Blog Archives

February 28th 2026

28/2/2026

The Midland in Gloucestershire
Part 2
Ian Thomas

For the second installment, I will take a look at the Stonehouse Bristol Road to Stroud / Nailsworth branch lines. In this instance, it is a branch off a branch line, off the main line. The main branch ran from Stonehouse to Nailsworth, with a small spur from Dudbridge to Stroud Cheapside (or Wallgate). It was known by either name.

The Nailsworth branch opened in 1867 and the Dudbridge to Stroud branch in 1886, with other stations at Ryford, Dudbridge, and Woodchester. The Midland wanted its share of the rich merchandise from the Stroud valley mills, of which there were numerous, plus a good deal of coal traffic into the town. They were competing with the GWR, so opposition was strong. However, there was a good passenger service. In 1946, around eleven departures ran from either end, plus the shuttles into Stroud.

It was a rather complicated scene at Dudbridge indeed; you needed to study the timetable over a gallon of tea on a wet day to take it on board! The line never really prospered, despite the goods traffic, and all passenger services were suspended on and from June 16th, 1947 (this was a measure across Britain as an economy drive due to a chronic coal/coke shortage as a result of the severe winter of 1947), and the suspension was made permanent from June 8th, 1949.

Trains were a mix of conventional locomotive and coaches, and also railmotor push/pull services from 1932. A variety of Midland types were used, from 1300 0-4-4T’s on the railmotors up to 3F and 4F 0-6-0 tender locomotives. The train was affectionately known as the “Dudbridge Donkey”, similar to the neighbouring “Dursley Donkey”. BR Standards were used toward the end, and finally Diesel Hydraulic Class 14.

Between the 1940s and late 1950s, summer excursion traffic operated to exotic destinations such as Weston-super-Mare and Barry Island, the latter routed via the Severn Railway Bridge. The Billy Smart’s Circus visit brought in all it needed by train on one occasion—quite remarkable how the humble branch line could be used, almost anywhere in Britain.

Railtours ran over the branches, including the Dursley Branchline Centenary tour of August 26th, 1956, and the Gloucester Railway Society tour of July 7th, 1963, plus many others, both these tours visiting other outposts of Gloucestershire.

The goods traffic carried on until BR abruptly closed the line in 1966, with the final goods train running on June 1st that year.

Please click any image below for an enlargement

4F 44264 shunts at Dudbridge 1964. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

41208 at Stroud Cheapside with the Dursley Branch Centenary tour. 25.08.1956. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

44814 with the 09.15.Bristol TM-Gloucester Eastgate service leaving Stonehouse, Bristol Rd. August 1962. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

47308 at Stroud Cheapside station on 07.07.1963 with the Gloucs Rly Society tour. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

47308 running round at Nailsworth. 07.07.1963. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

73031 at Stonehouse on a stopper to Bristol TM circa 1963. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

78001 shunting at Woodchester. 1965. Copyright the late Ben Ashworth.

78004 at Ryeford. 1965. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

412008 at Nailsworth with the Dursley Branchline centenary train. 25.08.1956. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

Gloucs Railway Society tour 2Z10 at Stroud Cheapside on 07.07.1963. Copyright the late Ben Ashworth.

Ivatt 2-6-0 No. 78001 passing Dudbridge in 1965. Copyright the late Ben Ashworth.

Jinty 0-6-0T 47308 at Stroud Cheapside. 07.07.1963. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

Midland Railway 0-4-4T 1308 at Stonehouse. 1947. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

Nailsworth branch service withdrawl notice 1947. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

Nailsworth station staff circa 1900. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

Stroud Midland Railway station circa 1900. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

Stroud Wallbridge in 1965. Copyright the late Ben Ashworth.

Many thanks indeed Ian - a superb collection of photographs and you have obviously put a lot of effort into your research. Very much appreciated.

MPower Kernow
Volunteers day

Last Saturday, MPower Kernow invited our volunteers and their families to a thank you day at Bodmin Railway.

There were opportunities to drive 5552 under the supervision and guidance of Driver Alan and Fireman Will, with a brake van attached.

MPower laid on a bbq and refreshments, before ending the day with a trip to Bodmin Parkway and back, and the attached photo.

MPower Kernow would not be the successful operation that it has become without the dedication of our volunteers, and this was our way of saying thank you !

Our thanks to everyone at Bodmin Railway who helped make it happen.

MPower Kernow volunteers and supporters at Bodmin General. 21.02.2026 - copyright MPower Kernow.

Congratulations to MPower for all they have achieved, both in the railway world and the broader picture. For more information about the organisation, please click here.

Classic traction to Torbay
Paul Barlow, David Tozer, Martin Scane, Paul McGwynn & Clive Smith

Friday 27th February saw an interesting working into Devon. Locomotive Services' 40013 and 50050 top and tailed 3 coaches bringing GBRf (and reportedly some GWR staff) to Paignton (from Bristol) for a short visit.

D213 and 50050 pass Cowley bridge junction 0905 Bristol to Goodrington 1Z70. 27.02.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

50050 leading D213 is about to reverse to New yard Exeter (a scheduled movement). 27.02.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

50050 leading D213 reverses to New yard Exeter (a scheduled movement). 27.02.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

D213 and 50050 pass Exeter St Thomas 0905 Bristol to Goodrington 1Z70. 27.02.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

40013 leads the excursion through Exminster. 27.02.2026, copyright David Tozer.

50050 on the rear at Exminster. 27.02.2026, copyright David Tozer.

Well this was a treat for us south west enthusiasts. 40013 top and tails 50050 with three coaches on the 1Z70 09.05 Bristol Temple Meads - Goodrington CHS as it emerges from Parsons Tunnel. The train is believed to be a GBRf charter yet was conveying GWR MD and well known 50 enthusiast Mark Hopwood. 27.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

50050 on the rear top and tailing with 40013 with three coaches on the 1Z70 09.05 Bristol Temple Meads - Goodrington CHS charter as it heads along the sea wall from Parsons Tunnel to Teignmouth. 27.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

50050 top and tailing with 40013 on the 1Z71 14.41 Goodrington C.H.S - Bristol Temple Meads passing through Torquay station. 27.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

40013 on the rear top and tailing with 50050 on the 1Z71 14.41 Goodrington C.H.S - Bristol Temple Meads charter leaving Torquay station heading towards Torre. 27.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

A screenshot of the Coastcams Blenheim webcam at Dawlish, of 50050 returning from Goodrington. With thanks to Paul McGwynn.

50050 hauls the return leg of the excursion through Exeter St. David’s. 27.02.2026, copyright Martin Scane.

40013 on the rear passing through Exeter St. Davids. 27.02.2026, copyright Martin Scane.

A drone shot of 50050 and 40013 on the Goodrington to Bristol passing Staffords Bridge near Exeter. 27.02.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks to all for the superb photos of this very interesting working.

More 59's @ 40
Steve Clark

Just a couple more Class 59 images to bring the range of liveries up to date!

59002 is seen passing Wandsworth Road in Mendip Rail Green with Sevington to Merehead empty Boxes. Copyright Steve Clark.

59201 heads back to Angerstein Wharf with the 'Marcon' Hoppers from either Park Royal or Paddington New Yard. Copyright Steve Clark.

Finally, a bit of Orange!! Looking fresh out the Box in Genesee and Wyoming livery, 59203 approaches Masters Crossing with the 7B12 Merehead to Wotton Bassett. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve, they've certainly carried a few different looks over the years.

February 27th 2026

27/2/2026

The Nick Perring Collection - Part 10
Newquay
Clive Smith

With just three months to go before Newquay station was brutally consigned to a one platform rump and shorn of its signal box and semaphores, 50003 is at platform 3 next to the two sidings with the 1E65 09.25 Newquay - Newcastle on the 4th July 1987. The loco would work as far as Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Also on the 4th July 1987 50014 waits in the sun at platform 2 at Newquay with the 1A51 10.40 to Paddington. The loco had worked into the north Cornwall seaside resort with the 00.12 from Paddington. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

A double-header to Newquay ! On the 18th September 1982 Nick had travelled on the 1V51 21.20 Newcastle - Newquay from Rotherham to Plymouth with his 'machine' 46010 where it was replaced by 47254 leading 45075, arriving at platform 1 . The points at the buffers at Newquay allowed for one loco only so the shunter would have had to split the pair and run them round separately. 45075 returned on the 1E18 11.15 Newquay - Leeds as far as Plymouth while 47254 unusually worked a 1Z49 10.05 Newquay - Norwich return charter but I have no idea where the stock for that came from. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Newquay as was. July 1987. What a delight this station was especially on summer Saturdays watching the trains in the station, the shunting of carriages out to the sidings, the pulling of levers, clanking of semaphores and exchange of tokens. In three months it would all come to an end and the brutal rationalisation of Newquay station would begin. Nearly forty years on and the errors of 1987 have been acknowledged and an extra platform has been re-instated at Newquay. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Many thanks Clive, more great pictures of Newquay as it was.

70's in action
Alan Peters

Refurbished Colas Rail 70816 looking 'fresh out of the box' pictured at Westbury on 18.02.2026. Copyright Alan Peters.

The Westbury to Cliffe Hill (Stud Farm) 6M40 Network Rail bulk ballast service at the start of its journey with Colas Rail 70805 on 23.02.2026. Copyright Alan Peters.

Another view of 70805 - note the Network Rail Komatsu PC360LC-11 excavator used to unload the IOA ballast wagons for the virtual quarry. 23.02.2026, copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan. 70816 looking very smart with its fresh paint.

ARC Horsepower
Roger Geach

Another shot of 59004 from the bridge between Westbury and Fairwood Junction. I liked this shot with the White Horse in the background, the problem was certain trains that may go via Westbury Station could go down the avoider so it could be rather frustrating . 59004 is seen with ARC hoppers which passed at 1555. I recorded this as a service from Acton yard (although that may be wrong). 05.08.1994, copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger, a wonderful photo with the famous white horse in the background.

A new look for XC
Steve Widdowson

XC Voyager 220033's first run in service sporting its new XC livery was on Tuesday 24th Feb, but stayed on services between Birmingham & Newcastle, Wednesday it was on a Newcastle / Reading.

But today (26th) it was on its first run to the West.

It's seen below at Worcester Parkway on 1V58 1005 Edinburgh / Exeter SD.

Refurbished 220033 & 221130 pass through Worcester Parkway working 1V58, the 1005 Edinburgh - Exeter St Davids. 26.02.2026, copyright Steve Widdowson

Many thanks Steve - looks pretty good to me.

February 26th 2026

26/2/2026

Heads-up!
Devon railtour tomorrow

Details have emerged of two railtours to Paignton tomorrow, 27th February.

One tour features a GWR Hitachi unit, and the second (which is likely to interest more people!) should feature Class 40 40013 along with class 50 50050.

Times and details available in our Railtour Calendar.

50050 leads the ECS for tomorrows trip to Paignton through Shrewsbury. Video copyright Tony Shore.

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 93
Llangollen Station
Michael L. Roach

In our journey up the line from Barmouth to Ruabon the next station is Llangollen which served perhaps the most important intermediate station on the whole line. Although the population of the town is only just over 3,000 persons now it was as a tourist destination that the town generated so many rail passengers. The first railway to arrive was The Vale of Llangollen Railway which ran from Ruabon to Llangollen a distance of 6 miles, but the present station site was located on the Llangollen and Corwen Railway slightly further west. Ruabon was on the Shrewsbury and Chester Railway opened 1846/8. The Vale of Llangollen tracks started half a mile south of Ruabon Station at Llangollen Line Junction and then ran westwards through a highly industrialised area for 2 miles before reaching the Dee Valley and beautiful countryside, which would then continue for the next 50 miles to Barmouth Junction. Llangollen Station is 6¼ miles from Ruabon. The line opened for goods on 1 December 1861 and for passengers on 2 June 1862. The passenger service was withdrawn on 16 January 1965 and goods on 1 April 1968, and the track was lifted. It is a great shame that a branch passenger service from Ruabon to Llangollen was not retained to make it easier for day trippers to reach the ever-popular town of Llangollen.

Four independent local railways constructed the line from Ruabon as far as Dolgelley but it was the Great Western that operated the trains for the local companies from day one. It took over the companies in 1896 and immediately set about making various improvements, but Llangollen had to wait until 1898. Llangollen station building was originally designed by Samuel Pountney Smith in similar style to that previously met at Carrog and Glyndyfrwdy. This is not obvious now, but there are clues to its origins. The GWR improvements of 1898 included a footbridge for the first time, new signal box and possibly the platform awning at that time. The platforms were extended westwards to accommodate longer trains of 11 or 12 coaches. It was these improvements that made the platform elevation of the station buildings so different to the original that makes it hard to identify it as designed by Samuel Pountney Smith. However, coming down the sloping access road to the station entrance it is possible to identify the doorway/doors with canopy over as similar to Carrog. The countless volunteers who have worked on this heritage line over the last 50 years have done a remarkable job in preserving this authentic GWR station.

Llangollen Station is built on a narrow shelf between the River Dee and the turnpike road to Ruthin held up by a substantial retaining wall. The wall is 160 years old this year and has stood the test of time so far. Immediately east of the railway station is the one and only road bridge across the River Dee in Llangollen and for a couple of miles each side. The bridge is 400 to 500 years old but there has been a bridge across the river at this point for around 750 years. There are good views of the railway station from the road bridge. There are other heritage lines where the railway station has become an integral and important part of the town, but here at Llangollen pedestrians crossing the bridge would find it impossible to ignore the comings and goings of the trains; and I would rate that view from the road bridge one of the best of a heritage railway line station anywhere. I think I must have ended up taking a picture of the station every 10 metres along the road bridge.

I am slightly at a loss to understand why the designer of the station improvements found it necessary or desirable to support the south end of the footbridge on brackets cantilevered from the retaining wall rather than stone pillars behind the retaining wall. It was not as though the platform was narrow – I estimate it is about 15 feet wide (4.5 metres). All the pedestrians alighting at Llangollen would be expected to use the footbridge and the only people passing the footbridge tower to use the board crossing would be railway staff and people in wheelchairs.

In the accompanying photos I will arrive across the river bridge and travel through the station east to west, across the footbridge and up the westbound platform. All the photos were taken in the last week of May 2010 while we were staying close to Llangollen.

Here I am looking due west up the River Dee showing that it has a good width that I am sure is needed in times of flood. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Llangollen Bridge provides a wonderful view of Llangollen railway station. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The main station buildings, on the far platform, viewed from the road bridge across the River Dee, also including the footbridge and signal box. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

I have walked down the approach road to the station entrance where Samuel Pountney Smith's influence can be seen in the design of the double doors and canopy. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Looking south along the GWR footbridge. The sign is on the mill building on the far side of the River Dee. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Looking east from the footbridge it can be seen just how close the station is to the 4-arch road bridge across the River Dee. The bridge leads to the main street of the town. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Looking west from the footbridge along the platforms it can be seen that there are more platform buildings further west. I have often wondered if the houses on the right were built before the railway arrived and suspect they were. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The main station buildings on platform 1 seen from platform 2. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Looking east it is clear that the platforms are built on a continuous reverse curve and are quite long. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

At the west end of the platforms it can be seen that both platforms are signalled for departures and have a pedestrian access to Green Lane. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

On Platform 1 was a copy of this GWR advertising sign dating back nearly 100 years now, comparing the Cornwall peninsula with Italy. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always Mike, a good read and some nice pictures of a very special place.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

More 59's @ 40
Roger Geach

Interesting to see the class 59s are now 40 years in service. Not a class much associated with Cornwall in the early years, though they became more regular to Devon later on with occasional visits to Cornwall.

A early poor picture of mine taken from a print shows 59004 on the Merehead - Purfeet stone service. A grabbed shot out of a passing EMU just outside Stratford in the days when you could take such pictures. The Merehead - Purfleet was a regular 59 turn in their early days. 21.02.1986, copyright Roger Geach.

59102 at the Laira open day. 15.09.1991, copyright Roger Geach.

A trip over to Tavistock Junction after the Laira open day. 59102, 59005 and 60024, after having been on display, worked the Tavy tanks back to Fawley (or at least to Westbury) on Sunday 15.09.1991. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks indeed Roger - superpower on the tanks!

Westbury Workhorses
Michael Forward

59002 'Yeoman Enterprise' at Westbury on 9 December 1986. Copyright Michael Forward.

At the other end of the scale, we now see another long-serving diesel hard at work at Westbury, this time on 21 May 1982. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks for continuing the Class 59 theme Michael, nice photos.

Newquay in the '80s
Clive Smith

The first appearance of a 175 at Newquay this week and the recent track and platform improvements at the end of last year have brought the north Cornwall terminus to our attention.

Here is the station in its glory days, when it was a wonderful place on summer Saturdays in the 1970s and 1980s, with three platforms, two sidings, signal box, semaphores, staff, and queues preventing access to the platforms until trains were cleaned and prepared with seat reservation and window labels.

Passing the signal box and three semaphores 50046 arrives at the north Cornwall resort on the 29th August 1981 with the 08.30 from Par . This would form the 10.35 Newquay - Paddington. Copyright Clive Smith.

After having travelled overnight from the North West and Midlands with probably little sleep, the bleary eyed holidaymakers are disgorged from the 1V40 21.39 from Manchester Piccadilly into the wet and rain of platform 1 at 06.38. Welcome to Newquay ! This is 45150 on the 2nd July 1983. Copyright Clive Smith.

45122 had just arrived on the 1V73 08.38 Manchester - Newquay on the 13th July 1985 and is seen running around the stock where it would then form the 2C86 18.00 Newquay - Plymouth. Note the holidaymakers with just one wheel-less suitcase being carried in the days before they took the kitchen sink on holiday as they do now. Copyright Clive Smith.

Laira 3-car DMU set P463, presumably 51305 + 59472 + 51320, at Newquay platform 1 on the 3rd August 1985 with a train from Par. Platform 1 was the first of the platforms to be closed and was already truncated in length when this photo was taken. The imposing gasometer is long gone now. The train at platform 2 is the 2C86 18.00 to Plymouth with 45068. Copyright Clive Smith.

The picture is of 45145 on the 28th September 1985 with the last ever peak at Newquay ready to leave with 2C86 18.00 to Plymouth after arriving with the 1V73 09.11 Manchester to Newquay. There are many other photos of this event in the Society's galleries. Hopefully we will see LSL's 45118 here in the not-too-distant future which will end me bragging about having the last ever peak to Newquay. Copyright Clive Smith.

45106 stands at Newquay platform 3 with the 08.55 Newquay - Manchester Piccadilly on the 19th May 1984. In the background the structure of the new CoOp Leos store takes shape which is now Asda. This was the first summer Saturday of the season which was always an event at the station seeing it transformed from a sleepy branch line station to a big league station with proper trains, shunting movements and sidings. Copyright Clive Smith.

Better days at Newquay, Clive - I think the whole town feels quite down on its luck at present. Hopefully the future brings it better fortunes.

St. Davids Sulzers
Paul Barlow

A few from 2000, class 47's Exeter. All these locos still survive as of 2026:

47827 is now 57302.
47810 in service for Locomotive services Ltd, Crewe.
47813 Operated by Rail operations Group.
47635 is preserved at the Epping to Ongar railway.

47827 arrives at Exeter St. Davids with 1M31, the Virgin Crosscountry 1555 Plymouth-Manchester. To the right is 1V50, the 0840 Glasgow-Penzance with 47810 at its head. 20.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

47810 at the head of 1V50, and 47830 on a Great Western Paddington - Penzance service. The rear coach of 1M31 is visible between the two trains. 20.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

47635 waits to depart Exeter with the 1E43 1509 Plymouth-Low Fell vans, to the right is 47813 working a Great Western 1300 Penzance - Paddington relief train. 20.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

Another view of 47635 waiting to depart Exeter with the 1E43 1509 Plymouth-Low Fell vans. 20.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

An interesting assortment Paul, many thanks as always.

New arrivals for GBRf
Steve Widdowson & Tony Shore

57305 hauls newly built 99006 & 99005 through Worcester Parkway, running as 0Q33, the 1410 Portbury Auto Terminal - Leicester LIP. 25.02.2026, copyright Steve Widdowson.

99005 on the rear of the convoy. 25.02.2026, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Further east, the train is seen passing through Birmingham on the Camp Hill line (please click the play button to view video). 25.02.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks Steve and Tony, some impressive looking machines from the continent.

Up high & down low at Ponts Mill
Jon Hird

66116 passes over the recently-refurbished Ponts Mill viaduct with the Goonbarrow - Fowey clay. 25.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66116 continues on its journey to Fowey, passing the remains of the former Ponts Mill dryer site. 25.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Down low on the valley floor, the recent rain has carved its own channels into the aggregrate laid down to form a pathway over the old rail siding which ran up the valley floor. In places, the former rails have been revealed, almost a foot below the new level of the valley floor. 25.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Looking along the alignment of the revealed rail towards a loading wharf. 25.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

On top of the loading wharf, discarded bridge rail and bullhead rail has been used to prevent a fall. 25.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

February 25th 2026

25/2/2026

Branchline Variety
Mark Lynam, Clive Smith & Jon Hird

Tuesday 24th brought another visit to Newquay by a GWR Class 175. 175002 made a return trip to the seaside resort with various rail industry professionals aboard carrying out measurements at the stations along the line.

Additionally, DB Cargo ran the mid-day Goonbarrow - Fowey, as well as the regular GWR Class 150 on the Par - Newquay shuttles, giving a nice mixture of trains along the branch.

66116 passes the lovely semaphores at Middleway with the mid-day Goonbarrow - Fowey clay. 10 JIA's today. 24.04.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Tuesday and another visit on a test train to Newquay with 175002, this time an early afternoon arrival with the sun just starting to shine and blue skies appearing. The train was 5Z21 06.22 Plymouth - Penzance - Newquay - Plymouth with the actual stop at Newquay just 12.38 to 12.47. Not all went according to plan when there was some sort of track failure at Goss Moor Loop meaning the 175 could only pass the the 2N09 11.24 Newquay - Par at Goonbarrow Junction resulting in a 40 minute delay. Astonishingly an early decision was taken to cancel the 2N12 12.16 Par - Newquay and 2N13 13.24 Newquay- Par to facilitate the running of the 175 from Newquay at 12.46. A replacement minibus was supposed to have been provided for passengers with the next trains two hours later. 24.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

175002 has gone just about as far as possible at Newquay. 24.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

After a short stop at Newquay, the driver has changed ends and the unit departs again for Par. 24.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

175002 returning from Newquay, dropping down through the Luxulyan Valley with 5Z22. 24.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

175002 passes the semaphores at Middleway with the returning gauging train from Newquay. 24.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

150202 calls at Bugle with the 1416 Par - Newquay (2N16). 24.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

The 1416 from Par continues away from Bugle en route to Newquay. A scene much changed over the years since the Carbis branch was done away with. 24.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

We see Newquay station for a second time in the article. 150202 has arrived with the 1416 from Par and prepares to depart again as 2N17. 24.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

150202 has its headlights on ready for the trip back to Par. 175002 was due to visit Newquay for a second time, however this trip was cancelled and the unit was instead sent to stable in Par Chapel Siding. 24.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Clive and Mark, an interesting day on the Newquay line. The 175's look pretty good in the sunshine wearing their current livery.

Cowley Bridge Test Train
David Tozer

A rare opportunity to get out and about in decent weather. Class 153 153379 passes Cowley Bridge Junction with the 0750 Derby R.T.C (Network Rail) to Newton Abbot. 24.02.2026, copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks Dave, an eyecatching livery.

Serco Test Train
Paul Barlow

47575 at the head of a Serco test train at rest in Exeter Riverside yard. 10.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

47788 at the the opposite end of the test train in Exeter Riverside yard. 10.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

A nice reflection shot of 47788. 10.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

The way things were - many thanks, Paul.

Avonmouth Coal Loading Plant Demolition
Guy Vincent

At Avonmouth Docks (or to be precise Bristol Bulk Handling Terminal) the large towers at the end of the conveyor formerly used to load imported coal into trains bound for power stations, most notably Didcot, are being demolished following several years out of use. The long conveyor from Portbury docks was dismantled following storm damage in 2022 and with the surrounding land now undergoing redevelopment their time has come and they are now being taken down and reduced to scrap. The conveyor system was commissioned in 1994 and saw about 25 years use until the phasing out of coal-fired power stations rendered the plant redundant. The final coal train from Avonmouth to Didcot was on 19th March 2013 (6D17 worked by 66117) with the last working of all, to Fiddlers Ferry, taking place in March 2019.

See my previous article on this subject that was published on 31st March 2022.

Below are 2 photos taken 3 days apart in February 2026.

Avonmouth Coal Loading Plant Demolition, February 2026. Copyright Guy Vincent.

In this shot taken 3 days after the previous one, the demolition efforts are immediately apparent. February 2026. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks for these images Guy. A sad end for a local landmark - a sign of the times.

59's at 40 - the original look
Steve Clark

A couple of shots of 59's wearing their original liveries as they celebrate their 40th year.

59003 'Yeoman Highlander' in Yeoman Silver livery passing Reading with the 7C77 empties from Acton to Merehead. Copyright Steve Clark.

59103 'Village of Mells' in ARC livery on the 6V18 Hither Green to Whatley. Copyright Steve Clark.

59203 'Vale of Pickering' in National Power livery on 27th April 1996 working a Railtour in connection with the Tinsley Open Day. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve, 3 smart-looking locos, especially 59203 with the silver/grey lower half.

February 24th 2026

24/2/2026

Breaking new ground!
The first Cl.175 to Newquay
Jon Hird & Mark Lynam

After many months of writing articles concerning 'lasts', it's nice to finally be able to cover a 'first'!

Yesterday, 175002 became the first of its class to visit Newquay - and indeed any of the south western branch lines.

The unit worked a Plymouth - Par (via Newquay) proving/clearance/training trip.

There are due to be further class 175 visits to Newquay today, 23.02. These are:

5Z21 0622 Plymouth to Newquay (via Penzance)
5Z22 1219 Newquay to Plymouth
5Z23 1423 Plymouth to Par (via Newquay)

If you head out to photograph these workings, please send your pictures in for us to share!

175002 crosses the former A30 via the notorious Iron Bridge with the 1423 Plymouth - Par via Newquay, 5Z23. 23.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

175002 arrives at Newquay with 5Z23. New traction in the new platform! 23.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

The driver changes ends and prepares to head back to Par with 175002. 23.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

A parting shot of the unit at Newquay. Note the 'X' in the secondmans side windscreen, designating no multiple working. 23.02.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark, well done for being there to capture the working!

Recent round-up
Andrew Triggs

175001 departing Penzance working 2P21 15.52 Penzance-Plymouth on 19.2.2026. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

57301 stabled on No.1 Road at Longrock T&RSMD with the Night Riviera ECS 22.2.2026. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

175002 at Platform 4, Penzance while working 5Z21 06.22 Plymouth-Liskeard 23.2.2026. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

150249 at Falmouth Docks having previously arrived with 2F74 10.45 Truro-Falmouth Docks 23.2.2026. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

175002 at Truro working 5Z22 10.59 Liskeard-Plymouth (via Penzance) 23.2.2026. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

175007 with 175001 slowing to stop at Truro working 5Z13 09.41 Par-Plymouth Staff training run 23.2.2026. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew, a nice selection.

Par Harbour Trespass

With the upcoming changes to the China Clay Traffic and associated traction, it seems the responsible thing to do to share the following update from St. Austell Police:

PAR DOCKS TRESPASS | The Neighbourhood Team have recieved an increase in reports from Imerys of individuals trespassing on the docks site and causing a nuisance to staff when challenged. There have been previous reports of "urban explorers" trespassing and uploading footage on social media.

Trespassers are putting themselves at risk due to hazards on the site which pose a risk of injury and life. It also poses a risk to staff and emergency services who may end up responding to assist in the rescue of any trespassers.

Please do not trespass on the site.

Re: Split Box 37's
Bill Elston

Further to Craig’s piece on early 37s, I was fortunate to be at Exeter st Davids on 27 July 1985 when the York – Penzance relief passed through headed by 37024, quite a surprise, and is seen below.

Another early 37 noted in the 1980s was 37003, working from St Blazey to Severn Tunnel junc, dated 31/5/89.

37003 approaches Exeter St. Davids whilst working from St Blazey to Severn Tunnel Junction. 31.05.1989, copyright Bill Elston.

37024 departs Exeter St. Davids with a York - Penzance relief on 27.07.1985. Copyright Bill Elston.

Great stuff Bill - many thanks indeed for digging these out for us.

Re: 27.07.1985
Ian Thomas

Interesting one of 37024 on a York-Penzance relief on July 27th 1985.. Well, here is the same train seen passing Fiddington, Gloucestershire (south of Ashchurch) in somewhat better weather. Presumably the 37 worked throughout. It was still fairly busy with plenty of loco-hauled trains back then, including Peaks! 27.07.1985, copyright Ian Thomas.

Also, a bonus shot of 75069 & 92220 EVENING STAR on 1Z16.. A Birmingham-Shrewsbury-Hereford-Newport-Gloucester-Worcester charter entitled "THE RED DRAGON". The pair worked from Newport to Worcester Shrub Hill. The diesel legs were worked by 47500. 27.07.1985, copyright Ian Thomas.

Wow, Ian - your collection continues to impress! A 9f on the mainline and a split box 37 - a good day out photographing for you.

The unfortunate 46003
Paul Barlow

Ref Nick Perring's photo of 46003:

Here is a shot of the loco at Exeter after it caught fire working a stone train back from Meldon Quarry. 20.07.1978, copyright Paul Barlow.

Also a picture of the left hand side melted marker light, which I saved for prosperity. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - a good souvenier!

Class 47's
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

We start with Michael Adam's picture of 47521 and 47047 at Cardiff on 11 August 1986 with a relief working from there to Paddington. Copyright Michael Adams.

Now we see 47075 about to leave Exeter with the 08.00 Swansea to Penzance on 25 June 1983. Copyright Michael Adams.

Finally my own picture of 47146 leaving Salisbury on 17 July 1984. Class 47s were never very exciting to see then, but I am always pleased to see one now! Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks as always Michael and Michael. As you rightly suggest, the humble class 47 is now quite a treat to see 'out in the wild'.

23rd February 2026

23/2/2026

Split box mayhem!
Craig Munday

I was pleased to see the recent class 37s with split boxes in the South West. Our stud of class 37s over the BR years generally came from Cardiff Canton. Those who have read Roger Geach & Stve Marshall's book will note the amazing range of class 37s to visit the area rather than the regular locals, 142/181/182/185/196/206/207/222/247/267/274/299.

The earlier series 37001 - 37119 were rare. I vividly remember the Pixie Land Express 14/4/79 which brought a split box class 37 into the Duchy (37084). I recall 37099 with dominoes and skirts working out of St Blazey on clay, but otherwise they were scarce. Remarkably, my pal Julian Stanley captured 37084 on clay a year later. There was a remarkable picture on Facebook last year taken in 1985 of two spilt box 37s at Par working clay, I forget who the photographer was now. 37061 worked in Cornwall in Aug 1985.

27th July 1985 (and the week before) saw a York to Penzance relief train run. 37058 worked the first service down, and I was lucky enough to be at Plymouth for 37024's arrival on platform 4. This was an extraordinary working, and I joined the train as far as St Erth. The seven coach train was limited stops and made an exhilarating trip, a railtour in itself really. I captured two shots which are included.

It would be great to see any workings not captured before. Maybe they were more regular than first imagined up til privatisation.

37084 approaching Par on a clay working in 1980. Copyright Julian Stanley.

37024 arrives at Plymouth Platform 4 on 27.07.1985. Copyright Craig Munday.

37024 at St. Erth with the same train pictured above. 27.07.1985, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig (and Julian) - a nice selection. We'd love to see more split box photos if anybody has any lurking in their albums!

59's at 40
Steve Clark

January this year marked the 40th Anniversary of the Class 59s on these shores. An incredibly successful Loco which can shift 4500 tonnes with minimum fuss. The 59/2 sub class has (i believe) worn the most liveries (National Power, EWS, DB Red plus G&W Orange) although 59002 must rival that having been in FY Silver, Mendip Rail Green and Orange then AI Livery!! I enclose some images of the Locos in action.

59202 passing Westbury 'Box with the 6C76 Acton to Whatley on 30th June 2015. Copyright Steve Clark.

'Daddy Dipper' 59001 has No.1 end leading hence the Bell as it passes Clink with the 6C28 Exeter Riverside to Whatley on 31st March 2016. Copyright Steve Clark.

59102 grinds its way through Sonning Cutting with the 7A09 'Jumbo' train from Merehead to Acton. Given the length of this train it is likely to be conveying 3 portions which will be split at Acton and sent to various Terminals within London and the South East - 17th August 2016. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve - what a success story the 59's have been.

Aller Junction Signal Box
Paul Barlow

With reference to Nick Perring's pictures of Aller, a couple of Aller Junction box just before it's complete demolition in May 1987.

A rare interior view of the now demolished Aller Junction Signal Box. Looking west, the lines to Paignton are to the left and Penzance off to the right. May 1987, copyright Paul Barlow.

Looking east towards Newton Abbot we see the (also now demolished) farm bridge, from where many Aller Junction photos were taken. 22.02.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks indeed Paul, some great views of a scene now much changed by time.

February 22nd 2026

22/2/2026

Rail 200 Inspiration Train at Salisbury
Guy Vincent

The Rail 200 Inspiration train is spending this weekend stabled in P5 at Salisbury. One of the two GBRF class 66s in Rail 200 livery, 66719 'Michael Portillo', is with the five-carriage formation. There was just time to grab a few photos during the two turnarounds I had at Salisbury today.

66719 and the Rail200 'Inspiration' train at Salisbury, 21.02.2026. Click images for enlargements. All images above copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy.

The Rail200 train is due to visit Totnes and Newquay in the coming months. Dates and details in our Railtour Calendar.

Bridestowe goods yard
Paul Hooper

I am in the course of building a model railway featuring Okehampton and Bridestowe stations. After spending much time on your excellent website, I was wondering if anybody had knowledge of Bridestowe station - in particular the goods shed. It seems from old maps I have seen that this was not a traditional 'drive through' shed, but the track passed to one side with possibly a canopy to provide shelter when unloading. There were large double doors on the other (mainline) side which presumably were to vehicle loading.

Does anyone know if I have this correct? Photos of this building are rare.

Sounds like an interesting project, Paul. If anyone can help, please drop us an email to [email protected]

Mail Trains
Paul Barlow

47757 pilots 47788 on the 1218 Bristol-Plymouth vans. 02.09.1999, copyright Paul Barlow.

47737 leads the 1723 Plymouth to Low Fell vans, 1E41, past Staffords bridge. 07.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

A going-away shot of 47737 with the 1723 Plymouth to Low Fell vans at Staffords bridge. 07.04.2000, copyright Paul Barlow.

A lovely selection - many thanks as always, Paul.

Saturday 21st 2026

21/2/2026

The Nick Perring Collection - Part 10
Around Aller Junction
Clive Smith

Some more from Nick's collection. This time from around Aller Junction in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

A pair of class 31s , one of which is 31286, approach Aller Junction with an infrastructure train of tracks with concrete sleepers complete with a rare blue braking tender. At the time of this photo the Western Region civil engineers' fleet did not include vacuum or air braked bogie vehicles for conveying rails or track sections, so brake tenders were quite regularly used on this sort of train. Taunton Fairwater Yard and Radyr Yard were two places they used to work to and from. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Taken from one of the now demolished farm bridges that made way for the A380 by pass in Newton Abbot. Probably around 1977-78. Sadly no experts have been able to identify the loco which was not marked on Nick's print. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

A fabulous picture taken from Aller Junction signal box. This is 46036 on the 07.56 Cardiff Central - Plymouth on the 27th May 1981 crossing from the down Torbay line to the down Totnes line. The box was swept away with the Newton Abbot resignalling in April 1987 and the track layout significantly altered. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

No this is not an early drone shot or from a footbridge . Nick worked in the S&T department in Newton Abbot and took this photo up the ladder of Newton Abbot West‘s Down Relief starting signal, which also had Aller Junction's Down Relief Distant signal below it to get this shot of 50009. His print is marked '0F77' which was light engine to Laira Depot. Possibly taken in autumn 1983. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Laira peak 46003 was an early withdrawal in October 1978 following considerable fire damage in August that year. 46003 was the third class 46 withdrawal following 46005 in October 1977 and 46024 in April 1978. 45067 was the first peak withdrawal in July 1977. There's no dates or details of the working but 46003 lost its central headcode panel in 1977 and was on Laira with fire damage on 03/08/78 so the picture was some time between then. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Thank you very much for another great batch of images Clive.

Camborne Interlude
Dennis Clarke

175007 and 175001 at Camborne on another Plymouth to Plymouth GWR staff training run, via Penzance. 19.02.2026, copyright Dennis Clarke.

Also, the plaque commemorating Jethro that is in the waiting room. 19.02.2026, copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks Dennis, nice to see a bit of sunshine in a photograph!

Split-box 37's
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

A picture of 37013 drifting into Oxford from the North on 1 October 1985 with a train of loaded 4-wheel tipplers. Working unknown. Copyright Michael Forward.

37083 at Red Cow crossing, Exeter, on 4 April 1991. The working could not be identified. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks Michael and Michael - the split-box 37's now a bit of an endangered species, sadly.

February 20th 2026

20/2/2026

The Midland in Gloucestershire
Ian Thomas

The Midland Railway arrived in Gloucestershire when the Birmingham and Gloucester and Bristol and Gloucester were absorbed by the Midland Railway in 1846, thus acquiring a through route to the west from Derby to Bristol.

There were a number of branch lines from various towns connecting with the main line. Towns such as Thornbury, Dursley, Nailsworth, Stroud, and Tewkesbury were all rail-served at one time in the past and, interestingly, all closed to passengers before the Beeching Report of March 27th 1963. However, goods traffic continued on some until the 1960s, and Dursley until 1970.

Part of the Thornbury branch has been reinstated since 1972 for the quarry at Tytherington, although it has had quiet moments in recent decades.

The first to open was the Dursley Branch from Coaley Junction to Dursley. The shortest passenger branch line in Gloucestershire, at just over 2 miles long, with an intermediate station at Cam, it opened in 1856 and closed to passengers in 1962, with goods traffic continuing until 1970.

Next, in 1864, came the line from Ashchurch to Great Malvern, a delightful branch line crossing the Severn at Ripple and, of course, serving Tewkesbury. The section from Upton-on-Severn to Malvern lost its passenger trains in 1952, and the rest finished in 1961.

Third in line was Stonehouse Bristol Road to Nailsworth in 1867, and a short branch from Dudbridge to Stroud Cheapside in 1886. This was followed in 1872 by a branch line from Yate to Thornbury. This succumbed to passenger traffic as early as 1944, with the Nailsworth and Stroud lines suspended as an economy drive in 1947, before their official closure in 1949. Goods traffic remained until 1966.

The local main line stations between Worcester Shrub Hill and Bristol T/M lost out in January 1965, giving the county no station between Bristol and Gloucester Eastgate.

This partly changed in May 1972 when Bristol Parkway opened its doors. Yate reopened in 1989, Cam & Dursley (formerly Coaley Jnc) in 1994, and Ashchurch in 1997. Charfield will open again later this year, with work well under way.

3F No. 43754 at Ashchurch circa 1961. From Ian Thomas's Collection.

3F No 43754 at Tewksbury on 29.04.1961. From Ian Thomas's collection.

7920 at Ashchurch on the diverted Wolverhampton to Penzance express. From Ian Thomas's collection.

43754 at Ashchurch - Tewkesbury. From Ian Thomas's collection.

Ashchurch in the 1960s. From Ian Thomas's collection.

Midland 1P 1365 at Ashchurch on Christmas Eve 1948. From Ian Thomas's collection.

Tewkesbury branch last day. From Ian Thomas's collection.

Tewkesbury station last day, August 12th 1961. From Ian Thomas's collection.

Many thanks for this fascinating article Ian, great research and a nice selection of images - much appreciated.

Marsh Mills bridge works
Clive Smith

The bridge over the River Plym at Marsh Mills in Plymouth that carries the south Devon main line is to close for sixteen days from this Saturday 21st February. The project requires access from the River Plym, and temporary dams and pumps have now been installed at the site.To ensure fish aren’t disturbed, only half the river will be dammed at any time maintaining the flow of the river. I popped down to the nearby footbridge and foreshore to take a few photos of the works and passing Cross Country trains. A bit of a grey afternoon but it wasn't raining so mustn't grumble. The bridge is actually called Crabtree Viaduct, but rarely seems to be called that.

Aerial photos and a Network Rail video are in the two links below.

Passengers urged to plan ahead as River Plym bridge gets major upgrade to support growing rail traffic

Plymouth passengers told to plan ahead for major rail disruption

A crosscountry Voyager crosses the Marsh Mills bridge. 19.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

A second voyager crossing the bridge / 'Crabtree Viaduct'. The temporary pontoon and power boats in the river to enable access to the undersides of the bridge. 19.02.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive. A big project - hope it all goes to plan.

Test trains of the past
Michael Forward

You were asking recently what test/monitoring trains looked like in the past.

I have sent this picture some years ago, but it will be an appropriate moment to look again, and besides, who can resist seeing 50007!

I seem to recall that some trains then had Serco branding on the coaches.

50007 stabled at Penzance with a test train on a glorious morning of 10 September 1987. Copyright Michael Forward.

A lovely photo Michael - many thanks

Westbury Variety
Guy Vincent

Three type 5 diesels at Westbury on 18th with a fourth shunting the previous day.

66050 'Yorkshire Rose' , a recent arrival for yard shunting duties. This loco was formerly named 'EWS Energy'. 18.02.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

66050 details. 18.02.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

66551, currently on long term hire to Colas from Freightliner. 18.02.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

70816 looking very smart following recent cosmetic attention. 18.02.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

66098, a recent visitor to Cornwall, now also a yard pilot and carrying out shunting. 18.02.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy - plenty to see at Westbury.

Treesmill 175's
Jon Hird

175001 descends through Treesmill working the 1340 Plymouth - Penzance. 19.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Exactly 5 minutes later, 175007 appears working a Plymouth - Plymouth via Par crew training run. 19.02.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

February 19th 2026

19/2/2026

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 92
Rail 200-More About the North East of England
Michael L. Roach

In this Part I am going to look in more depth at the North East of England as a destination for a railway or a non-railway holiday i.e. the territory served by the North Eastern Railway up until 1922 and not the narrower definition of just Northumberland, Co. Durham, Tyne and Wear and The Tees Valley. The NER served a substantial area 160 miles north to south and 40 – 45 miles inland from the coast. The latest version of the North East Rail Rover comes even further south to Cleethorpes, Gainsborough, Retford, Sheffield and Huddersfield.

I read recently one enthusiast's comments that pre-1922 the Great Western Railway had the thickest passenger timetable – but which railway had the second thickest? Possibly the LNWR or The Midland. No, it turned out to be the North Eastern Railway with its really dense network of passenger lines. Many of those branch and secondary routes are now closed but there are still some very interesting lines, such as Newcastle to Carlisle; York to Scarborough; Scarborough to Hull to name but a few. There are also many interesting stations from the large like Newcastle, York and Hull through to many small and medium stations like Beverley, Durham, Filey, Haltwhistle, Hexham, Malton, Wetheral and many more. Many of these and other stations are enhanced by the NER cast-iron footbridges from one platform to the other, and the NER tile maps. The footbridges are all original of course and now more than 100 years old but some of the tile maps are reproductions, but very faithfully done. There are numerous railway landmarks to be seen in such a large area – particularly bridges and viaducts, some dating back to 1825. I cannot recommend the North East too highly. There is history and heritage in abundance, plus wonderful landscapes, stately homes/castles/gardens/harbours/beaches; museums; nature watching; outdoor sports and a lot of industrial archaeology. Some of the Counties and larger towns still produce a printed holiday brochure.

The next paragraph fits in with this instalment's North Eastern theme and is included because I found it so surprising and fascinating when I first came across it. I must have read the words “Neville Hill” hundreds, if not thousands, of times in many decades as a railway enthusiast, because it was one of the steam sheds and later diesel depots serving the City of Leeds. It was situated in the suburb of Osmondthorpe about two miles east of Leeds City Station. It was a large shed built by the North Eastern Railway in 1899 and extended in 1905. Now there were a great many round houses on many different railways in Britain. A round house is in fact square with around two dozen lines radiating from a central turntable. After servicing engines would go onto the turntable and be turned to face an empty line. The longer lines into the corners could accommodate two tank engines. Most engine sheds with roundhouses had one or two, but some very large sheds had four roundhouses, and the one that immediately comes to mind is Old Oak Common which served the Great Western's London terminus at Paddington. OOC's four roundhouses were arranged in a square; and so we come back to Neville Hill. I came across a plan of Neville Hill Shed in a North Eastern Railway Magazine from 1912 which showed the four roundhouses in one long line, which was most unusual. There was only one track in to the first of the roundhouses and two out from the first and second roundhouses coming out of a side wall. If an engine was derailed in the short distance from the coal stage to the first shed it would have caused extreme difficulties until the engine was re-railed with engines having to enter and leave through the side walls of the first and second roundhouses. Does anyone know if there were any steam sheds with three roundhouses?

Before finalising this instalment, I came across an interesting fact about the current Neville Hill Depot. It is the very last rail depot in the country to receive its fuel for the diesel-powered trains by rail; just two tank wagons a week from Lindsey Oil Refinery in North Lincolnshire on the Humber Estuary on a Wednesday. However, having been loss making for several years the owning company filed for bankruptcy on 29 June 2025. The Government stepped in to keep the refinery in operation until a buyer could be found. I am not sure of the final outcome but believe that Neville Hill continues to receive oil by rail from a different refinery on the Humber Estuary.

PS This article was mostly written in December 2024 and has waited a long time to see the light of day.

PPS On 6 February 2026 when this article was basically finished a magazine style book (ISBN: 1-871608-79-1) arrived through the post after purchase on Ebay. It was bought for a 20-page article on the engine sheds at Laira, Plymouth both steam and diesel. When the single roundhouse was being considered by Churchward for the then new site at Laira he actually wanted to build a much larger super-shed of three or four roundhouses. A couple of sites were considered: - 1. A string of four roundhouses in a line just to the east of Tavistock Junction at Marsh Mills on the north side of the main line, later the site of Tavistock Junction up sidings. 2. A square of four roundhouses directly opposite on the other side of the main line, later the site of Tavistock Junction down sidings. 3. A string of four roundhouses in a line just to the west of Lipson Junction on the south side of the main line. None of these proposals were ever built but it was fascinating to read something that I could not remember reading before.

Cover of the North Eastern Railway Magazine for November 1912

Plan of Neville Hill Engine Shed as extended in 1905

Many thanks Mike, another interesting read, much appreciated.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Redhill Vans
Roger Geach

For a couple of years we had a Redhill van train, although I can't recall how long it ran for. With different timetables, destinations changed, although in the 1970s they did not - the destinations back then were just Crewe and Paddington.

47759 with the 1400 Penzance - Redhill vans passing Bolitho on 08.08.1994. 47759 was quite a common loco from memory. Copyright Roger Geach.

Common loco or not, it's a superb photo Roger. Many thanks for sharing it with us.

Retro Railfreight
Steve Clark

56054 stabled in Didcot Yard with a Redland Self Discharge train from Banbury. This was unable to return North via its usual route due to Engineering Work. Copyright Steve Clark.

Five Tractors stable at Godfrey Road, Newport with an 08 in the stations Parcel Bay. Copyright Steve Clark.

37197 passes Cardiff with a short rake of SPAs. Copyright Steve Clark.

37698 passes Canton with a Coal train whilst 3 other 37s await servicing at CF. Copyright Steve Clark.

<<Previous

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