Blog Archives

April 20th 2025

20/4/2025

The Chairmans Train
St. Ives - Shrewsbury - 19.04.2025
Mark Lynam, Tony Shore, Jon Hird, Joe Birchall, Martin Scane, Jack Burchill, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Bill Elston

The Locomotive Services LTD. 'Chairmans Train' left the southwest behind on 19.04.2025. Cornish veteran class 37's 37667 and 37521 worked the train from St. Ives to Shrewsbury via Penzance. The locos were plagued by a multitude of issues at Penzance, which led to a 188 minute delay leaving the terminus. Please enjoy the below images which have been sent in, documenting the journey of the train through our region (in some typical bank holiday weather!).

37667 (37521 out of view on the other end) at 5.56 this morning before it worked 1Z33 0600 St Ives to Shrewsbury via Penzance. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

A little after 6am, 37521 hauls the LSL chairmans train through Lelant. 19.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

37521 heads away towards St. Erth. 19.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

37667 from the wall at Penzance on Platform 2 after returning from St Ives. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

37667 from the other side. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

37667 + 37521 departing Penzance for an unscheduled stop in Slopers siding to run round. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Both locos were having issues so it took ages for anything to really happen at Slopers, but I got this shot when the sun made a brief appearance and cloud to break up. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Both locos were uncoupled from the coaches and started to go towards Longrock once the ECS sleeper had past to go to the shed. These then ended up coupling up between Ponsandane Footbridge and the washer plant to then run into Penzance station, leaving the coaches in Slopers. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

37667 + 37521 at Penzance, where I think they managed to start both engines. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Now double headed the set seen propelling towards Penzance. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

37667 + 37521 clagging as they depart Penzance 188 late at 10.28 working to Shrewsbury, where 47810 was attached to the front at Bristol Temple Meads. 19.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The class 37s climbing the 1 in 78 out of Truro. 19.04.2025, copyright Joseph Birchall.

In a lucky spot of sun, 37667 and 37521 wind around the curves at Tywardreath. 19.04.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Just round the corner from Tony's shot above, the pair pound their way up the bank past Stoneybridge. 19.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

My offering of the ill fated run of the 37s. Captured leaving Teignmouth some 163 minutes late. 19.04.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

After issues in Cornwall 37667 'Floppsie' and 37521 finally passes the site of the old Exminster Railway Station with the 0600 1Z33 St Ives to Shrewsbury some 160 minutes late. 19.04.2025, copyright David Tozer.

Running 160 minutes late 37667"Flopsie" and 37521 with 1Z33 0600 St Ives to Shrewsbury passes Tobie's Reclamation Yard (Exminster).19.04.2025, copyright Jack Burchill.

37667 37521 work the 'The chairmans train' 0600 St Ives to Shrewsbury 1Z33 past Cowley Bridge Junction running 156 minutes late. 19 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

The Chairman of LSL's train ran from St Ives to Shrewsbury today, headed by 37667 and 37521. After a substantial delay it finally passed through Creech 167 late. 19.04.2025, copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks everyone for the excellent coverage of this interesting working. We will put a 'feature' together over the coming days and compile all the images in one place.

Meldon Quarry Activity
Sarah Bell

Hello,

I took a walk along part of the Granite Way this week and there was a fair bit of activity at the old Meldon Quarry. I thought your members might be interested in the video I've posted on YouTube showing the latest situation.

Feel free to share this link on your excellent news page.

Best wishes,
Sarah Bell

A YouTube video showing the activity at Meldon - click the red button to play.

Many thanks, Sarah - very interesting!

57002 - in a past life
Guy Vincent

A photo of 57002, complete with Rail Express nameplates, on 9th April 2021 when it worked a one-off 6Z82 1057 West Ealing (Plasser Works) - Taunton Fairwater movement conveying refurbished vehicles back to then HOBC base at Fairwater Yard. Seen on the Westbury avoiding line at Penleigh. Copyright Guy Vincent.

That DRS blue looks good on anything, many thanks Guy.

The South Devon Railway
Easter Gala
Sam Ryder

We've been sent a number of photographs of this event, which we will add to the 'Features' page over the next few days. Below are a selection from Sam to whet your appetites!

5526 working on the South Devon Railway during the Easter Gala. 19.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

Class 33 33002 in action on the South Devon Railway. 19.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

1369 awaits departure from Buckfastleigh. 19.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

0-4-2 14xx 1420 under restoration at Buckfastleigh. 19.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

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

Many thanks Sam - more of this event coming soon.

The Chairman heading west
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger, Keith and Jon,

I popped down to Par station to see D6851 (37667) and D6817 (37521) pass through on LSL's 1Z31 'The Chairman's Train' - shame about the weather after all the nice days we've had lately (last Tuesday excepted!) The sound of the two locos growling up the incline and away to the west certainly brought back some memories. D6817 is a former china clay loco at one time named 'English China Clays', and I think I took a photo of the other one paired with a second heading a rake of CDAs east through St Austell in 1999 or 2000 when the majority of clay trains were already in the hands of brand new Class 66s.

Sorry they're a little late.

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

Seen from the footbridge D6851 (37667) leads D6817 (37521) through Par on LSL's 1Z31 'The Chairman's Train'. 18th April 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

D6851 and D6817 prepare to tackle the climb away from Par. 18th April 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

No problem for a combined 3,500hp and 24-wheel drive! 18th April 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks indeed, Neil

Colonel Holman Fred Stephens
Dennis Clarke

I visited the Kent and East Sussex Rail Museum, at Tenderton station, on Thursday.

I was quite intrigued to find several artefacts and memorabilia in the museum relating to the Plymouth, Devonport and South Western Junction Railway, Callington Line.

I did a bit of research and discovered that a certain Colonel Stephens was involved in engineering the line and getting it opened in 1908, having reconstructed it from a narrow gauge Mineral Railway. This was just one of many railways that he was involved in.

I have enclosed several photos I took in the museum, most of them through the protective glass cases, so forgive the quality. There are a few photos with regards to Bere Alston and Callington.

Here is a link to the Wikipedia page regarding Colonel Stephens.

It is not really a surprise that he was involved in The South West with a middle name of Holman !

Artefacts in the Kent and East Sussex Rail Museum, at Tenderton station. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

An interesting find with a local connection, so far from home. Many thanks, Dennis.

Re-signalling Penzance
Roger Winnen
Part 4

Looking at the long and sea sidings. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen.

50041 in resident at Penzance. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

The scene prior to the track alteration. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

April 19th 2025

19/4/2025

'The Chairmans Train'
Jack Burchill, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Clive Smith, Roger Winnen, Jon Hird, Gareth Thornton, Joe Birchall, Mark Lynam & Mick House

5029"Nunney castle and 57311"The Institution of Mechanical Engineers" accelerates away from Exeter St Davids with 1Z29 Kingswear to Taunton. 18.04.2025, copyright Jack Burchill.

Thankfully it had ceased raining for a while when the 0750 1Z50 Kingswear to Taunton passed Rewe with 5029 Nunney Castle and 57311. Needless to say the rain soon started again soon after they passed by. 18.04.2025, copyright David Tozer.

D6851 D6817 (37667 37521) thunder through Exeter St Thomas on the 'The chairman's train' 1000 Taunton to St Germans 18 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Now down to Dawlish Warren for the 37's. 37667(D6851)"Flopsie" & 37521(D6817) power out of the station after letting a class 221 ahead. 18.04.2025, copyright Jack Burchill.

Fairly abysmal weather but not as grim as the forecast. Worth getting a bit wet for the sound of the thrash up the bank at Rattery which could be heard some distance away. 37667 (D6851) and 37521(D6817) head the 1Z30 11.00 Taunton - St Germans private charter 'The Chairman's Train' . 1963 BR era vintage locos looking and sounding good in 2025. 18.04.2025, copyright Clive Smith.

The managers special Kingswear to Penzance via Taunton. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

The smart rolling stock for all to see. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

Departing Plymouth Station for St Germans to set down. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

The train had terminated at St. Germans with the passengers taken away by road. The train then ran as 5Z31 from St. Germans to Lostwithiel, the passengers rejoining the train later in the afternoon. 37667 and 37521 pound up St. Germans bank from a standing start on full power during a momentary pause in the rain. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

From the signalbox at Liskeard, we see the Chairman's Train pass by, running a few minutes early. 18.04.2025, copyright Gareth Thornton.

250418h Heavy rain at Lostwithiel during the afternoon. Copyright Roger Winnen

Now running as 1Z31, 37667 and 521 are seen near Crugwallins. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

37667 and 37521 approach Truro. 18.04.2025, copyright Joseph Birchall.

37667 + 37521 working 1Z31 1538 Lostwithiel to Penzance at Apex Bridge, Scorrier in gloomy weather, thankfully the rain had stopped by then, just a bit of mist around. 18.04.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

37667 arriving at Redruth. The Chairman's Train had a bit of a problem as it had to make an unscheduled stop at Redruth this afternoon with Loco problems, with the driver having to go to the second loco to give some attention. On the departure from Redruth lead loco D6851s (Flopsie) engine was noted to only be idling wile second loco D6817 was taking full power. 18.04.2025, copyright Mick House.

A pause at a very wet Redruth. 18.04.2025, copyright Mick House.

Departure from Redruth. 18.04.2025, copyright Mick House.

37521 at Redruth. 18.04.2025, copyright Mick House.

Arrival at Penzance Station prior to its overnight stay at St Ives. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnwn

Under the roof at Penzance. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

Viewed from the steps leading up to the former booking office of years ago. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

D6851 and D6817 Backs its train out to Ponsandane. 18.04.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

At around 11pm, 37667 passes through St. Erth en route to St. Ives running as 1Z32. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

37521 on the rear of 1Z32 at St. Erth. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Arrival at St. Ives. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

37667 has gone as far as possible down the St. Ives branch. The train would stable here overnight. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A broader view of a sleepy St. Ives with the Chairmans Train snaking away over the viaduct and up onto the hillside beyond. Click to enlarge. 18.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks all for your photos, much appreciated - we'll create a 'feature' over the next few days.

Bristol Temple Meads
Martin Scane

A very smart 57002 stabled at the up end of Bristol TM this lunchtime. I wonder why the nameplates are covered? I’m sure someone will have the answer. 18.04.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

When I got back to Temple Meads after the football today I was just in time to literally snap 66659 at 17-30 with 6Z51 Portbury Auto Terminal to Margam. 18.04.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

Very smart indeed - Many thanks, Martin.

The answer to your question is below!

Bristol Temple Meads
& 57002 info!
Guy Vincent

A pleasant surprise at Bristol Temple Meads this morning: the sight of newly named 57002 ‘Winston Churchill’, supplemented by ‘The Roaring Lion’, in the loco spur at the east end of platform 7.

The loco is now owned by Locomotive Services Group and worked the London Paddington - Bristol leg of Thursday’s ‘Chairman’s Train’, handing over there to 5029 ‘Nunney Castle’ and classmate 57311 ‘Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ for the next stage to Kingswear.

Originally delivered to Tinsley (41A) as non-boiler fitted D1803 on 21st January 1965, coincidentally just 3 days before the wartime leader’s death, the loco was renumbered 47322 on 23rd March 1974. In July 1990 Tinsley depot applied the unofficial name ‘Desert Orchid’ which was carried until the end of 1995. Stored unserviceable in December 1997 it moved to the place it was originally built, Brush Traction at Loughborough, where re-engineering and conversion to 57002 was undertaken. On release from the Brush works in November 1998 57002 was named ‘Freightliner Phoenix’. Later sold to Direct Rail Services, repainted in their dark blue livery and fitted with the ‘Rail Express’ nameplates formerly carried by 47853. 57002 was repainted at Arlington Fleet Services, Eastleigh in November 2024 and the finish is stunning with a deep glossy lustre. The nameplates resemble those on SR ‘Battle of Britain’ 34051 which is part of the national collection at the NRM, York and was used to haul Churchill’s funeral train from Waterloo to Hanborough on 30th January 1965.

In 1978 class 87 AC electric 87019 was named Winston Churchill and carried the plates until 2005. The loco was later exported to Bulgaria.

Maybe photos of this loco in any of its former guises could be provided by members/readers?

Note: On one side the plates remained bagged over, due to not having been conveniently positioned since the official naming at Paddington on Thursday morning.

57002 at Bristol Temple Meads, 18.04.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

57002's nameplate seen at Bristol Temple Meads, 18.04.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

Great photos and some useful info, many thanks indeed Guy.

Spring is here!
James Bown

This picture was taken yesterday from the bridge at Melbury Bubb (on the Yeovil Pen Mill to Dorchester line) showing the snaking line in all its spring beauty. 17.04.2025, copyright James Bown.

What an idyllic scene, well done James - many thanks for the photo.

Re-signalling Penzance
Roger Winnen
Part 3

Alterations to the track layout at Penzance. Coloured light signals glowing. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Platform 2 Starting signal now redundant. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

New track being laid opposite the signal box. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Track removal taking place. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Many hands makes light work as the reorganisation of trackwork takes place. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

HST departing Platform 1 Penzance. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

An HST departs Platform 1. December 1981, copyright Roger Winnen

April 18th 2025

18/4/2025

Don't miss todays 'special'

A reminder that today, 18.02.2025, sees the Locomotive Services LTD. 'Chairmans Train' visit Cornwall.

Kingswear - Penzance (via Taunton)
(Kingswear - Taunton: 5029 'Nunney Castle' / Taunton - Penzance: 37521/37667)
1Z29 0750 Kingswear (For Dartmouth) to Taunton
1Z30 1100 Taunton to St Germans
5Z31 1343 St Germans to Lostwithiel
1Z31 1538 Lostwithiel to Penzance
Train goes to Long Rock for fuel & servicing (click here - 5Z32), then works:
1Z32 2250 Penzance to St Ives

The train returns tomorrow morning from St. Ives - times in the 'railtour calendar' - click here.

Don't forget to send in your pics - [email protected]

5029 and 57311 on 1042 Paddington to Kingswear pass Cowley Bridge Junction 17 April 2025. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks for the photo, Paul

Swindon Scenes
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

1Z48 {Cardiff Central - Shoeburyness] with 70000 'Britannia' west of Swindon, entering platform 1 and not stopping as scheduled, passing right through and meeting a class 66 [66622] in Swindon East Loop on the steam special's departure, with a class 47 at the rear which appeared not to being under power. 16.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

66622 was in the Swindon East Loop scheduled from 1855 to 23042 BUT actually was in the loop from 1852 until 1926 and left 76 EARLY - see RTT for more details. 16.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

66799 tnt 66315 with 4V45 Quainton Railhead to Grovesend Quarry pasing Swindon 3EARLY - not very good photos?? 16.04.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

57030 on 5Q26 Walton Old Junction to Newport Docks with 321312 & 321319. 17.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

57003 on 1Z29 LSL The Chairmans Train Paddington to Kingswear (for Dartmouth) 57003 was replaced by GWR 4-6-0 5029 Nunney Castle from Bristol T M to Kingswear. The covered nameplate on 57003 is Winston Churchill is the same style that was carried on Battle of Britain pacific 34051. 17.04.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Great photos, thanks Ken and Colin.

A Peak in the rain
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

45145 is seen in the pouring rain waiting to leave Bristol Temple Meads in 1987. The train is a rake of mixed liveried mk2's. Copyright Phil Smith.

Very atmospheric - many thanks indeed, Phil.

Springtime in St. Austell
Jon Hird

With the colours of spring starting to show through in the valley below, 66127 crosses Trenance Viaduct, St. Austell, with 6M53 - 10 loaded JIA's from Treviscoe. 17.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Re-signalling Penzance
Roger Winnen
Part 2

HST departs Penzance. 06.12.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Resignalling work at Penzance. 06.12.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Ballasting track at Penzance. 06.12.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Ballasting work adjacent to Penzance Signal Box. 06.12.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Redundant track lifted from the sea wall area. 06.12.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

April 17th 2025

17/4/2025

Cardiff Steel then and now!
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, A picture from Michael Adams taken on 5 September 1992 shows 37053/077 heading east through Cardiff Central on an empty steel working.
Michael Forward

Roger, Fast forward(definitely not me!) to 1 April 2025 and we see 66056 with 6M41 Margam to Round Oak steel passing through at 12.30.
Thanks and all the best, Michael.

Many Thanks Michael

Re-signalling Penzance
Roger Winnen
Part 1

44 years ago to the day - 17.04.1981 - A DMU departs from Platform 4 at Penzance Today Lloyds Bank with the dome is once again surrounded in scaffolding. Copyright Roger Winnen

A HST arriving at Penzance. 17.04.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

The building of a new room for signalling equipment. 17.04.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

Penzance with semaphores and coloured light signals (non operational) 22.11.1981, copyright Roger Winnen

43093 in 2023
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

43093 beneath 'the wires' in 2023. This power car, like all remaining GWR examples, is now mostly confined to journeys between Plymouth and Penzance with the odd excursion to Exeter. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil

April 16th 2025

16/4/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 39
Bodmin and Padstow 04.01.1964
Michael L. Roach

The year 1964 was the last of mostly steam-hauled trains on The Withered Arm lines in North Cornwall; although there were already some trains between Bodmin Road and Padstow hauled by North British Type 2 diesels in the D6300 series.

My first trip of the year was a day trip from Plymouth to Padstow by train on Saturday 4 January. The trip to Bodmin Road was in a 3-car dmu hauling a tail load of a parcels van. From Bodmin Road to General was a type 2 with two coaches on the 10.05am. From General I was on foot for nearly four hours, until boarding a train at Dunmere for Padstow.

In just 10¾ miles to Padstow I had two different steam engines numbers 41295 and 31874 on the two coaches. I was at Padstow for nearly 2½ hours finally leaving at 5.02pm by which time it was dark. There then followed three trips behind Ivatt tank no. 41295 Padstow – Bodmin North – Wadebridge – Bodmin Road where arrival at 6.49pm afforded a four minute connection into an up train hauled by one of the original Warship Class with five coaches.

A successful day out in the depths of winter, although I did not take many photos that day, so I have added a couple of photos from 1959 including one that surfaced recently that I had quite forgotten about. How long is it since there were semaphore signals at the location in the penultimate image.

Ivatt 41295 of Wadebridge Shed stands at Bodmin North shrouded in steam at 10.30am on 4 January 1964. The engine moved to Yeovil five months later. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The 11.20am Bodmin North to Wadebridge passes Dunmere Junction behind 41295 on 04.01.1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The water tank in Pencarrow Woods on the Wenford Branch on the same day. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Two N-class engines at Padstow on 4 January 1964. At the platform is 31859 of Exmouth Junction leaving on the 2.52pm to Bodmin North while 31874 waits to gain the platform to take out the 3.13pm. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

31874 of Exmouth Junction is seen at Padstow on the 3.13pm to Okehampton on 4 January 1964. The engine was withdrawn two months later. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4552 of St. Blazey runs into Bodmin Road with the 11.35am SO from Padstow past a GW wooden bracket signal on Saturday 18 July 1959. After taking water and running around 4552 would take out the 12.38pm SO to Wadebridge. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4552 takes water as 6828 Trellech Grange of Truro Shed departs with the 11.15am off Newquay. This was a restaurant car train to Birmingham and Wolverhampton (due 7.58pm). The train ran via Stratford-upon-Avon. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Some lovely memories of a line I'm sure all of us wish still existed, Michael. At least parts of it still live on.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

GEN!
The LSL Chairmans Train visits the SW

We are due a visit by the Locomotive Services LTD. private chairmans train over the Easter weekend.

The train will travel to Kingswear on Thursday 17th, then to Penzance on Friday the 18th, stabling overnight on the St. Ives branch. On Saturday 19th, the train departs the region for Shrewsbury.

Traction is expected to be via steam and diesel for various legs of the tour.

Full times are available in our Railtour Calendar page - click here.

BR Blue at Bristol
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

47401 'North Eastern' waiting for the off from Platform 5 at Bristol Temple Meads in 1985. This loco is now preserved. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks as always, Phil

50035 Ark Royal at St Austell
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, Great pictures of the Newquay line,thank you. Here is a picture from Michael Adams of 50035 'Ark Royal' at St.Austell on 13 August 1981 with, possibly the up mid-day parcels from Penzance. This locomotive has been preserved and can be seen on the Severn Valley Railway. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many Thanks Michael

April 15th 2025

15/4/2025

Bertie the Badger
Clive Smith

Not a new GWR driver, but a surreal moment at Penzance.

I'd just got off the train and fotted 43092 before heading to the other end to fot 43156. The station manager duly appeared and ushered us off the platform and closed the barrier. I thought a ticket inspection was about to take place, or a fare evader was on the train.

All of a sudden someone appeared in a badger costume posing in front of the train followed by various members of St John's Ambulance, also posing and taking photos. Yes, I may have done that a few times myself with others in front of trains over forty odd years ago, and people still laugh at them today.

Bertie The Badger seemed to be there for ages, but at least he'd chosen the right train instead of the much more modern IET. Good for Bertie. Clearly a badger with taste.

St John's Ambulance nationwide have Bertie as their mascot and they have a training programme for 5-10 year olds in first aid and those members are called Badgers

'Bertie the Badger' with 43092 at Penzance. 12.04.2025, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive - quite possibly the first badger we've featured in the 'news'!

Good old days on
The Newquay Branch
Roger Winnen
Part 3

D1008 Western Harrier at St Columb Road Station. 15.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

The 08.45 ex Newquuayat St Columb Road with a return Holiday Express. 15.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

A Three Car DMU at St Dennis Junction. 15.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

A Peak with the Nottingham to Newquay at Roche. This location is barely recognisable compared to the station in 2025. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

D1031 on the 08.45 From Newquay to Manchester crosses the iron bridge at Goss Moor. 29.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

SDR 'Freight Train Experience'
Sam Ryder

Small Prarie 5526 working a 'freight train experience' over the South Devon Railway on 13.04.2025. Copyright Sam Ryder.

5526 passes 1369 at Staverton. 13.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

5526 now running bunker first through the woods. 13.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

1369 also running bunker first. 13.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

Passengers on the veranda of the 'Toad' brake van. 13.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

Great photos, Sam - many thanks.

Stoke in the snow
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

43124 leads a service through Stoke Gifford in the snow during 2001. Copyright Phil Smith.

A great seasonal shot, many thanks Phil.

April 14th 2025

14/4/2025

Good old days on
The Newquay Branch
Roger Winnen
Part 2

Bugle Station. June 1973, copyright Roger Winnen

Peak D71 in the countryside somewhere along the branch. From the 'sky tips' in the background, I would guess Mid-Cornwall? 09.06.1973, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Swindon Built DMU departs Bugle with the Carbis Branch in the foreground. 09.06.1973, copyright Roger Winnen

47136 approaching St. Blazey/Middleway crossing with the 16.35 Newquay to Wellington Salop. 30.03.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

The 10.05 Ex Newquay approaches St Dennis Junction behind D1028 Western Hussar. 09.06.1974, copyright Roger Winnen

More of Cornwall in the sun
Paul Barlow

43097 43198 on 1350 Penzance to Plymouth approaches Burngullow junction. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

43156 43092 1547 Plymouth to Penzance passes Hallenbeagle, Scorrier. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

43156 43092 on 1315 Penzance to Plymouth passes the silos at Burngullow junction. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

43156 43092 working the 1042 Plymouth to Penzance passes over St Pinnock viaduct. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

43186 43188 on 1250 Penzance to Plymouth passes Burngullow junction. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

43198 43097 1555 Plymouth to Penzance passes Hallenbeagle, Scorrier. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

800304 Largin viaduct on 0910 Penzance to Paddington. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Voyager 221135 on Largin viaduct working the 0840 Penzance to Edinburgh which was terminated at Birmingham due to a fatality. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Great photos Paul - much appreciated.

April 13th 2025

13/4/2025

The Midland Pullman
and other coastal trains
Sam Ryder & Jon Hird

43049 and 43058 with a Chester - Paignton charter passing Coryton Cove on 12.04.2025. Copyright Sam Ryder.

Later in the day, the returning train heads back to Chester approaching Dawlish Warren. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The camping coaches and fun park at Dawlish Warren with a streak of Nanking Blue between them. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A crosscountry Voyager heads west at Coryton Cove. 12.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

A GWR Class 150 passes Langstone Rock, Dawlish Warren. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks, Sam

Sunny Cornish Photos
Paul Barlow

43188 43186 1015 Plymouth to Penzance passes over Largin viaduct. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Drone view of 43097 43198 on 0850 Penzance to Plymouth passes over Largin Viaduct. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

158762 works the 0950 Penzance to Plymouth over St Pinnock viaduct. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

43198 43097 1142 Plymouth to Penzance passes Restormel. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

Ground level shot of 43198 43097 1142 Plymouth to Penzance passes Restormel. 10 April 2025, copyright Paul Barlow.

A great selection, many thanks indeed Paul

Good old days on
The Newquay Branch
Roger Winnen
Part 1

With notes from Roger Geach

A glimpse inside Newquay signal box. June 1973, copyright Roger Winnen.

Newquay Signal Box and a Western. 16th June 1973, copyright Roger Winnen.

Class 52 Western at Quintrel Downs on a Saturday Express. 16th June 1973, copyright Roger Winnen

From Roger Geach:

The western on 1M95 I cant help with, this was the 0845 departure to Manchester.

1022 worked the 1E22 1005 Newquay - Newcastle to Plymouth
1044 worked the 1A15 1030 Newquay - Paddington to Plymouth

A Swindon built cross country at St Columb Road. 16th June 1973, copyright Roger Winnen

Peak D71 awaits departure from Newquay. 16th June 1973, copyright Roger Winnen

From Roger Geach:

I'm pretty certain the Peak 71 picture at Newquay was taken on Saturday 16 06 1973 when 71 worked the 1205 Newquay - Nottingham 1M54.

Many thanks for the additional info Roger G, much appreciated.

South Devon Scenes
Sam Ryder

1369 at work on the South Devon Railway. 12.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

5526 working 'The South Devon Limited'. 12.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

1369 skirts the river Dart. 12.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

Going back in time with a smashing black and white side-on shot of 1369. 12.04.2025, copyright Sam Ryder.

A great set of photos, thanks again Sam.

Diesel action at Bodmin
Jon Hird

47306 drifts down Charlies Gate with a driver experience course using 6 of the 8 preserved CDA wagons. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The train on its way back up to Bodmin General near 'Quarry Curve'. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Another trip down the line and we see 47306 crossing the viaduct at Bodmin Parkway. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The resident 'Bubble Car' 121020 also out and about, seen approaching Colesloggett Halt. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Recent clearance works around Colesloggett Halt have opened up this new view. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Arriving back at Bodmin General, secondman James surrenders the token to the signalman. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

With the token on board, 121020 is able to depart for Parkway with the last service of the day. 12.04.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

April 12th 2025

12/4/2025

The Bodmin Railway
Steam Gala
16th - 18th May 2025

From The Bodmin Railway:

We’re delighted to share that for our Spring Steam Gala we’ll be bringing together the classic line of GWR branch line engines; a Pannier, Prairie and Auto-tank. Not seen together for 7 years, these 3 magnificent loco types will be with us over the 3 day event as part of our Railway200 celebrations marking the bi centenary of the first passenger train.

This classic line up of Great Western Branch Line locos, featuring 7714 & 1450 from Severn Valley Railway, 5553 from the Waterman Locomotive Trust and our very own 5552, were once the backbone of many Cornish branch lines. There’ll also be a first-class experience in our wonderful Victorian carriage on Saturday and Sunday as well as rides on ‘Camel’ the pump trolley, the goods train, plus behind the scenes exclusive access to our workshop.

Over the weekend, we’ll be recapturing this bygone age of steam train travel around the county, loading and unloading typical morning freight from the era including milk churns and newspapers.

1,2, & 3 day rover tickets are available offering unlimited travel all day!

Find out more and book tickets - click here.

Please book your tickets and support this local event - much work has gone in behind the scenes to make it happen!

Through the tunnel,
and down to the docks
Roger Winnen

Pinnock Tunnel in 1971. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

Inside the Pinnock Tunnel. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

Pinnock Tunnel May 1971. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

The Fowey end of the Pinnock Tunnel. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

D3497 at Fowey. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

Loading Clay at Fowey. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

D3497 at Fowey. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

Tracks at Fowey. 22.05.1971, copyright Roger Winnen

April 11th 2025

11/4/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 38
Dowlais Cae Harris
Michael L. Roach

In Parts 26, 29 and 32 I described a day trip from Plymouth to travel the cross-country route from Pontypool Road to Neath for the last time, but not on the last day of passenger services; including visits to stations at Crumlin and Nelson & Llancaiach. Nelson was the junction station for the steeply graded branch to Dowlais Cae Harris. Dowlais once had several railway stations which I hope to cover one day, but it has not had any standard gauge railways for many many years. Residents wishing to get on a train will travel two miles downhill all the way to the centre of Merthyr Tydfil. Together Dowlais and Merthyr were once far larger and more important than Cardiff because of three major industries – iron ore extraction, coal mining and iron making.

The line from Nelson to Dowlais was 9½ miles long and steeply graded with long lengths at 1 in 40/42. The summit was at Cwmbargoed Station where in the exchange sidings alongside were always many mineral wagons waiting to be loaded with coal or waiting to depart. There were very few houses at Cwmbargoed as it was a bleak place on a par with Princetown but with none of the facilities that Princetown has to offer. On first sight I thought it strange that Cwmbargoed should have a luggage label printed for it but the people who lived there would have wanted their luggage returned when they went on holiday. As my train approached Cae Harris Station it passed the engine shed; a sub-shed of Merthyr Shed. For the last few years the shed only had one class of steam engine working from it and that was Collet's 1924 design 0-6-2 tank numbered 5600 and 6600 upwards. They were used on both the passenger and coal trains and were ideal for the steep gradients; and in all the photos I have seen every one was facing north without exception. The shed received a new coaling plant in 1958.

Iron has been used for thousands of years but only in small quantities for implements and weapons. The technology reached Britain about 450BC. Iron smelting took off in the eighteenth century with the invention of the blast furnace able to make larger quantities with sites in South Wales at Blaenavon, Merthyr and Dowlais among others. Founded in 1759 the Dowlais Ironworks became the largest in the world with 18 blast furnaces at its peak in 1845. It was the first works to make steel in 1865 and became famous after making the iron used to make the rail track for the Stockton and Darlington Railway opened 200 years ago this year. The works closed in 1987.

Dowlais had a lot of railways and several railway stations of which Cae Harris was one of the most convenient being a short distance off the main road through the town. This was the turnpike road from Merthyr to Abergavenny, later the A465, but now bypassed by The Heads of The Valley Road. A little further east up the main road was the other main station called Dowlais High Street built on an embankment where the Merthyr, Tredegar and Abergavenny line crossed the main road. Although Cae Harris was a terminal station for passengers one line in the adjacent goods yard continued north between the houses and crossed the main road on the level to reach all the industrial works to the north. The gap in the houses can be still be seen and on the opposite side of High Street someone has thoughtfully laid a short length of track to remind residents of their heritage. Dowlais now has no standard gauge railways, but it does have a narrow gauge railway in the shape of the Brecon Mountain Railway whose southern terminus is at Pant on the edge of Dowlais.

Until very recently coal was extracted in a huge area of open-cast workings to the south of Dowlais and to the east of Merthyr. The coal was washed and graded and loaded into rail wagons at Cwmbargoed which had the first passenger station 2¾ miles out of Dowlais Cae Harris. Cwmbargoed continued dispatching coal trains until 2024.

My first trip on the line was on Saturday 10 December 1960 on a day trip. I travelled up from Cardiff General in a dmu to Merthyr and then took a return trip to Hirwaun in auto-coach 194 hauled/propelled by pannier 6416 of Merthyr Shed. On returning to Merthyr Station I walked the two miles uphill to Dowlais Cae Harris Station where I bought an ordinary return to Ystrad Mynach. The outward and return trips were hauled by 5696 with two coaches; and for those interested in GW coaches they were numbered W6816W and W6817W. At Dowlais I/we walked downhill to Merthyr to catch a 6-car dmu back to Cardiff, where I was staying; but my friend Charles Fennamore who was with me that day then had to travel back to Ogmore Vale by train and bus. Many of the Valley lines had been dieselised two years earlier and this day was part of a plan to travel all the remaining steam operated lines before they were either dieselised or closed to passengers. In all I made four visits to Cae Harris. Most of the below photos come from the visit on 11 April 1964 with some from an earlier visit on 3 September 1962.

5696 stands in the sidings at Cwmbargoed with a rake of 20-ton coal wagons taken from the train. Note the precast concrete signal post. The houses on the horizon are some of the very very few in the area. 11 April 1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

My train has arrived at the buffer stops at Dowlais Cae Harris at 10.10am on 11.04.1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5677 runs around its two coaches outside Cae Harris Station over a double-slip point. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5677 is ready to depart on the 11.32am to Ystrad Mynach. On the left is 5605 which had just arrived LE from Cwmbargoed where I saw it earlier. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

There were at least three sets of coaches on the branch. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Cae Harris station buildings seen on 3 September 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The approach to Cae Harris station was on a sharp curve at the bottom of a steep gradient. Here we see that the area to the south of the town was pock marked by waste heaps. The engine shed was a sub-shed of 88D Merthyr Shed and closed in December 1964. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5655 outside the station. These powerful 0-6-2 tanks were rated 5MT by British Railways. All 200 in the class were withdrawn between 1962 and 1966 and 9 were preserved. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5666 departs for Nelson at 4.15pm on 3 September 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Cover of the pamphlet introducing improved diesel services on 15 September 1958. Some services had been dieselised earlier that year. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Map of the lines operated by DMU in September 1958. It was a little optimistic to include the line to Dowlais Top as I think there was just one train per day operated by DMU. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always Michael.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

- Don't miss this one! -
David Thomas presents:
The railways of East Cornwall
Prior to Dr. Beeching
Saturday April 12th
Join us for an interesting talk from David Thomas this coming Saturday, in the Memorial Hall at Redruth Methodist Church. The show commences at 1830. Admission is free for members, or £3 for non-members.

We hope to see you there!

Largin Clay
Jon Hird

66127 leads 9 JIA's ex-Par Harbour over Largin Viaduct running as 6C10 on 10.04.2025. Copyright Jon Hird.

Boscarne Meandering
Andrew & Diane Jones

Dear Jon, Keith and Roger, please find attached 3 photographs at Boscarne Junction, today Thursday 10th April 2025.

Locomotive 5552 heads the 11.15 service to Bodmin General with a well loaded and spirited performance up the grade on an Easter special.

If only this weather would last !!

Very best wishes Andrew and Diane

5552 arrives at Boscarne Junction from Bodmin General. 10.04.2025, copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

The Boscarne Junction Ground Frame with 5552 in the background awaiting departure. 10.04.2025, copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

With a special Easter-themed headboard, 5552 departs Boscarne Junction with the 1115 service to Bodmin General on 10.04.2025. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

<<Previous

Forward>>

Latest News & Features

The Chairmans TrainSt. Ives - Shrewsbury - 19.04.2025​​Mark Lynam, Tony Shore, Jon Hird, Joe Birchall, Martin Scane, Jack Burchill, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Bill Elston

Meldon Quarry ActivitySarah Bell

57002 - in a past lifeGuy Vincent

The South Devon RailwayEaster GalaSam Ryder

The Chairman heading westNeil Phillips

Colonel Holman Fred StephensDennis Clarke

Re-signalling PenzanceRoger WinnenPart 4

'The Chairmans Train'Jack Burchill, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Clive Smith, Roger Winnen, Jon Hird, Gareth Thornton, Joe Birchall, Mark Lynam & Mick House

Bristol Temple MeadsMartin Scane

Bristol Temple Meads& 57002 info!Guy Vincent

Spring is here!James Bown

Re-signalling PenzanceRoger WinnenPart 3

Don't miss todays 'special'

Swindon ScenesKen Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

A Peak in the rainPhil 'Shattered' Smith

Springtime in St. AustellJon Hird

Re-signalling PenzanceRoger WinnenPart 2

Re-signalling PenzanceRoger WinnenPart 1

43093 in 2023Phil 'Shattered' Smith

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 39Bodmin and Padstow 04.01.1964Michael L. Roach

GEN!The LSL Chairmans Train visits the SW

BR Blue at BristolPhil 'Shattered' Smith

Bertie the BadgerClive Smith

Good old days onThe Newquay BranchRoger Winnen​Part 3

SDR 'Freight Train Experience'Sam Ryder

Stoke in the snowPhil 'Shattered' Smith

Good old days onThe Newquay BranchRoger Winnen​Part 2

More of Cornwall in the sunPaul Barlow

The Midland Pullmanand other coastal trainsSam Ryder & Jon Hird

Sunny Cornish PhotosPaul Barlow

Good old days onThe Newquay BranchRoger Winnen​Part 1

South Devon ScenesSam Ryder

Diesel action at BodminJon Hird

The Bodmin RailwaySteam Gala16th - 18th May 2025

Through the tunnel,and down to the docksRoger Winnen

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 38Dowlais Cae HarrisMichael L. Roach

Largin ClayJon Hird

Boscarne MeanderingAndrew & Diane Jones

Archives