19th August 2019

David T. tries a new spot at
Exeter
David Tozer

​I tried a new location for the return Torbay Express, 1650 Kingswear to Bristol (Temple Meads). 60009 'Union of South Africa' crosses the River Exe Flood Relief Channel.    Many thanks David.

This looks a very good spot, and you got the timing just right. There is a nice bit of reflection, if it weren't for the weed in the channel it would be even better. 18th August 2018. Copyright David Tozer.

Plymouth
Clive Smith

On a dull day 50008 pulls out of Plymouth station passing the old disused signal box on the 23rd January 1982 with the 11.15 Plymouth to Manchester Piccadilly. This loco made a triumphant return to passenger work after 28 years on the 27th July 2019 with the 'Return Of Thunder Vac' charter from Derby to Carlisle. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive.

Lil Davy's Bridge
Colin Burges

Wednesday the 7th August was my last chance of the week for a ride out and although there was a heavy shower in Marsh Barton while I was in my truck collecting bits, the day turned out very nicely. I rode out to Stoke Canon and then through Killerton, Clyst Hydon and Payhembury along empty lanes with wonderful views to Sidmouth Junction, whence I followed the Southern back to town, clocking 43 miles. 
​Many thanks Colin.

Lil Davy's Bridge and Railway Cottages, between Sidmouth Junction and Whimple. 7th August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

The official sign. Copyright Colin Burges.

- but the question is 'Who was Lil Davy'?
​Answers please!

The 12.20 Waterloo to Exeter appeared just as I went to the other parapet! 7th August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

A view of Railway Cottages from the bridge. 7th August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

The plaque on the cottages, 7th August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.

Looking down the line from the platform at Whimple, Exeter and the high ground beyond appear out of the haze. Both main lines climb from near sea level in Exeter. The Western skirts the Blackdowns at Whiteball, while the Southern clips the hill range at Honiton; both reach about 400 feet. The Teign Valley Branch reached just short of this in five miles. 7th August 2019. Copyright Colin Burges.