007.
It is reported that this set is due to return to the south west next week in preparation for a staff charter from Plymouth to Blackpool North on Friday 29th. The empty set is coming down from Leeds on Wednesday 27th, times are available now on Realtime Trains.
Regards for now, Guy Vincent.
Full formation: 43008 44012 42376 42369 42097 42290 45003 41193 (set XC02) & 43007.
It is reported that this set is due to return to the south west next week in preparation for a staff charter from Plymouth to Blackpool North on Friday 29th. The empty set is coming down from Leeds on Wednesday 27th, times are available now on Realtime Trains.
Regards for now, Guy Vincent.
18th September 2023, the 1E73 1625 Plymouth - Leeds. Here it is passing through Bradford on Avon a few minutes behind time at 1851hrs, heading for Bristol Temple Meads where it will reverse before heading on to Leeds. Copyright Guy Vincent.
A small group of locals were on hand to record this historic but sad working, fortunately re-routed from Taunton via Westbury due to a week-long engineering possession between Bristol West Jcn and Weston super Mare.. Copyright Guy Vincent.
Item 2325
The Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Gala
A visit by members of the Cornwall Railway Society
23rd September 2023
John Ball & Roger Winnen
The Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Gala
A visit by members of the Cornwall Railway Society
23rd September 2023
John Ball & Roger Winnen
230923a On route to the Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Gala. Members and friends of the CRS Peter Bragg John Gallagher and the two Richards. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923b John Ball Peter Bragg John Gallagher. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923c The two Richards and Kevin Salisbury gathered around the table. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923d Visiting locomotives from the Ffestiniog Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923e Hunslets Lilla and Huch Napier from the Ffestiniog were great attractions coming from the Ffestiniog Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923f Lilla at Hardy Bay Station renamed for the occasion. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923g 762 Lyn arrives at Hardy Bay as the two welsh engines await departure for Killington Lane. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923h Preparing for departure to Killington Lane. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923i Arrival at Killington Lane as the locos prepare a running around move. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923j Lilla running around. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923k The two Hunslets at Killington Lane. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923l Killington Lane Station. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923m Awaiting departure to Hardy Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923n A classic view of narrow gauge steam. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923o Axe awaits departure for Killington Lane. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923p 762 Lyn arrives at Woody Bay from Kiddington Lane Copyright Roger Winnen
230923q 762 Lyn on the climb to Woody Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923r Lyn approaching Woody Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923rr A Hunslet Diesel with a tamping machine. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923s A Triple Headed top & tailed steam enter Woody Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923t Triple headed steam Copyright Roger Winnen
230923u 762 Lyn departs from Woody Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923v Arrival back at Woody Bay. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923x As we were about to depart for Barnstaple on the bus service more double headed steam was seen arriving. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923y Axe displaying the headboard 125 Anniversary of the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923za Chelfam Viaduct and Fillers Bus on the 310 Route to Barnstaple Copyright John Ball
230923zb Chelfam Viaduct close up. Copyright John Ball
230923zc The restored Chelfam Station. Copyright John Ball
230923z A Turbo arrives at Barnstaple to form the 16.39 service to Exeter Central. Copyright Roger Winnen
230923zd Eggesford Station the 16.39 Barnstaple to Exeter Central. Copyright John Ball