Blog Archives

28th February 2022

28/2/2022

Chard Junction Milks
David Tozer

Gents,
The recent article on the milk traffic from Chard Junction brings back memories.
The engine with or without empty tanks used to pass Exmouth Junction around 1445 when heading to Chard. The return working usually came back at around 1755 and loadings often varied from one tank to several. The locos used always seem to be whatever was available.

Dave

Class 47 D1630 with empties to Chard Jcn 17th January 1973. Copyright David Tozer.

D1041 Western Prince Chard Jcn Milks 30th September 1973 Copyright David Tozer

46002 with a long train. 24th February 1975. Copyright David Tozer.

47063 Nr Exmouth Jcn 1976 Copyright David Tozer.

Many Thanks David

Okehampton Line.
Corscombe Crossing
Chris Bellett

GW608 CREDITON TO MELDON

BETWEEN FORMER COLEFORD JUNCTION AND OKEHAMPTON
FROM 1630 THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

Corscombe User Worked Crossing (UWC), located at 194m 66ch, has been upgraded to include red/green lights to signal to
the users of the level crossing whether it is safe to cross using the Overlay MSL operating system. Telephones have been
provided.

The Overlay MSL system has been introduced to the area at User Worked Crossings with limited sighting. This system consists
of red / green lights that indicate to the user whether it is safe for them to cross the railway. The lights are activated by wheel
sensors that operate in a similar way to axle counters: when they detect a train, they set the lights to red, after the train hits the
strike out sensor the lights go to green. Would all staff please note that, like axle counters, using metal tools or simply passing by
within a metre wearing safety boots can cause activation of these sensors, and should be avoided.
If the sensors fail the lights go into dark mode, they will be reactivated by another train passing or can be reactivated through a
manual reset.

Chris

Take Care,
Chris Bellett, Retired S&T Engineer, CRS Member

Many thanks Chris

Royal Albert bridge & Saltash
Signal Alterations (1961)
Chris Bellett

In contrast to the Operating notice on the Okehampton line above Chris Bellett brings us this Engineering Notice from his collection of July 1961.
The full notice is in our Feature 2212 - please Click here and scroll down to find thisl

A pair of Bubble Cars passing the former Royal Albert Bridge Signal Box. 28th July 1990 Copyright Roger Winnen

The full notice is in our Feature 2212 - please Click here and scroll down to find thisl

Many thanks to Chris for this item from his collection

Power points installation
Bodmin & Wenford
Chris Bellett

We are shortly to commission the latest stage of the signalling works associated with the new Bodmin General Platform No.2. Part of this work is to motorise the existing junction points leading to Bodmin Parkway and Boscarne Junction. Here is a photograph taken on 26/02/2022 whilst testing of the new point motors was underway. This is the first time in history there have been any motor operated points on the line!

Take Care, Chris Bellett, Retired S&T Engineer, CRS Member

Power operated point at Bodmin General. 26th February 2022. Copyright Chris Bellett

Many thanks Chris - your knowledge and and experience is a valuable asset to the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.

Bodmin & Wenford
Bridge Replacement
Chris Bellett

Here are the latest photographs of the Bodmin General bridge works. Nearly done now. Take care,
Chris Bellett, Retired S&T Engineer, CRS Member.

Bridge 13A on 26th February 2022 Copyright Chris Bellett

Bridge 13B on 26th February 2022 Copyright Chris Bellett.

Many thanks Chris for your observations and photographs

Resignalling at
Newton Abbot (87)
Paul Barlow

In his unending and very much appreciated pictures Paul sent several associated with the re-signalling of Newton Abbot in 1987. There were several major changes during this period. Below are two concerning the demolition of the West Box. Pauls pictures are in Features 2213 - click here and scroll down.

Newton Abbot West signal box demolition - no health and safety. 2nd May 1987. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Newton Abbot West signal box demolition. 2nd May 1987. Copyright Paul Barlow. (You will notice several buildings and stock in the background - all have disappeared)

Many thanks Paul.

27th February 2022

27/2/2022

D1015 Western Champion
at Kingswear
Michael Adams

Hello Roger,I hope you enjoyed your trip up to Plymouth, the weather looked nice. Here is a picture of D1015 ‘Western Champion’ taken at Kingswear on 28 May 2005 waiting to leave for Paddington,via Bristol,with ‘The English Riviera Express.(Taken by and Copyright Michael Adams)

Many Thanks Michael

A short Sunday afternoon visit to Silverton
David Tozerr

Gents,The engineers trains from the Plymouth to Exeter blockade came quick and fast at Silverton this afternoon

66528 and 66542 with the 1155 Exeter (St Thomas) – Westbury Down T.C. Copyright David Tozer

With 66542 at the rear the 1155 Exeter (St Thomas) – Westbury Down T.C is passing Silverton. Copyright David Tozer

66706 and 66743 Top and tail the 1423 6Z71 Exeter (Riverside) – Westbury Down T.C. Copyright David Tozer

66743 tailing 1423 6Z71 Exeter (Riverside) – Westbury Down T.C. Copyright David Tozer

Included in the last train were several of the recently built wagons by Astra Rail and leased by Network Rail from Wascosa. The wagons are classified as MLA and one is seen next to 66743 on the previous photograph. This train is hauled by 66706 Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David

Sat. Freightliners +
Craig Munday

An armada (excuse the pun) of engineers trains headed to the Lipson are for another week of track work. One service was sent down to St Blazey from Westbury and stabled overnight (Friday). The side tipper ballast wagons made a heavy train for Freightliner's 66528 up next day (Sat 26th) pictured passing Budges Shop, near Trerulefoot in brilliant sunshine. 66542 was dead on the rear.

Prior to departure, the train is seen near the gates at St Blazey, as if bound for Par Harbour!

The Cross Country HST on 24th is also pictured at Mount Charles, just evading a hail storm cloud which whisked out to sea thankfully.
Cheers Craig

66528 parked at St Blazey Gate 26th February 2022. Copyright Craig Munday. The crossing cottage makes for a charming scene.

66528 leads the heavy 6Y40 seen at Budges Shop. 66542 is dead at the rear. 26th February 2022. Copyright Craig Munday

XC HST the 1S49 is seen at Mount Charles. 26th February 2022. Copyright Craig Munday

Interesting scenes - especially at Par Harbour crossing. Thanks Craig.

David Tozer -
none too pleased.

Gents.
A nice afternoon so I decided to go for a little drive and ended up at Marsh Barton.
The bad news is that photography of progress at the new station is now impossible. Yes, they have put up a lovely green shiny footbridge. So no more photos from here for a while.
Dave Tozer.

Marsh Barton - view of new station obstructed by new footbridge. 26th February 2022. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks for going to Marsh Barton to see the progress - just goes to prove that you can't win everytime.

Triumph at Temple Meads
Phil Smith

50042 Triumph at Bristol Temple Meads in 1989 Copyright Phil Smith.

A nice one - emerging from the gloom at BTM. Thanks Phil.

For a history of 50 042 now based on the Bodmin and Wenford please click below.
bodmin-heritage-diesels.co.uk/home1/the-fleet/class-50042/index.html

26th February 2022

26/2/2022

Relaying at Lipson Junction Plymouth
Roger Winnen

220226j 66528 seen with a ballast train prior to working to Lipson Plymouth on nearly the Par Harbour Branch. Viewed from the 08.52 Penzance to Plymouth service Copyright Roger Winnen

220226a Laira Depot this morning.. Copyright Roger Winnen

220226b 66021 At Laira Junction with old track panels recovered from the up line to Exeter. Copyright Roger Winnen

220226c Through the bushes at Laira. There is nowhere to photograph this line up except through the bushes. Copyright Roger Winnen

220226d 66743 stabled at Lipson Junction. the up line to Exeter is being renewed. Copyright Roger Winnen

220226f 66743 Belmond Royal Scotsman tails an empty spoil train at Lipson Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

220226g 66528 Seen arriving at Plymouth Station with ballast from St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

220226h 66528 Madge Elliot MBE Borders Ralway Opening 2015 Copyright Roger Winnen

220226i 66542 Tails the engineers train from St Blazey seen arriving at Plymouth. This photograph was taken from the Gunnislake unit awaiting departure from Plymouth Copyright Roger Winnen

Good weather at Plymouth - many thanks Roger.

Respryn
Andrew Triggs

1. 158765 working 2P09 09.50 Penzance-Plymouth nearing the Doublebois former station site (closed 5.10.1964) 25th February 2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs.

2. 43016 with 43192 working 2C67 08.00 Cardiff Central-Penzance at Respryn 25th February 2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs.

3. 57604 'Pendennis Castle' working 3A50 10.44 Longrock T&RSMD-Reading Traincare Depot 'Night Riviera' ECS approaching Respryn. 25th February 2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs

4. Worth a second shot - we see 57604 'Pendennis Castle' ECS approaching Respryn. 25th February 2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Night Riviera ECS for Reading Train Care Depot clearing Respryn overbridge and heading for Bodmin Parkway. 25th February 2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew

Spotted at
Cullompton
Keith Turley

Two images from today (25th February 2022), Regards Keith Turley.

No.1 GWR class 57/6 No.57604 'Pendennis Castle' passes Cullompton working the 3A50 10:44 Penzance T&RSMD to Reading Traincare Depot 'Night Riviera' empty stock transfer move. 25th February 2022. Copyright Keith Turley

No.2 GWR celebrity Hitachi class 802 unit No.802020 'Thank you key workers' with classmate No.802018 on the rear , working the 1A86 13:15 Plymouth to London Paddington service. Copyright Keith Turley.

Many thanks Keith

Class 50 hauled milk train at
Dawlish
Steve Widdowson

Having just read the write up today on the Milk trains, reminded me of the only picture I took of a 50 on the Milk.
Attached. Its not the best, but it was taken on a Kodak 126, & must have been late evening.
I have always assumed that this was the St Erth / London train ? can anyone confirm ? & what would have been the Headcode.
My notes say Milk train 50020 Dawlish May 1979
Regards Steve Widdowson

50020 'Revenge' seen at Dawlish {Milk} May 1979 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Anybody any ideas? Thank you Steve.

Paul Barlow kindly replied - In response to the picture of 50020 at Dawlish. I recorded 50020 passing Exeter at 2050 on the 1642 St Erth to Mordon south 6019 milk train.
Hope this helps. Kind regards. Paul

25th February 2022

25/2/2022

Traffic to Walker lines on the B & W
Fitzgerald Freight
Bernard Mills

Bodmin Parkway 33110 1845 ex Walker Lines Fitzgerald freight shunt 25th June 2001. Copyright Bernard Mills,

Walker Lines Freight Charlies Gate 33 110 19.50 Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General. Fitzgerald freight 25th June 2001. Copyright Bernard Mills.

Walker Line Freight seen on Quarry Curve field 33 110 19.50 Bod Parkway-Bodmin General. Fitzgerald freight 25th June 2001 Copyright Bernard Mills

Many thanks Bernard - looking forward to you new book.
Bernards new 'Back Tracking' book covers the Bodmin lines.

Additional Information
Fitzgerald Freight
Guy Vincent

Good evening Keith
Bernard Mills asked for any information concerning the running of Fitzgerald Lighting freight trains over the B&W. I recommend the Bodmin Heritage Diesels website as there is a short feature on these workings with operating dates (2 Dec 1989 to 11 Dec 1992) and some photos included. Fitzgerald traffic ended as BR withdrew Speedlink from the South West as a principal user, Taunton Cider, switched to alternative transport. I looked through some old copies of TRACTION and Rail Express magazines from 2000 and 2001 and in the Nov 2000 Traction on page 13 found a photo taken 17th July 2000 of 50042 with a Fitzgerald train consisting of 2 VGA wagons. In the June issue of the same publication (P11) is mention of the possibility of loco 33110 working the Fitzgerald traffic that summer. It seems that grants were made available to bring freight back onto the mainline in 2000-01 so possibly this is how the traffic came to return. There is no mention of when the last train ran.
Hopefully this will add something to what Bernard already has.

Best regards, Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy - I'll forward your letter on to Barnard.

Willmington
Roger Geach

50033 Brighton to Plymouth seen at Wilmington 14th September 1991. Copyright Roger Geach. Willmington is approx 4 miles east of Honiton.

Many thanks Roger.

24th February 2022

24/2/2022

Clifton Downs Tunnel
Mark Howells

Evening Keith,
Several months ago you and your members kindly responded to my request for any information about the drainage system in Clifton Down tunnel.
Following several further enquiries with the Didcot Railway Centre and John Mann we were able to gather enough detail to excavate trial holes with confidence.
Please find attached several images taken during a visit to our current worksite yesterday.
Thank you for all the help and pictures provided – I shall be visiting the site later this week again to see the works as they progress and will send through further pictures.

Kind Regards,

Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM

Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)

Clifton Downs tunnel drainage 1 22nd Feb 22. Copyright Mark Howells - Network Rail. 375mm Vitrified Clay pipe in the former 6ft

Clifton Downs tunnel drainage 2 22nd Feb 22. Copyright Mark Howells - Network Rail. West cutting of Clifton Down tunnel

Clifton Downs tunnel drainage 3 22nd Feb 22 Copyright Mark Howells - Network Rail.. Drainage Clearance Road Rail Vehicle

Many thanks Mark for the tunnel pictures and particularly of the road/rail vehicle.

23rd February 2022
Creech observations
Bill Elston

Some observations at Creech today,

1. Bristol East Jct to Westbury via Norton Fitzwarren, top/tailed with 70801 and 70811 ( still displaying the old 'helmet' logo.

2, Pnz - Cdf, 2U16, tailed by 43171.

3, Pnz - Edb, (1S49 ) led by 43301 with 43321.

4, Westbury to Fairwater yd, 6C73, ballast, with 66547.

Hope these are of interest

Cheers,

Bill

Picture 1A 70801, Creech . 23rd February 2022. Copyright Bill Elston

Picture 1B 70811 on the tail of the same train at ,Creech. 23rd February 2022. Copyright Bill Elston

Picture 2. 43171, Creech 23rd February 2022. Copyright Bill Elston

Picture 3. 43301, Creech 23rd February 2022. Copyright Bill Elston

Picture 4. 66547, Creech 23rd February 2022. Copyright Bill Elston

Busy time at Creech, Paul - many thanks.

The power of the Internet
Craig Munday.

There are many Facebook Railway groups. I am a member of many of the ones covering the South West, and South West traction. I happily see wonderful posts from Roger Geach, Bernard Mills, Dave Letcher and many others who have generously uploaded their precious work there. Most groups are supportive, helpful and down to earth. Those that aren't - I avoid!

The joy of pictures being enjoyed from yesteryear can often spark a debate, or frantic fact searching. Where Warship pictures are concerned, Martin Street and Mark Alden have encyclopedic information on the class and their workings. They're able to recognise a locomotive from the minutest of details. Martin has breathed life into my dad's Warship footage, helping identify locomotives, workings and dates. Of course, headcodes were a big help in this era.

A recent excellent picture of D812, prior to being fitted, with its headcode boxes was aired with the task of identifying the location and working. The picture is included, but the photographer is unknown, so please accept the apologies to the gentleman concerned.

The picture shows D812 in green with maroon coaches cruising under a bridge, with a cottage in the background and a semaphore distant signal as a clue. This was fascinating, as it cried out Cornwall, but it wasn't immediately obvious where it was. I got my thinking cap on and thought of all the stone graceful arched bridges we have in the Duchy featuring such a curve and a steep road above (note the incline in the bridge).

Somerton, Crofton, Kingskerswell and many others were in the "hat", but I believed it was in Cornwall. The detective kit was on! Firstly this was a populated area, judging by the house & chimney in the background. The distant semaphore signal meant it was in the vicinity of a signalbox, though there were scores of them on the mainline in 1962. Looking at the curve in the tracks, and the steepness of the road above - the only location that fitted was Trewoon near Burngullow. Could this be the down distant for Burngullow? The curve looked right, but I couldn't vouch for the cottage.

Others suggested Dobwalls, but I knew that Duloe Road bridge didnt fit the criteria of the image. Grampound Road was another potential, but the distant signal wouldn't have been this close to the box. Bridges between St Germans and Saltash were strong candidates as there are few steep curves here. Coombe St Stephen also has such structures, though no signals would have been sited here.

I visited the area and discovered to my delight that it was indeed Trevannion Road at Trewoon. The house in the background is now screened by other houses and trees, but the unmistakable graceful roof profile and even the chimneys are still there. Although viewed from the Trewoon side, the bridge is obviously this one, with its tell-tale steep road above.

Problem solved after all these years! Kind regards, Craig

D812 'The Royal Naval Reserve 1859 - 1959' at Trewoon the photographer is unknown, so please accept the apologies to the gentleman concerned. Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig.

Three car luxury
Craig Munday

A blustery day across the south west on the unique date of 22/2/22. In between the heavy showers there was superb sunshine - albeit brief. GWR's three car 158, 158959 was employed on the St Ives branch on 21st / 22nd Feb, and was captured on the golf course, the track joints melodic clickety clack adding to the spectacle. The golf course one of the final sections of 60ft jointed track in the area. Godrevy & Gwithian were still shrouded in cloud as the unit passed St Ives bound.

43171 leading 43093 was later seen passing Scorrier as the sun crossed the line at Apex bridge - a sure sign the evenings are pulling out. The sun high at just after 16.00.

Cheers for now, Craig.

158959 passes Porthkidney Sands 2A25 2A26 22nd February 2022 Copyright Craig Munday.

2C73 43171 43093 Apex, Scorrier. 22nd February 2022 Copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks to you Craig.

Plea for information on -
Cornish Signal Boxes
James Taylor

I am currently recreating signal boxes currently in use as computer simulations and I was wondering if you had any photos especially of the diagram but also images of the box in general are invaluable! I have managed to finish one of Truro box with the images available online but would love to get some extra images of in particular Par Station, Truro (specifically the current barrier controls) and St Erth (particularly an up to date image of the diagram) but of course any images you have of any box are a joy to look at. I have seen that you have previously been in contact with Craig Munday and his images of especially Truro have been invaluable and if you could pass on my thanks that would be greatly appreciated!

Kind Regards
James Taylor Contact - [email protected]

Your letter has been placed in our News Column. This is done in order that you may get extra contacts. Any images which are on our site are of course the property of the owners and will need permission to use.
Another source of information is the 'Signalling Record Society', however there is a membership fee to join that much respected source and their material is copyright. Try 'Google' for the SRS;

23rd February 2022

23/2/2022

Today on the former L&SWR route
David Tozer

Gents,
Along with Keith Turley, we ventured to new location Mosshayne Overbridge No 518. This is the Honiton side of Pinhoe.

159006 with the 1325 Exeter to Waterloo. Copyright David Tozer

159016 and 159021 Waterloo to Exeter. Copyright David Tozer

Thanks David

D1015's Triumphant Return
Neil Phillips

Today (Wednesday 23rd February 2022) marks the 20th anniversary of Class 52 D1015 Western Champion’s first main line tour following a thorough restoration from scrapyard condition which took around 25 years, a remarkable achievement by the Diesel Traction Group. The ‘Western Pathfinder’ tour took a circular route Paddington – Swindon – Bristol – Gloucester – Swindon - Paddington, and all 270 miles were completed virtually to time and without any problems. My photos show it passing Swindon in both directions – unfortunately this rather overcast day only began to brighten up at the very end.
(Apologies for not sending this 24 hours earlier.....!)

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

D1015 Western Champion passes Swindon Outward en route to Bristol Swindon 23rd February 2002 Copyright Neil Phillips

D1015 Western Champion returns to Swindon 23rd February 2002 Copyright Neil Phillips

D1015 Western Champion passes Swindon on return run to Paddington. 23rd February 2002 Copyright Neil Phillips

Many thanks Neil - I've just got it on site a bit late but still the right day.
Are we ever going to see and hear a marvelous Western down here again??

Western Fusilier at Swindon
Michael Adams

Here is another picture taken at Swindon Works on 6 June 1981 by Michael Adams. It shows D1023 ‘Western Fusilier’ looking splendid in maroon livery..This loco. is now at the NRM York, but in blue. Thanks, Michael

Many Thanks Michael

Coal Trains in and around Oxford
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, Here are another two shots taken on 8 September 1989 from Port Meadow bridge,looking North. First we see 56006 with a loaded train for Didcot power station. This engine is now at the East Lancs. Railway . Thanks Michael Copyright Michael,Forward

Roger, Now we see 58015 with another load of coal for Didcot.,probably from Welbeck colliery,Notts. I am not sure if this loco.is still working abroad. Mgr wagons gone as is British coal for power stations,who would have foreseen such changes ahead in 1989? Thanks for dealing with these. Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

Aller Junction
Paul Barlow

47624 Cyclops on 11.45 Paddington to Plymouth Aller junction 14th February 1988. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul

Fitzgerald Traffic
Bernard Mills

The new Back Tracking book covers the Bodmin lines. I am including this one of the Fitzgerald Lighting freight, seen here descending from Quarry Curve with D3452 in charge 1800 from Walker Lines 04 June 1992. There are not that many pictures around of this working, very rare for a Heritage Railway to run a commercial freight service. If picture is of any use for CRS web site, feel free to put in there somewhere appropriate.
I thought there was a column about Fitzgerald Freight on the CRS web site, but cannot see it there now. Basically all I want to say is when it started which looks like 02 Dec 1989, but when did it finish? I think there may have even a break in the operation. I certainly saw it in 2000, and I am sure it was still running in 2001. Do you know anyone who would know? Bernard

Walker Lines D3452 18.00 Goods to Bodmin Parkway. VGA 4 axle wagons. 4th June 1992 Copyright Bernard Mills.

Another new book by Bernard Mills in production - we look forward to it - can anybody help with more info dates etc.

Didcot North
Roger Geach

50026 16.07 Paddington to Oxford seen at Didcot North 5th August 1988. Copyright Roger Geach

Many thanks Roger

23rd February 2022

22/2/2022

'Digit as in finger'
A digital disaster struck two days ago when, amid the trauma of storm damage, when I (KJ) ‘hit’ the delete on the Home Page. Luckily our two sons were at hand to recover the situation using ‘Way back machine’ and a lot of cut and paste – this took a long time. So many thanks to sons Kevin and Peter and to Diane plus Granddaughter Anna the web page is back on line slightly improved. A real family effort.

Delayed recent Cornish Action
Andrew Triggs

Hi Keith/Roger,
Due to having no internet at home since last Friday I've been unable to send in 'as they happened' shots, but now we've been reconnected I've put a selection for CRS together of recent events
All the Best
Andrew

. 57603 with 5C50 passing Arch Lane bridge, with the Night Riviera ECS (with 57604 at the rear) from Truro Yard, having just through St Erth 19.2.2022. Copyright Andrew Triggs

158959 passing Lelant, St Ives branch working 2A13 10.48 St Erth-St Ives 21.2.2022. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Later in the afternoon returning with 2A14 11.03 St Ives-St Erth pausing at Lelant 21.2.2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Blue skies over St Ives as 158959 again appears on the 'St Ives' dropping down Porthkidney Bank working 2A26 14.03 St Ives-St Erth 22.2.2022. Copyright Andrew Triggs

A rarity these days as XC 43366 (with 43303) awaits Penzance departure with 1S49 09.25 for Edinburgh 22.2.2022. Copyright Andrew Triggs

XC HST 1S49 with 43366/303 from above the Station wall, having previously arrived as 1C09 06.18 from Plymouth 22.2.2022 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

Porthkidney 158
Mark Lynam

Today was the second day in which 158959 was working on the St Ives branch. Below are two photos taken near Porthkidney Sands, it was swapped with 150263 after these services.

The return working 2A26 1403 St Ives to St Erth above Porthkidney Sands. Copyright Mark Lynam

2A25 1348 St Erth to St Ives by West Cornwall Golf Club. Copyright Mark Lynam

Thanks Mark

The first run of a Class 158 on the St Ives Branch in 2020 on passenger traffic
Roger Salter

Arrival at St Erth of 158747 from St Ives on the 28th January 2020. Copyright Roger Salter

158747 ready to depart for St Ives on 28th January 2020. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger

Blatchford Viaduct
Chris Harvey

Please find attached a colourful shot from the archives dated 20 years ago that you might be able to use.

On 16th Feb 2002, a red train is captured under a blue sky surrounded by green scenary! A Virgin XC HST forming the 1300 Plymouth - Edinburgh is crossing Blatchford viaduct, just a few minutes into its marathon journey.

Best Regards, Chris Harvey.

I think we all miss the bright red of the Virgin Trains as compared to the smart clean but dull GW colours. A fantastic shot by Chris Harvey our Home Page contributor this month - well done and many thanks Chris. pared to the smart clean but dull GW colours. A fantastic shot by Chris Harvey our Home Page contributor this month - well done and many thanks Chris.

Exeter West
Paul Barlow

It's the 25th June 1980 and 31412 powers away passing Exeter West on 19.55 Exeter to Paignton 2B46 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul

Coal train at
Didcot North
Roger Geach

60087 Toton Bicester special coal service Didcot north Sat 17th September 1994. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger

Between Semington Halt and Holt Junction
Devizes Branch
Guy Vincent

The remains of the former Devizes branch trackbed approximately half a mile east of the site of the former Semington Halt and the old Wilts and Berks Canal bed, plus the former A350 road, now an unclassified no-through route since the opening in 2004 of the A350 Semington bypass. The pictures were taken where the new bypass cuts across the railway line formation on a slightly lower level and a gate gives access to the heavily overgrown trackbed. Another location where countless GWR steam locos, WR Diesel Hydraulics and First-Generation DMUs plied their trade up until April 1966 when Beeching's Axe took a fatal swing. Today, 20th February 2022, the A350 (built across this small area once occupied by the branch line) played host to DB Cargo-owned Type 5 diesel electric loco 66044 en-route from Westbury to Toton (Notts) for repairs.

Guy Vincent

Bowerhill, Trackbed of Devizes Branch looking west towards Semington Halt from A350 20th February 2022

Bowerhill nr Melksham Trackbed of former Devizes Branch towards Semington Halt from A350 Semington Bypass 20th February 2022 Copyright Guy Vincent

Bowerhill, former Devizes Branch looking east towards Seend & Devizes from A350 Semington Bypass. Factory sited against northern boundary. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy - brings back memories of a line which saw its last passenger trains on the 18th April 1966. If you want to see more of this line try clicking here.

21st February 2021

21/2/2022

Rare Motive Power on the
St Ives Branch today
Roger Winnen

220221a The 10.03 service from St Ives arrives at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

220221b 158959 heads the 3 car 158 unit on the 10.48 hourly service to St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

220221c The trains passengers had left the train by this time, a three minute turnaround for this unit. Copyright Roger Winnen

220221e The 11.48 service from St Erth approaches Carbis Bay Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

220221f 158959 is seen departing Carbis Bay for St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

2202221g Visitors will know where they are when they read the Sign! Copyright Roger Winnen

Many Thanks to Peter Jeggo of Lelant informing me of the 158 working the branch today

20th February 2022
Unusual Movements
Guy & Cathy Vincent

1) 150248 150265 and 150246 on the Frome Avoiding line forming a 1A78 0933 Exeter St Davids-Westbury emergency additional service covering for unavailable class 800 stock. This was in turn running over 30 minutes late due to a blanket 50mph speed restriction caused by ongoing inclement weather conditions. The three units returned west covering for another absent '800' set by working 1C78 1157 Westbury-Exeter St Davids.

Frome Avoiding Line. 150248 150265 150246 1A78 0933 Exeter to Westbury. 20th February 2022. Copyright Guy Vincent

2) After being immobilised at Westbury since the middle of December 66044 was removed from the up yard at around lunchtime by Allelys low-loader bound for Toton. Reportedly unfit to move by rail due to disintegrated brake block linings 66044, complete with a police escort, headed off and joined the A350 at Yarnbrook then went towards Melksham and Chippenham before joining the M4 motorway. Considerable manouvering was necessary before the low loader could exit the site, the wheelsets being turned independently under the loaded trailer by one of the operators. All very interesting!

Westbury 66044 preparing to leave Westbury Up Yard on Low Loader 20th February 2022 Copyright Guy Vincent.

Westbury Up Yard 66044 being manoeuvred back to exit through main gate 20th February2022 Copyright Guy Vincent

Westbury, Northacre 66044 on Low Loader 20th February 2022. Copyright Cathy Vincent.

Westbury 66044 departing for Toton on Allelys Low Loader 20th February 2022 Copyright Cathy Vincent

Westbury Northacre 66044 on Allelys Low Loader Bound for Toton 20th February 2022 Copyright Cathy Vincent

Westbury, Northacre. 66044 en route to Toton on Allelys Low Loader 20th February 2022. Copyright Cathy Vincent

Bowerhill 66044 crossing route of Holt Jcn-Devizes Branch, now A350 Semington Bypass en route Westbury-Toton 20th February 2022. Copyright Cathy Vincent

Melksham A350 Semington Road Roundabout 66044 en route Westbury-Toton on Allelys Low Loader 20th February .2022 Copyright Cathy Vincent

Many thanks to Guy and Cathy Vincent.

Newton Abbot
Paul Barlow

An HST on 15.25 from Paddington at Newton Abbot. 20th September 1986. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A nice collection of vans in the yard also of semaphore signals. Many thanks Paul.

Didcot West
Roger Geach

60089 60005 60079 37162 light diesels Old Oak Common to Canton seen at Didcot West Saturday 8th February 1992. Copyright Roger Geach

Many thanks to you Roger.

An update on yesterdays post -
Castle Cary
Guy Vincent

Thanks for your earlier message regarding Castle Cary. So far the fields above the station are untouched and the footpath from the station bridge to the town is still as you remember. Once on the single line towards Yeovil a couple of the fields to the left of the single track line have been built on and this is still in progress.
Outside Castle Cary station the old dairy building is being converted to another use but I fear that what you said will happen soon, the value of the land for housing must be extremely high as it will be so easy to get to London from the heart of the Somerset countryside being so close to the station. How many will drive to the car park rather than walk though?

I've attached a couple of the station taken on the misty afternoon of January 7th 2021 when 165137 was working the 1242 Great Malvern-Weymouth and waiting for the 1455 ex Weymouth to come off the single line.

Apologies for overwhelming the CRS inbox recently but there seems to be alot going on. I haven't done too much for some time and it is good to be out and about again chasing these unusual workings.

Keep safe and good wishes as always

Guy Vincent

160137 at Castle Cary calls with a service to Weymouth - note the temporary bridge at the west end of the station. 7th October 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

A misty Castle Cary with the original span over the main lines before refurbishment. 7th October 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

There is no need to apologise - all your material is very gratefully received.

20th February 2022

20/2/2022

We have moved ! As the Latest Input, News & old pictures etc is the most likely thing you are going to click on I have moved this to the top of the menu on the home page. I hope this wins your approval. K.J.
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St Austell & Bugle 25th June 1978
Roger Winnen

780625s Claa 50047 Swiftsure at St Austell with a train for Penzance alongside in the up platform is the motorail. Copyright Roger Winnen

780625t Claa 50010 Monarch departs St Austell. In the background a Class 08 has appeared since the previous photograph. Copyright Roger Winnen

780625p Cornish Steam Preservation Soc coach under restoration at Imperial Sidings Bugle Copyright Roger Winnen

780625q Fireless engine under restoration at Imperial Sidings Bugle.These two exhibits are now at the Bodmin & Wenford Railway Copyright Roger Winnen

After the storm
Guy Vincent

Following on from Friday and Storm Eunice the railway slowly began getting back to normal on Saturday and a trip out to Melksham was rewarded with Colas 70801 hauling a train of redundant 1960s CWR track sections heading east at 1440 as 6C23 1105 Bristol East Junction - Hinksey Yard. The train was routed via Taunton (where the loco ran-round) and Westbury. The recovered track came from one of the relief lines in the Stapleton Road area.

Local services were still disrupted with a couple of cancellations noted and the information screen at Melksham station displaying a special notice to intending travellers.

Shurnhold, Melksham 70801 6C23 1105 Bristol East Jcn-Hinksey recovered track panels 19th February 2022 Copyright Guy Vincent

Melksham 6C23 1105 Bristol East Jcn-Hinksey 19th February 2022 Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy for your continued coverage despite 'Eunice'.

Footbridge Restoration at
Castle Cary
Guy Vincent

The GWR footbridge at Castle Cary is currently undergoing refurbishment with the main span recently taken away for specialist attention. A temporary footbridge, erected almost two years ago, is now in use at the western end of the station and will remain so until the original span returns.

Best regards, Guy Vincent

Castle Cary Footbridge Looking NE towards Westbury. 17th February .2022 Copyright Guy Vincent

Castle Cary Temporary Footbridge Looking SW towards Taunton. 2nd June 2020 - we are Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy

Footnote re Footpath - As one who quite frequently used to travel from Southampton to Redruth via Weymouth I was very interested to see Guys pictures above. I was unaware of the temporary footbridge arrangement. Between changing trains at Castle Cary my wife and I used to walk up the pathway to the SE towards Ansford (Castle Cary) alongside the original road route. Using Google I looked up and found that the field to the right of this footpath is under threat of development, and indeed the pleasant visa looking back towards the station and Glastonbury may already be lost.
Readers will find the planning proposal [click below] it makes very interesting reading complete with pictures, history and maps.
CASTLE CARY STATION, ANSFORD, SOMERSET https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk › media › cd-l-03-herit...

27 Apr 2020 — 4.2 Assessment of heritage significance of Castle Cary Station . ... for pedestrians using the footpath between Ansford Hill and Station.

Little Western Railway
Richard Curtis

I emailed last year about my refurbishment of the Little Western Railway in Newquay.
I’m happy to report that despite not opening until May 2021 over 45,000 passengers enjoyed a ride on the railway which was nearly 4 times the numbers it was carrying before I bought the line. The new petrol locomotive ‘Linda’ built by Mardyke (who also built the HST in 1980) proved a great hit with everyone. Whilst waiting for my own steam locomotive to be finished Moors valley lent me the twin sister to my engine ‘Horton’ which was the first steam power in 5 years. The Romulus ‘Angkor Wat’ was sold due to its lack of power for day in commercial use (we parked Horton next to it which got a few laughs). The new overall station was the best thing I did. On days with showers it meant waiting passengers could stay dry, there were wet days that had better numbers than dry days. Everyone has said they love the station, we even managed to get the power turned back on. Many locals now find it amusing that the town’s miniature railway has a better station than the branch line. It has a staffed ticket office, a queue area with separate entrance and exit and 2 working platforms if required.

Then after a fantastic but busy year I took delivery of my steam locomotive ‘Ashleigh’ named after my future wife, I even used it to propose to her. The engine is painted in Caledonian railway blue, not to look like Thomas the tank but because the real Ashleigh has stottish family. Hopefully I’ll be able to run the first public trains with her over Easter. I say hope as the latest project is to build a depot around the back of the railway by the zoo. This has meant I’ve had to take the track up to the engine shed so Ashleigh is currently marooned in there. Planning permission was finally granted last week so the materials are on order and work should start in March. The depot will have a 3 road shed and 3 separate rooms within the building for various storage. The main reason for this is to house all the rolling stock as I have to much to currently store it all on site. 4 ex-Dobwalls coaches are currently having an overhaul (offsite), on the job list for those at the moment are new axles and bearing housings with metric bearings. Once complete for the summer the railway will then be able to run 6 coach trains at a time (with 2 as spares just in case) which should help with the busy afternoons in August. There’s always lots to be done on the to do list but I’m really hoping that this year I’ll be able to finally install the signals I bought and get some heritage signage to add to the overall experience.
Kind regards,

Richard Curtis

Little Western Railway Newquay 'Linda' Copyright Richard Curtis

Little Western Railway Newquay Proposal Special. The station . Copyright Richard Curtis

Little Western Railway Newquay 'Ashleigh' Copyright Richard Curtis

Little Western Railway Newquay 'Angor Watt' (in blue) and 'Horton'. Copyright Richard Curtis

Little Western Railway Newquay Horton calls at the station Copyright Richard Curtis

ttle Western Railway Newquay. The station and turntable. Copyright Richard Curtis

Little Western Railway Newquay. The departing train at the station Copyright Richard Curtis

For 'history' pictures of the LWR please click here for Pleasure Tramways & Light Railways

Great Western Railway
Newquay Branch - Treloggan
Richard Curtis

Lastly have you seen that network rail are about to upgrade the foot crossing at the top of wildflower lane on the Newquay branchline. https://www.newquay.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/NEW-302m-01ch-Treloggan-footpath-crossing-final.pdf

Many thanks to you Richard for the above two items - we wish you every success with the vastly improved LWR and thank you for the tip off re Treloggan Crossing.

19th February 2022

19/2/2022

Advice at Westbury
Storm Eunice
Guy Vincent

Good morning Keith
For the archive here are photos of the official travel advice as displayed at stations across the network yesterday (Friday 18th). These shots were taken on platform 1 at Westbury at 1540 hours where close by a group of Network Rail trackworkers were busily engaged with chainsaws cutting up fallen branches adjacent to the up sidings.

Regards, Guy Vincent

Thanks Guy- as you say for the archive.

Storm Eunice
Craig Munday

A bit of a quiet spell on our railways. Glad to off on the day strom Eunice sweeps across the region, I trust everyone safe and tucked up where possible? Our teams out today in force in case needed.
On 9th Feb Maritime liveried 66148 made a visit down on the overnight JIAs. It returned on Thursday with the loaded wagons. Poor weather followed its progress, but the shunting was captured on arrival on Wednesday morning.
The 10th saw me covering a shift at St Erth. The ageless charm of this box never fails to please me. I dwelled on the fact I'd been covering this box for 30 years my first professional shift here in 1992. Though I'm pleased report I had been a regular visitor previous to this with my YTS days in 1985! How the box has changed with sidings and crossovers disappearing in these ensuing years.
The traction has also seen some advances, though HSTs still hold strong, even with reduced stature and coaches! A nine car 802111 nears journeys end with 1C80 and a Castle set heads for Cardiff.
A retro picture from the 1980s in included.
The daytime sleeper stock is seen swishing across Coombe St Stephen viaduct on 11th Feb. The train returning to Reading to form the Down sleeper service.
Finally for now, a study of Par box under a stark warning from nature of the forthcoming storm maybe? Storm Eunice due to arrive on our shores next day.

Kind regards, Craig

66148 seen at St Blazey on the 9th February 2022. Copyright Craig Munday

Seen from St Erth Box. 802111 at the rear of the 1C80 10th February 2022 Copyright Craig Munday

57603 on the 3A50 sweeps across St Stephens Coombe viaduct on the 11th February 2022. Copyright Craig Munday.

Thanks for your dramatic pictures Craig - the remnants of Storm Eunice are still with us with strong winds.

And a P.S. Craig is harping back to his YTS days. With this picture from St Erth box.

4th March 1987 50010 Monarch pulls away from at St Erth Copyright Craig Munday.

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Lostwithiel & Severn Tun. Jct.
Hugh Austen & Craig Munday

Re super pictures of Lostwithiel in the late 70s by Hugh Austen.
I see 37267 in the Cattle pens at Lostwithiel (behind the level crossing). It arrived in the Duchy with its headcode blinds still intact. I distinctly remember it in the sidings at St Erth in 1978 parked right up by the buffers near the road with the classic four 0000 in the headcode box. I believe this was the only class 37 to work in the County with working headcode blinds?
By Hugh's picture, the loco must have had the standard dots replaced (at Laira)? I have a headcode blind system from a class 31 at home. It really is super.
I have attached a picture of 37267 at Severn Tunnel Junction, after it's brief career in Cornwall in the mid eighties, now sporting a full yellow front with markers. It later underwent conversion at Crewe to become ETH fitted 37421.

Best wishes for now, Craig

37267 seen on the 15th September1979 in the Cattle Pen Sidings at Lostwithiel. by Hugh Austen

37267 at Severn Tunnel Jct. Copyright Craig Munday Picture taken in the late 80's

Quite a while ago now. Thanks to Hugh & Craig.

Out and about
Bristol area
Mark Howells

ttached are two images taken during my site visits to several locations across the Western Route in the last week.
GWR Castle Class set at Patchway station on the 15.02.2022 on a service to Cardiff Central.
New lined crest ditch just to the south of Little Bristol (Charfield).
Kind Regards,
Mark Dennis Howells BEng (Hons) MPWI MIAM

Senior Asset Engineer (Drainage & Lineside)

A Castle class leaves Patchway. Copyright Mark Howells

Regular precautionary maintenance work. A new lined crest ditch just to the south of Little Bristol - Charfield. Copyright Mark Howells

Many thanks Mark

The old days at
Severn Tunnel Jct.
Phil Shattered Smith

Busy days at Severn Tunnel Junction in 1986 - a line up comprising - left to right, 37233-37255-37699-37204-37509-37256-37075-37149-37182-37227-37101. Copyright Phil Shattered Smith

Many thanks Phil.

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