Blog Archives

March 31st 2026

31/3/2026

The Nick Perring Collection - Part 14
Par
Clive Smith

45068 was a bit of a rare peak referred to as an 'NB' (no boiler) peak although it did have a boiler which had been isolated thus removing any heating possibility. As a result its appearances on passenger were few and far between, confined to the summer months. On the 3rd August 1985 it had arrived on the 1V73 08.38 Manchester Piccadilly - Newquay. I'd been on this train since Bristol and took it through to Newquay. Fellow peak 'basher' Nick decided to bale off here at Par and captured the loco and lower quadrant semaphore signals that signal the Newquay branch off to St Blazey from platform 3. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

EWS 37670 passes through Par station on a sunny evening. Nick took this photo from Par signal box giving an elevated view. His photo is undated but likely 1999. Formerly 37182 and doyen of south Wales, this loco did have a previous spell in Cornwall when it was allocated twice to Laira between 1982-83 and a further spell into 1984. It then returned to Laira as 37670 between 1987 and 1994 before being nominally allocated to Cardiff after privatisation but outbased at St Blazey until 1999. The loco didn't make it to another life unfortunately although it looked like it would do. It was stored in 2010, withdrawn in 2011, sold to Harry Needle in 2012, moved from Kingsbury to Derby RTC in 2013, moved to Barrow Hill in 2015, allocated and moved to Europhoenix at Leicester in 2016 and then cut up in 2018. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

45109 rounds the curve at Par with the semaphore signalling the main down line to Penzance. This is the 1V81 09.17 Leeds - Penzance on the 3rd August 1985. Cornish Railways 37207 'William Cookworthy' is on the freight loop with a train consisting mainly of cable drums. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Mainline liveried 37248 at Par with a Moorswater - St Blazey cement train on the 17th February 2000. 37248 was put into storage in 2003 then sold to preservation in 2005. It had a spell at Butterley at the Midland Railway before a move to the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway at Toddington in 2009. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Many thanks as always Clive, some great photos of Par as we'd like to remember it.

DBC in Cornwall - the penultimate day
Jon Hird, Mark Lynam, Tony Shore & Sam Sheldrick

Monday 30th March is set to be the penultimate day of DBC operations in Cornwall.

66168 was used to run the midday Goonbarrow - Fowey clay, the train (6G09) being made up of the now-usual 16 JIA wagons.

In a spot of lucky sunshine on an otherwise cloudy afternoon, 66168 drops down through the Luxulyan Valley and crosses Ponts Mill viaduct with 6G09. 30.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66168 passes beneath the classic semaphores at Middleway. 30.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

66168 powers up through Tywardreath with its 16 JIA's in tow. 30.03.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

66168 has run round its train in Lostwithiel Up Goods Loop and waits departure for Fowey. 30.03.2026, copyright Sam Sheldwick.

A lucky spot of sun illuminates 66168 and 6G09 as it passes Golant. 30.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

It's now 1848 and 66168 is now at the head of 6G05, the Fowey - Goonbarrow empties. It's seen passing Golant in this lovely panoramic scene. 30.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

A drone shot, but taken lower than Marks non-drone shot! 66168 on the Golant causeway with 6G05. 30.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

A bonus shot taken by my son Charlie (7) with my phone whilst I was busy with the drone! 30.03.2026 Copyright Jon (/Charlie) Hird.

6G05 arrives back at Lostwithiel from Fowe and runs up through the down platform into the Down Goods Loop. 30.03.2026, copyright Sam Sheldwick.

6G05 passing beneath the temporary footbridge at Lostwithiel. 30.03.2026, copyright Sam Sheldwick.

In the last of the days light, another Middleway shot as 6G05 heads up the Newquay branch to Goonbarrow. 30.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks all, excellent coverage once again of the final days of DBC in Cornwall.

'Fresh out the box'
Roger Geach

I think we all know 66080 was the first class 66 to work in Cornwall.

However 66123 and 66124 arrived pretty much off the boat and set to work in Cornwall replacing the 37s.

Below is 66124 at Golant on 12.07.1999.

Factory-fresh 66124 passes Golant with clay for Fowey on 12.07.1999. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger. It really is a testament to the paint shop at General Motors that a number of these locos are still running round in their original coats of paint, some 27 years after entering service.

First 175/1 in GWR passenger service
Andrew Triggs

Reportedly the first Class 175/1 official passenger working for GWR into Cornwall today with 3 Car 175114, captured at Rospeath, Penzance and Marazion

175114 passing Rospeath Road overbridge working 2C11 10.14 Plymouth-Penzance. 30.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175114 at Platform 2 at Penzance. 30.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175114 approaching Marazion working 2P16 13.14 Penzance-Plymouth. 30.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew - good to see more of these units starting to come online for GWR.

Recent round-up
Roger Winnen

Redruth Viaduct on St Pirans Day. 07.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

175 units at Penzance on driver training. 09.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

Repairs to the station roof at Penzance. 20.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

66312 at Penzance. 25.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

The new order at Par
Mark Lynam

175006 arrives at Par with 2C26, the 1340 Plymouth to Penzance. 30.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark.

March 30th 2026

30/3/2026

The not-so-distant past
Roger Winnen

150202 Plymouth Station. 17.10.2011, copyright Roger Winnen.

150202 Green livery sprinter at Penzance. 17.10.2011, copyright Roger Winnen.

57604 arrives at Penzance with the down sleeper. 19.10.2011, copyright Roger Winnen.

43132 on the rear of the 0844 Penzance - Paddington, seen departing Penzance. 19.10.2011, copyright Roger Winnen.

The RHTT reversing at Penzance. 20.10.2011, copyright Roger Winnen.

Engineering works on Bolitho Viaduct, Liskeard. 22.10.2011, copyright Roger Winnen.

Cornish Steam Selection
Jon Hird

6201 ‘Princess Elizabeth’ in the oil sidings at Penzance after arriving with ‘The Cathedrals Express’. 17.09.2016, copyright Jon Hird.

4612 storming past Charlie’s Gate on the Bodmin Railway. 19.03.2017, copyright Jon Hird.

60163 approaches Colesloggett Halt on the Bodmin Railway during its visit to the line. 29.05.2017, copyright Jon Hird.

‘The Flying Scotsman’ goes for a spin on St. Blazey turntable. 30.04.2023, copyright Jon HIrd.

March 29th 2026

29/3/2026

The final DB Cargo 'Clayliner'
Bill Elston, Paul Barlow, Craig Munday, Jon Hird, Andrew Triggs & Neil Phillips

The final DB Cargo operated train of empty JIA's returning from Stoke on Trent ran on Saturday 28.03.2026. Locomotive 66163 led a rake of 19 JIA wagons between Westbury and Goonbarrow.

The train had an interesting journey to Cornwall, leaving Westbury early it made up some impressive time by omitting various pathing stops, until it reached Totnes where it was held for a Crosscountry Service to pass. From there it ran to time into Cornwall, being looped again (as booked) at Lostwithiel, eventually arriving at Goonbarrow 3 minutes early.

DB are due to run Monday and Tuesdays 'internal' clay from Goonbarrow to Fowey, before their locomotive returns light to Westbury and the baton is handed to GBRf.

The final (probably) DB operated empty clay empties 6V76 ran today from Westbury to Goonbarrow, and is seen passing Bathpool running 12 early with 19 on. Photo taken with Galaxy phone camera. 28.03.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

DB liveried 66168 passes Exwick flood channel on the 1035 Westbury to Goonbarrow. 28.03.2026, copyright Paul Barlow.

Looking down on the wonderful St. Pinnock Viaduct as 66168 continues on its journey to the west. 28.03.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

66176 chases a patch of warm sunshine across the meadow at Respryn as it slows ahead of entering Lostwithiel Down Goods Loop. 28.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66168 slowing to stop at Lostwithiel Down Goods loop with 6V76 10.35 Westbury Down T.C-Goonbarrow Junction DBC load 19 JIA's, viewed from A390 Road overbridge. 28.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Beneath laden skies, 6V76 pauses in Lostwithiel Down Goods Loop. 28.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Viewed from Lostwithiel Footbridge 66168 awaits the road west with 6V76. 28.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Having restarted 6V76 from Lostwithiel Down Goods Loop, 66168 passes through the Station, running 4 early at 15.10. 28.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

66168 clears Middleway Crossing with the final DB Cargo-hauled Saturday 6V76 china clay empty JIA wagons from Cliffe Vale to Goonbarrow via Westbury. 28.03.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

DBC still has some Class 66s in the original EWS dark red/yellow livery the locomotives carried when they first took over the china clay work on 9th January 1999, so Tuesday 31st March 2026 marks the end of just over 26 years of red Class 66s on the clays. GBRf's '66' fleet sports varied liveries including BR green ('Evening Star'), Large Logo blue and Railfreight Construction, but whether we will see these in Cornwall may depend on which pool the 'clay' locos are drawn from - and then there are the even more varied Class 69s, one of which (69005) has already been to Fowey........we shall see! 28.03.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

66168 is now out of sight but these wagons do make for an impressive sight, especially in an area bereft of any other revenue-earning freight! 28.03.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

Nearly the end of the line, both for 6V76 and DBC in the far west. 66163 approaches the overbridge at Lavrean, with journeys end Goonbarrow just around the corner. 28.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks all, a great photographic tribute to DBC here in Cornwall. Hopefully the timings for this service remain similar to this under GBRf - it's been great for we enthusiasts having a Saturday freight at a sociable hour!

Rail200 'Inspiration' at Bristol
Craig Munday

A week away saw me on board the Rail 200 train at Bristol. A less than spick and span 66718 was on the Country end of the train in the dock. The two days I was there saw a large amount of visitors who enjoyed the experience greatly. The train is due to be at Newquay in April after a week on the WSR.

This experience allowed a ringside seat onto the current railway scene through the busy gateway to the west Temple station. It is now sadly very monotonous with a steady stream of Hitachi IET, Cross Country Voyagers, and unit classes 158/165/166. It is a far cry from a locomotive filled visit of yesteryear with Bath Road bustling with loco swaps.

One vast improvement however is the renovated train shed. The trains now glisten under the overall roof, and the tracks are remarkably clean nowadays with toilet retention tanks preventing disgusting discharge onto the infrastructure.

66718 attached to the Rail200 exhibition train stock at Bristol Temple Meads. 25.03.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

Crosscountry and GWR services beneath the renovated roof of the train shed at Bristol Temple Meads. 25.03.2026, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig. It does look lovely and bright beneath the roof there at BTM nowadays, a great improvement.

WSR 50th Anniversary
John Simons

This weekend the West Somerset Railway celebrates its 50th anniversary for the re-opening of the line.

To celebrate this the railway recreated the first service From Minehead to Blue Anchor using the exact same engine,Bagnall 0-6-0ST 2996 Victor.

Victor seen arriving on re-enactment of 1st service at Blue Anchor. 28.03.2026, copyright John Simons.

Victor on a return service to Minehead. 28.03.2026, copyright John Simons.

Displayed at Minehead & awaiting overhaul, Pannier 6435(Ex Bodmin Rly) renumbered 6412 and named "Flockton Flyer" after the childrens tv series made on the wsr a couple years after the line re-opened. 28.03.2026, copyright John Simons.

Many thanks John. 50 years of preservation in Somerset - well done to the WSR.

Reflecting on the clay
Ian Thomas

Thought this might be appreciated now that DB Cargo are finishing on the clays. Two pictures thus.. Firstly, 66101 passing Haresfield, (just north of Standish Junction) with 6V73, the 14.20 Cliffe Vale-St Blazey empties. on 21.06.2024. You only got about a 6-8 week window of daylight for this train as it passed through mid evening. Copyright Ian Thomas.

Secondly, a picture of the empty clays from 33 years ago. It always ran on a Saturday morning in the first half of the 1990s passing around mid morning... perfect, with a handful of locomotive hauled summer Saturday trains with various liveried duffs turning up including RES and VIRGIN. The train is seen passing the former Coaley Junction station site and the trackbed of the Dursley branchline is seen in the photo. In those days it started from Bescot on Saturday morning at 08.22. It probably ran from Staffordshire the previous day or overnight as a different train. Copyright Ian Thomas.

Many thanks Ian, great photos and notes. I love the mixed wagons behind the 37's.

175 in the Valley
Craig Munday

175001 crosses St. Pinnock viaduct with a GWR crew training working, 5Z23 on 18.03.2026. Copyright Craig Munday.

That red and white really is a refreshing change from the green, many thanks Craig.

Welsh Weed Killer
Michael Forward

In response to J.Taylor's picture of 3Q98 at Cardiff ,here is my shot of the train at Cardiff on 24 March 2026,waiting for signals to go into Canton sidings ,after an hour early arrival back from Gloucester at 15.45.(66791 at the front). Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks as always Michael.

March 28th 2026

28/3/2026

Out-of-county Clay : The other end of the line
Tony Shore

Yesterday, we showed you some images of 66192 working the final DB Cargo operated 'out of county' clay train. Here are some photographs of the train at its destination of Cliffe Vale.

66098 and 66192 were removed from the train at Westbury and 66133 took it forwards to the Midlands.

An early start for Tony as he captures 66133 creeping into the Imerys facility at Cliffe Vale with 18 loaded JIA's from Treviscoe and Par Harbour. 27.03.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

66133 within the sidings, behind it is the shed where the JIA's are discharged. 27.03.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

Imerys staff collect the dockets from the wagons, these documents contain information about what is within the wagons and where and when the product was loaded. 27.03.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

The train is slowly reversed through the shed with the clay being discharged via the wagons bottom doors. 27.03.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks Tony - really interesting to see the other end of the journey these wagons make from Cornwall.

Penzance 66
Thomas Lloyd / Oscar Hocking

My step son Oscar Hocking took a picture of 66312 at Penzance, on what I assume is a crew training run for GBRF. I thought this might be of interest to the CRS. 25.03.2026, copyright Oscar Hocking.

Many thanks Tom, and to stepson Oscar. Your assumption is correct in that it was a training/route learning run - GBRf now run the winter Railhead Treatment Trains as well as the regular 'Britannic Explorer' luxury touring train, so they are soon to become regular visitors to the far west!

59's in South Wales
Roger Geach

The Michael Adams picture of 59003 at Cardiff shown on Thursday could have been taken during a short period of time when a couple of 59s worked the Port Talbot to Llanwern ore trains, as there was a downturn in stone traffic from the Mendips.

My picture of 59004 on one of these workings is shown below.

59004 passes Newport on a Port Talburt - Llanwern ore train. 19.06.1998, copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks as always Roger, interesting stuff.

March 27th 2026

27/3/2026

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 98
River Plym Bridge Works
Michael L. Roach

It was good to see Chris Bellett's (and his friend's) photos of the River Plym Bridge Works recently in Latest Input. There was also an interesting photo in Branchline News which recorded that the line was closed between Totnes and Plymouth from 21 February to 8 March for the bridgeworks and other works while the line was closed. I cast my mind back to the previous major works (before 1981) to the bridge which I thought that I had read in the GWR Magazine as taking place in the late-1920s or early 1930s. However I did not find anything and the only reference I did find was in the retirement of Mr. A.M.Brookes Civil Engineer recorded in the magazine for November 1934. Albert Matthew Brookes was born on 18 October 1874 in London. He joined the Great Western Railway in March 1891 as a Telegraph Messenger Boy, but this may have been on some kind of temporary or probationary basis. His lucky break came when he was appointed to the post of draughtsman in the Chief Civil Engineers Office at Paddington on 1 December 1892, and he never looked back after that. AMB moved to Plymouth in October 1899 and stayed there until June 1906. In 1901 he was lodging at 7 Addison Road, Plymouth. One of the jobs that AMB worked on while he was in Plymouth was the reconstruction of viaducts on the Tavistock Branch; while another was the major reconstruction of the bridge over the River Plym at Tavistock Junction, which dates it to sometime between 1900 and 1906. The riveted built-up edge girders with the curved top flange appear to be of a style that would have been employed at that time (1900-1906). If so they are already 120 years old and are a testament to good design, manufacture and maintenance since then.

An item that caught my eye was the size of the waybeams used to support the track. On many bridges the timber way-beams appear to be around 300-350mm wide by 200-250mm deep. On this bridge across the Plym the new way-beams are larger and appear to be about 400-450mm square which is a really substantial increase in the cross-sectional area. The answer to that conundrum lies in the fact that the new way-beams are not timber at all but some kind of synthetic material, possibly recycled plastic similar to the plastic sleepers which have been around for a number of years. Another interesting feature of the reconstruction in 1900-1906 was that the half bridges are described as being rolled in, which is a technique still much-used today. I imagine that the edge and centre beams would have been delivered to the east (Tavistock Junction) side in five pieces each to match the five spans and then riveted together into one long length and joined by the cross-beams before being rolled across the gap or perhaps towed by a steam engine on the far side.

On HS2 in Warwickshire Longhole Viaduct will carry the new line across the Grand Union Canal one mile north of the village of Ufton which is on the A425 south-east of Royal Leamington Spa. The steel bridge is 130 metres long, weighs 1620 tonnes, and will also cross a minor road and the canal towpath. The bridge was pushed into position by hydraulic jacks in just two days on 4 and 5 March 2026. As a result of the decision not to extend HS2 north of Birmingham some of the trains ordered for HS2 will not now be needed and may be reconfigured to be used on the WCML instead; and on the day that this article was completed it was reported that the design speed of the trains about to be built for HS2 may be reduced from the original 224mph to a lower figure to “save billions of pounds.” The maximum speed of trains on HS1 is 186mph.

Albert Brookes retirement from the GWR as recorded in the staff magazine for November 1934.

4915 Condover Hall of Reading Shed crosses the River Plym LE at 2.10pm on 17 February 1962, probably heading for Laira Shed after leaving a rake of goods wagons at Tavistock Junction Down Yard. It can be seen that in those far-off days the river ran white carrying china clay waste. The engine was withdrawn 12 months later. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

A 4575-class prairie crosses the Plym with the 2.10pm Plymouth to Tavistock auto-train. There are very few passengers in the first coach. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Another 4575-class prairie, believed to be 5541, crosses the River Plym with the 3.05pm Plymouth to Launceston on the same date. Waiting in the goods loop on the other side of the bridge is Laira's pannier tank 4658 with a transfer freight for Tavistock Junction Yard. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

D1000 crossing the River Plym when two months old and with only two of the class in service. Normally I did not photograph diesels at that time, but made an exception for this one. The train is the 2.30pm Plymouth to Paddington with a load of 7C. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always Mike, great photos and another interesting article, much appreciated.

For more of Michaels articles, click here.

The final DB Cargo 'upcountry' freight
Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Paul McGwynn

Thursday 26 March marked the departure of the final loaded freight train out of Cornwall under DB Cargo operations. Locomotive 66192 led nine JIA wagons from Imerys’ Treviscoe facility to Exeter Riverside, for onward transport to the Midlands potteries at Cliffe Vale.

There are still a few last chances to see a DB locomotive on the clay trains. 6V76 should run down on Saturday, the empty wagons returning from Westbury. We are also informed that DB also plan to run the internal Goonbarrow - Fowey trains on Monday 30th and Tuesday 31st March - but these workings can change/be cancelled at late notice.

Remaining Cornwall-based DB staff are set to transfer to GBRf employment from 1 April.

66192 departs Treviscoe with 9 loaded JIA's in tow. St. Blazey/Goonbarrow DBC driver David M. is at the controls. 26.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Mark has done well to beat 6M53 to Burngullow for a second photo of the train coming off the branch. 26.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

66192 roars over Pendalake Viaduct, east of Bodmin Parkway, with 6M53. Cornwall-based DB driver Martyn T. now at the helm for this leg of the journey. 26.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Just a little further east, the train is still powering away as it crosses the single line East Largin viaduct. 26.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

6M53 passing Dawlish, a screenshot from Dawlish Coast Cams. With thanks to Paul MgGwynn. 26.03.2026.

The tail end of 6M53 passing the camping coaches at Dawlish Warren, a screenshot from Dawlish Coast Cams. With thanks to Paul MgGwynn. 26.03.2026.

Many thanks Mark and Paul - an end of an era.

Barry Scrapyard
Martin Scane

You featured a photograph from Barry scrapyard around 10 days ago which reminded me of a few photographs which I took way back in the late 60s. I wondered if you were interested.

The photos were all taken at Barry scrapyard when I was a young boy.
Unfortunately I failed to record the date but it is likely to be 1967 or 1968 I believe.

The photos were all taken with my trusty Box Brownie and as such the quality is not what it might be.

7325 with an unrecorded small prairie behind. Copyright Martin Scane.

An unrecorded Castle. Copyright Martin Scane.

53808. Copyright Martin Scane.

A pair of 28xx 2-8-0s. Copyright Martin Scane.

A general view taken, I think, from a tender. The King is recorded as 6023. Copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks indeed Martin, a fascinating place but rather sad to see.

If anybody can help ID the unrecorded locos, please get in touch - [email protected]

80's Peaks
Paul Barlow

45056 at Exeter St Davids on 1432 Leeds to Plymouth 1V94. This train was held here for 18 minutes for a HST from Paddington to pass. 01.04.1981, copyright Paul Barlow.

A panned shot of 45064 passing Exwick playing fields, Exeter on 1436 Paignton Leeds 1E70. 03.04.1981, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul, keep them coming!

Cardiff Contrasts
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

Michael Adams sends this picture of 59003 at Cardiff on 10 February 1998,the working unknown. Copyright Michael Adams.

Now my own picture taken on 24 March 2026 showing 66067 with 6Z10,09.50 Newport docks to Margam. Overhead wires now and the steel is imported. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks to both Michaels - a great comparison.

March 26th 2026

26/3/2026

The changing face
of Cornish Railfreight
Jon Hird, Clive Smith, Tim Hughes, Jonathan Harbage, Mick House, Andrew Triggs, Mark Lynam & Julian Stephens

The final days of DB Cargo operations in Cornwall are now firmly numbered, with the countdown slipping into single digits. As has been widely reported, GB Railfreight (GBRf) is set to assume responsibility for the Imerys China Clay flows from 1 April 2026, marking the end of a long-standing chapter in the region’s rail freight history.

Against this backdrop of transition, Wednesday 25 March offered a rare and noteworthy scene for observers. In an unusual overlap between outgoing and incoming operators, two freight locomotives could be seen working simultaneously. While DB Cargo continued its routine operations, loading a train at Par Harbour, GBRf took the opportunity to run a route-learning working along the Cornish branch lines. The coincidence provided onlookers with a fleeting glimpse of both the past and future of clay traffic in Cornwall.

Arriving from the Parkandillack branch, 66312 soars above the Par Harbour branch on the mainline bridge. 25.03.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

GB Railfreight 66312 creeps along the Par Harbour branch with its route learning trip from Treviscoe. 25.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Photographers and enthusiasts seize the opportunity for a photograph of the locomotive from the Par Harbour Crossing Gates. 25.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Dashing across the road to the opposite side, a chance for a photograph of DB Cargo 66098 shunting the JIA's in Par Harbour. 25.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

And here is what they were all photographing - 66098 shunting a rake of JIA's on the branch. 25.03.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Likely my last photograph of a DB loco in the harbour as 66098 pulls forward a rake of JIA's. The wagons are loaded by a front-loader road vehicle beneath the canopy. 25.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

With loading complete, 66098 leaves the harbour behind and heads for the stop board before the crossing. 25.03.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

66098 crosses the road back into St. Blazey yard. 25.03.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Meanwhile, 66312 heads away from Par towards Lostwithiel where it would reverse to visit the Fowey branch. 25.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66312 snapped after reversing at Lostwithiel. 25.03.2026, copyright Tim Hughes.

Here is a photo of 66312 going from Lostwithiel to Penzance on the 25/03/26 going through Buckshead. I think it was on driver training. a welcome sight. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

En route to Penzance from Lostwithiel, 66312 passes the iconic engine house at Wheal Busy crossing. 25.03.2026, copyright Mick House.

66312 passes through Redruth on the return leg of its journey from Penzance. 25.03.2026, copyright Mick House.

66312 'Nigel Harris' approaching Rospeath Road overbridge working 0Z75 11.36 Lostwithiel Up Goods Loop-Penzance. 25.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

GBRf 66312 Nameplate 'Nigel Harris' as seen at Penzance. 25.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

66312 later passing Marazion working 0Z76 15.30 Penzance-Plymouth. 25.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

66312 at Apex Bridge, Scorrier working 0Z76 1530 Penzance to Plymouth. 25.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

A going-away shot at Dowgas as 66312 continues east to Plymouth as 0Z76. 25.03.2026, copyright Julian Stephens.

Many thanks for the comprehensive coverage, all. We'll miss the bright red DB livery - hopefully GBRf can help give SW Rail Freight a bit of a leg-up.

Devon miscellany
Jack Burchill

220033 leads 221140 in its new livery past Marsh Barton. 24.03.2026, copyright Jack Burchill.

66312 passes Marsh Barton with 0V75 Tonbridge West Yard Gbrf to Plymouth (ready to work Wednesdays training runs pictured above). 24.03.2026, copyright Jack Burchill.

Many thanks indeed, Jack.

Spring Peaks
Paul Barlow

45065 has just worked the 1322 Liverpool to Plymouth from Birmingham to Gloucester. 04.04.1981, copyright Paul Barlow.

46047 pulls into Paignton with the 1E70 1435 To Leeds. 14.04.1981, copyright Paul Barlow.

Great memories, many thanks Paul.

Units in the Western Reaches
Andrew Triggs & Mark Lynam

158950 approaching Marazion working 2C23 12.19 Plymouth-Penzance. 25.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175002 passing Marazion Station working 2C20 11.27 Exeter St Davids-Penzance. This was a 2+4 'Castle Class' diagram until December 2025. 25.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Slightly further along the Marazion Beach Path 175007 nears journey's end working 2C26 13.40 Plymouth-Penzance. 25.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175007 at Apex Bridge, Scorrier working 2P21 1552 Penzance to Plymouth. 25.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark and Andrew, looks like you had the best sun down in the west yesterday.

March 25th 2026

25/3/2026

Railmotors, DMUs and some steam
at the East Somerset Railway
Guy Vincent

Currently on an early season visit to the East Somerset Railway at Cranmore is Didcot-based GWR railcar no 22. This was built at Swindon in 1940 and has been in preservation since 1967. The railcar is due to operate again at the ESR over the Easter weekend (3rd-6th April) before leaving for the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway who are now advertising trips from April 12th - 16th.

Here are some photos taken at the ESR on 21st and 22nd March. Also in use on the 21st was the line’s resident 2 car DMU set L709 now superbly finished inside and out including reinstated First Class seating accommodation.

GWR Railcar 22 on the East Somerset Railway. 22.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

Interior details of the GWR Railcar. 22.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

GWR Railcar 22 in the shed at Cranmore. 23.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

The class 108 DMU at the ESR. 23.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent

The interior of Cranmore Signal Box. 23.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

The recently restored GWR 2-6-2 loco 4110 at Cranmore. 23.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

The main span of St Erth’s former footbridge on which restoration continues. The base foundations for the bridge have now been laid on each platform at Cranmore. 23.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

Finally a bonus shot I grabbed at Whatley Quarry of their recently delivered class 08 shunter 08787 which has been converted to battery power. For the last 34 years this shunter carried the identity of scrapped sister 08296 but has now reverted to its original number. 23.03.2026, copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks for your comprehensive report Guy, especially good to see some progress with the former St. Erth footbridge.

Peak on vans
Paul Barlow

45026 waits at Exeter on the 1740 Plymouth to Bristol van train, 4B19. 23.03.1981, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - looks great with the silhouette of the 'nose' on the goods shed behind.

Tuesdays Clay
Jon Hird

66098 waits in the sidings at Goonbarrow for 150219 to pass by on its way to Newquay, before the clay could get out and on its way to Fowey. A few miles away in St. Austell the red carpet was being rolled out by the visit of the king and queen - in my opinion, this is more of the 'real' Cornwall than anything they would have been shown! 24.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66098 gets on its way and departs beneath the Goonbarrow semaphores with 15 JIA's and 66192 in tow. 24.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Much later, 66098 pulls away from the ‘Fowey Drivers Platform’ with the Fowey - Goonbarrow empties on a rather miserable evening. It’s always a bit exciting waiting for 6G05. It can run early, on time or even not at all, but it's normally early. You have no idea whether it’s left Fowey as it doesn’t tend to report on RTT. You just have to hold your position and listen closely for the distant roaring of the wagon wheels approaching from down the valley. As useful as it is to have various apps which can tell you exactly where a train is, sometimes it's nice to go back to the old ways and just see what turns up. This evening it appeared just as I was about to give up and go home - another couple of minutes and it would have been complete darkness. 24.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Milltown 175s
Mark Lynam

175007 + 175011 at Milltown working 5Z13 0751 Plymouth to Plymouth via Penzance. 23.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark - a great location for a photograph.

The new order at Penzance
Phil Gilbert

The new order in an old setting. 175009 prepares to depart Penzance with the 15.52 to Plymouth. 24.03.2026, copyright Phil Gilbert.

Many thanks Phil. The latest in a long line of traction to have stood in that very spot.

March 24th 2026

24/3/2026

A Round Robin on the railcard
Ian Thomas

Now that I am semi-retired, there is more scope for weekday travel as opposed to weekends only when I was full time. So, using the Senior Citizens Railcards, my other half (Jill) and I took Class 800 No. 800003 from Cam & Dursley to Gloucester on the 09:38 Bristol–Worcester F/ST service (2E55) — much better than previous years with a 150, to say the least.

Whilst awaiting our next move, the 09:45 Cardiff–Edinburgh (1S43) arrived with the new liveried 220, No. 220033. This is the portion which will unite with 220020, forming the 08:27 Plymouth–Birmingham New Street (1M43), going forward combined as 1S43 to Edinburgh.

Then our train duly arrived with the new order Class 197, No. 197104, forming the 10:40 Cheltenham–Cardiff Central, which we took all the way to the Welsh capital. Incidentally, Cardiff Central was named thus in 1973; before this it was Cardiff General.

A lunchtime soiree then, with a visit to the Head of Steam pub/restaurant for a few beers and a bite to eat.

Next up, 1L24 — the 14:17 Swansea–Paddington, formed of set 800301 — which we took to Swindon, having first class tickets. Better comfort, and tea and biscuits/cakes thrown into the mix. This was right time into Swindon, and then a ten-minute wait for 1G21, the 15:32 Paddington–Cheltenham (16:30 off Swindon and right time), also in first class.

We took this down the Golden Valley through the usual Stroud valley places that were once rail served — Chalford, Brimscombe, Ham Mill, and Cashes Green, to name a few — all with those wonderful auto trains with a 14XX tank powering on the service from Chalford to Gloucester Central, now over 61 years since withdrawal.

And so onto Gloucester for 158760 home to Cam & Dursley on the 16:55 Worcester Foregate Street to Bristol T/M service, bang on time.

A few pics of the new order here, plus a look back to Cardiff when Pacer units were still in service, and even further back to the halcyon days of locomotive-hauled services.

HAPPY DAYS!

220033 at Gloucester with the 09.45 Cardfif-Edinburgh 1S43. 20.03.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

197104 at Cardiff Central with the 10.40 from Cheltenham, 2G53. 20.03.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

143609 at Cardiff Central with the 15.21 to Coryton. 16.02.2019, copyright Ian Thomas.

143624 at Cardiff central with a service for Barry Island. 16.02.2019, copyright Ian Thomas.

142081 and 150xxx at Cardiff Central in the late afternoon. 16.02.2019, copyright Ian Thomas.

142010 at Aberdare with the 08.12 from Cardiff. 27.04.2013, copyright Ian Thomas.

45130 at Cardiff Central with the 1234 Leeds-Cardiff 1V92. 22.01.1983, copyright Ian Thomas.

33013 at Cardiff with ECS off the 15.45 ex Bristol TM. 23.10.1982, copyright Ian Thomas.

45105 at Cardiff Central with the 10.00 Cardiff-Newcastle 1E55. 22.01.1983, copyright Ian Thomas.

Many thanks Ian, a good read and some interesting photos.

The new order on the wall
Martin Scane

The 175s have been running to Exeter SD for a few days but this morning was the first time that I have managed to see one in the flesh as it were actually in revenue earning service. Here’s 175002 with 2E06 (Penzance to Exeter) right time at 10-29 this morning having just passed Teignmouth Station, where the train doesn’t stop, and running onto the sea wall. 23.03.2026, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks as always Martin.

The final days of DBC in Cornwall
Jon Hird & Mark Lynam

If reports are to believed, we are now into the last full week of DBC operations in the far west, with GBRf poised to take over next month. 66098 powers up the gradient through Tywardreath with the midday Goonbarrow - Fowey. 66192 was on the rear. 23.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

On the opposite side of the summit at Treverrin, the driver has throttled back and 66098 coasts down the gradient towards Milltown. 23.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

After reversing at Lostwithiel, 66192 now leads the way past Golant as the train nears journeys end at Fowey. 23.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark, not long to go now for the 'red sheds'.

Another split box!
Michael Adams

Michael Adams has dug out another picture of a split -box class 37. 37068 smart in it's RFD livery, passes through Reading on 11 September 1992 with empty steel wagons for South Wales. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks to Michael Adams, and to Michael F. for sending the photo across.

The Rail200 train at Totnes
Jack Burchill

The Rail 200 train is stationary in the bay platform as the steam service runs around it's train. 22.03.2026, copyright Jack Burchill.

The steam train fills itself up with water before returning to Buckfastleigh with the last service of the day. 22.03.2026, copyright Jack Burchill.

66718 and 66306 pass through Tobie's reclamation yard (The site of the former Exminster station) on their way to pick up the Rail200 stock. 22.03.2026, copyright Jack Burchill.

Many thanks indeed Jack.

March 23rd 2026

23/3/2026

'Inspiration' in Devon
Bill Elston & Jon Hird

The Rail200 'Inspiration' exhibition train was due to depart Totnes on the evening of 22.03.2026. The train had been stabled in the Totnes Riverside bay platform for the past week, minus its locos which had left Devon light loco after depositing the stock.

GBRf 66718 and 66306 were sent back down from Eastleigh to collect the stock, eventually arriving at Totnes 72 minutes late due to a class 150 catching fire near Aller Junction. Due to their late arrival and due to ongoing issues at Newton Abbot due to the DMU fire, the empty stock movement to Bristol was cancelled.

The Rail200 exhibition train at Totnes Riverside. 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Mk3 coaching stock in the bay platform at Totnes Riverside. 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

There was a light engine working through Bathpool today, 0Z39, Eastleigh to Buckfastleigh to collect empty coaching stock The locos were 66718 and 66306. 22.03.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

66718 leads 66306 over the river at Totnes arriving late with the light loco movement from Eastleigh. 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

After a quick reversal at Totnes, 66306 now leads across the river again as the light loco movement makes its way towards Totnes Riverside. 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The pair of GBRf locos stand on the SDR mainline connection with the exhibition train stock now moved into the main Totnes platform by one of the railways resident diesel shunters. 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The SDR's shunter pulled the stock out of Totnes which meant that 66306 could run straight onto it. 66306 then pulled the train back into the platform at Totnes to allow 66718 to drop onto the Buckfastleigh end of the train. By this point it really was dark! 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks for the additional photo Bill.

37's on stone
Roger Geach

37098 and 37688 arrive at %aunton with stone from Merehead. From memory this was a short term flow of stone to Fairwater yard? I may be wrong, but I see they arrived at 1002 and went back light to Westbury at 1050 hrs. 23.02.1998, copyright Roger Geach.

Great stuff Roger, many thanks as always.

Gunnislake by train
Andrew Triggs

A few shots from Saturday's Gunnislake branch and Gunnislake to Calstock walk for CRS on a beautiful March Saturday in lovely weather. Veteran Class 150 no.150243 providing the Traction on the day.

150243 at Gunnislake following arrival with 2G77 10.24 from Plymouth. 21.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

150243 crossing Calstock Viaduct working 2G79 12.24 Plymouth-Gunnislake. 21.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

150243 at Bere Alston working 2G82 15.14 Gunnislake-Plymouth. 21.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Refurbished Voyager 220027 at Plymouth awaiting departure with 1E67 16.27 Plymouth-Leeds. 21.03.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew - you picked a good day for it.

The new XC livery
Bill Elston

While I was waiting for the 66s at Bathpool, new liveried 220033 passed on a northbound service. 22.03.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

Well spotted Bill, many thanks.

Exeter by night
Martin Scane

A photograph taken this evening (21/3/26) whilst waiting for my train home to Teignmouth. 150249 with 2R91 to Exeter Central at 18.50 just as the light was starting to fail. 21.03.2026, copyright Martin Scane.

Thank you very much Martin - nice and atmospheric.

Late to the split-box party!
Jon Hird

A late entry to this months CRS split-box 37 frenzy. 37037 at Buckfastleigh with the Society's headboard. 22.03.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Roger on a Rover
Roger Winnen

Two Class 175 units arrive at Plymouth on a driver training trip from Penzance. 21.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

Passing the MOD depot at Ernesettle viewed through the sprinter window en route to Gunnislake. 21.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

The new Crosscountry livery 220 at Plymouth Park Siding. 21.03.2026, copyright Roger Winnen.

March 22nd 2026

22/3/2026

A new book
The Demise of the Diesel Hydraulics

Discover The Demise of the Diesel Hydraulics, a beautifully produced, full-colour hardback that brings an important era of railway history to life. Originally begun by the late Stephen Marshall—well known to many for his work with Globe Videos and archive productions—the book was completed by Roger Geach, who also contributes a selection of his own photographs.

Focusing on diesel hydraulics, with plenty of West Country interest, this volume is a fitting tribute to Stephen’s vision: a high-quality, richly illustrated publication for enthusiasts and historians alike.

Now available from Transport Treasury Publishing - click here.

The Demise of the Diesel Hydraulics

Another 175 for GWR
David Tozer

175111 with the 1154 5V84 Wolverton Centre Sidings to Plymouth Laira passes Stoke Canon. 20.03.2026, copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks Dave - hopefully GWR can get some of these 3-car units into service soon.

Penzance & Brea 175s
Mark Lynam

Here are a few shots from today (21.03) of 175s at Penzance and Brea, I was hoping to get 57312 coming in on platform 4 from the end of the car park with the beds, but it went in on 3, then the 175s went in Oil 2 Road rather than booked platform 3!

175007 + 175009 in Oil 2 Road, Penzance. 21.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

A shot I've been wanting for a while - 175s with the gorse at Brea in some sun! Saturday being the best day as the training run passes Camborne 9.45 on the return so the cab is lit. 5Z21 0623 Plymouth to Plymouth via Penzance. 21.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

The going away shot, with the 2C40 0807 Plymouth to Penzance IET approaching which It I was afraid I might get bowled by. 21.03.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark - a much more photogenic livery than GWR green!

Cardiff Peaks
Paul Barlow

45062 runs through Cardiff Central on 21.04.1981. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A crew change at Cardiff for 45038 which is working the 1004 Newcastle to Swansea relief train. 21.04.1981, copyright Paul Barlow.

Lovely stuff Paul - many thanks as always.

<<Previous

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