LATEST INPUT , NEWS & OLD PICTURES ETC.

August 15th 2026

15/8/2026

Empty Clays
Ian Thomas & Paul Barlow

Yet another hot day in this summer of 2026, and I picked up the clays running at a decent time today and with 66-718 'SIR PETER HENDY' at the helm. It is seen here pasing Cam & Dursley 13 minutes early with 6V72, the 13.17. Cliffe Vale-Goonbarrow clay empties. The train was booked into Cheltenham, Lansdown, Haresfield and Charfield loops, but ran past three, primarily because 1V60, th 08.20 Aberdeen to Plymouth was running 38 late. 14.08.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

66718 working the 1317 Cliffe Vale to Goonbarrow 6V72 passes over Exwick flood relief channel, Exeter. 14.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Ian and Paul.. certainly a new livery for us down here in Cornwall!

Torbay Diesel Bonanza
Clive Smith

It was all happening in Torbay on Thursday, with the Northern Belle Pullman, the Midland Pullman blue HST ECS and two class 37s replacing steam in the Paignton & Dartmouth in the afternoon.

Looking a bit of a mess, maroon West Coast 57314 top and tails with 57601 on the 1Z68 08.19 Birmingham International - Paignton Northern Belle Pullman as it crosses into Paignton station. 13.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Lovely to see Goodrington Sidings very full. 800313 works the 5A87 12.41 Torquay - Torquay ECS omitting the Paignton stop of the service to Paddington due to restrictions at the station following the recent fire. 57601 is seen on the Northern Belle ECS and 43055 & 43050 wait to depart with the 5Z34 13.58 Goodrington C.H.S - Crewe H.S.ECS. 13.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Heavyweight 37703 passes Goodrington beach with the 15.00 Paignton - Kingswear as the temperature hit 31C in Torbay. 13.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

37703 failed on the 17.15 Kingswear - Paignton after departure and was rescued by 37275 which was sent light from Paignton. The pair pass Waterside at 18.10 on a glorious evening. 13.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

A super mix Clive - many thanks indeed.

The last green Peak
Roger Fletcher

D165, the last green peak, at Bristol Temple Meads heading south on 17.06.1972. Copyright Roger Fletcher.

Many thanks indeed Roger.

Re: D1041
Michael Adams

Roger Winnen's lovely picture of 'Western Prince 'at Penzance in 1976 has prompted Michael Adams to send his picture of the loco.at Swindon works on 19 May 1979. It was withdrawn in February 1977 and is now under restoration at the East Lancashire Railway. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks to Michael A and also to Michael F for sending this one over to us.

Frome Crompton
Paul Barlow

33015 waits at Frome with the 1715 Cardiff to Weymouth. 04.09.1982, copyright Paul Barlow.

A classic scene, many thanks Paul.

August 1976
Part 15
Roger Winnen

Southern Set 433 at Bournemouth. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

et 422 at Bournemouth Station. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Bournemouth Station. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Brokenhurst Station. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 14th 2026

14/8/2026

Repurposed Chairs
Roger Fletcher

A photograph taken last week on St Ives harbour jetty of a bucket of GWR sleeper chairs. They are used by fisherman for weighting down items to the sea bed. August 2026, copyright Roger Fletcher.

Well spotted Roger - a novel use for them!

Hinksey Heavyhaul
Alan Peters

Freightliner 66533 "Senator Express" hurries past Hinksey Yard with 4O99 Leeds FLT to Southampton Freightliner Maritime Container Terminal service on 11th August 2026. Copyright Alan Peters.

Freightliner operated Hanson 59103 "Village of Mells" passes Hinksey Yard with the return 6C54 Oxford Banbury Road to Whatley Quarry on 11th August 2026. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan, a view we'd not usually get.

Paignton 'Tractor' action
Andrew Triggs

6975 (37275) heading upgrade at Goodrington Sands working the 14.15 Paignton-Kingswear. 12.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

37703 on the rear of the 14.10 Kingswear-Paignton, running downgrade towards Goodrington Sands. 12.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

37703 rounding the curve at Goodrington Holiday Park working the 15.45 Paignton-Kingswear. 12.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

6975 passing Waterside working the 15.40 Kingswear-Paignton. 12.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

6975 returns south again passing Waterside Holiday Park with the 16.30 Paignton-Kingswear. 12.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Finally for the day, 37703 'Vulcan' passes Waterside with the 16.25 Kingswear-Paignton. 12.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew, nice to see this pair getting some use.

A trip to the B&H
Steve Clark

I had a super few hours on the B&H on Monday and captured pretty much one of every livery going. Here's a selection.

This was so nearly in sun but it took an age to get through the Frome area! 66590 and 66418 in HHR Powderpuff Livery haul the 6A40 Merehead to Hanwell Bridge Loop. 10.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

There was a busy spell at Edington with 4 trains passing in just over an hour, and first up was 60029 'Ben Nevis' at the head of the 6M51 Merehead to Quainton with more stone for the HS2 project. 10.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

Almost a Hanson NOT in the sun!! The sole remaining loco in this livery rounds the curve at Cheverall hauling a single portion 6A50 Whatley to Hanwell Bridge Loop. Rumours persist that this Loco may end up in ARC livery when it does receive paint. 10.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

With Shaun the Sheep entering the right of the frame, 60099 'Ben More Assynt' rumbles past with the MWFo 6V95 Willesden to Merehead empty Boxes. 10.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

47805 'Roger Hosking MA 1925-2013' got into difficulty with a Paignton bound Charter on Saturday and had to be removed from the train with very warm 'dragging brakes'. It sits on Westbury's equivalent of the naughty step awaiting collection and taking back to Crewe. 10.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve - a bit of everything. Still a busy place for freight by the look of it.

A trip to Scarborough
Paul Barlow

A great day trip yesterday to Scarborough on the Midland Pullman. We
also had a good view of the eclipse near Burton on Trent.

The train was 75 minutes late back due to a disturbance on a preceding Cardiff to Taunton train at Highbridge involving 19 hooligans.

43055 on 0618 Paignton to Scarborough 'The Yorkshire coast Pullman' 1Z32 at Exeter St. Davids. 12.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

43050 43055 on 0618 Paignton to Scarborough on arrival at it's destination. 12.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

Loch Morar nameplate. 12.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

The partial eclipse on 12.08.2026. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul, glad you had a good trip.

St. Pinnock Viaduct
Jon Hird

New-liveried Crosscountry Voyager 220029 crosses St Pinnock Viaduct working the 1115 Penzance - Edinburgh. 13.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

10 minutes later, 66759 leading 7 JIA wagons from Treviscoe, destined for Cliffe Vale. 13.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

August 1976
Part 14
Roger Winnen

Bournemouth Station. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Channel Islands Boat Train. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Inside of Bournemouth Station. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 13th 2026

13/8/2026

Treviscoe Clay
Steve Clark

I decided to stake out Llanjeth crossing this morning knowing the Clay had gone up to Treviscoe. I was rewarded at 11.10 with 66759 and 7 loaded JIAs coming towards me. 12.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

66759 crosses the road at Lanjeth. 12.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

I raced it to St Austell, but it was held at Burngullow Jn for its booked slot behind 1S53. I noticed on the maps that 1S53 was being held at Par on a Redm and sure enough 6M53 came to a halt in St Austell station allowing a few shots as it crawled in. After 4 mins it got the road and headed off. 12.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark. (click images for enlargements).

Many thanks Steve, great lighting for it.

Into the Eclipse
Martin Scane

1V60 Aberdeen to Plymouth, running some 15 minutes late, has just passed Shaldon Bridge at 19-17 yesterday evening just a minute or so after the maximum coverage of the eclipse. It was still remarkably light considering the sun was only operating at 5% at the time. 12.08.2026, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin - A nice place to watch the eclipse.

August 1976
Part 13
Roger Winnen

De-Icing unit 022 at Eastleigh. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Departmental unit at Eastleigh. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Set 401 at Eastleigh. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 12th 2026

12/8/2026

August Skies
Craig Munday

The endless Summer of 2026 will live long in many people's memory. Will long hot Summers and persistent rain filled Winters become the norm? Advanced weather models I've seen seem to indicate this could be the way forward.

A few from featuring the blue skies, and an after dark Sleeper shot too.

A shift at Goonbarrow allowed a glimpse of 08752 shunting from the box window on 6th. 06.08.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

66748 at last led the double header into Cornwall on the Belmond Britannic Explorer and is pictured at Dowgas Westbound on Sat 8th. 08.08.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

The Golant Carnival was on 8th Aug. I avoided the village that evening, but grabbed the Lostwithiel bound Belmond Explorer passing Par. If someone had said 4 years that GBRf would be regularly running a successful Belmond Britannic charter train throughout the year to Carne Point and Class 175s would be working services on the mainline most would have been skeptical. Add 153384 on 2Q36 stabled in Liner Siding and you have a completely changed line up from years ago! Nothing stays the same... 08.08.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

1A50 was pictured at Camborne with 57605. The sky to the west still has colour - helped by the 21.15 Sunday departure time. 09.08.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

Finally, a couple from Golant. The bunting still in place around the village added some colour to 6G09 passing on 10th & 11th. Such beautiful light for August. Note the dried out football pitch desperate for some torrential rain! 10.08.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

66759 once again at the head of 6G09 on Tuesday 11th, passing through Golant with plenty of bunting still present from the villages carnival the week prior. 11.08.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

A superb selection of sunny photos Craig - many thanks indeed.

Paignton Station Fire Damage
Andrew Hickson

On Saturday it was sad to see the extent of the fire damage at Paignton Station. A temporary ticket office has been set up and up trains start further back as shown in the attached photo. Platform lengths are consequently of insufficient length to deal with London trains so they are terminating at Torquay and running empty to Goodrington.

The removed canopy at Paignton Station. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Hickson.

The classic station footbridge damaged by fire. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Hickson.

166220 awaits departure with the 1617 to Exmouth whilst 800320 arrives with the empty stock of the 1236 from Paddington which terminated at Torquay. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Hickson.

Many thanks indeed Andrew. A sad sight indeed. Hopefully those responsible are held to account and the station can soon be restored.

Devon HST
Paul Barlow

43055 and 43050 working the 0950 Crewe to Goodrington ECS (for todays (Wednesdays) railtour from Paignton) past Cowley Bridge Junction. 11.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul. And if anybody wants the times for todays tour (or tomorrows ECS movement), they can be found in our Railtour Calendar.

Memories of the Peaks
Michael Forward & Michael Adams

A couple of shots from many taken during my visit to Aller jctn on a hot 28 July 1984. Firstly we see 45006 'The Honourable Artillery Company' with the 10.35 Penzance to Leeds. Copyright Michael Forward.

46025 took me by surprise but we get a view of the signal box, train service not known. 28.07.1984, copyright Michael Forward.

Michael Adams sends this picture of now withdrawn 46025 (D162) at Swindon works. The loco was to be scrapped at Doncaster in 1985. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks as always to the two Michaels.

High tide at Golant
Mark Lynam & Jon Hird

66759 again crosses the Golant Causeway with Tuesdays train of empties from Fowey. Viewed from high at the top of the village. 11.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

A lower angle as the train continues on towards Lostwithiel. This shot taken with the assistance of my son who, after I'd 'parked' and locked the drone, managed to press the shutter button at just the right moment. 11.08.2026, copyright Charlie Hird.

The shot I'd actually gone down for last night. Taken from the very end of the harbour, a few things need to line up in order for this to come off. You need a retreating tide (so you don't get cut off), an early 6G05 (as this half of the harbour is in shadow soon after 1830) and you need there to actually be a train! Thankfully, it all came together with the train passing by nice and early at 1825 with Dave M at the controls. 11.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Over to Lostwithiel where 66759 is seen running round its train, passing the former signal box. 11.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

The train awaits departure from Lostwithiel Down Loop. 11.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Off home for the night as 66759 departs Lostwithiel for Goonbarrow. 11.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark. These long summer evenings are a dream for photography. We should all make the most of them whilst we can!

An hour at Laira Junction
Andrew Triggs

I spent some time on Embankment Road, Laira in glorious conditions yesterday, capturing the everyday scene of Todays modern Unit friendly railway, it certainly ain't what it used to be.

Withdrawn 43088 awaits it's fate at Laira, viewed from Embankment Road Overbridge. 11.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175112 working 5Z77 10.05 Laira T&RSMD-Laira T&RSMD (Via Totnes) heading back into the Depot. 11.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

802006 with 802001 working 1C99 09.03 London Paddington-Newquay, running 20 late at 12.30. 11.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

802001 with 802007 passing Laira working 1A86 11.08 Newquay-London Paddington. 11.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

XC 221107 with 220026 passing Laira working 1S53 11.15 Penzance-Edinburgh. 11.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

And one from Monday at Sparkwell Road Overbridge, Network Rail 153384 working 2Q26 06.48 Par-Derby RTC (N.R) heads back up through West Devon. 10.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew. I think many of us are waiting to see what fate lies ahead for 43088 and 43156, the last 2 power cars at Laira.

Saltash & Plymouth
Roger Winnen

Pictures from Rogers trip to Saltash and Plymouth last week. Please click for enlargements and captions. All images copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks, Roger.

August 1976
Part 12
Roger Winnen

The Eastleigh traverser. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 11th 2026

11/8/2026

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 120
Chester General Station
Michael L. Roach

In Part 113 I arrived at Ruabon at 5.11pm on 4 July 1964 and stayed just a short time photographing two trains. What to do next? Start heading back south towards my holiday bed at Gloucester on the 4.30pm Birkenhead to Paddington at 5.43pm and have an hour or two at Shrewsbury or Hereford? No, I decided to press on to Chester General, a half hour journey, behind a Brush Type 4, which was running 11L. This was a good decision as it turned out. Although I have been back to Chester several times since, and nearly always by train, the half hour I spent at Chester that evening turned out to be my only visit to the station in steam days. Although there were diesel-hauled expresses and DMU’s around Chester in 1964 there was still a fair amount of steam passing through the station both east-west and north-south. I headed back south at 6.25pm behind Jubilee 45660 Rooke hauling 4C.

The first railways arrived at Chester in 1840, but the present station opened to passengers in 1848 as a joint station and was known as Chester General from 1875 to 1969.

The station was designed by Francis Thompson (1808-1895) the architect of the Chester & Holyhead Railway in the Italianate style, which Brunel often used. The station is now Listed Grade II*. The history of railways arriving at Chester and opening passenger stations is complicated so I would refer you to Wikipedia for more detail.

In this first view is Black 5 4-6-0 no. 44993 of 12A Carlisle Kingmoor Shed with 10C on the 2.35pm Holyhead to Birmingham New Street, due to leave Chester at 6.10pm and reach Birmingham at 8.48pm. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Two minutes after the last photo Britannia 70045 Lord Rowallan of 6J Holyhead Shed enters Chester General on the 5.10pm Liverpool Lime Street to Holyhead train – a 3-hour trip from Chester. Note the bags of mail on a Saturday evening. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Jinty 47389 of 6A Chester Shed was station pilot on the evening of 4 July 1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Jubilee 45660 Rooke of 6A Chester Shed is ready to depart Chester with the 5.37pm Birkenhead to Shrewsbury train. In the summer of 1964 the last train of the day SO was the 8.55pm off Birkenhead went to Paddington and conveyed sleeping cars. The train ran seven days a week. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

It is now 7.45pm and 45660 has arrived at Shrewsbury. The engine is still wearing a 6D Shrewsbury shedplate where it was stationed until June 1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always, Mike.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Largin 153
Roger Geach

Just a shot showing how open Largin was on 15th May 2010 with a couple of 153 units (I never liked them at all!). Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks as always Roger. This high level shot is now, predictably, completely obscured by trees, although thankfully a small clear spot still exists further down the bank.

Moving Clay whilst the sun shines
Jon Hird & Mark Lynam

Running slightly later than usual due to additional 'Boardmasters' traffic on the branch, GBRf 66759 is about to pass beneath Treffrys Aqueduct near Luxulyan with the Goonbarrow - Fowey clay. 10.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The later path worked to Marks advantage at Golant, with the tide rising and the sun moving round to enhance his photo of 66759 crossing the causeway, almost at journeys end. 10.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

At 1838 66759 once again crosses the Golant Causeway, heading for Lostwithiel and Goonbarrow with the train of empties. 10.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks Mark, a super day for it.

Then & Now
at Cam & Dursley
Ian Thomas

A HST passes Cam & Dursley working a Penzance to Edinburgh service. 18.07.1996, copyright Ian Thomas.

30 years later - and from the opposite direction - comes another HST, this time 43025 working last weekends Manchester - Paignton excursion. 08.08.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

Many thanks Ian - 1996 certainly doesn't feel like 30 years ago!

Boardmasters Special
Jon Hird

9-car GWR IET unit 802113 crosses a rather parched Kerrow Moor with an additional 1231 Newquay - London Paddington service, taking home revellers who'd enjoyed a weekend at the Boardmasters Music Festival near Watergate Bay. 10.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

August 1976
Part 11
Roger Winnen

A 4Rep Southern Unit at Eastleigh. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Units receiving attention at Eastleigh Works. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

73101 at Eastleigh. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

73s and 33s at Eastleigh. 03.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 10th 2026

10/8/2026

50 years ago - diesel hydraulic dusk
Ian Thomas

Here is one fromalmost exactly 50 years ago..It shows D1028 'WESTERN HUSSAR' arriving at Reading with the 1028 Birmingham New Street to London Paddington service, which was by then formed of MK 2 a.b.c air braked coaches. At that time all London-West Of England services were formed of air-braked MK 2 stock, MK 2 d.e.f. (air-conditioned) coaches were employed on Paddington-South Wales/Bristol/Weston-super-Mare services. This all changed as the HST`s were about to make their debut in October 1976. Copyright Ian Thomas.

Many thanks Ian. And there we all were 49 years later mouring the loss of the HST's which (partially) replaced them. Time moves fast.

WSR Hydraulic Action
Clive Smith

A lovely scene at Watchet station on Saturday 8th August as Hymek diesel hydraulic D7017 departs with the 12.25 Bishops Lydeard - Minehead. This was one of the many diesel running dates the West Somerset Railway operates in the summer and is not connected with any steam ban due the continuing heatwaves/droughts. The steam was operating with 7828 'Odney Manor'. Most of the dates are operated by two of the class 33s based here or the class 14 and maybe the class 115 DMU. Best to check on the DEPG website. The Hymek has only been pencilled in for just two weekends . The Bristol Channel can be seen above the footbridge and the island of Steepholm, though it could be Flatholme. 08.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

D7017 arrives at Watchet with the 14.30 Minehead - Bishops Lydeard. 08.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

D7017 at Bishops Lydeard. 08.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

A good weekend for heritage diesels here in the westcountry - many thanks, Clive.

Re: 37703
Roger Geach

Nice to see 37703 out and about on the Paignton–Kingswear line. Did anyone see it in Cornwall when it was a South Wales loco? I’ve enclosed a photo of it working the 09:30 Coedbach to Immingham coal service at Pilning on 25 May 1993, not long after emerging from the Severn Tunnel. This service regularly ran on a Saturday and was routed via Didcot and Banbury to the Birmingham area. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger, a smashing photo and a good challenge for our readers - did anybody cop this loco in Cornwall in years gone by? Let us know!

Britannic Blues
Clive Smith

Finally ! Britannic Explorer liveried 66748 gets to lead the 1Z06 09.40 Lostwithiel Goods Loop - Bruton via Fowey Dock Carne Point 'Britannic Explorer'. The train is seen passing Ivybridge. 09.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

The partypooper GBRf liveried 66744 is relegated to the rear. This loco is normally leading the working away from Cornwall. 09.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Great stuff Clive - nice to see 748 leading for a change. Many thanks.

August 1976
Part 10
Roger Winnen

Gosport Station remains. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 9th 2026

9/8/2026

'The Summer Riviera'
HST to Paignton
Ian Thomas, Bill Elston, David Tozer, Andrew Triggs, Paul Barlow, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Clive Smith

The 125 Group in association with Retro Railtours and Rail Operations Group ran a Manchester - Paignton excursion on 08.08.2026, using their rake of mk3's along with power cars 43025 and 43089.

43025 leading the Manchester Victoria - Paignton charter through Cam and Dursley. 08.08.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

43089 on the rear at Cam and Dursley. 08.08.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

43025 leading the Manchester - Paignton excursion past Cogload Junction. 08.08.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

43089 on the rear at Cogload. 08.08.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

43025 and 43089 with the 0735 Manchester Victoria to Paignton. 08.08.2026, copyright David Tozer.

43025 Exeter and 43089 pass Langstone Rock, Dawlish Warren on the 0735 Manchester to Paignton Summer Riviera 1Z51. 08.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

A lower view of 43025 Exeter and 43089 passing Langstone Rock, Dawlish Warren on the 0735 Manchester to Paignton Summer Riviera 1Z51. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

43089 on the rear at Langstone. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

A classic scene at Horse Cove, Dawlish (also sometimes known as Shell Cove or Smugglers Stream, depending on who you ask or which O/S map you consult!), as 43025 leads the railtour on towards Paignton. 08.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

43025 'Exeter' leads 5Z52 13.43 Paignton-Goodrington C.H.S (with 43089) towards the Sidings running 22 late at 14.10. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Ex East Midlands liveried 43089 on the rear of 5Z52 as it snakes into Goodrington Sidings. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

43089 and the 125 Groups stock wait in Goodrington Sidings. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

43089 waits departure from Paignton whilst a 'Turbo' shunts out of the platform ready to form the next departure to Exmouth. 08.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The railtour seen from the level crossing at Paignton, with the recently fire-damaged footbridge visible. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

An on-time departure from Paignton at 1645 for 43089. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

43089 leading the return 1Z54 16.45 Paignton-Manchester Victoria, passing a cloudy Cockwood Harbour at 17.12. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

43025 'Exeter' back in its namesake city as it stands at Exeter St. Davids waiting departure on the rear of the returning railtour. 08.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

43089 departs Exeter St. Davids with the return working to Manchester. 08.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

43089 43025 on the 1645 Paignton to Manchester 1Z54 pass Staffords bridge. 08.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

43089 43025 1645 Paignton to Manchester 1Z54 heads north Stoke Canon mill is in the background. 08.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

43089 leading and 43025 on the rear of the return 1Z54 16.45 Paignton - Manchester Victoria 125 Group "The Summer Riviera" passes through Tiverton Parkway. 08.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

43025 on the rear at Tiverton. 08.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks all - great to see an almost all 'Swallow' liveried set here in the south west, well done to all involved.

'The English Riviera Express'
Bill Elston, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Andrew Triggs

This weeks LSL tour to Kingswear was once again hauled by diesels vice-steam. Originally departing Ely with both 47805 and 47810, 47805 encountered difficulties en route and was removed at Westbury, leaving 47810 to go it alone.

1Z07, Ely to Kingswear, seen here hauled by 47810 passing Cogload jct. 110 min late. This was also delayed by sheep on the line in the Bedwyn area, and was then further delayed in the Westbury area when 47805 failed and was then removed. 08.08.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

Class 47 47810 (D1924) with the 0540 Ely to Paignton. 08.08.2026, copyright David Tozer.

D1924 with the late running 0540 Ely to Kingswear 1Z07 pass Langstone rock. 08.08.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

A lower view of 47810 passing Langstone Rock. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

47810 powers past Horse Cove en route to Kingswear. 08.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

D1924 'Crewe Diesel Depot' approaching Tanners Road overbridge leading 1Z07 05.40 Ely-Kingswear (For Dartmouth) running 58 late at 13.46. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Some exhaust from 47810 as it departs Paignton with the return excursion. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Thanks again everyone, nice to have a second railtour through Devon for a bit of extra interest.

'The West Somerset Express'
Bill Elston & Clive Smith

1Z25, Pad to Minehead hauled by 33207 and 33025 standing in for a steam loco, bringing up the rear was 47848. seen here crossing Langport viaduct and River Parrett. This was delayed by around 53 min due to sheep on the line in the Bedwyn area. 08.08.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

A second shot of the 33's at the same location. 08.08.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

47848 on the rear. 08.08.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

West Coast Railways 33207 & 33025 arrive on platform 2 at Taunton with the 1Z26 15.30 Minehead - Paddington 'The West Somerset Express' operated by the Railway Touring Company. Note the slightly narrower body of 'Hastings Gauge' 33207 compared to 33025 behind. The train accessed the main line from Norton Fitzwarren via Fairwater. 08.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks, Bill and Clive.

Dartmouth Diesels
Clive Smith, Andrew Triggs & Mark Lynam

Some 37 action on the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway with a rare appearance of 'heavy' 37703 resplendent in new Trainload Coal livery substituting for steam locos on the last two trains of the day. 37703 at Paignton awaiting its turn, the 15.30 to Kingswear. 07.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

37703 at Kingswear on the 16.05 to Paignton. 07.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

37703 arriving at Kingswear with the 16.45 from Paignton. 07.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

37703 runs round at Kingswear to work the 17.15 to Paignton. 07.08.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Diesel haulage continued on Saturday 08.08 with 37275 covering the afternoon turns

Class 03 D2192 propells the P&DR Water Bouser and Fire prevention Van away from Paignton towards Goodrington Sands. 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Resident Tractor 37275 departing Paignton working the 15.30 service for Kingswear (For Dartmouth). 08.08.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

37275 powering up Goodrington Bank with a service for Kingswear. 08.08.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks all - sources suggest another outing for 37275 today (Sunday 9th) if anybody is needing an EE fix!

August 1976
Part 9
Roger Winnen

Gosport Station remains. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 8th 2026

8/8/2026

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 119
Frome 2015
Michael L. Roach

At the beginning of September 2015 we stayed at the Premier Inn in Frome for five nights – Tuesday 1st to Saturday 5th. The whole purpose was to spend one day at the Great Dorset Steam Fair which took place at Tarrant Hinton, Blandford Forum from Wednesday 2nd to Sunday 6th 2015 that year. It was 35 miles and an hour's travel from Frome to the site of the fair, but that was the nearest we could find an hotel room at a reasonable price. We travelled to the GDSF on Thursday 3 September 2015, and I hope to describe the wonders of the show one day.

All my life I have photographed the occasional object, not because I was particularly interested in that object, but because it was just there waiting to be recorded perfectly positioned; or perfectly lit; or just unusual; a whole variety of reasons. On the evening of 2 September we had a portion of fish and chips eaten in the car in the middle of Frome. While my wife was in the shop I walked across the road to take the image attached of an unusual motor car. I had seen a few similar cars before but they were never at all common. I do not know anything about the car – can anyone identify the make and model please. I don't think I have seen another one since 2015.

The unusual car parked in front of Lee's fish and chip shop on Portway, Frome on 2 September 2015. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Mike. Looks like a Suzuki X90 to me. Never a big seller here in the UK.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Shaun Brown writes in response:

Good morning, the car in Michael's picture is a Suzuki Vitara X-90. It was produced from 1995 until 1997 and had a front mounted 1.6L engine with either a four speed automatic box or a five speed manual box and was available in rear wheel drive or four wheel drive. It had a T top roof which meant you could remove the panels above the driver and passenger seats for the "open air experience". It was a strange looking car and you didn't see many of them around.

And Neil Phillips writes:

The odd-looking vehicle Michael L. Roach spotted in Frome was indeed a Suzuki X90, the answer to a question nobody had asked! Not only was the UK market confused by it, the weirdly humorous brochure showed that the UK importer Suzuki GB were bamboozled by it as well!

Many thanks to both Shaun and Neil.

Sunday Freight
Roger Geach

37668 / 37416 head the 6S55 Burngullow–Irvine past Bethany on Sunday, 23 October 1994. Single-line working is in operation, with the train running on the Down line. 37416 was a Cornish clay loco from May 1993 to July 1995, while 37668’s stay was longer, from May 1993 to September 1999. 37416 is perhaps better remembered as a Scottish Region Class 37/4 passenger loco, displaced by the dreaded Sprinters. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger, an unusual photo with them being 'wrong line'.

Pen Mill Peak
Paul Barlow

46014 works the 1615 Bristol to Weymouth at Yeovil Pen Mill. 27.08.1983, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks indeed Paul.

Neil Phillips writes:

Peak 46014 in Paul Barlow's Yeovil Pen Mill photo was originally D151, the first Peak to reach Penzance on 30th December 1969.

Thanks very much for the additional info, Neil.

August 1976
Part 8
Roger Winnen

Departure from Southampton at the junction of lines to Southampton Docks. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Fareham Station. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Southern DEMU 1121 arrives at Fareham Station. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 7th 2026

7/8/2026

Tomorrow - 08.08.2026
Okehampton Model Railway Show

Boardmasters Special
Jon Hird

9-car Hitachi unit 802306 crosses the former A30 on Tregoss Moor whilst working 2Z92, a 1333 Newquay - Par service to enhance capacity on the branch during the build up to the popular 'Boardmasters' music festival. 06.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Sydney Gardens
Paul Barlow

33002 working the 1505 Bristol to Portsmouth passing Sydney Gardens Bath. 19.08.1980, copyright Paul Barlow.

33032 on the 1600 Cardiff to Portsmouth passing Sydney Gardens, Bath. 19.08.1980, copyright Paul Barlow.

45066 and 47099 on a freight towards Bristol passing Sydney Gardens, Bath. 19.08.1980, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul, a great location with some really interesting architecture.

Before the Voyagers
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

Michael Adams sends this picture of 47641 'Fife Region' about to run round its train in Reading station on 11 March 1987 with the 09.02 Manchester to Poole. Copyright Michael Adams.

Now a shot from Michael Forward of 47649 storming away from the West end of Reading on 27 May 1986 with a reverse working,the 16.15 Poole to Manchester. Such inter-regional services long operated now with Voyagers. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks to both Michaels - I think I'd choose either of those over a Voyager.

Swindon Test Train
Colin Pidgeon

43357 t&t 43277 on 1Q23 Bristol Temple Meads to Derby RTC at Swindon. 06.08.2026, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks as always Colin.

August 1976
Part 7
Roger Winnen

A DEMU 1132 departs Southampton. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

DEMU 1124 arrives at Southampton. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

SR Set 3003 at Southampton. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

SR Set 7827 departs Southampton. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

August 6th 2026

6/8/2026

Return to Sharpness
Ian Thomas

After many years of hard work and negotiations, the Vale of Berkeley Railway was in a position to operate its first-ever passenger trains between Sharpness and Berkeley Road over the first weekend of August.

Clearance of the site was essential, with vegetation and well-established trees needing to be cut back after 60 years of neglect, plus a logistical exercise to get the punters aboard the train.

The line closed to passengers in 1964, with the last trains running on Saturday, October 31st that year. This was a triple whammy, as both the Hereford to Gloucester line and the Gloucester to Chalford railmotor services also finished on the same day as part of the Beeching Report of March 1963.

The line was built by the Severn & Wye Railway Company and opened to passengers on August 1st, 1876, so it was the 150th anniversary over the weekend. The line was extended to cross the Severn Railway Bridge, and this opened on October 17th, 1879, sadly being destroyed in the accident of October 25th, 1960. Trains then ran to Sharpness only until closure. (I will do the story on all that later this autumn.)

Rich Kelsey, myself, and our two wives were booked on the 11.45 service from Sharpness to Berkeley Road and return on Friday, July 31st. We were bussed to Oldminster Road to board the train using a specially constructed ramp for access, this being near to where the former Sharpness station was sited.

It was a pleasant trip over the line, although the trees have obscured virtually all views, and it was difficult to work out where we were at any one time. However, the gantry at Berkeley (for nuclear flask loading) was seen, and we could just make out the A38 main road at Berkeley Road.

The VOBR ran six trains each day at two-hour intervals, with a break at lunchtime. They were slow to fill at first, but by the preceding week all trains were full, bar a few seats.

All went very well, with a commentary aboard the 1985-built Pacer 143603. This unit was allocated to Heaton Depot (Newcastle) from new but emigrated south-west later in life.

I have included pictures of the weekend, and from the past, including some by the late Ben Ashworth.

Opening day poster with thanks to Rich Kelsey.

Please click above images for an enlargement and caption - all images copyright Ian Thomas.

A ticket to ride. Copyright Rich Kelsey.

Images from the past. Please click for enlargements and copyright info.

Many thanks indeed Ian - a great achievement for the group, we wish them every success for the future.

Par Interlude
Steve Clark

A couple of photos from Par yesterday morning. First up is 153384 sat in the Liner sidings after its aborted 2Q36 trip on Tuesday. 05.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

150261 waits to shunt to Chapel Sidings after arriving on 2N01 from Newquay. 05.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

Finally a couple of shots of 175101 on 2E06 07.43 Penzance to Exeter St Davids. 05.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

175101 awaits departure from Par. 05.08.2026, copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve, a nice selection.

Three heritage lines in one day
Phil Gilbert

Three heritage lines in one day, although I didn’t travel on the Bodmin line. We are very lucky to have such wonderful examples of preservation in our part of the south west.

The Bubble Car at the South Devon Railway, Totnes. August 2026, copyright Phil Gilbert.

1369 at Totnes, SDR. August 2026, copyright Phil Gilbert.

Dorothea and Covercoat at the Launceston Steam Railway. August 2026, copyright Phil Gilbert.

The Launceston Steam Railway, formerly the North Cornwall Line. August 2026, copyright Phil Gilbert.

5552 and 37142 at Bodmin General. August 2026, copyright Phil Gilbert.

Many thanks Phil - look like a good day out.

Wednesdays Clay
Jon Hird

66759 leads a later-than-usual (due to additional 'Boardmasters' music festival traffic on the branch) Goonbarrow - Fowey clay towards Treffrys Aqueduct in the Luxulyan Valley. 05.08.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

August 1976
Part 6
Roger Winnen

Class 33 awaits departure from Southampton with a service to Reading-Oxford etc. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A vintage Trespassers notice at Southampton. 01.08.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

<<Previous

Latest News & Features

Empty ClaysIan Thomas & Paul Barlow

Torbay Diesel BonanzaClive Smith

The last green PeakRoger Fletcher

Re: D1041Michael Adams

Frome CromptonPaul Barlow

August 1976Part 15Roger Winnen

Repurposed ChairsRoger Fletcher

Hinksey HeavyhaulAlan Peters

Paignton 'Tractor' actionAndrew Triggs

A trip to the B&HSteve Clark

A trip to ScarboroughPaul Barlow

St. Pinnock ViaductJon Hird

August 1976Part 14Roger Winnen

Treviscoe ClaySteve Clark

Into the EclipseMartin Scane

August 1976Part 13Roger Winnen

August SkiesCraig Munday

Paignton Station Fire DamageAndrew Hickson

Devon HSTPaul Barlow

Memories of the PeaksMichael Forward & Michael Adams

High tide at GolantMark Lynam & Jon Hird

An hour at Laira JunctionAndrew Triggs

Saltash & PlymouthRoger Winnen

August 1976Part 12Roger Winnen

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 120Chester General StationMichael L. Roach

Largin 153Roger Geach

Moving Clay whilst the sun shinesJon Hird & Mark Lynam

Then & Nowat Cam & DursleyIan Thomas

Boardmasters SpecialJon Hird

August 1976Part 11Roger Winnen

50 years ago - diesel hydraulic duskIan Thomas

WSR Hydraulic ActionClive Smith

Re: 37703Roger Geach

Britannic BluesClive Smith

August 1976Part 10Roger Winnen

'The Summer Riviera'HST to PaigntonIan Thomas, Bill Elston, David Tozer, Andrew Triggs, Paul Barlow, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Clive Smith

'The English Riviera Express'Bill Elston, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Andrew Triggs

'The West Somerset Express'Bill Elston & Clive Smith

Dartmouth DieselsClive Smith, Andrew Triggs & Mark Lynam

August 1976Part 9Roger Winnen

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 119Frome 2015Michael L. Roach

Sunday FreightRoger Geach

Pen Mill PeakPaul Barlow

August 1976Part 8Roger Winnen

Tomorrow - 08.08.2026Okehampton Model Railway Show

Boardmasters SpecialJon Hird

Sydney GardensPaul Barlow

Before the VoyagersMichael Adams & Michael Forward

Swindon Test TrainColin Pidgeon

August 1976Part 7Roger Winnen

Return to SharpnessIan Thomas

Par InterludeSteve Clark

Three heritage lines in one dayPhil Gilbert

Wednesdays ClayJon Hird

August 1976Part 6Roger Winnen

Archives

Empty Clays
Ian Thomas & Paul Barlow

Torbay Diesel Bonanza
Clive Smith

The last green Peak
Roger Fletcher

Re: D1041
Michael Adams

Frome Crompton
Paul Barlow

August 1976
Part 15
Roger Winnen

Repurposed Chairs
Roger Fletcher

Hinksey Heavyhaul
Alan Peters

Paignton 'Tractor' action
Andrew Triggs

A trip to the B&H
Steve Clark

A trip to Scarborough
Paul Barlow

St. Pinnock Viaduct
Jon Hird

August 1976
Part 14
Roger Winnen

Treviscoe Clay
Steve Clark

Into the Eclipse
Martin Scane

August 1976
Part 13
Roger Winnen

August Skies
Craig Munday

Paignton Station Fire Damage
Andrew Hickson

Devon HST
Paul Barlow

Memories of the Peaks
Michael Forward & Michael Adams

High tide at Golant
Mark Lynam & Jon Hird

An hour at Laira Junction
Andrew Triggs

Saltash & Plymouth
Roger Winnen

August 1976
Part 12
Roger Winnen

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 120
Chester General Station
Michael L. Roach

Largin 153
Roger Geach

Moving Clay whilst the sun shines
Jon Hird & Mark Lynam

Then & Now
at Cam & Dursley
Ian Thomas

Boardmasters Special
Jon Hird

August 1976
Part 11
Roger Winnen

50 years ago - diesel hydraulic dusk
Ian Thomas

WSR Hydraulic Action
Clive Smith

Re: 37703
Roger Geach

Britannic Blues
Clive Smith

August 1976
Part 10
Roger Winnen

'The Summer Riviera'
HST to Paignton
Ian Thomas, Bill Elston, David Tozer, Andrew Triggs, Paul Barlow, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Clive Smith

'The English Riviera Express'
Bill Elston, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Andrew Triggs

'The West Somerset Express'
Bill Elston & Clive Smith

Dartmouth Diesels
Clive Smith, Andrew Triggs & Mark Lynam

August 1976
Part 9
Roger Winnen

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 119
Frome 2015
Michael L. Roach

Sunday Freight
Roger Geach

Pen Mill Peak
Paul Barlow

August 1976
Part 8
Roger Winnen

Tomorrow - 08.08.2026
Okehampton Model Railway Show

Boardmasters Special
Jon Hird

Sydney Gardens
Paul Barlow

Before the Voyagers
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

Swindon Test Train
Colin Pidgeon

August 1976
Part 7
Roger Winnen

Return to Sharpness
Ian Thomas

Par Interlude
Steve Clark

Three heritage lines in one day
Phil Gilbert

Wednesdays Clay
Jon Hird

August 1976
Part 6
Roger Winnen