Blog Archives

31st May 2021

31/5/2021

Roger Winnen travels the
St Ives Branch prior to G7 Keeping up appearances

210531aa Keeping up appearances and looking very smart from a distance. Copyright Roger Winnen

210531dd This Carbis Bay sign stands out. Copyright Roger Winnen

210531i Through the train window The Carbis Bay Hotel and the G7 conference centre. Copyright Roger Winnen

For futher viewing of all material on G7 and all that
Click Here for Features 2110
Jan-June 2021

Stoke Canon
David Tozer

Keith,
An unusual visit on a Sunday for Colas Class 37116 working the 10.56 Hither Green P A D to Exeter Riverside.

Appears that the test train will make a are visit to Barnstaple overnight tomorrow and then head straight back to Hither Green.

Regards Dave

37116 is seen at Stoke Canon, 30th May 2021. Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David.

Exeter Freight
Roger Winnen

Interesting freight a nostalgic picture as two 31s head away from Exeter St David's on 30th March 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Roger.

Yesterdays quiz - Answer

The location of yesterdays quiz was the Moseley Heritage Museum at Tolgus, Redruth.

Where is it - One of Cornwall's lesser known branch lines.

This is a corner on the quite extensive demonstration line at the Moseley Heritage Museum, Redruth.

Moseley Toy & Train Museum - Visit Redruth http://www.visitredruth.co.uk › Moseley_Toy__and__T...
Moseley Toy & Train Museum. Based at Tumblydown Farm, Moseley is now the home of a number of working engines once used in nearby South Crofty Tin Mine ...

Todays quiz

At a location in Redruth - do you know where it is? Hint - it's not at the terminus of the line but nearby. Copyright Mike Hitchens,

30th April 2021

30/5/2021

The Blue Pullman
Collection

As expected a super crop of pictures and many thanks to you to all who have contributed - a grand and increasing record of a very unusual event.

To see our collection so far please click here and scroll as necessary.

Trevingey Crossing the Pullman passing 43194 on an up service, actually at the crossing. Copyright Lana Harris 30th May 2021 (By the way that's me with the buff coloured cardigan at the crossing)

43 046 'Geoff Drury' passes Hallenbeagle Mine on the return run. Copyright Mick House

I know that there are many more to come -but two of my favourites, being a Redruthian are the passing of the down Pullman with an up service at my local crossing - Trevingey (I am very sorry for those who decided to 'spot' from the up side of the crossing) The second choice is at nearby Hallenbeagle taken by Mick House of the returning train. KJ.

Memories of
Plymouth
Roger Winnen

The forner Southern Viaduct at Plymouth linking Devonport to Ford Station. 30th March 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Roger.

Any ideas where this is?
Michael Hitchens

We know but do you - a good place to visit soon - near Redruth.

Where is it - One of Cornwall's lesser known branch lines. Copyright Mike Hitchens

Many thanks Mike.

29th May 2021

29/5/2021

Blue Pullman to
Penzance today

It looks like a that it will be good day for seeing the Blue Pullman on its visit to Cornwall today, guidance on timings was included in yesterdays news.
While this causes great excitement and we'd like to see your pictures we just cannot show all of the pictures received. However Roger Winnen will be collecting and editing them - you'll find a selection in Features January to June 2021. Click here to find the section and scroll looking for item 2012;

An interval at
Swindon
Ken Mumford

Ken brings us some of the results of an hour or two spent at Swindon.

Swindon station - IET with a nose cone missing. 26th May 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford

Swindon station 66604 with a non-stop through platform 4 with a westbound freightliner 26th May 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford

Swindon station 769930 (The day it went bang at Swindon - see Alan Peters report in the News Column) 26th May 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.

windon station 66524 with the 7A60 Whatley Quarry to Oxford (Banbury Road) 26th May 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford

Swindon station 66524 displays this advert - want a job? Current Pay. £50,747.00 26th May 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks to Ken for the above selection.

A visit to the
East Somerset Railway
Adrian King

We were fortunate to arrive at Cranmore just in time to catch the 2 pm service for a delightful trip to Mendip Vale hauled by ex LMS 46447. Although the line only extends three miles or so it's a fascinating journey through the Somerset countryside made all the more enjoyable to experience travelling behind a steam locomotive and in proper carriages with comfortable seats !! The amount of rolling stock in sidings at various points out along the track is astonishing and at Cranmore Station itself complete with engine sheds & workshops, extensive sidings, signal box, water tower etc a whole panoply in fact of anything and everything to do with the railway as it was in its heyday.

At Cranmore 46447 having just arrived from Mendip Vale. This loco is very economical on water - just one of bottle needed!! 29th May 2021 Copyright Adrian King

46467 in the process of running around. 29th May 2021 Copyright Adrian King

The workshop crew having a well deserved rest in the afternoon sun at Cranmore. 29th May 2021 Copyright Adrian King

The plaque on the main station building praising the the work of the volunteers. 29th May 2021 Copyright Adrian King

A DMU in the sidings waiting to be called into action if there is no steam available. 29th May 2021 Copyright Adrian King

Many thanks to you Adrian. You'll find a lot more pictures of the Strawberry line - the Chedder Valley branch in our Yatton to Witham section. Look for this in 'North of Taunton' section.

28th May 2021

28/5/2021

Specials to the West Country May/June 2021

There is a trickle of excursions coming back to the Duchy. A very special guest tomorrow (Sat 29th) sees the Locomotive Services Limited (LSL) blue pullman HST come to Penzance. Then on 2nd June another LSL charter from Wolverhampton also runs to Penzance.
Sat 29th May:
1Z60 09.00 Eastleigh to Penzance
Plymouth:    11.01
Par:             11.43
Truro: 12.03 / 12.05
Camborne: 12.22
Penzance:     12.45
(Shunts to the loop)
1Z62 16.00 Penzance to Eastleigh
Camborne: 16.21
Truro       16.36 / 16,39
Par:    17.01
Plymouth: 17.51 / 17.53
Wednesday 2nd June 2021
2 x class 47 plus 11 coaches:

1Z45 05.10 Wolverhampton to Penzance.
Plymouth: 10.54 / 11.09
Par: 11.43
Truro:     12.03/ 12.05
Camborne: 12.22
Penzance:    12.45
Train shunts to loop
1Z46 15.00 Penzance to Wolverhampton:
Camborne    15.21
Truro:         15.36/15.38
Par:              16.02
Plymouth: 16.55/ 16.58

Have a good Bank Holiday

45133
Peak Survivor
Clive Smith

45133 was built in 1961 at Derby Works and released as D40. It was converted to ETH in July 1974 and renumbered 45133. Withdrawal was in May 1987 and the Class 45/1 Preservation Society became the new owners on 21st January 1990. The loco has been based ever since at the Midland Railway Centre at Butterley.

My two photos were taken on the 10th July 1984 at Plymouth where 45133 had arrived on the 09.21 Leeds - Penzance. Normally a through loco the peak was taken off and can be seen in the second photo heading out to Laira past the Royal Eye Infirmary.

Regards
Clive Smith

Many Thanks Clive

The drivers report on the big bang at
Swindon
Driver Alan Peters

One can really do no better than a report from the man on the spot and we are most grateful to you Alan for your detailed report - we very much hope that this fault which occurred during mileage testing will be the one and only major fault with these units.

It appears I have met Ken Mumford at Swindon during testing of GWR 'Flex' unit 769 930, the unit worked 5Q10 from Reading Train Care Depot to Maidenhead then to Swindon to reverse, I was the Driver at the time and unfortunately when it was time to depart, the unit lost power from the overhead wires (Line light) the fault was traced to a traction motor which was isolated by the on board fitter, indeed the diesel engine was started but the unit was able to proceed back to Reading depot using A/C power at a reduced speed, however the trip to Maidenhead and back to Swindon was curtailed due to the fault. The Tri-mode unit 769 930 is seen pictured back on the West end of Reading Train Care Depot in company with 165 117 and 57604 'Pendennis Castle" on 26/5/21

Driver Alan Peters

769 930 is seen pictured back on the West end of Reading Train Care Depot in company with 165 117 and 57604 'Pendennis Castle" on 26th May 2021

Very many thanks indeed Alan.

Stoke Canon
Keith Turley

GBRF class 66/7 No.66702 'Blue Lightning' with classmate No.66774 on the rear pass Stoke Canon on 27th May 2021, working the 6G75 17:10

Stoke Canon. 66702 Blue Lightning 27th May 2021 Copyright Keith Turley.

Many thanks Keith.

GWS Vintage Train
The Torbay Express
Paul Barlow

A couple more instamatic shots at Exeter of the GWS vintage train from 'Torbay Limited' 0815 Paddington to Kingswear. This was steam hauled from Paignton to Kingswear. I have found the advert for the train, the fare was £6.50!! I have also enclosed a scan from a book which shows me on the same day with the same train! I am on the right. (We hope it is okay to publish this - its recommended book and after all Paul is in it) I think it was held at Exeter for the late running 0830 Paddington to Plymouth service (50045) to pass. This may have been the last time this train was allowed on the main line, although I can't confirm this.
I hope this is of interest
All the best, Paul.

GWS Vintage train advert from Railway magazine April 1979. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Photo taken from that excellent Strathwood book 'Spotting in the 1970s'. Paul Barlow is the spotter on the right. Photo credit David T. Williams.

47119 on 0815 Paddington to Kingswear pauses at Exeter St Davids 12th May 1979 The 47s boiler is working well, Copyright Paul Barlow.

GWS Vintage train GWR coaches 47119 on 08.15 Paddington to Kingswear pauses at Exeter St Davids 12th May 1979. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks for your memories of the good old days Paul.

27th May 2021

27/5/2021

Great Rocks
returns up north

Hi Keith, A trip up into Devon today to see 37688 working LSL's 5Z41 0900 Laira to Crewe return of the Mark Three trailers. The carriages were taken down to Laira to bolster their fleet with the temporary withdrawal of the Hitachi train recently.

The train is seen passing Totnes, and thanks to a looping at Dawlish Warren where my GWR service overtook it. This allowed a second shot just west of Tiverton Parkway too!

Best wishes, Craig Munday

37688 thrashes through Newton Abbot station with the 5Z41 09.00 Laira - Crewe HS stock move returning the unused Locomotive Services Ltd coaches following the GWR IET withdrawals a few weeks ago.What a fine sight and sound on a sunny day. Copyright Clive Smith

37688 Totnes 5Z41 27th May 2021. Copyright Craig Munday.

37688 Great Rocks with the 5Z41 0900 Laira to Crewe at Silverton today. Copyright David Tozer.

37688 passes Cullompton 27th May 2021. Copyright Keith Thurley

37688 Tiverton Parkway 5Z41 27th May 2021 Copyright Craig Munday

37688 Great Rocks returns passing Creech 37688, with HST stock returned to Crewe from Laira today, and is seen passing Creech in glorious sunshine.(at last) Note the blue blossom of a jacaranda tree above and to the right of the signal. Reminds me of Spain! -27th May 2021 Copyright Bill Elston.

With many thanks to Craig, Keith, David, Clive and Bill. Well done.

Devon Loco Action
Andrew Triggs

Viewed from Kennaway Tunnel footbridge, XC 1V50 06.06 Edinburgh-Plymouth (with 43378/207) heading along Dawlish sea wall. Copyright Andrew Triggs

DBC 66174 at Exeter St Davids working 14.32 Parkandillack-Exeter Riverside JIA's (arriving 70 early). Copyright Andrew Triggs

DBC 66174 returning Light Engine later as the 18.51 Exeter Riverside-St Blazey S.S (departing 105 early) Copyright Andrew Triggs

Thanks Andrew

Class 20s at
Reading
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, I hope you are keeping well and still able to go about. Thanks to all for their work on the site. I thought our friends would enjoy seeing these class 20s at Reading on 27 May 1986. Numbers 20183 and 038 appeared from the West and took over a cross country working(see next picture). Copyright Michael Forward

Now we see 20183/20038 powering past the GWsteam centre at Didcot with the 10.40 Poole to Newcastle on 27 May 1986. Copyright Michael Forward

Thanks Michael

'TWO BANGS' AT
Swindon
Ken Mumford & Andrew Jenkins

When i arrived at the station just after 10 'clock this morning (26th May) this unit was standing in the middle line at Swindon Station. I understand that it was based at Reading and was on a test run.
When the driver went to start the train on its journey eastwards, there was a tremendous BANG and a cloud of smoke came from under the second coach directly in line with the pantograph. That's when I took this photo of the engineer looking backwards out of the driving compartment window. The driver was unable to move the train. My friend and i noticed that the pantogrpah was lowered and raised several times in an attempt to sort the problem out. On one of these attempts there was a second BANG but not as loud as the first. During this time the engineer kept going from the driving compartment to the area in the second coach directly under the pantagraph a few times. On one of the ocassions when the pantagraph was lowered the unit's diesel enginse were started up - thud we thought that the unit was going to proceed eastwards on its diesel power. In the neantime a freight train which would have used that middle line to pass the station had to use the line alongside platform 3. After a little shunting about 5 yards in either direction this unit eventually carefully left the station and headed for Didcot and Reading.What happened after it went out of view we don't know..
Kind regards,
Ken (Mumford)

769930 at Swindon station 26th May 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.

This unit was on a mileage accumulation run. It should have run from Reading depot to Swindon, then on to Maidenhead, before heading back to Reading depot. However after you saw it (Ken), it went straight back to Reading depot.
Regards, Andrew Jenkins

Thank you to Ken and Andrew.

Near Black Boy
Paul Barlow

33029 and 33025 at St James Park 13.58 Exeter to Brighton. 5th April 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow

and o the very next day - 46009 diverted 1310 Plymouth to Liverpool 1M36 Blackboy tunnel in the background Exmouth junction 6th April 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Very many thanks Paul.

Broad Gauge at Weymouth
Guy Vincent

One of my longer breaks in Weymouth today was favoured with dry weather, although a cold south westerly wind was not particularly welcome. I walked along a stretch of the South West Coastal Path opposite the site of the recently demolished ferry terminal and came across an interesting relic dating from the late 19th century, two parallel lengths of Brunel's Broad Gauge rail bolted to the sides of a flight of steps. These steps lead to the Nothe Gardens which lie on a promontory overlooking both Weymouth and Portland harbours. The rails appear to have been fixed into place with the original bolts used during their railway career and although badly corroded in places they still look good and almost resemble a steep incline, possibly workable under the 'atmospheric' system?!

Guy Vincent

Weymouth. Steps from Harbour to Nothe Gardens 23rd May 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Weymouth. Broad Gauge Bridge Rail, steps leading to Nothe Gardens from Harbour. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Weymouth. Corroded Broad Gauge Rail on Nothe Gardens Access path 23rd May 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent

You made good use of your extended break - many thanks Guy.

Great Rocks - from a low elevation at
Stoke Canon
Keith Turley

Hi Keith, On a lovely sunny afternoon LSL operated class 37 No.37688 'Great Rocks' passes Stoke Canon working the OZ40 09:29 Crewe HS to Plymouth Laira T&RSMD. light engine move. Best regards Keith Turley.

37688 Great Rocks at Stoke Canon on the 26th May 2021. Copyright Keith Turley

Many thanks Keith.

Great Rocks - from above -
Exminster
David Tozer

Gents, Locomotive Services Class 37 37688 Great Rocks running light engine to Laira - 0929 0Z40 Crewe to Laira. Regards Dave

37688 Great Rocks - Exminster 26.th May 2021 Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks David.

Dawlish
Andrew Triggs

LSL 37688 at Kennaway Tunnel, Dawlish working 0Z40 09.29 Crewe H.S-Laira T&RSMD. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Thanks Andrew

26th May 2021

26/5/2021

Watchet Ballast Train
Derek Buttivant

We enjoyed a dry, sunny day in Watchet today and, after a pasty and pint on the harbour-front, took a brief detour via the station where I was surprised to find a three-wagon ballast train standing in the platform. I believe some ballasting had been happening at Doniford where a tamper was in evidence and the train waiting at Watchet would later propel its load of spent ballast back to Williton. Copyright Derek Buttivant.

Many Thanks Derek

Today at Exminster
David Tozer

37688 Great Rocks - at Exminster today on the 0Z40 09.29 Crewe to Laira working. Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

Looe Branch 1961
Michael L. Roach

LOOE BRANCH 1961 – PART 2 Michael L. Roach
Moorswater and Coombe Junction
The summer of 1961 was the last one that the branch trains from Liskeard to Looe would be hauled by a steam locomotive. The train would normally consist of two coaches hauled by a small Prairie tank from St. Blazey Shed. Due to the geography and history of railways in the area a journey from Liskeard to Looe involves the train reversing its direction of travel part way along the route at Coombe Junction. This reversal continues to this day as although the line was down for closure, which was approved by the TUCC, the service was reprieved at the eleventh hour by the then Minister of Transport. Half a mile north of Coombe Junction, at Moorswater, there was a small 2-road engine shed in steam days where the two branch locos spent the night. Moorswater was a sub-shed of St. Blazey Shed. In this short feature we will take a look at this fascinating area between Coombe Junction and Moorswater with its wealth of interesting features starting at the south end and heading north.
In no particular year we could see first the junction of an almost level railway line with a steeply graded line coming down from Liskeard; a river and a canal; a typical Great Western signal box controlling the junction and passing loop alongside which was a small railway halt; a tweed mill which was later used to grade wool, sadly closed in 2021 due to a collapse in the price of wool; a corn mill; the stone piers of Brunel's original timber viaduct of 1859; the later all stone Moorswater Viaduct of 1881 carrying the Cornish main line across the valley; a granite works; Moorswater Station; a small railway yard with a couple of loops/sidings; lime kilns; Moorswater Shed; the trackbed of the Liskeard & Caradon Railway of 1844; and finally the St Neots China Clay works, later used on-an-off for distributing cement brought in by train. All in all a fascinating area with lots to see.

RECOMMENDED READING:
The Liskeard and Looe Branch by Gerry Beale. Wild Swan. ISBN 187410347X

MLR/23 May 2021

The driver of a Looe to Liskeard dmu hands over the red One Train Staff to the signalman at Coombe Junction Box ready to receive the small electric token for the trip up to Liskeard on 5th July 1969. Copyright Michael L Roach.

Small prairie 5531 enters Coombe Junction loop with three coaches on 9th September 1961. Copyright Michael L Roach.

5531 leaves Coombe Junction Halt for Looe. In the background is the magnificent Moorswater Viaduct. Copyright Michael L Roach.

Moorswater Engine Shed seen on 9 September 1961/ Copyright Michael L Roach.

Many thanks indeed Mike - we look forward to your part 3.

The Blue Pullam timings
BLUE PULLMAN
Mick House

Links below to inbound and outbound Pullman timings for Saturday 29th.

Realtime Trains - 1Z60 0600 Eastleigh to Penzance

Realtime Trains - 1Z60 0600 Eastleigh to Penzance Swlines Ltd
Realtime Trains provides live realtime running information for the Great British railway network using open data.

Realtime Trains - 1Z62 1600 Penzance to Eastleigh

Realtime Trains - 1Z62 1600 Penzance to Eastleigh Swlines Ltd
Realtime Trains provides live realtime running information for the Great British railway network using open data.

Many thanks Mick for sending us the info - photographers please our accept our editing.

An appeal for Woodhams pictures
David Cook

Hello Keith,

I trust that you and your family and all CRS members are keeping safe and well.

Since I first contacted the society regarding photographs of 4566 during her working life (1924 - 1962) I have not spent much time seeking out ones that cover the time spent at Barry and the period of the original restoration (August 1970 - June 1975).

Recently, I have acquired photographs taken during her residency in Woodham's scrapyard and her arrival at Kidderminster in a freight train prior to being tripped round to Bewdley.

Other than a few of my own (taken in my late teenage years!) photographs taken during restoration plus a couple of recent additions it is an area which I would like to expand on.

Whilst I did not become involved with 4566 until May 1971 myself I am aware that many photographs were taken whilst the group were working on the engine at Bewdley. My question to CRS members is, "during any visits made to the Severn Valley Railway between 1970 and 1975 did you take any photographs of 4566 which you would consider allowing me to add to my collection"?

As previously mentioned any photographs received are always shown copyright of the photographer or collection owner. I am also happy to meet any realistic costs should this be necessary.

I look forward to hopefully receiving some positive news regarding my request for help. I can be contacted by email at: [email protected] or 07532 302036.

On a separate note your members might be interested in the following details of a railway film I was made aware of recently. It is possible that some may already know of it but if not it is 30 minutes of pure BR Western Region nostalgia and is to be found on the BBC iPlayer website. It is called "Men of Steam" and is well worth watching.

Hope this is of interest.
Best wishes,
David Cook (4566 Group)

Photograph - one of the Gems of the late John Cornelius. Copyright.

Hello David, Here's wishing you well with your appeal, and also many thanks for the link.

Something a little different unusual gates and posts at
Ashbury Crossing
Ken Mumford

I spent a short time yesterday at a 'new' location south of Ashbury Crossing this afternoon - all I managed to photograph were IET's One through the bars of a gate but the gate was interesting - supported by former railway sleepers on both sides.
Kind regards,
Ken

A distant view of an IET near Ashbury Crossing. 21st May 2921, Copyright Ken Mumford.

Near Ashbury Crossing. The gate Ken mentions. 21st May 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford

Ashbury Crossing - the locks, why three one wonders 21st May 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford

Thanks Ken.

25th May 2021

25/5/2021

Looe Branch 1961
Michael L. Roach

LOOE BRANCH 1961 – PART 1 Michael L. Roach
Sunday Service
The summer of 1961 was the last one that the branch trains from Liskeard to Looe would be hauled by a steam locomotive. The train would normally consist of two corridor coaches hauled by a Prairie tank in the 4500-4574 or 4575-5574 series from St. Blazey Shed. The branch locos would spend the night at Moorswater on the outskirts of Liskeard, which was a 2-road subshed of St. Blazey. The Sunday service in 1961 consisted of six trains each way which had been the norm for a number of years; the following year the Sunday service dropped to five trains each way operated by a diesel multiple unit. There was no Sunday service in most of the Winter timetable except that trains did run for two or three Sundays adjacent to the Summer timetable in late-May and mid-September. My first visit to the Looe Branch in 1961 was on Sunday 4 June 1961 when I went to Causeland to watch the 4.35pm from Liskeard to Looe call at the Halt. The loco ran around at Looe and then waited from 5.05 to 6.30pm when it returned to Liskeard. The trains were hauled by 2-6-2T number 5518 of St. Blazey Shed that day. When the shed was closed to steam at the end of April 1962 the loco was put into store but later it was reinstated and worked from Gloucester Shed until it was withdrawn in May 1964 and scrapped.
MLR/6 May 2021

5518 calls at Causeland Halt on 4 June 1961 with the 4.35pm Sundays Liskeard to Looe train. Copyright Mike Roach.

5518 leaves Causeland at about 4.52pm 4th June 1961. Copyright Mike Roach.

5518 returns with the 6.30pm Looe to Liskeard train seen from Trussel Bridge which carries the B3254 road. 4th June 1961. Copyright Mike Roach.

Many thanks indeed Mike - treasured memories. Pt. 2 soon.

Upton Pyne
Paul Barlow

25155 on a Meeth to Exeter clay train Upton Pyne. 3rd April 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow.

And again at Upton Pyne. 33001 heads the 16.08 Exeter to Barnstaple 3rd April 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

At home and away
Driver Alan Peters

I have been lucky to be working locally at Okehampton on the class 56 which has now gone back after the relaying of the Dartmoor Line in record breaking time, I am now working on another project in Reading as Colas are testing the GWR Class 769 'Flex' units for mileage accumulation, these former BR Class 319 units are now Tri-mode being fitted with a Mann diesel engines and will be used on the Reading to Gatwick services. For testing purposes the units have initially been cleared to work between Maidenhead and Swindon, so flying up and down the Great Western Mainline makes a change from a slow ballast train at Okehampton.

Before heading away from home to work in Reading an opportunity to walk the dog around Respryn woods, where the view of the Cornish Mainline has been opened up with the vegetation clearance, an unidentified Castle Class HST passes with 2C27 the 14:17 Plymouth to Penzance in the welcome sunshine on 15th May 2021. Copyright Alan Peters.

Away to Reading to learn the 'Flex' unit for testing for GWR, under grey skies 57604 'Pendennis Castle' with sleeper stock is stabled on Reading Train Care Depot, whilst making our way to 769 943 for training on the 21st May 2021 Driver Alan Peters. Copyright.

A first class job -looking very smart. An inside view of the refurbished Class 319 to a GWR 769 'Flex' unit, note the green Great Western interior and disabled toilet. 24th May 2021. Copyright Alan Peters

Putting the GWR 769 'flex' unit through its paces on AC as 5Q10 Reading Train Care Depot - Maidenhead - Swindon - Maidenhead - Reading Train Care Depot, seen at Reading on 24th May 2021 during mileage accumulation. Copyright Alan Peters

Many thanks Alan for your 'Home and Away' sequence - let's hope you are more at home than away but continue to delight our viewers with the variety of pictures.

24th May 2021

24/5/2021

More - old
St Ives
The late Jon Woods

1. This is the 0920 St Ives to Paddington hauled by 4553 & 4554 on 14th June 1958. The down 'Riviera' ran to St Ives on Saturdays, but the up train began at PZ seven days a week. The late Jon Wood Collection

2.4561 at St Ives. This picture was taken on 11th May 1955. St Ives was dieselised in September 1961.The late Jon Wood collection - copyright.

3. 5508 at St Ives. She was a regular throughout the postwar period. The late Jon Wood Collection

Re 5508 at St Ives. All steam at PZ shed ended 9/62. St Ives was dieselised in 9/61 but Penzance kept 4 prairies to cover diesel failures and this is one such occasion. Yes, 55xx were banned on the branch but PZ had nothing else!
As a matter of interest, the 55 x kept on at Penzance until Sept 1962 were 5508, 5537, 5545 and 5562.
Roy.
Many thanks to Roy Hart - for this information - received within minutes of publishing. Updates at 04.55 25th May 2021.

Many thanks to Roger for forwarding the above pictures from the late Jon Wood. Now part of his collection.

Ashbury crossing Ken Mumford

769943 Copyright Andrew Jenkins. 21st May 2021.

Friday (21st) afternoon (in the rain) at Shrivenham (site of Ashbury Crossing) showing 769 943 heading back East, having spent 4 minutes in Platform 1 at Swindon, on a test run. I assume this is the first time a class 769 (or 319) has ever visited Swindon.

Also I understand that from Monday 24th May class 387 EMUs will be working services West of Swindon (to Bristol Parkway) covering for class 800 IETs out of service for inspection / repairs.

Thank you Ken and Andrew.

Barnstaple line - bridge replacement
Penstone Bridge
Andrew Hickson

Penstone bridge is between Yeoford & Copplestone - this picture taken on 23rd August 2020. Copyright Andrew Hickson

Another view of the bridge from the other direction on this formerly double track line. 23rd August 2020.

The new Penstone bridge ready for installation. 23rd August 2020. Copyright Andrew Hickson.

The new bridge installed and work nearly complete. Note two of the original piers are no longer needed and have been reduced in height. 22nd May 2021. Copyright Andrew Hickson.

Many thanks Andrew.

The newly completed relaying
Andrew Hickson

The track photo was taken from Butsford Bridge which is near Bow 22nd May 2021. Andrew Hickman

Thanks Andrew;

Sunday 23rd May 2021

23/5/2021

Exactly 50 years ago by date and day
New St Ives
Chris Bellett reminds us

Notice concerning the 'new' station at St Ives
Copy provided by Chris Bellett
50 years have passed very quickly.....

Kind Regards,
Chris Bellett
Retired S&T Engineer

From WR Weekly Engineering Notice K2/21/71

Sunday 23rd May 1971 At St.Ives
The existing passenger platform will be demolished and the track resited alongside a new passenger platform, 75 yards in length and sited at the end of St.lves Viaduct. A Stop Block will be erected·across the track at the end of the new platform at 325m 10ch.

The above is the notice concerning the new station at St Ives - a platform 75 yards long was provided on the opening of this station.

Events at St Ives.
The run round loop at the old station was taken out of use 28th October 1963 and removed in January 1966.
The goods sidings had been closed wef 9th September 1963.
The signal box was reduced to ground frame status 9th September 1963 and closed on the 10th March 1965.
The bay platform and good shed lines were taken out of use in August 1964 and removed in January 1966.
The new platform 75 yards long was brought into use on the 23rd May 1971, the new platform was doubled in length in 1979. Much of the preceding information extracted from Track layout diagrams GWR & BR WR Section 10 R.A. Cooke.

We'll now take a brief look at the old and new St Ives

The long curving platfrom we all like to remember. St Ives 1965 Copyright Keith Jenkin

The late Patrick English captues the scene at St Ives. Copyright (note the long head shunt for run round purposes)

Stop Press - this update from Roy Hart, out in war torn Burma. came in as this article was being placed on line at 06.50 23rd May 2021. You refer to the 'long headshunt' beyond the engine release crossover, This had a purpose: from the opening of the line, this stretch of platform was used for loading fish, with the wagons attached to passenger trains for fast transit. The track was set in concrete beyond the release crossover, to facilitate 'washing down'. The concrete was removed in the 1940s, I think.
After 1963, only the bay siding (coal traffic) and the goods shed siding (camping coaches) were used, although the entire layout remained usable and was connected to the ground frame (old box). All the points except the two mentioned above, were clipped and padlocked though.
A further note (at 07.44) = The concrete was there until around 1950, I think. Parallel to this, the extension of the run around loop was known as the Sea Siding and was used to house spare coaches.

Many thanks to you Roy.

A about 1963 view by the late Patrick English. Note the two camping coaches stabled on the goods siding. This location, more or less, was to become the site of the new station. Copyright the late Patrick English

The run down commences - the removal of the signalling.

Platform Loop Sunday 8th September 1963. Copyright Laurence Hansford

Easy does it - the removal of the signal arms from the Viaduct Signal Gantry Sunday 8th September 1963 Copyright Laurence Hansford

A view of the grand station at St Ives taken on the 5th September 1964. Copyright Mike Roach

Unfortunately we have no record or pictures of any ceremony concerned with the opening of the new platform.

A DMU stnds at St Ives Station on 9th March 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen (The platform was later doubled in length from the original 75 yards - the end of the original platform is just visible in the view.)

St Ives on the 2nd August 1986 - a 'Skipper' 142081 stands at the platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

The relaying of the St Ives branch - January 2021. Fortunately having survived 'Beeching' although recommended for closure a major section of the track between Carbis Bay and the terminus received a complete replacement.

Taken from Draycott Terrace, a view of new sleepers laid into St.Ives Station. A view of the position of the 'new station' s the track was being re-laid into St.Ives Station. It's 10.57 5th Janaury 2021. Copyright Roger Salter

This view by Mick House of the old track having been cut into sections being removed. 5th January 2021. Copyright.

Finally looking towards the buffer a view of the new track having just been laid. Taken by Network Rail Engineer Paul Barriball Copyright.

Many thanks to all our contributors.

East Usk Yard
Newport
Mark Aston

Roger Aston writes - This from my son Mark who has similar position as Craig with Network Rail was down at southern end of his area in Newport today (22nd May) and sent this picture.
Best regards. Roger

Nice picture - many thanks to both Mark and Roger Aston.

22nd May 2021

22/5/2021

West Somerset Railway
resumes operations
Derek Buttivant

When the sun came out this afternoon I took a quick trip over to just north of Bishops Lydeard to watch a West Somerset train on the first day of passenger service since the brief pre-Christmas operating period at the end of last year. I attach a few photos of the 15.10 Bishops Lydeard - Williton train, the third train of the day, heading away from Bishops Lydeard hauled by Mogul No.9351 (originally GWR 5193). I know that web site space is at a premium - so choose whichever photos you prefer and I'll not be offended if you don't use any of them!

The WSR is running a limited service, mainly Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays with trains operating only as far as Williton, Watchet or Blue Anchor. Minehead is at present inaccessible because the level crossing just short of the station is being upgraded to full barriers because of increasing vehicle and pedestrian movements across it. The work is not expected to be finished until later in the summer. Due to Covid restrictions, train passengers must travel out and back on the same train and intermediate stations are not being served. This situation could change if the restrictions are relaxed further in June. For the moment, it's good just to see trains running and it is to be hoped that demand will be sufficient to provide much-needed income for the railway.

Kind regards,

Derek

All photographs are the Copyright of Derek Buttivant

ManyThanks Derek

Clay to Irvine
Chris Harvey

66070 is captured near Bethany on 4th May2002, rolling down the gradient towards St Germans with the Burngullow - Irvine china clay tanks.

Best Regards, Chris Harvey - Bodmin

N.B. Irvine is some 480 miles from Burngullow as the crow flies - it must be considerably more by rail.

66070 at Bethany on a Burngullow to Irvine service It's the 4th May 2002. Copyright Chris Harvey . Looks like a better summer than 20211

Craigs Contribution

A couple of days of bright spells whilst out and about. Bright red 66104 is seen bringing its string of CDA wagons onto the Newquay branch from the Rocks complex at Goonbarrow. The train loco is currently engaged in the shunting and loading of the wagons whilst the small shunters are temporarily out of service.

In fine light 66009 heads the Treviscoe portion of JIA wagons at Burngullow. Sad to see the level of graffiti on these wagons these days. I imagine the decoration being applied in the Midlands rather than the South West. The train visited Par harbour next day, thence taking the 11 loaded onward to Exeter Riverside.

A request on Twitter had me looking through the albums for the original TrePol and Pen, 37196 carrying the decorative wooden headboard. I took a shot at Truro during the naming, and then caught a quick shot at Lostwithiel on clay duties from the cab of an eastbound HST a day or two later in 1985. Odd to ponder that that power car may still be departing Lostwithiel in 2021! Also scanned a shot of D200 / 40122 under the train shed on that gloomy Nov day in 1985.

Cheers for now, Craig

66194 seen at Goonbarrow 6G09 on the 18th May 2021. Copyright Craig Munday

The next day 66009 on duty at Burngullow with the 6C53. 19th May 2021. Copyright Craig Munday

Back in 1985.

D200 causes some excitement when it arrives at Penzance on the 27th Nov 1985. Copyright Craig Munday

37196 during the naming ceremony at Truro. 16th July 1985. Copyright Craig Munday

Many thanks Craig

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