Blog Archives

11th January 2022

11/1/2022

A personal anniversary picture
Liskeard 1
Roger Geach

Time flies - it's 47 years ago today that Roger Geach, a Western fan took this everyday picture of a Western in service, wonderful machines - very popular with the enthusiasts. Roger a Liskeard man born and bred now lives up north at Retford,

Very few wait on the platform to witness 1034 Western Dragoon arriving with the 1M74 14.00 Penzance to Birmingham at Liskeard 11th January 1975. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger, memories of the 'good old days'.

Westerns in Wiltshire and Somerset
Hugh Austen

750420a D1001 Taken at Hawkridge Junction on 20th April 1975 with a railtour from, I believe Bristol Temple Meads to the East Somerset Railway at Cranmore. Note the semaphores,signal box and telegraph poles all now gone. Copyright Hugh Austen

750810a D1062 sat at Swindon shorn of nameplates on 10th August 1975. The headboard being held by three enthusiasts was 'The Red Dragon'. Copyright Hugh Austen

750420b D1048 Western Lady heading west at Fairwood Junction with a Paddington-Penzance working on 20th April 1975. Copyright Hugh Austen

750607a D1030 Western Musketeer heading through the beautiful station of Castle Cary with a Penzance Paddington train 7th June 1975. Copyright Hugh Austen

751101 D1033 Western Trooper. I remember this as being a very cold and miserable day as D1033 heads west pass the next signal box at Clink Road Junction Frome. Copyright Hugh Austen

Many Thanks Hugh, these Westerns bring back many memories.

A sad event at
Newport
Guy and Charlotte Vincent

Charlotte witnesses three HST Power Cars on their last journey - to the scrap yard.

Newport 37611 heads the sad procession of 5Q76 on the 1oth January 2022 passing through Newport - not far to go now. Copyright Charlotte Vincent

Newport 43079 and 43070 5Q76 10.01.2022 Copyright Charlotte Vincent

Newport 43053 43079 43070 5Q76 10.01.2022 Copyright Charlotte Vincent

Good evening Keith / Roger

As predicted late last year the disposal of redundant HST power cars has started with three former Great Western-operated examples being taken on their final journey to Newport Docks today. Loco 37611 with barrier coach 6340 hauled PC's 43070 43079 and 43053 from Long Marston via Worcester, Cheltenham and Lydney and were caught by Charlotte passing non-stop through Newport at 15,36hrs. It is likely that by the coming weekend this trio will have been shredded and dispatched abroad for recycling as the processors, Sims Group, are known for their speed of rolling stock destruction.

43053: New to Old Oak Common as part of set 253026 in June 1977. Transferred to Neville Hill, Leeds in October 1982 (for use on the Midland Main Line) and then to Craigentinny (Edinburgh) in January 2007 for use on the East Coast Main Line. In December 2008 re-engining was undertaken at Brush Loughborough (Paxman Valenta replaced by a new MTU unit), moved to Great Western fleet in April 2009. 43053 carried three different names: 1) County of Humberside (04-1984 to 04-1994 with a gap of 7 months July 1990 - Feb 1991 un-named) 2) Leeds United (04-1994 to 10-2004) 3) University of Worcester 10.03.2010 until withdrawn from GWR fleet in March 2019.

43070 new to Heaton (Newcastle) December 1977 as part of ECML set 254008. Based at Laira from May 1998 as part of the Virgin Trains HST fleet but made redundant with the arrival of the new Voyager fleet in 2003. Later received Midland Mainline livery and named 'Rio Pathfinder'. Operated by Cotswold Rail and painted in their silver livery Nov 2005. Aug 2006 off-lease and after re-engining with new MTU unit it joined the FGW fleet in Sept 2007. Named The Corps of Mechanical and Electrical Engineers at Paddington on 16th Oct 2007. Off lease June 2019 following introduction of new class 800 fleet and stored.

43079 new to Heaton in February 1978 as part of ECML set 254012. To Laira in May 1998 for Virgin Trains use. Following a spell with MML (Project Rio, named Rio Venturer) and re-engining it was added to the FGW fleet in Feb 2008. Into store in June 2019 following arrival of IET fleet.

With regards

Guy Vincent

Hello again Keith,
Further photos of today's condemned trio taken in better times.
Guy Vincent

43053 on the Dawlish sea wall heading a Paddington-bound service on 6th August 2012 Copyright Guy Vincent.

43070 trails a diverted Paddington-bound train in the Avon Valley near Limpley Stoke on 24th April 2016. Copyright Guy Vincent

43079 at Bristol Temple Meads at the head of the 1200 Paddington departure 9th May 2017. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy and Charlotte.

St James Park
Paul Barlow

Paul also noted the significance of the HST Power cars going for destruction and shows one in brighter days.

43053 43069 0700 Penz- Paddington and 142001 on ECS to form 1030 Exeter central to Paignton at St James Park Halt 26 March 2011 Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

10th January 2022

10/1/2022

Walker Lines - point eliminated
Bodmin & Wenford
Chris Bellett

I was working on the B&WR today (Sunday 9th January) and although the railway is currently closed for the winter, work proceeds onwards on various bits of the railway. Attached is a photograph of the Track Tamping Machine lifting and packing the site of the recovered Walkers Line siding connection after it had been relayed with plain line. The machine is on loan from the South Devon Railway and due to return there later this coming week.

A photo of the Track Tamping Machine lifting and packing the site of the recovered Walkers Line siding con after plain track was lifted 8th January 2022. Copyright Chris Bellett

4247 - due to leave the B& W fo pastures new this month. 8th January 22 Copyright Chris Bellett

Many thanks Chris.

Stratton St Margaret, Swindon.
Mark Howells

Evening Keith,
Appreciate this is slightly off patch, however…
Earlier today I undertook a site visit to a 6ft track drainage renewal project which I’m overseeing.
It has a total length of 460m in the vicinity of the former Stratton Park Halt which I understand was closed many years ago now. Closed 7th December 1963.
Our internal delivery team supported by a specialist drainage contractor (On Site Rail services) and our supply chain including TXM Plant and High Motive have so far completed 291m of the total length. So have a balance of works of 169m and the installation of a under track pipe beneath the Up Main.
We have planned cleaning works to complete to other drainage assets in the vicinity to take advantage of the planned closure(s).
The works continue for the next two weekends within full closures of the Great Western Main Line between Swindon and Didcot.
Please find attached a few pictures, described within the images.
Kind Regards,
Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM
Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)

66414 within the engineering worksite on the Down Main. Copyright Mark Howells. Near site of St Margarets Park Halt, Swindon, Closed 7th Dec. 1964.

Overview of the 6ft track drainage renewal during a staff break Copyright Mark Howells.

Many thanks for your update details of the work involved Mark.

Banking from
Exeter St Davids
Paul Barlow

25224 on a coal train to Exmouth Junction 25080 was on the rear banking at Exeter St Davids 16th February 1978 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks to you Paul, memories are made of this.

Salisbury
Ron Kosys

33206 approaches Salisbury on the 24th September 1987. The train is a Portsmouth to Cardiff service. Copyright Rpn Kosys

Many thanks Ron.

Bodmin Parkway
Stephen Widdowson

43082 leading 43092 into Bodmin Parkway with the Newcastle to Penzance service on the 20th June 1987 . Copyright Steve Widdowson

It's nice to have a collection from you Steve - we intend to continues your latest delivery on a more or less daily basis. Thank you.

Cowley bridge
Keith Turley

Colas Rail Freight class 70/8 No.70809 T/T with classmate No.70817
pass Cowley Bridge Junc. on 9th January 2022,
working the 6C21 08:41 Westbury Down TC to Newton Abbot West Junc.
with 20 loaded Autoballasters.

Regards Keith Turley.

Cowley Bridge 9th January 2022 Copyright Keith Turley

Nice picture - many thanks to you Keith

9th January 2022

9/1/2022

Two New Features
- two items have recently been added to our features for the period Jan to July 2022:-
Item 22 02 Inside Marchwood Naval Base - it's history and a railtour to it. An account by Mick House.

Marchwood 59 003 Yeoman Highlander runs around our train Copyright Mick House

At Marchwood, Falkland Jetty and its two cranes. The railtour orginating from Euston was propelled by the two dockyard shunters T & T. Copyright Mick House.

==============================================

Item 22 03 Andrew Dagger - The Weymouth Post Card Man - An article by Clive Smith.

Andy Dagger - the postcard man leans nonchalantly on the buffer of 33112 near Custom House Quay on the Weymouth Tramway on the 16th August 1982 on the 09.54 Waterloo - Weymouth Quay. Note the polished bell on the loco. Picture by Clive Smith

To get to these two items please click here and scroll as necessary.

70815 With last nights
rail drop Train
Mick House

70 815 came down last night, with the Westbury 1726 early by 4 minutes to Penwithers Junction 22.52 early by 58 minutes, loaded with CWR (Continues Welded Rail) and this morning it was in the capable hands of driver Alan Peters on its return to Westbury as it passed under Apex Bridge at 0853.

With driver Alan Peters at the controls 70815 is about to pass under Apex Bridge. Copyright Mick House

70815 On route to Westbury heads down to Chacewater.. Copyright Mick House

Many thanks Mick

Apologies to all at the Memorial Hall last night - it was very cold with no heating.

Exeter
Paul Barlow

45036 arrives at Exeter St Davids on 1023 Manchester to Plymouth 1V82 17th February 1978 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul - a most suitable picture to go with the above announcement. Brrrrrrrrrrrrr

Bodmin Parkway
Steve Widdowson

43187 & 43172 seen at Bodmin Parkway on the 13.50 Paddington to Penzance. 2nd June 1987. Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Many thanks Steve.

Salisbury
Ron Kosys

Class 33 3206 leaves Salisbury with a service to Portsmouth. 22nd September 1987 Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron.

Just the Ticket!!
Andrew and Diane Jones

The special day return to walk the Royal Albert Bridge was arranged by Rusty Eplett MBE under the banner of the much lamented Cornish Railways.
Cornish Railways was set up in July 1983, based at Truro, it had a short life being merged with Plymouth and Cornwall Railways in 1986. ‘Rusty’ was a creative manager but probably just a bit too independent for British Rail and some say the merger was to remove a thorn in their side, I know that he was unhappy with the decision and took early retirement to pursue his other love of sailing and numerous roles within the Fowey Yacht Club. Anyone who met him always had a good word to say and he was instrumental, as I have said before, in persuading Sir Peter Parker, head of British Rail at the time, to sell the Boscarne to Wadebridge railway, to Cornwall Council, which now forms part of the Camel Trail.
The two excursion tickets attached are in the style of the traditional Edmondson system invented and developed in the 1840’s by Thomas Edmondson, a trained cabinet maker who later became a station master on the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway.
Edmondson tickets provided accountability by serial numbering each ticket which had to be reconciled against unsold tickets at the end of each day, helping to prevent fraud.
The Cornwall Railways ‘Kids Go Free’ ticket was for our 3 year old daughter Sienna who was carried in a children’s back pack which was extremely handy when traversing the slippery sleepers across the Royal Albert Bridge.
Although the excursion started at Penzance, we joined it at Bodmin Road, if only we could do it all again for the princely sum of £7.50!

Cornish Railways excursion tickets Royal Albert Bridge 125 anniversary tour 29th April 1984. -

Many thanks Andrew and Diane. If only we could do it again.

8th January 2022

8/1/2022

New footbridge for
Lostwithiel
Chris Bellett

Hi Keith,
Picked up from elsewhere. Interesting design as its following model railway practice and is being made out of recycled plastic (OK, Fibre re-inforced plastic then)!

https://planning.cornwall.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=R0VDCLFG0IS00

Take care, Chris Bellett, Retired S&T Engineer.CRS Member

If you use the above link there is quite a bit of information including the manufacturers leaflets. It may be in the new or old GW colours (Preferably the old!!) The footbridge made by Tiziker is long lasting and quick and easy to assemble. The approach to the downside will be via a 41 metre ramp from Grenville Road cutting across the still existing but disused sidings on the right of the photograph below to a base sited about 10 metres from the signalbox. There will be a span across the double tracks to a base on the up side from which there will be an 18 metre ramp parallel with the platform alignment down to Grenville Road.

Lostwithiel April 1971 Copyright Hugh Davies

Lostwithiel Copyright The late Sid Sponheimer. Note the smoke deflectors under the old footbridge and the water tower beyond. The base of the new footbridge will be sited much in the same position but with a ramped approach cutting across the sidings.

Many thanks to Chris for advising us of the links and to Network Rail for making the information available to the public domain. The need for a replacement foot bridge is brought about by the increasing services on the line - a cheering thought.

Happy New Year
Craig Munday

Hi Keith
I trust you had a pleasant Christmas and New Year?
A couple of images from the first days of 2022. Long Rock hosted two castle sets and the Night Riviera over New Year, and 57603 is seen stabled on the stock.
The second visit of a class 70 on the Newquay branch in recent times saw Alan Peters deliver Railvac 3 to the line with Colas rail's 70815. The Railvac will carry out a programme of work on the branch, out- stabling in carbis Siding at Goonbarrow (the former Carbis branch, now truncated of course). This is the first use of this siding for many years.
Kind regards, Craig Munday .

Long Rock 1st January 2022 Copyright Craig Munday.

With Alan Peters at the helm 70815 is seen with th 6X43 Railvac at St Blazey. 6th January 2022 Copyright Craig Munday.

Very many thanks to you Craig and very best wishes for 2022 to you and yours.

Cowley bridge Jct
Ron Kosys

Nicely illuminated by the sun to show the contrasting liveries 33118 + 33008 are about to pass Cowley Bridge Junction 29th September 1989 with 7O70, 1630 Meldon Quarry to Eastleigh. Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron.

7th January 2022

7/1/2022

'Join Up', a proposal to link the
Darmoor & Tamar Valley Lines
Jack Martin Leith

Chris Bellett came across this today - highly recommended reading and very well illustrated just click on the link below and digest and join if you wish.

Hi Keith,
Came across this today: https://join-up.uk/
Take care,
Chris Bellett
Retired S&T Engineer
CRS Member

Many thanks for bringing this to our attention Chris.

St Dennis Branch
Mark Howells

Mark promised us some unusual views taken during the course of his work - here are three.

Afternoon Keith,
Please find attached a selection of photographs taken during drainage inspections of the St. Dennis branch on the 04.01.2022 by myself and one of my engineers.

The pictures illustrate:
1) IMG3884, low mileage of Lanjeth open crossing at SDS, 289m0385y.
2) IMG3873, internal view of a 1.2m diameter stone culvert dating to the construction of the line at SDS, 289m0194y.
3) MG3845, overview of the S&C unit providing access/egress to the siding/loop at Burngullow Jn, SDS, 288m1039y (taken just before we got soaked).
All photographs were taken within a pre-arranged line blockage of the branch with the signaller at Par and the train staff obtained for additional protection.
No pictures of rolling stock as we had the line blocked to rail traffic!

Kind Regards, Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM
Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)

Lanjeth Crossing. 4th January 2022, Copyright Mark Howells

An internal view of a 1.2m diameter stone culvert dating to the construction of the line at SDS, 289m0194y. Copyright Mark Howells

Burngullow - overview of the S&C unit providing accessegress to the siding loop at Burngullow Jn, SDS, 288m1039y (taken just before a heavy deluge drenched us all!. 4th January 2022. Copyright Mark Howells. N.B. Original Burngullow staion building on the right - closed 1st August 1901.

Many thanks for the privileged views Mark.

Cornish HST's 1984
Ross Griffiths

Hello all,
Hope everyone is keeping well.
I've recently scanned some more of my Dad's slides and have attached some of HSTs in Cornwall from 1984, if they are of interest to you - one on a glorious sunny day at Par and two on a very dark and wet winter's afternoon at Penzance - much like today!
All the best,
Ross Griffiths

Penzance_HST_1984 Copyright Ross Griffiths

Penzance_HST Trio_1984 Copyright Ross Griffiths

An HST Par 1984 - an interesting picture completed by the smashing red signal still pulled off. Copyright Ross Griffiths. N.B. The headshunt off the up loop sometimes used to house locomotives has long been removed.

Many thanks to Ross (and Dad)

Salisbury
Ron Kosys

For the third day running on this News Column Ron Kosys brings us a shot of 33101 (again!) this time arriving at Salisbury with a Cardiff to Portsmouth. 24th September 1987. Copy right Ron Kosys.

Many thanks indeed Ron.

Don't forget

This Saturday January 8th. Would have been Paul Stanford on the Great Western Electrification Scheme'. Unfortunately due to Paul having had a covid contact Paul has to isolate. We hope to hear Paul's presentation in due course - we wish Paul well. However our Chairman Dennis Flood has very kindly, stepped in to present :-
'My 49 year railway career - and a bit more Part 3.'
This profusely illustrated talk given by our Chairman Dennis Flood promises to be a very amusing and entertaining evening.

6th January 2022

6/1/2022

Colas route refresher locomotive
Al Peters

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works. The loco was stabled overnight at Newton Abbot and pictured on 4th January 2022, note the BR totem on the old lamp post. Copyright Alan Peters

Colas class 66850 working 0Z11 Newton Abbot to Goodrington Sidings awaits signal PN1 at Hollicombe Beach on 4th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

The sight of a class 66 at Paignton in daylight is quite rare, 66850 waits for the barriers to be lowered at Paignton to continue to Goodrington Sidings on 4th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment OBE' visited the Paignton line with a series of afternoon trips over 3 days route refreshing for forthcoming engineering works. The view from Paignton South Level Crossing with 2 x GWR 150 units waiting to depart with the 15:24 to Exmouth, Colas 66850 departing for Goodrington Sidings and BR class 08 D3014 stabled on the P&DSR on 5th January 2022 Copyright Alan Peters

Many Thanks Alan

Double take at
Plymouth
Clive Smith

Peak 45110 Arrives at Plymouth with the 11.36 Manchester Picadilly to Plymouth. 12th March 1983 Copyright Clive Smith

45110 pulls away from platforn 7 with the 13.45 Penzance to Bristol Temple Meads. 2nd April 1983. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive.

Same loco, same place, another double take.
Cowley Bridge
Ron Kosys

33101 seen at Cowley Bridge unction on the 29th September 1989 with the 6V96 the 1138 Tonbridge to Meldon with a fair string of empties.

33101 was seen again at Cowley Bridge on the 4th May 1990 with the 6V96 he 09.38 Tonbridge to Meldon. A much shorter train this timr. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

Swindon 9th January 1987
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, A happy and healthy New Year to you ,all on the team and contributors to the site. Here is a picture taken at Swindon almost 35 years ago, showing 47279 on a train of loaded 4-wheel wagons to Acton yard.Another 47 and an 08 lurk in the background and there are signs of use in the sidings outside the Works. All the best, Michael Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael Wishing you a Happy New Year

Spotting at
Swindon
Ken Mumford

[1] First scrap train of 2022 - 57312 + units 315854 + unit 315844 [5Q76 Ilford E.M.U.D. to Newport Docks (Sims)] 45 seconds LATE passing Swindon according to Real Train Times! 4th January 2022. Copyright Ken Mumford.

[2] First scrap train of 2022 - 57312 + units 315854 + unit 315844. A final view. Copyright Ken Mumford.

[3] Platform 3 and the Westbury Shuttle waiting to depart. Copyright Ken Mumford.

[4] Westbury Shuttle (departing) meets a London bound IET (arriving) going into platform 1. Copyright Ken Mumford.

[5] Light engine [66701] hurries through the centre road heading east.

[6] Light engine [66701] hurries through the centre road continuing east. Copyright Ken Mumford.

[7] 5-car IET glides into platform 3 heading on departure for Cheltenham. 4th January 2022. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Thanks Ken - don't catch a cold.

A question at
Ivybridge
Clive Smith

4th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith

It looks like some part of the track infrastructure as it has a small solar panel and a small tube going down to the track.

The above was spotted in Clives picture of the 4th January 2022 - can anybody tell us what this item of equipment does? Thank you. (Reply below)

Morning Keith,
Hopefully you will be getting my emails again now. The IT problem was at my end. Apologies about that.
With reference to the website photograph showing a cabinet at Ivybridge. That is (was) a standard WR signalling equipment cabinet (with its door missing) and the box inside is a 240v to 110v signalling power supply transformer. Looking at the position of cabinet I think it was the power supply point for the former Ivybridge distant signal. Those tended to use local public mains power supplies with a battery backup at the signal itself. hope that answers that question.
Take care,
Chris Bellett Retired S&T Engineer CRS Member

Many thanks to Chris Bellett for a very prompt reply and answer to our query. It's handy having an expert amongst us. I hope that cabinet is no longer connected to 240VAC!!

5th January 2022

5/1/2022

Programme change for the CRS Meeting - next Saturday.

Next Saturday January 8th would have been a lecture by Paul Stanford on the 'Great Western Electrification Scheme'. Unfortunately due to Paul having had a covid contact he has to isolate. We hope to hear Paul's presentation in due course - we wish Paul well.

We are most grateful to our Chairman Dennis Flood who has at the very kindly, at the very last minute stepped in to present :- 'My 49 year railway career - and a bit more Part 3
This profusely illustrated talk given by our Chairman Dennis Flood promises to be a very amusing and entertaining evening.

Covid precautions will be observed at the meeting.

A shopping diversion - different angles at
Ivybridge
Clive Smith

(1) 43022 leads the 07.40 Penzance - Cardiff Central with 43160 on the rear at Langham Levels west of Ivybridge station. This is my first photo of 2022 and also my first at this track level location although I have taken many photos from the bridge. Sunshine has been non-existent for quite a while now so with some breaks in the cloud forecast for the next two days and a trip to my nearby Tesco the camera was duly taken out in the hope of capturing something in good light. My aim was to be on the bridge but as I drove along the road to park up at 09.50 I noticed a pretty good view from trackside as the sun was low in the sky to the south east, previous vegetation had either been cleared or died back and the bridge was very nicely illuminated.

(2) 43093 brings up the rear with 43122 at the front of the 08.00 Cardiff Central - Penzance at Dinnaton west of Ivybridge station. This was at 11.20 and I was now on my way home from Tesco with a healthy weekly shop of low calorie comestibles following a fortnight of excess. There was a Castle set on the up at 11.04 but the sun remained behind a cloud until the train had passed before deciding to shine. So I decided to hang on until 11.20 for a better lit shot of the down Castle set . I was parked at the nearby adjacent fitness centre car park which seemed to be very busy.with punters who'd piled on the pounds. Needless to say the sun disappeared again at 11.15 so this is the resulting photo. New year. Same old frustration.

Regards

Clive Smith

1) Low level at Ivybridge. on the 4th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith

Dinnaton, west of Ivybridge/ 4th January 2022. Copyright Clive Smith

Excellent photos Clive, no details spared other than your shopping list. seriously through your low level shot is very dramatic - I wonder what is in the box supported by two pillars top right of picture (1) looks like a camera. Many thanks.

Steam heat at
Bristol Temple Meads
Paul Barlow

Another dramatic shot - 45013 at Bristol - the boiler is working well on 06.00 Plymouth to Barrow Hill - the 'Sulzer Surveyor' tour. 47195 had worked the train from Plymouth. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - remember the creaking noise coming from the compartment radiators when the steam was turned on?

Cowley Bridge
Exeter
Ron Kosys

47500 at Cowley Bridge 5th May 1989 with the 14.20 Paddington - Plymouth. Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron - more of this location tomorrow.

SVR Visit - a treat by
Guy Vincent

We don't normally cover as far north as the SVR - however very fortunately for us and Guy and Cathy they had time to spare to visit the SVR Museum and captured a photo of the 'Camelford' running in board - the Cornish Connection and our excuse for using the article which follows which I am very sure you'll find a very interesting read.

Hello Keith / Roger and a Happy, Healthy New Year to you both.

Yesterday (Monday 3rd) we made a trip by rail to the Severn Valley Railway and enjoyed one and a half round trips over the line behind 'Green Godess' class 40 loco 40106 'Atlantic Conveyor'. Steam heating was provided by the loco's fully operational boiler and it was like stepping back in time over 40 years to when this was an everyday occurrence on BR, especially at this time of year on the many additional relief services that ran to cater for increased demand. Parked up in the yard at Bridgnorth (next to 1965 Swindon-built class 14 D9551) was SR 'West Country' 34027 'Taw Valley' which had been working trains over the weekend. At the end of the afternoon we had an hour spare due to the short-notice cancellation of our intended train from Kidderminster to Worcester. A visit to the SVR museum was greeted by the attached station running-in board, probably of L&SWR origin and definitely of interest to those in the far west of England...

With regards, Guy Vincent.

Bridgnorth SR 34027 & D9551 3rd January 2022 Copyright Guy Vncent

Camelford for Boscastle and Tintagel L&SWR Board SVR Kiddr'r. 3rd January 2022 Copyright Guy Vincent

Hello again Keith,
Use or not as you see fit as although there is no local connection to CRS I am sure many members will have fond memories of the class 40 and this one is something special. Built in 1960 as one of just twenty constructed by Robert Stephenson and Hawthorns at Darlington (in order to release production capacity at Vulcan Foundry for the 'Deltic' fleet), 40106 twice evaded repainting into standard BR blue and in 1978 at its final classified repair received a further coat of 'deep bronze green'. 40106 was an exhibit at the 'Rainhill 150' celebrations in 1980. As one of the final members of the class to remain in traffic with vacuum-only brakes it was withdrawn in April 1983 but fortunately was purchased for preservation by the late Gerald Boden. The name 'Atlantic Conveyor' was bestowed upon the loco on 11th August 1984 to commemorate the Cunard-owned vessel and its crew lost in the Falklands campaign on May 28th 1982. Now owned by the Class 40 Preservation Society 40106 is currently on hire to the Severn Valley Railway and, by virtue of its fully operational steam-heating boiler has seen daily use over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Who knows, maybe in the future it will reach one of the south west's heritage lines?

Cheers Guy Vincent

Highley 40106 3rd January 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent

40106 Builder Plate SVR 3rd January 2022 Copyright Guy Vincent

Nameplate 40106 Kidd'r 3rd January 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Bridgnorth 40106 steam heating 1.35 Highley departure 3rd January 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent

Bridgnorth As 40106 takes on water for the steam heating. 3rd January 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks indeed Guy.

4th January 2021

4/1/2022

Fascinating material
The Looe branch
Phil Hadley

Dear Keith,
Happy New Year.
I thought you and the CRS members may be interested to see the wartime footage of the Liskeard to Looe branch line I have posted to YouTube. It is only brief but it is original colour footage.

Liskeard Looe Branch Line 1945

Liskeard Looe Branch Line 1945

All the best,
Phil

Its is with very many thanks to Phil Hadley that we bring you this incredible video of 76 years ago. N.B. You will need to 'skip the advertisements' at the beginning of the show.
Highly recommended.

RES Class 47s at Penzance in the 1990s
Dave Butler

2 A Foursome of Class 47s and Chandour, Penzance. The cranes in the background are for the construction of South West Waters treatment plant built in the 1990s. Copyright Dave Butler

3. The foursome taken lower down at Chyandour. Copyright Dave Butler

4. The Class 47s sits above the three tunnels leading to the Eastern Green Beach. Copyright Dave Butler

5. 47517 plus another 47 at Long Rock. Copyright David Butler

Many Thanks David, please accept my apologies for the delay. Roger

Cornwall in Avon !
Bitton
Paul Negus

Penzance Toad at Bitton on the Avon Valley Railway. December 2021. Copyright Paul Negus.

Hi Keith

May I wish a Happy New Year to All at Cornwall Railway Society!

Please find attached a photo of the ex-Penzance Toad basking in the sunshine at the Avon Valley Railway late last month. It was taken from the adjoining public footpath / cycle path. The yard and sidings at Bitton are bursting with stock so it is difficult to photograph any particular vehicle but on this occasion there was a welcome gap in the line of stock and grounded van bodies. It is good to know that the Toad is used for rides at special events so you can still enjoy the thrill of a brake van ride - just like the old days if you were lucky!

Kind regards
Paul Negus

Many thanks indeed Paul - you struck it lucky

Langstone Rock
Ron Kosys

47542 seen from Langstone rock with the 0933 Plymouth-Brighton 25th June 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.

You get a smashing view of over a mile of track from this position - lovely sunshine. Many thanks Ron.

Paignton
Paul Barlow

45036 seen at Paignton with a long train on the 10.52 to Leeds 1E37. It's the 20th June 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

Creech St Michael
Bill Elston

66850 passes Creech St Michael, 3rd January 2022 Copyright Bill Elston.

Colas 66850 passed through Creech around mid-day today, running about 30min early.
This is the route-learner for the Newton Abbot - Goodrington line. Sadly it was not the hoped-for class 56, but at least it was something to point the camera at!

All the best,
Bill

Many thanks Bill, for braving the winter weather.

Next Saturdays CRS Meeting Change of Speaker.

Refreshments will be available at the mid evening break.
Covid precautions will be observed.

3rd January 2022

3/1/2022

Exminster
David Tozer

Gents,
A Happy New Year and my first offering of 2022 thanks to your Colas Correspondent.

66850 David Maidment CBE at Exminster running some 67 minutes early as then 1136 0Z10 Westbury to Goodrington.

Dave

66850 Exminster 3.1.2022

Wishing you a Happy New Year and Many Thanks

Pinhoe
Paul Barlow

47032 Runs through a closed Pinhoe station on a empty ballast train from Salisbury. 31st May 1979. Copyright Paul Barlow

Pinhoe had closed on the 7th March 1966.
Quote courtesy Wikipedia - Goods facilities were provided from 3 April 1882, and in 1943 a government food cold store was built to the west of the station that was served by its own siding. The passenger station was closed by on 7 March 1966 when the Western Region British Railways withdrew the local stopping services from the line. Goods facilities were withdrawn on 10 June 1967 and the cold store siding (now operated by a private company) closed in 1979.
The station was reopened by British Rail on 16 May 1983. Instead of a country village it was now on the eastern edge of the city. The initial trial period for commuter services proved successful and a regular service now operates all day, seven days a week. Between 2003 and 2008 passenger numbers increased by 530% and they are still increasing with an estimate of 94,354 users in 2015–16

Many thanks Paul.

David Tozer writes

Gents, Paul Barlow’s photograph published today. Mentioned in text was information about the sidings at Pinhoe. Omitted however was detail of another siding on the downside opposite the Ministry Coldstore and Westbrick. This was known as Pye’s Siding and had vans from Maidstone fairly regularly. You already have photos of mine when the siding was disconnected. Also when 80064 was taken away by road after being hauled to PInhoe by rail. The coal siding was on the Honiton side of the station overlooked by the signal box. This site has been the subject of a planning application to provide car parking and a bus bay. The plan of Devon County Council at one time was to operate a mini bus service to Exeter Airport. That was before Flybe collapsed.

Many Thanks David

Langstone Rock
Ron Kosys

47544 passing Langstone Rock on the 25th June 1988 with a down service. Copyright Ron Kosys.

For a very nearly mid summers day there seem to be very few heading for the sea wall towards Dawlish and little activity in the car park. However there is one gentleman turning to observe the passing traffic. Many thanks Ron.

10 years ago
St Erth
Dennis Clarke

Its the 3rd January 2012 and a special day out for Mrs Clarke and Mother in Law seen in the distance. Copyright Dennis Clarke

We've reached St Ives - not many cars in the car park. The unit looks nice and clean. 3rd January 2012 Copyright Dennis Clarke.

Back again at St Erth as 153 departs once more for St Ives. 3rd January 2012. Copyright Dnnis Clarke.

153 380 on duty on the St Ives branch - who'd have thought that the branch platform at St Erth would be drastically widened nine years later. Many thanks Dennis.

2nd January 2022

2/1/2022

The South Devon Railway
Winter Steam Gala
Roger Winnen

This event has been billed for 31st December 2021 running through to 2nd January 2022
Join us over the New Years weekend for Mince Pies, a Manor and more!
A festive feast of steam to end the season. Adult, Senior and Rover Tickets available

220101a 1369 and 6430 arrives at Totnes Riverside on the 11.20 from Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101b A part of the Christmas festivities at Totnes enjoyed by many young and not so young folk. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101c The official walking route for the staff. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101d 7820 Dinmore Manor arrives at Staverton on the 13.00 hrs from Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101e 1369 Runs into Buckfastleigh with the 14.15 from Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101f 6430 and the auto heads for the station yard at Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101g 7820 Dinmore Manor departs Buckfastleigh with the 14.15 service to Totnes. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101h Great Western Coaches in the Art Deco style of the 1930s were in the train today. Copyright Roger Winnen

220101i The station lights are on as the children watch the last train of the day at Staverton. Copyright Roger Winnen

Wellington Emergency Crossovers
Derek Buttivant

Hello Roger.
First, a happy new year to you and all at the CRS.

Continuing to explore our new home territory in Somerset, I walked this afternoon across the bridge over the GW main line at the site of Wellington station. Peering downwards over the parapet I was surprised to see that the goods shed, rail access to which was under a separate bridge arch, still has its loading gauge hanging inside after half a century since it ceased to be used. Adjacent, between the remains of the station platforms, are the two Wellington Emergency Crossovers, one facing and one trailing, comparatively rare these days but very important when single line working has to be introduced. The attached photos show these features.

Kind regards.

Derek

Many Thanks Derek, we at the CRS send New Year Greetings

Food bank
Camborne - Don Gardener
Ken Mumford

66414 opens up coming out of the east loop at Swindon. 30th December 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.

An IET carries a tribute to a local gentleman Don Gardner and his late wife Jenifer set up and ran a very successfull food bank in Camborne. Also mentioned is the local radio station Radio Cornwall. 30th December 2021 at Swindon. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Inside the Cornwall foodbanks of national hero Don Gardner ...https://www.cornwalllive.com › ... › Camborne and Redruth

Many thanks Ken for drawing our attention to this local gentleman.

Bradford on Avon
Ron Kosys

47525 heading west from Bradford on Avon with a smart train of 'Chocolate & Cream' coaching stock. 11th May 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron - keep up the good work.

Nr Exeter
Paul Barlow

25048 and 37299 on the 18.00 St Blazey to Acton 7A19. 26th June 1980 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Looking back
Swindon 2021
Ken Mumford

Ken spent four hours on Swindon station in pursuit of his and our hobby - however due to technical problems - the websmasters computer 'seized up' and we were off air. However as the result of three hours tweaking during the night we seem to be back 'on air' once more.

Here is a small selection of Kens shots.

66089 departs with the 6B13 - with much noise and smoke heading for Westerleigh.

60 010 was at the rear end of the train. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Using his telephoto lens Ken captures two two class 66's of different liveries. 66414 being the nearest. Copyright Ken Mumford.

60092 heads a multi-coloured train of rather dirty oil tanks out of the station. Copyright Ken Mumford.

60 092 brings up the rear of the tank train, 66519 is using platform 1 having come off the Gloucester branch with the 4O57 Wentloog to Southampton {Maritime] Freightliner. Copyright Ken Mumford.

66519 heads east with the multi-coloured freight train. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks for your contributions ken - keep up the good work.

!st January 2022

Welcome to 2022 - we wish you all a very good year ahead. Many thanks for your support.

Route learner to
Paignton
Alan Peters

Colas Rail will be running a route learning special to Paignton next week in connection with forthcoming engineering works on the branch

Monday 3rd January 2021 - 0Z09 11:36 dep Westbury - Goodrington - Newton Abbot - Goodrington - Hackney Yard arr 16:37 and 0Z10 17:49 dep Hackney Yard - Goodrington - Newton Abbot - Goodrington - Hackney Yard arr 20:51

Tuesday 4th January 2021 - 0Z11 14:36 dep Hackney Yard - Goodrington - Newton Abbot - Goodrington - Hackney Yard arr 16:37 and 17:49 dep Hackney Yard - Goodrington - Newton Abbot - Goodrington - Hackney Yard arr 20:51

Wednesday 5th January 2021 - 0Z12 14:36 dep Hackney Yard - Goodrington - Newton Abbot - Goodrington - Hackney Yard arr 16:37 and 17:49 dep Hackney Yard - Goodrington - Newton Abbot - Goodrington - Westbury arr 22:45

Most likely traction class 66 although class 56 requested and rather than Hackney Yard the loco will possibly reverse and stable on the Heathfield Branch.

Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks Alan - a warning to get out your cameras.

'Tin Tin' at
Taunton
Bill Elston

Hi Keith,
My last offering of this year: Virgin Thunderbird 57308, TIN TIN, on a Cardiff – Taunton local.
At this time, pairs of 57/3s ( in top-tail mode) and coaches were hired in by FGW because of a shortage of DMUs. This arrangement didn’t last long!

Happy New Year to you all,

Bill

Making a very unusual scene at Taunton 57308 Tin Tin 7th May 2010, Copyright Bill Elston

57308 the nameplate. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill - ' and they that are last shall go first'. Welcome to 2022.

Exeter '80
Paul Barlow

31412 passes Exeter West on 1955 Exeter to Paignton 2B46. 25th June 1980 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Seen at the pub
Falmouth
David Anthony

There's no credit attached so I presume it's in the public domain, l'll leave it it to your discretion whether to use it or not.

Cheers & happy new year

Dave Anthony

Falmouth - seen in the Prince of Wales Pub at Falmouth Frm Dave Anthony

If there is a problem we'll take the picture off - otherwise visit and enjoy the picture and whats on offer. Thanks Dave.

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There's no credit attached so I presume it's in the public domain, l'll leave it it to your discretion whether to use it or not.Cheers & happy new yearDave Anthony

Archives

There's no credit attached so I presume it's in the public domain, l'll leave it it to your discretion whether to use it or not.

Cheers & happy new year

Dave Anthony