Blog Archives

April 30th 2025

30/4/2025

The return of 57604
Andrew Triggs

After an extensive overhaul at Laira which has lasted well over 12 months, 57604 'Pendennis Castle' has been released back into the wild and is seen passing the single line section at Longrock with 0Z57 11.00 Laira T&RSMD-Longrock T&RSMD (via Newton Abbot and Penzance) on a glorious late April afternoon. 29.04.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Good to see it back, quite a relief for GWR staff, I imagine. Many thanks, Andrew.

Oxfordshire, 2015
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, In June 2015 during some visits to gardens in Oxfordshire ,we were pleased to see the nameplates from 5033 displayed in the tea rooms at the said castle (near Banbury).

This Castle class loco. Was allocated to Oxford shed from May 1958 and was withdrawn from there in August 1962.
I cannot remember seeing it in Cornwall!

Best wishes, Michael.

The nameplate of 5033 'Broughton Castle' on display at Broughton Castle. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many Thanks Michael

The Plym Valley Railway
Steve Widdowson

43063 and 43091 at Marsh Mills - Plym Valley Rly. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

142023 at Marsh Mills - Plym Valley Rly. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

143618 at Marsh Mills - Plym Valley Rly. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Class 07 Ruston & Hornsby Army No. 429 @ Marsh Mills { 1145 Marsh Mills ~ Plym Bridge }. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Class 07 Ruston & Hornsby Army No. 429 @ Plym Bridge { 1115 Plym Bridge ~ Marsh Mills }. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Class 101 Lab 19 Iris II { Lot No 30276 } { Marsh Mills ~ Plym Valley Rly. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Class 117 cars 51365 & 51407 Marsh Mills ~ Plym Valley. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Class 117 cars 51407 Marsh Mills ~ Plym Valley Rly. 27.04.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

A nice selection, Steve - many thanks indeed.

Evening Freight
Jon Hird

In some lovely evening light, and with the tide well on its way in, 66127 crosses the Golant Causeway with 6G05, empty JIA's from Fowey to St. Blazey. 29.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The train was held briefly to allow a GWR service to head west, and is seen here passing through Lostwithiel on its way to the down goods loop. 29.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The loco runs back into Lostwithiel past the former signal box. 29.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

As the 66 backs onto its train, a GWR IET departs Lostwithiel on the up line. 29.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Unusually, once the JIA's were dropped off at St. Blazey, 66127's work for the day wasn't quite done. The loco was sent light to Burngullow as 0B00, reportedly to reset some signalling equipment. It's seen passing Holmbush foot crossing. 29.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A sunny day in Hayle
Roger Winnen

43186 Tails a service to Plymouth on Hayle Viaduct. 29.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

57604 Pendennis Castle crosses Hayle Viaduct on a proving run from Plymouth Laira via Newton Abbot to Penzance. 29.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

The Welshman heads for Penzance. 29.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

43092 and 43188 working the 13.15 Penzance to Plymouth service. 29.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

The Welshman crosses the viaduct at Hayle. 29.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

April 29th 2025

29/4/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 41
EXETER February 1964
Michael L. Roach

In February 1964 I made three visits to Exeter by train. The first was on the 2 February, when I arrived on the 4.00pm from Waterloo - the only occasion that I travelled the full length of the Southern main line (although I had travelled parts of it many times before).

Merchant Navy 35022 gave a good account of itself, reaching a maximum of 82mph and sustaining an average of 80mph from Whitchurch North to Andover.

The second and third visits were on day trips from Plymouth on 15 and 29 February at a fare of ten shillings for a cheap day return (equivalent today £8.25). On both dates I travelled to Exeter via Okehampton behind 34054 on the Plymouth to Brighton through train, and on 29th returned on the Brighton behind the same engine, having stayed at Exeter for several hours.

On 15th I headed up to Barnstaple behind 34107 and then east to Taunton via Dulverton. From Taunton I travelled home direct behind a D800 Warship.

The reason for these trips was that it would already have been known that this was the last year of steam at Exeter, and a steam trip from Plymouth was something to be savoured while it was still available.

34054 with 8C on the Plymouth to Brighton at Exeter St. Davids on 15 Feb 1964. The engine had reached 70mph north of Bere Alston and at North Tawton. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The Brighton is banked out of St. Davids by pannier tank 4655 on 15.02.1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The Brighton is banked out of St. Davids again but this time by pannier 3759 taken from the train hauled by 34054 again on 29 February 1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

34054 is about to enter the tunnel on 29.02.1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

34020 is seen on the 1.10pm from Exeter Central to Salisbury. The first vehicle is a BR built autocoach no. 238. Out of picture were a further three coaches and six parcel vans. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

35017 runs through the station on its way to Exmouth Junction Shed after bringing in the 9.00am from Waterloo on 29.02.1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Z-class 30957 banks the three coaches and eight GUVs of the Surbiton car carrier out of St. Davids on 28 July 1962. The train was hauled by 34096. At the time Exmouth Junction had all eight of the class, but all were withdrawn before the end of 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always Michael, some great photos of the tail end of the days of steam.

For more of Michael's articles, please click here.

Class 66 working a steel train through Cardiff
Michael Forward

Class 66 66010 Works a steel train through Cardiff. Copyright Michael Forward

Roger, at 15.50 on the same day we see 66655 with covered wagons, I think from Dee Marsh in North Wales to Margam.
These DB 66/6s have been re-geared to haul heavier trains but at lower speeds,in favour of class 60s .

Many Thanks Michael

Monday's Clay
Jon Hird

With the last of its 16 JIA wagons still passing Ponts Mill, 66127 heads the Goonbarrow - Fowey clay as it approaches St. Blazey Bridge crossing on 28.04.2025. Copyright Jon Hird.

Later in the day, 66127 is seen again having just emerged from Treverrin Tunnel with the empty wagons returning to Goonbarrow. The field here is being used for Potatoes this year and the tramlines cut into the soil give the image an interesting texture. 28.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A short trip to Ponts Mll - from the last location, just over 1.5 miles as the crow flies but considerably more by rail, 66127 applies the power as the train exits the temporary speed restriction over Ponts Mill viaduct and continues on its way to Goonbarrow. 28.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

April 28th 2025

28/4/2025

Steam at Swindon
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

45212 + support coach [RTT said diesel loco with 715 tonnes ECS 60 MPH maximum] passes Swindon 40 EARLY. 26.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

'Stand clear platform 4, fast train approaching' said the station announcement.. 6C03 [hauled by 66030] decided to go through the station using the UML. However - note the number of folk waiting on platform 4. 26.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

6V23 headed by 60 046 - Qiainton Railhead to Didcot Milton Sidings via High Wycombe, Hanwell,Reading, Swindon, North Somerset Junction, Bristol Parkway, Badminton, Swlndon and due to arrive at Didcot [after a reversal nearby] at 2204. Was such a long route necessary? 26.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Another shot of 6V23. 26.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

5Z94 Bristol East Depot to Stewarts Lane taken from the west end of platform 4. I understand that there was aelay in the Bristol-Bath section because a fire was said to have been started by a steam locomotive. This affected the timings of this working - see RTT for full details.. RTT also said that his was a diesel hauling ECS of 715 tonnes at a maximum speed of 60 m-p-h. As with the morning steam run west with 45212 - where was the diesel?? 26.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

35028 at Swindon on 26.04.2025. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks to Colin and Ken, the Swindon duo!

Camborne Trevithick Day
Roger Winnen

Please click any of the images below for an enlargement and caption

A question about Hayle
Michael Hitchens

On 27th April 1961, the shunting horses at Hayle Wharves were retired from their duties. Has anyone any unpublished pictures that haven't appeared anywhere else showing them in action? Thanks.....

Can you help? Please drop us an email at [email protected] if you have any information/photos.

April 27th 2025

27/4/2025

More memories of
The Newquay Branch
Roger Winnen

D1011 Western Thunderer with a Plymouth local to Newquay approaching Bugle. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

The 10.30 ex Newquay near Roche. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

The 13.22 Newquay to Par approaches Bugle. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

The 12.05 ex Newquay between Roche and Bugle. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

The Plymouth to Newquay nearing Goss Moor. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

A DMU on Goss Moor 15.06.1975, copyright Roger Winnen

An undated shot of a Western, presumably also 15.06.1974. Copyright Roger Winnen.

BR Blue days at Paignton
Paul Barlow

03.11.1979, 47185 at Paignton. Original photographer unknown, copyright Paul Barlow.

03.01.1980, 47028 at Paignton. Original photographer unknown. Copyright Paul Barlow.

03.01.1980. 50037 arrives at Paignton. Original photographer unknown, copyright Paul Barlow.

A great retro selection, many thanks Paul

Glazebrook Viaduct, South Brent
Clive Smith

I believe this viaduct hasn't featured in the Cornwall Railway Society website so maybe a few photos for the archive.

A local walk to a bluebell wood revealed more than I was expecting with this view of Glazebrook Viaduct to the west of South Brent and Aish.

The viaduct carries the main south Devon line across the valley of the Glaze Brook.

The ivy-clad pillar in the foreground is part of an earlier viaduct constructed in 1848 by Brunel for the Atmospheric Railway using stone and timber trestles.

I've been unable to unearth anything further about the construction of the current viaduct.

Glazebrook viaduct on 26.04.2025. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive - not a viaduct we've seen a lot of!

Truro HST
Joe Birchall

Today we went to Trevithick day to play in the band, catching the 06:28 (158 950) there and the 15:15 (43 188 & 43 092) back. When we got back to Truro I decided to take a picture of the HST as it departed, under the threatening skies of Truro, and the very top of the Cathedral’s spire in the background. 26.04.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

Great framing - many thanks, Joe.

A few from Trevithick Day
Tony Shore & Jon Hird

Although not directly rail-related, we thought some readers may enjoy some photos of the steam engines taking part in yesterdays Trevithick Day celebrations.

A working reproduction of Richard Trevithick's 'Puffing Devil' at Trevithick day 2025. 26.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

With its rudimentary controls, the 'Puffing Devil' is quite a challenging contraption to drive! It makes a somewhat chaotic entrance to Camborne town. 26.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

'The Puffing Devil' opposite Camborne Wetherspoons. 26.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Road steam vehicles at Trevithick Day 2025. 26.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Road steam vehicles at Trevithick Day 2025. 26.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird

April 26th 2025

26/4/2025

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
Paul Barlow

A few from the Lynton and Barnstaple railway. A sign states Chelfham station is open to the public on Sundays and Wednesdays.

Hopefully these stations will be once again linked by steam trains one day.

Chelfam Viaduct on 21.04.2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Looking over Chelfham station towards the viaduct. 21.04.2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

The restored Chelfham station. 21.04.2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

The entrance to Snapper Halt. 21.04.2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

L&B Snapper Halt. 21.04.2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks, Paul. A lovely little area which we don't see a lot of. It'd be great to see trains returned to both locations.

The Scarborough Pullman
David Tozer

43049 'Nevelle Hill' heads the 0605 Paignton to Scarborough at Exeter. On platform four is the 0522 Bristol Temple Meads to Penzance with 800033. 24.04.2025, copyright David Tozer.

GWR 4000 Class 4003 'Lode Star' at the NRM, York. The sole survivor of the 4000 class. 24.04.2025, copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks Dave - hope you had a good trip.

More of 37037
Bill Elston

Below are some photos of 37037 taken in the Exeter area back in BR days which may be of interest.

37037 with 37203 running into the depot at Exeter, with metals sector branding, dated 27/3/93. Copyright Bill Elston.

37037 with Polybulks for St Blazey, 19/7/94. Copyright Bill Elston.

37037 with 37668 on the 'silver bullets' leaving Riverside yard, 3/2/94. Copyright Bill Elston.

In Riverside yard, now un-branded, 2/8/96. Copyright Bill Elston.

37037 in Riverside yard on a short ballast train, 2/8/96. Copyright Bill Elston.

A great selection, Bill - many thanks indeed.

More Moorswater Progess
Tony Shore

The clearance continues at Moorswater in preparation for road/rail vehicles to arrive to continue the clearance work further down the Looe branch.

All below images obtained by permission of the clearance team.

The classic view down the branch towards Moorswater from Coombe once again starting to emerge as the team clear the trackbed. 25.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Clearing out the watercourses which run alongside the railway embankment. 25.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

A Stop board in place at the catch points at Coombe - just in case! 25.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Many of us assumed that we'd never see another 'tractor' use the loop at Moorswater, yet here we are...! 25.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Great to see such rapid progress being made, thanks very much Tony.

Cornish Ballast Drop
Alan Peters

Colas Rail 70813 seen at Plymouth with 6C42 working a ballast drop between Penzance and Lostwithiel on 23/04/25. Copyright Alan Peters.

The same train having arrived at Penzance before 70813 runs round its train in Slopers siding 23/04/25. Copyright Alan Peters.

The lights from the new Ponsandane sidings open give an opportunity to capture Colas Rail 70813 running around its train in Slopers siding. 23//04/25, copyright Alan Peters.

Colas Rail 70813 all ready to depart Penzance with 6C42 Westbury to Westbury via Penzance, the train will drop ballast at varying locations between Penzance and Lostwithiel on 23/04/25. Copyright Alan Peters.

Colas Rail 70813 seen again at Par, once all the ballast has been discharged the train will head back to Westbury as 6C42 in the early hours of 24/04/25. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan - your 'behind the scenes' photos of these nocturnal workings are always very much appreciated.

Autotrains return to Cornwall!
At the Bodmin Railway Steam Gala

From The Bodmin Railway:

After a 7 year hiatus, our Spring Steam Gala will see the return of Autotrains to Bodmin railway.

Visiting auto-tank engine 1450, courtesy of our friends at the Severn Valley Railway, will be paired with our Autocoach on Friday 16th & Sunday 18th of May at our Spring Steam Gala, a unique sight not to be missed! Autotrains were once a classic sight on Great Western branch lines and we can't wait to see our Autocoach out again. Our Autocoach offers a comfortable ride with the unique view into the drivers, often known as the 'clean end', cab - giving passengers a drivers eye view of the railway ahead.

In addition to running Autotrains, our Autocoach will be paired with our Victorian Saloon on Saturday 17th May to form a 'Heritage' set with our Great Western liveried coaches, and on Sunday 18th May Judy will get a special trip down the line hauling our Autocoach.

Don't miss out on a place to ride the Autotrain, tickets are on sale now at: https://bodminrailway.digitickets.co.uk/category/45971

For more information about our Spring Steam Gala please see our website: https://bodminrailway.co.uk/springsteamgala/

The view from the auto coach on the Bodmin Railway, passing Charlie’s Gate. Copyright Bodmin Railway.

April 25th 2025

25/4/2025

Changes on the Newquay Branch
Craig Munday

On my travels I'm capturing history in the making. The Cornwall Metro project will see considerable investment in new level crossing technology, and some alterations to the existing crossings on the Newquay line.

Trencreek AOCL(B) and Chapel AOCL crossings will become bridleway type crossings (non-vehicular) with miniature red/green lights (MSL) from September. The new bridge opening crossing the railway near Hendra will negate the requirement for vehicular traffic here (Trencreek is quite busy for a cut-through). I have few pictures here so thought I ought to grab some before the planned alterations.

The many rural crossings were automated with wigwag lights over 40 years ago to replace the gated crossing with residents crossing keepers living adjacent. None were fitted with barriers back in the day, but Trencreek Qunitrell Downs, Coswarth and Haloon (St Columb Road) were fitted with barriers for added safety. There is no signal box supervision, the Driver receives flashing white light once the crossing is detected as functioning, allowing the train to proceed without stopping. The arrangement for up trains at Quintrell Downs are slightly different however.

The resident crossing keepers is a subject worthy of an article itself! The working practice beggars belief today, but the staff there had to attend every train throughout the day! A bell was often installed in their property to alert when the gates needed to be opened, and signals cleared. Many had a small Ground Frame with locking bars and stop / distant signals. The keepers had a rest day when a relief signalman or crossing keeper would cover their turn for them to go shopping. Roger Matthews covered these turns and was given the run of the house whilst the rest day was enjoyed. There was a rudimentary shelter otherwise which must have been a tiresome shift I would imagine. Many of the dwellings still exist to this day, though I understand no BR staff still live in them. Trencreek was one of the last such arrangements where a Crossing Keeper lived at the cottage well into her retirement.

Two crossings are pictured, Chapel and Trencreek. Both crossings are between Quintrell Downs and Newquay. Trencreek is the nearest to the report, and the busiest traffic wise. There have already been road alterations on the main junction to prevent right hand turns into Trencreek.

Chapel crossing is along the line towards Quintrell, and due to the once busy farm to field activity there are many numbered Chapel crossings. The road is simply named Chapel Crossing and is sparsely used. Though now Nansleden is now established on the other side, it sees more traffic than ever before. A turning circle has been installed for when the road is truncated, a number of dwellings there will still have deliveries etc. This can be seen in the picture. Chapel was never fitted with barriers unlike Trencreek.

150221 crosses Trencreek crossing on 22.04.2025. This crossing is due to close to road traffic, the diversionary route being over the new bridge leading to the Nansledan development. Copyright Craig Munday.

Chapel Crossing on 22.04.2025. The road here is due to be severed and a turning circle has been provided so that vehicles can turn. Copyright Craig Munday.

Roaming the rails of Cornwall
Michael Hitchens

Armed with my £11-30 Cornwall Ranger, on Monday 21st April I strolled down to Camborne Station at 07-45 and caught a train to Penzance. At Penzance, I boarded the next up train (destination Newport, because of bridge repairs between Newport and Cardiff) and travelled to Liskeard, noticing on the way the cleared vegetation at the Moorswater Loop.

A short time later, I was heading down to Coombe Junction and onward to Looe where I explored the route of the line which once extended along the quay. After spending about an hour there (medium pasty £3-60-OK, but nowhere near medium by Camborne standards-cost to spend a penny 30p) I rejoined the train (toilets free) back to Liskeard.

Thanks to the frequent mainline service there was only a brief wait for the next down train to Par, where I crossed over to the Newquay branch. There were views of the work on the viaduct in the Luxulyan Valley, the new loop near St. Dennis Junction an the replaced track and platform at Newquay itself. I enjoyed my 5 minutes in Newquay (time for a brief look at the route of the harbour branch) before managing to find a seat on the same train back to Par. I continued my journey west bound for Penzance.

I spent about 45 minutes in Penzance-I'd been there the previous day riding on the vintage buses. Pz toilets were free, and as it was late afternoon sausage rolls, cake and pasties were selling at half price! I left Penzance and just had time to eat my saffron bun before detraining at St. Erth. There was time to sample the new footbridge before the St. Ives train departed.

I stayed in St. Ives for about an hour (toilets 40p, bank Loan for a crab sandwich), during which time I saw the life boat being launched on an exercise.

After IETs and 150 units I was pleased to see my mainline connection at St, Erth was double headed by Castles (unfortunately not of the steam variety!)

I was back home enjoying fish and chips in Beacon by 7pm after a most enjoyable day out. All trains appeared to be on time throughout and indeed my HST journey from Hayle back to Camborne (not stopping at Gwinear Road and avoiding the Angarrack and Penponds inclines) only took a lively 6 minutes........

I hope my account of my Cornish Ranger day out will be a reminder that, although we will never be able to return to former railway eras, we still have an interesting system to enjoy-the views are still as attractive and the operating procedures are just as fascinating.

At Liskeard there are still the sights and sounds of semaphore signals, the reversal at Coombe Junc. and the tiny halts on the way to Looe. Indeed, on Monday there were passengers at St, Keyne and Sandplace on both my outward and return journeys, while at Looe there was a worker in hi-vis busily weeding and tidying the name LOOE which is spelt out on the bank opposite the platform.

There was plenty of atmosphere on the Newquay line with staff exchanges and proper signals at St. Blazey and Goonbarrow, sound effects grinding and squealing up the Luxulyan Valley and warning horns, bells etc. at the numerous level crossings. Again, there were passengers at all the intermediate stations. It was good to hear the announcements - Luxulyan, Bugle, Roche, St. Columb Road, Quintrell Downs, all still on the railway map.

At St. Erth, windows on the new footbridge give a view of a GW junction in full swing, with semaphore signals and frequent main and branch line services. Incidentally, the CARBIS BAY name in white painted stones and gravel needs some attention from our workman seen at Looe!

I've already mentioned my return journey from Hayle to Camborne in 2025-in 1843 the journey from Hayle to Redruth took about 45 minutes. This, of course passed through Camborne where the station is on its original site making it the oldest station on the Cornish network.

Reread my account in 25 years time.....what will have changed?? Will the following still be true....

Once again I'running down
On a winding track from a Cornish town
And I hear the names of the stations through
St. Keyne, Causeland, Sandplace, Looe.

(Dedicated to all those who travel staring at their phones!)

Thanks for sharing your grand day out with us, Michael.

I agree completely that although the railway has lost much of what we enthusiasts deem 'interesting', there is still plenty of greatness and history out there to be enjoyed if you go looking for it.

Clearing the line to
Moorswater
Tony Shore

The line between Coombe Junction and Moorswater is currently being cleared by a NR contractor, Ground Control LTD. It's believed that the plan is to clear the line all the way to Causeway, with the waste wood/chippings being brought back to a compound near the Moorswater run round loop to be disposed of, owing to concerns over contaminating the canal with the wood.

The following photographs were taken with kind permission of Ground Control during a supervised visit.

Please do not trespass on the railway to obtain images of these works - although it is mothballed/out of use, the line between Coombe and Moorswater still remains NR property - trespassing on the railway can carry severe penalties, as well as presenting obvious safety risks both to yourself and to rail workers.

Safety notice at the Moorswater compound. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Chopped down trees in the compound awaiting chipping. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Vehicles in use to remove the lineside vegetation. The tractors will be used to move the felled trees back to this compound. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Moorswater run round loop visible for the first time in many years. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Moorswater run round loop. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Looking up at Moorswater viaduct. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Contractors working along the footpath which runs from Moorswater to Coombe. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The remains of the boundary fence which has become overgrown with trees. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

A GWR Castle Class HST crosses Moorswater viaduct. The hope is that all this vegetation will be cleared, restoring a view which has been lost for decades. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Contractors at work near Coombe. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The track here has been almost invisible for many years. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The line from Coombe to Moorswater looking rather sad. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Looking towards Moorswater from Coombe. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The ground frame which operates the catch points at Coombe. 24.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

A very interesting report Tony - many thanks indeed. Great to see the area being given some attention. Now we just need a reason for trains to return!

The 2004 South Devon Railway
Diesel Gala (featuring 37037)
Paul Barlow

A few more of 37037s first day in service in preservation.

Other locos working on this gala 47197 was withdrawn and cut up by T.J. Thomson in January 2008. 20118 is back on the main line and based at LNWR Crewe.

The gala timetable/programme. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Totnes 37037 on 1100 to Buckfastleigh It's first run in presevation. 12.06.2004, copyright Paul Barlow.

47197 20118 1218 Totnes to Buckfastleigh. 12.06.2004, copyright Paul Barlow.

47197 20118 on 1218 Totnes to Buckfastleigh. Jon H in the black and red top nearest the camera. 12.06.2004, copyright Paul Barlow.

37037 and 20118 1252 Buckfastleigh to Totnes. 12.06.2004, copyright Paul Barlow.

20118 Buckfastleigh on 0958 To Totnes. 12.06.2004, copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul, great memories of a fantastic event.

37037 - looking a bit smarter!
Roger Geach

I thought you may like to see 37037 looking a bit more like it.

37037 was a March loco in the mid-late 1970's, and was often seen on the Liverpool Street - Cambridge - Kings Lynn line. In 1981 it was moved to Glasgow Eastfield and became a Scottish loco. It moved again to Canton in April 1992

I only ever recall seeing the loco in Cornwall once, with 37141 on the Burngullow to Irvine tanks on 01.08.1994. It was never very common down West - unless others know different.

37037 at Glasgow Eastfield depot, October 1982. Note the missing buffers. The loco is now under restoration at Buckfastleigh. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - let's hope the Devon Diesel Society can get her back up and running!

Severn Tunnel Junction by night
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

47589 prepares to leave STJ depot in 1987. A wonderful place, now all but completely wiped out. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil - a brilliant photo.

Far West HST's
Tom Lloyd

43093 and 43186 stand side by side under the station roof at Penzance. 24.04.2025, copyright Tom Lloyd.

43156 on the rear of a west-bound service at Camborne. 24.04.2025, copyright Tom Lloyd.

43093 at Camborne, pushing its train to Plymouth. 24.04.2025, copyright Tom Lloyd.

Many thanks Tom, always good to see the HST's at work.

Swindon & Stratton
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

IET 1L12 Carmarthen to Paddington with 800034 and 800007 passing Stratton. 24.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Coming out of Stratton Loop a few minutes late - should have stopped in the Loop for 10 minutes. Power cars TnT 43272 and 43251 with 1Q23 Bristol Kingsland Road to Derby Network Rail. 24.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

43272 and 43251 TnT with 1Q23 Bristol Kingsland Road to Derby Network Rail via platform 1. 24.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

6C03 Northolt to Severnside Sita hauled by 66244 passes platform 4. 24.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66604 moves west along the little used line parallel to that on Platform 4 to join up ready to depart with 6M53 Swindon Stores to Toton Up Sidings via Kemble and Wocester. This train departed east [at 1459 - 82 EARLY!!] to Cockleberry Sidings [just east of the station] but after the locomotive ran around this train, it didn't leave passing through the station until 1644!! 24.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66787 passes alongside platform 4 with 4B77 Colnbrook to Avonmouth West Wharf. 24.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

5Q76 Wembley to Newport docks [Sims] - 37800 hauling unit 321316. 24.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks to the two of you, a train in almost every colour!

April 24th 2025

24/4/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 40
Y Glyn Crwydryn Railtour - 24.04.1965
Michael L. Roach

This instalment looks back to a railtour around South Wales in the Spring of 1965. There were several in the area that year, because steam was in rapid decline with few steam engines in daily use and steam sheds falling over like dominoes as they closed completely or closed to steam.

This was one of two railtours that I participated in, with the other being covered in three months time. This one was organised jointly by The West Glamorgan and The Monmouthshire Railway Societies and ran on 24 April 1965. It started and finished at Cardiff General and the route was Pontypridd, Aberdare LL, Hirwaun, Neath Riverside, Colbren Junction, Pontardawe, Swansea Eastern Depot, Jersey Marine, Felin Fran, Swansea High Street and Cardiff General. The tour lasted from 11.10 to 18.10 and was one of those rare occasions when RST (railtour standard time – an hour late) did not arise as the tour returned to Cardiff 1½ minutes early. This was despite leaving Colbren Junction 11L due to low water pressure and losing 20 minutes at Pontardawe when an enthusiast fell from a door and needed medical attention.

The load was five well filled corridor coaches. Large prairie 6116 of Radyr Shed hauled the first leg (Cardiff to Neath Riverside) and the last leg (Swansea High Street to Cardiff); the engine was condemned at Radyr two months later. The middle sections from Neath Riverside to Swansea High Street, lasted exactly three hours, when the train was double-headed by pannier tanks 4612 and 9675 both of Neath Shed with both engines being withdrawn within six months. 4612 was one of 16 panniers to enter preservation and now resides on the Bodmin and Wenford Railway in Cornwall.

This was a well-organised railtour which was a credit to the Societies organising it. I was grateful that it kept to time because I travelled from and to Plymouth to be there that day. The railtour fare was 40 shillings (£2) and it cost me a further 48 shillings to reach Cardiff. In the seven hours the railtour was en-route, I only noted one steam engine, and that was 2-8-2 tank 7248 of Llanelly Shed at Stormy Down Sidings.

The English name of the tour was The Valley Wanderer.

6116 stands at Hirwaun with the railtour on 24.04.1965. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Looking the other way at Hirwaun towards Neath. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The railtour has arrived at Neath Riverside where 6116 came off and the train reversed, and the headboards had to be moved to the front of the train. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The enthusiasts stretch their legs at Neath Riverside looking towards Jersey Marine and Swansea. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The panniers have arrived at Colbren Junction on the line to the left of the signal box and then reversed into a platform not used by passenger trains for 30 years before running around the train. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The two panniers take water, very slowly because of low pressure. It took a long time to top up both engines. Here we are looking towards Brecon. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The engines are coupled to the train ready to leave Colbren and travel down the freight-only line through Abercrave and Ynysygeinon Junction. The signals on the right are on the line to Neath. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

6116 takes water at Bridgend on its way from Swansea High Street to Cardiff General. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Another great article Michael, many thanks indeed.

For more of Michaels items, please click here.

GWR Saint 2931 'Arlington Court'
Paul Barlow

A piece of railway heritage on display National trust Arlington Court is the nameplate from GWR Saint Class 2931 Arlington Court.

This loco was built in October 1911 and first allocated to Exeter. It was withdrawn in February 1951 and covered over 2 million miles.

The nameplate of 2931 on display in Arlington Court. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Pictures and information related to the locomotive on display. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A good find - thanks very much, Paul.

Penzance Ballast Train
Alan Peters

It has been a while since Colas Rail traction has ventured west of Par, but on Easter Monday 70806 worked 6C40 Westbury to Westbury via Penzance with a ballast drop between Par and Penzance, the train is pictured in the early hours of 22/04/25 at Penzance with Driver Mark Fabiano. Photo copyright Alan Peters.

Colas Rail 70806 ready to depart Penzance with 6C40 back to Westbury after running round the train of 5 auto hoppers in Slopers siding in the early hours of 22/04/25. Copyright Alan Peters.

A late night for you all - many thanks, Alan - great photos.

Classic traction at Pinhoe
Jack Burchill

37175 calls at Pinhoe with a test train on 22.05.2025. Copyright Jack Burchill.

Well caught, Jack - many thanks for sending it in.

More units for storage
Colin Pidgeon

69008 on 5Q75 Eastleigh TRSMD to Long Marston taking South West Trains unit 701048 back to Long Marston. 23.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin (and Ken, for sending in the pics).

Merthen Farm HST
Craig Munday

43186 pictured at Merthen Farm on the 22nd working 2P08. The Castle set will depart Penzance earlier in the May timetable. 22.04.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

A dramatic shot beneath that moody sky, many thanks Craig.

Severn Tunnel Junction
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

47322 in Railfreight 'red stripe' livery is pictured at Severn Tunnel Junction in 1987. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil, another for the '47322/57002 collection'!

Par Down Loop
Jon Hird

A tough shot, but I do like a challenge! Colas 70813 was due to stop in Par Down Loop on the evening of 23.04.2025 whilst working a train of autoballasters to Penzance (6C42). The loop is in sheer darkness, but the train was due to be passed by a GWR IET unit working the 1803 Paddington - Penzance. Using the light from the IET's headlights and windows, I was able to get enough light onto the autoballasters to just about pull off a shot.

Trains seldom go into the loop nowadays, personally the last time I photographed anything in there prior to tonight was back in 2010 (although trains have been in there more recently than that).

70813 with 6C42 is passed by 802108 working 1C92 on the evening of 23.04.2025. Copyright Jon Hird.

April 23rd 2025

23/4/2025

Two new features

Two new 'features' have today been added to the website.

The LSL Chairmans Train visits the South West

The South Devon Railway Easter Gala

Please have a look - click the links above - and enjoy the (many!!) photos!

Exeter to Penzance
James Bown

Hi.
I saw the name on the HIitachi at Exeter St David’s and looked up Tulbahadur Pun. A remarkable story of selfless bravery earning the VC.

a 30 minute delay in the service resulted in a nonstop Plymouth-Penzance leg whilst passengers for the intermediate stations had the good fortune of a comfortable HST, 43156!

Regards
James Bown

GWR Hitachi unit 800022, named after The Napalese Gurkha soldier Tul Bahadur Pun VC. 22.04.2025, copyright James Bown.

Classic traction at Plymouth in the form of 43156. 22.04.2025, copyright James Bown.

Many thanks indeed, James. Wonderful that you were inspired to look up the stories of the IET's namesake, goes to show that the naming of trains does serve a purpose.

There are many websites with information about Tul Bahadur Pun, but you can click here for the GWR press release following their units naming.

Re: 37037
Guy Vincent

Loco 37037 recently featured in Sam Ryder’s coverage of the SDR Easter Gala, stabled at Buckfastleigh and presumably awaiting repairs. Following delivery of the class 66 fleet EWS turned the former Wigan Springs Branch depot into a component recovery and dismantling centre (Wigan CRDC) where many former BR locomotives ended their days.

37037 was one of the very few that survived the CRDC as it was purchased by Harry Needle who returned the loco to running order before selling it on. We visited Wigan in April 2003 when the attached photo was taken.

37037 at Wigan CRDC in April 2003. Copyright Guy Vincent.

37037 at Buckfastleigh awaiting restoration. 19.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

Many thanks Guy - hopefully the loco gets some attention soon.

Re: 37037 (again)
Jon Hird

37037 at the South Devon Railway diesel gala, in ex-scrapline condition. 12.06.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

More of 57002's past life
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

During its life as a Freightliner loco, 57002 passes South Morton in 2001. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks, Phil.

There are some more recent photos of 57002 at Bristol in our features section.

April 22nd 2025

22/4/2025

Classic Traction in Cornwall
Craig Munday

The Chairman's train ran to Cornwall early in the Easter period and lay over in St Ives over the Good Friday into Saturday night. The train had to depart the resort early due to the 10mph restriction, and Branch departing Penzance at 06.50 bound for St Ives. The train was three hours late from Penzance back to Shrewsbury due to loco problems. The light had improved around St Austell bay, though multi layered clouds made an appearance of the sun a lottery. The locos disturbed two grazing horses at Coombe as they headed Eastward. 19.04.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

A Castle set is also pictured at Brea in fine light some days earlier. 43093 and 43187 pass Brea with 2P08 on 16.04.2025. Copyright Craig Munday.

Great shots, Craig - many thanks.

57002 - in a past life
Bill Elston, Steve Clark & Phil Smith

From Bill Elston:

Further to recent references to Class 57 no. 57002, I attach a couple of photos of it in its former guise as 47322, taken at Exeter.

The first in red stripe large logo grey livery, un-named. dated 8/11/1991. Copyright Bill Elston.

The second, as above, now unoficially named DESERT ORCHID. Many of Tinsley-based locos were so treated prior to repainting into trainload freight sector liveries, and I was able to capture quite a few at Exeter. 06.08.1992, copyright Bill Elston.

The third, detail of painted name, a fine example of Tinsley Depot's artwork. 01.05.1992. Copyright Bill Elston.

And the below images are from Steve Clark:

Have dug out a couple of images of 47322 before it became 57002. The Class 47 is seen in RFD Livery on Eastleigh Depot. Copyright Steve Clark.

A later image after the transformation into 57002. The loco is seen passing Poole on a DRS Route learner in preparation for the resumption of the movement of Low Level contaminated waste from the Winfrith site near Wool. Copyright Steve Clark.

And a couple from Phil 'Shattered' Smith:

47322 in Railfreight 'red stripe' at Bristol Bath Road in 1991. Copyright Phil Smith.

Some really interesting images, thanks to you all.

Deforestation at Moorswater
Roger Winnen

An interesting shot from the window of a train from Roger. The trees surrounding the mothballed run round loop at Moorswater appear to have been cleared. This loop was almost invisible previously, such was the growth. 19.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

69006 on Westbury -Eastleigh 'Tripper'
Guy Vincent

Rebuilt and re-engineered class 56 loco 56128, now 69006 'Pathfinder Railtours', firstly at Dilton Marsh, light, as 0Z69 0810 Eastleigh East Yard - Westbury Yard and then heading back south with the daily 6O41 1014 Westbury - Eastleigh engineers trip working, today consisting of two class 66s, 66703 and 66705 and a LWR carrier set.

GBRF have recently been sending class 69s to Westbury for driver training and handling experience and this particular loco debuted last Monday (14th April) before making four further visits during the week. As 56128 I have no recorded sightings of the loco at Westbury so this was a fortunate opportunity to finally nail it.

56128 was stored at Toton for several years where it was stripped of many parts. It then moved to Log Marston for further storage, was sold to Devon and Cornwall Railways whose intention was to refurbish and reinstate it to traffic as 56313 following on from 56057 (56311) and 56003 (56312). This failed to take place and after further storage at the Nene Valley Railway, Wansford, the loco was sold to C F Booth, Rotherham and moved by road to their yard for scrapping. One cab was reportedly destined for 'The Cab Yard' outdoor museum near Bridgend. Fortunately the stripped and gutted loco was then resold to GB Railfreight and moved to Longport in late 2018 as a reserve donor bodyshell for the class 69 project. With the project increased to 16 conversions 56128 was included and emerged in July 2022 as 69006. It reached Penzance with sister loco 69005 on 24th June2023 when it worked Pathfinder's 'Mazey Day Special' from Tame Bridge Parkway.

I've included one picture each of 56311 (formerly 56057 and now 69002) and 56312 (formerly 56003, now 69013) with which 56128 would have been grouped as 56313 had the earlier Devon & Cornwall / BARS scheme come to pass. Also due to be included was 56114 which would have been renumbered 56314.

69006 at Dilton Marsh light engine 21 04 2025. Copyright Guy Vincent.

69006 passing between the platforms at Dilton Marsh 21.04.2025. Copyright Guy Vincent.

69006 at Penleigh about to enter Westbury Yard 21.04.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

69006, 66703 & 66705 in Westbury Yard awaiting departure. 21.04.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

69006 66703 & 66705 with 6O41 1014 Westbury - Eastleigh approaching Dilton Marsh Halt. 21.04.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

56311 (formerly 56057, now 69002) at Cardiff Central on 14th July 2011. Copyright Guy Vincent.

56312 (formerly 56003, now 69013) between Melksham and Bradford Junction on the Swindon to Westbury leg of a route learning trip that originated at Merehead Quarry, 24th September 2013. Copyright Guy Vincent.

A superb article, many thanks Guy

Clay and The Chairmans Train
Steve Clark

66127 with the Treviscoe - Cliffe Vale clay on the outskirts of St. Austell on 17.04.2025. Copyright Steve Clark.

37667 and 37521 head west through St. Austell with 'The Chairmans Train' on a rainy 18.04.2025. Copyright Steve Clark.

The pair of 37's returning east through Bodmin Parkway on 19.04.2025. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks once again, Steve

April 21st 2025

21/4/2025

The Hidden Valley Railway
Tim Hughes

Couple of photos of a railway, members might not get to that often, that at Hidden Valley discovery Park, near Launceston. 

The Hidden Valley Discovery Park's miniature railway in operation. Copyright Tim Hughes.

Putting the loco away at the end of the day. Copyright Tim Hughes.

Many thanks, Tim.

The link to the Hidden Valleys website is here.

A few more of
'The Chairmans Train'
Roger Winnen, Julian Stephens & Clive Smith

37521 'on the blocks' at Penzance following arrival from St. Ives with 1Z33. 19.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

'The Chairmans Train' coaching stock at Penzance. 20.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

37667 and 37521 head through St. Austell with 1Z33. 19.04.2025, copyright Julian Stephens.

Full on thrash up the 1 in 42 incline as 37667 and 37521 head the 1Z33 06.00 St Ives - Shrewsbury private charter 'The Chairman's Train' running 154 minutes late. 20.04.2025, copyright Clive Smith.

Thanks all - we'll get these all added to the 'Features' section in due course.

Re-signalling Penzance
Roger Winnen
Part 5

Ground Frame for carriage reception line. The slopers siding. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

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