Blog Archives

May 23rd 2024

23/5/2024

The longest days
Craig Munday

Hi there

Once again we pass into the longest days of the year. Eight weeks around the 21st June bring superb lighting opportunities into angles not possible during the rest of the year.

The rhododendron is in full bloom between Liskeard and Scorrier, and two trains are seen amid the bright colours. These plants thrive in alkaline soil, perhaps more naturally occurring in this part of Cornwall?

A day later after an afternoon in the sun at St Ives, 2C31 rolled into St Erth against the timeless backdrop of SE66 signal.
This brought two Castles together in the platform allowing a (hurried) snap of the two. Had time allowed the west end would have offered a better picture.

Cheers for now

Craig

43198 and 43004 swish past a fine ribbon of the wild growing Rhododendrons at Trenowth near Grampound Road with 2P08. 20.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

158766 passing yet more of the colourful plants at Chacewater with 2P09 on 20.05.2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

A 'castle' formed of 43098 and 43156 arrives at St. Erth with 2C31 on 21.05.2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

43188 and 43189 working 2E26 pass 43098 and 43156 on 2C31 at St. Erth. 21.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks as always for allowing us to display your excellent photos, Craig.

Exeter Central
Martin Scane

Hi

A couple of photos of a Paignton to Exmouth local this afternoon (21.0524) at 16-20 at Exeter Central.

The station looks rather sad these days but at least it is still open and pretty busy and, of course, still sees trains running to Waterloo.

I can just imagine the noise and splendour as a ten coach train headed by a Battle of Britain Light Pacific struggles up the hill from St Davids 60 years ago.

Cheers
Martin

GWR 150248 and 150232 arrive at Exeter Central with 2F24 - the 15:22 Paignton to Exmouth. 21.05.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

The 4-car unit pauses at Exeter Central. 21.05.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin, agreed - it's sad to see it in its current state, a shadow of its former self, but as you quite rightly say, at least it does still exist.

Dobwalls Delight
Roger Geach

47807 with a Penzance to Manchester service is seen near Dobwalls on Friday 09.07.1999. Copyright Roger Geach.

Thank you very much, Roger - a lovely bright and colourful image.

More Westbury 'Grid' action
Guy Vincent

Westbury station saw class 56 activity again at lunchtime on Tuesday 21st when 56103 and the elusive 56098 paused briefly at a red signal before heading on with the as required 6Z60 1040 Willesden - Merehead empty box wagons. 56103 was providing power solo with 56098 dead in tow. The pair returned from Merehead later with the loaded 6Z61 1632 Merehead - Willesden, missing the station and running via the avoiding line between Fairwood and Heywood Road Junctions.

Best regards

Guy V

Westbury - 56103 & 56098 with 6Z60 on 21.05.2024. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks to you as always, Guy. Great to see some classic traction hard at work.

10217 at Long Rock - on the road
Dennis Clarke

Hi Keith, Roger, Jon,

I passed Long Rock this evening around 5:30pm and saw that Night Riviera buffet/club car 10217 was on an Allelys lorry about to come out of the depot.

I was certainly in the right place at the right time. The Allelys employee told me it was going to Laira.

Without knowing the facts, going by road, I assume that it may have problems with wheelsets or running gear,

Kind Regards,
Dennis

10217 en route to Laira via road, 22.05.2024. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks Dennis - from conversations from people 'in the know', I am led to believe that these coaches are being moved to and from Laira for exams/servicing/overhauls via road haulage simply as a matter of cost and convenience. A strange state of affairs if correct!

May 22nd 2024

22/5/2024

A date for the diary!

Bodmin Railway
Branch Line Gala
25th - 26th May 2024

From Bodmin Railway:

Our Branch Line Gala is on Sat 25th & Sun 26th May, featuring an intensive timetable showcasing our branch line heritage. Prarie Tank's 5552 & 5553 will be operating the Service Set, with the Bubble car (121020) providing regular trips also.

Ex Port-of-Par Bagnall Saddle Tank 'Judy' will be hauling a short Goods set with a ‘secret’ special cargo! There will be limited capacity in the brake van on the goods trips.

All the BWRs steam fleet will either be in Service or on display. 5552, 5553 & Judy will be in Service, with Alfred, 4612, 2766, No. 19 & 30587 on display. ‘Camel’ the pump trolley will also be on display.

Kids travel free all weekend.

The Timetables (click to enlarge):

Running/On Display:

For more info, please click here.

Please do go along and support one of Cornwalls heritage railways, the weekend looks like it will be a super event!

A loco in the landscape
Roger Geach

An unidentified EWS Class 66 climbs the bank at St. Germans light engine on 27.04.2021. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks, Roger

22/5/2024

A Visit to the Seaton Tramway
by members of the Cornwall Railway Society
Saturday 18th May 2024

Permission was given in December 1969 for thr former British Railways branch line from Seaton to Colyton 3 miles through unspoilt countryside in the beautiful Axe Vallet. The granting of a transfer order into a light railway order after the ensuing public enquiry dealt with complaints that the noise would be unacceptable and blemising the natural beauty of the Axe Valley was overturned by the enquiry.

240518a Seaton Tramway Station on 18th May 2024

240518aa Southern Railways Seaton Station in the 1940s 1950s

240518c Single Deck Tram Car at Seaton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518d Tramcar No 10 at Seaton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518e Members of the CRS depart Seaton for Colyton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518g The Tram at Wetlands. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518h A close encounter on route to Colyton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518i Fish & Chips are well advertised on the Seaton Tramway. Copyright Toger Winnen

240518j The small town of Axmouth stands on the other side of the estuary. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518k The waiting shelters at Colyford. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518m Arrival at Colyton a 27minute journey from Seaton.. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518n Members of the CRS having a meal break at Colyton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518oo The tram passes the station buildings for its next trip to Seaton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518p The station buildings at Colyton. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518q The Station Buildings viewed from the track level. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518r Heavy rain at Colyford. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518s Colyford Station and Isle of Thanet Electric Tramways & lighting. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518t Heavy rain as the tram passes the Victorian Gents. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518u About to cross the main road on its journey up to Colyton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518uu Colyford Station in steam days. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518v Heavy rain at Colyford. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518w The single deck tram in the countryside. Copyright Rogr Winnen

240518x Tram No 6. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518y The Tram queue. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518z The Riverside workshops. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518za The Riverside workshops. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518zcc Heavy rain on route. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518ze Number 15 Medern Electric Tramways. Copyright Roger Winnen

240518zf Tram Number 10. Copyright Roger Winnen

May 21st 2024

21/5/2024

An interlude at Lostwithiel
Andrew & Diane Jones

Good evening,

Lostwithiel never fails to impress, even though its had its fair share of modernisation recently.

I hate to say it but the new signalling has improved the level crossing timings with less disruption to residents, but you miss the bells and levers and that personal touch.

That said there is plenty of activity to be had with the Fowey branch activity and long may it survive!

A few passengers were travelling to Truro and Plymouth, one person remarked at how sad it was that the railways were treating its customers to unreliable schedules, due to numerous strikes and he couldn’t understand how the salary of a train driver was 3 times his sons, who worked at a local supermarket.

I know from my own experience that our grand daughter now uses national express buses to Bristol due to the cost and unreliability of the railways, which is very sad as it seems now a new generation is turning its back on GWR and general railways as a whole.

Enough said.

Mid day is a good time to photograph at Lostwithiel and I have attached some shots of the proceedings. I was lucky to catch two castle class services and the freight to Fowey plus a few of the new order.

I will be back again soon!

very best wishes Andrew and Diane

Lostwithiel 14.24 service formed of 43187 and 43097 with a rather current sign for this class unfortunately. 20th May 2024. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Lostwithiel 14.24 service to Plymouth 20th May 2024. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Lostwithiel 66101 running 23 minutes early to Fowey 6G09 20th May 2024. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Lostwithiel no bells and levers, 20th May 2024. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Many thanks to you both. I'm glad you had a pleasant visit to Lostwithiel. Although the box is now closed, I do think it still holds a charm, the added interest of the crossing and the clay running round etc. helps.

Eagle at Pendalake
Roger Geach

50043 'Eagle' on Penadalake viaduct working the 10:30 Penzance to Edinburgh. Sat 29.08.1987. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger. Look at the motley collection of stock behind the '50' - a railway modellers dream!

Last light at Lavrean
Jon Hird

66101 returns the empty JIA's to Goonbarrow at the end of the day on 20.05.24. From this high angle, we can see St. Austell Bay and Gribbin Head in the far distance. Copyright Jon Hird.

Changing Times at Penzance
Roger Winnen

The new order (at the time) - a Class 50 - passes D1048 'Western Lady' at Penzance on 20.03.1976. D1048 survives in preservation, and the unidentified '50' has a 36% chance of still being alive with 18 out of the 50 examples built having made it into preservation. Copyright Roger Winnen.

20/5/2024

Locos at Totnes and Buckfastleigh
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, here are a couple of pictures from Michael A dams taken on 12 June 2004,the first shows 50002 ‘Superb’ at Totnes and the second 37037 and 20118 at Buckfasleigh. Thanks ans best wishes, Michael. Copyright Michael Adams

Roger, Interesting to compare the liveries 20 years ago with the present day Copyright Michael Adams.

Many Thanks Michael

Riding the Branch Lines
Looe-Falmouth-St Ives
Thursday 16th May 2024
Roger Winnen

240516a The 08.50 Penzance to Plymouth arrives at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516b The Heritage Museum situated in the branch lines buildings at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516c Looe Station in the days of steam. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516d Remember these posters advertising the many events taking place. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516e 100 years of the Royal Albert Bridge in 1959.

240516f Passengers awaiting the Looe Branch train. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516h The arrival of the Branch train at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516i Liskeard Viaduct from the Looe Branch train. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516j Looe from the train window. Copyright Rogr Winnen

240516k The 150 at Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516g Looe Signal Box

240516l Looe Station buildings. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516m Sandplace Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516n 5553 arrives at Bodmin Parkway just after 12 noon. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516o 5553 On the return working to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516p 5553 On the return working to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516pp The Clay stabled in Chapel Siding as an IET rounds the bend for Par Station. Copright Roger Winnen

240516q 66130 attached to the train in Chapel Sidings prior to its afternoon departure. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516r 66130 attached to the train in Chapel Sidings prior to its afternoon departure. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516rr Viewed from the end of the down platform at Par, what remains of the old signals are in evidence. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516t Alighting at Penryn Station we see the train in the background awaiting departure for Truro. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516u Passing trains at Penryn. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516v Passing trains at Penryn. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516uu Penryn Station Copyright Roger Winnen

240516x Studant Accomodation at Penryn known as the sidings stands on the site of the former sidings. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516y Looking down from the road overbridge we see the large block of flats for the Penryn Campus. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516z Moving onto Penmere Platform which have won many awards over the years for its Floral Displays. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516za Moving onto Penmere Platform which have won many awards over the years for its Floral Displays. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zb Penmere Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zd Penmere Platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516ze The GW Blue livery 150 units worked the St Ives Branch on 16th May 2024. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zf Seen at Carbis Bay Station at tea time on a glorious day. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zg Seen at Carbis Bay Station at tea time on a glorious day. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zi Departing Carbis Bay for St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zi Arriving at Carbis Bay for St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zj A quick turn around at St Ives. Copyright Roger Winnen

240516zl Platform 3 at St Erth has only a passenger. Copyright Roger Winnen

The early bird at Hallenbeagle
Dennis Clarke

Hi Keith, Roger, Jon,

With the daylight hours starting early, I went to Scorrier on Saturday morning to photograph the Night Riviera passing the iconic Hallenbeagle mine. Shortly afterwards, a Plymouth bound HST headed east.

Kind regards, Dennis.

57602 1C50 2345 Paddington to Penzance Night Riviera at Scorrier on 18th May 2024. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

43187 43097 pass Scorrier on 18th May 2024 with 2P10 0740 Penzance to Plymouth. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks Dennis - two excellent images - well worth the early start.

Pink and Blue to Newquay
Jon Hird

Still wearing its colourful blue and pink First Great Western livery, 150238 was paired with green 150244 on the Newquay shuttles on 19.05.24. Seen crossing Ponts Mill viaduct. Copyright Jon Hird.

May 19th 2024

19/5/2024

Re: Loco 4591
Roy Hart

Dear Roger/Jon

I wonder how many viewers of Mike's splendid photos (click here) noticed that the engine carries no front numberplate?

These were LMS practice and were introduced on all regions after 1948. The naughty shed staff at Launceston didn't like this and, on quiet Sundays at Launceston shed, removed the front plates and substituted a red-painted number on the front bufferbeam, GW style. This is visible on one of Mike's pictures. They did this to more than one engine!

Roy

Loco 4591 complete with hand-painted numbering on the bufferbeam, GWR style. From Michael Roach's recent article, this detail spotted by Roy. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Roy - a nice little additional bit of detail to compliment Michaels text.

Teignmouth
Martin Scane

Hi

A couple of shots from Teignmouth this morning.

I was lucky to have a Castle Set for my trip to Hayle on the 07:40 train.

The first photo is the 07:29 (ex Plymouth) to Paddington just leaving the station and about to burst onto the sea wall.

Cheers
Martin

A Paddington-bound GWR IET unit departing Teignmouth in the morning sun. 18.05.24, copyright Martin Scane.

Martins chariot to Hayle - a classic GWR HST - arriving at Teignmouth. 18.05.24, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin - hope the model exhibition went well for you all.

Westbury Springtime 'Grids'
Guy Vincent

Class 56 locos are occasional visitors to Westbury but this past week has seen no less than four in the area.

Although they are now elderly and smoke rather badly (always a class 56 feature) these locos under full power really make an impression and a most welcome change from classes 59 and 66.

Regards

Guy V

56096 arrived from Eastleigh on Thursday 9th following a short period on crew familiarisation duties. It was taken to Nottingham on Monday 13th by 37219, itself returning home from the Swanage Railway gala weekend. I caught the pair on one of the foot crossings west of Bradford on Avon station (screen capture from video off my elderly phone). Copyright Guy Vincent.

56098 and 56103 heading along the Westbury avoiding line at Penleigh Park foot crossing on Friday 17th with the 'as-required' 6Z60 1040 Willesden DC Rail Sidings - Merehead Quarry empty JNA box wagons. The 'grids' were standing in for an unavailable DC Rail class 60 and looked fantastic. 56098 was possibly making its debut appearance in the area as it was one of just a small handful I have not seen recorded hereabouts over the years. Copyright Guy Vincent.

56098 & 56103 returning past the same spot with the 6Z61 1642 Merehead - Willesden, now loaded with aggregates. Copyright Guy Vincent.

56103 in DC Rail Freight livery. Copyright Guy Vincent.

56090 arrived at Westbury from Port Talbot during the afternoon of Friday 17th and later stabled in the yard on the site of the former diesel depot. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks to you, Guy - a nice selection of photos of some classic traction, let's hope they stick around for a while yet.

South Devon Railway
Freight Train Experience
Sam Ryder

Here are a few photos from the Diesel Freight Train Experience hosted by the South Devon Railway. This unique opportunity allows you to ride in a vintage brake van behind a freight train, offering scenic views that are typically hidden from regular passenger trains.

These photos, taken on April 30, 2024, feature the train hauled by locomotive 33002. The experience can also be enjoyed with steam locomotives as well.

- Sam Ryder

33002 departs Buckfastleigh with a freight train for Totnes. 30.04.24, copyright Sam Ryder.

The train approaches Staverton at Riverford Bridge. 30.04.24, copyright Sam Ryder.

A lineside photo of the Class 33 and train. 30.04.24, copyright Sam Ryder.

Many thanks Sam, a great initiative by the railway and doesn't 33002 look smart!

Treverrin
Jon Hird

66130 and 18 empty JIA's head up the bank to Treverrin Tunnel. 6V74 Exeter Riverside - St. Blazey, 18.05.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

A sad scene at Exminster
Roger Geach

47853 passing the boarded up Exminster signal box, heading north with a Paignton to Sheffield service 14.09.1991. One can see there was once extensive sidings here as well as a station. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger

May 18th 2024

18/5/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 85
The Life and Times of Prairie 4591
Michael L. Roach

4591 was completed at Swindon in March 1927, one of nine of the 4575-class 2-6-2s completed that month. It was sent new to Taunton, where it stayed five years.

It had two spells at Swindon (1933-1935) and less than a month in 1964, where it was withdrawn from service on 10 August 1964. Apart from that it spent the whole of its working life in Somerset, Devon or Cornwall.

4591 had two spells at Laira Shed, Plymouth in 1932-33 returning in March 1941 to spend 22 continuous years at the shed until being transferred to Yeovil Town on 1 June 1963. During its long spell at Plymouth it would have spent much of its time working the 34-mile route to Launceston GW on passenger and freight trains.

It achieved well over one million miles in its 37-year life. Eleven members of the 100 4575-class built have been preserved but 4591 was not one of them and it was scrapped.

I photographed 4591 ten times in the last 14 months of the Launceston Branch on both passenger and goods train. The engine was easily recognisable to some, who kept abreast of such things, because it ran without its smokebox number plate for some months as shown in the accompanying photographs mostly from 1962. There was also a distinctive welding repair on the right-hand side tank.

4591 pounds up the bank past MP 2, a quarter mile south of Cann Viaduct on 18 Nov 1961 on the 3.05pm Plymouth to Launceston. Cann Viaduct was originally called River Plym Viaduct. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 is seen leaving Bickleigh Viaduct with the 12.40 Launceston to Plymouth on 25 November 1961. The village near the skyline is Shaugh Prior, which was served by the station at Shaugh Bridge Platform. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 on the 2.20pm Launceston to Tavistock Junction goods heads south across Riverford Viaduct on 10 March 1962 ontime at 4.38pm SO. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 enters Lydford Station with the 10.15am Launceston to Plymouth on Saturday 14 April 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 passes Goodameavy (between Clearbrook and Shaugh Bridge) with the 3.05pm Plymouth to Launceston on 13 October 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 enters platform 8 at Plymouth Station with an ECS train of six coaches on 20 October 1962. The engine and first two coaches will form the 3.05pm to Launceston, and four coaches will be left in the platform to form another train. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 slows to a stop at Horrabridge Station with the 3.05pm Plymouth to Launceston on 24 November 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 hurries up the Plym Valley at Riverford LE on 28 December 1962 the day before passenger services ended. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4591 enters Yelverton Station in a blizzard with the very last 3.05pm Plymouth to Launceston on 29 December 1962, strengthened to 4C, at 4.12pm (31L). Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always Michael, another very interesting read.

For more of Michaels work, please click here.

Weedkiller at Silverton
David Tozer

GBRf Class 66’s 66719 ‘Metroland’ and 66757 ‘The West Somerset Railway’ with the 1359 3Q98 Exeter Riverside to Margam T.C passing Silverton. 17.05.24, copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks David, a nice sunny day and some colourful locomotives to photograph, what more can you ask for?

Avon Valley Railway - Littleton
Paul Negus

Hi Keith

Pictured yesterday at the Avon Valley Railway is the boiler and smokebox assembly from Littleton No 5, now residing in the second Platform road at Bitton. This is a powerful Manning Wardle product of 1922 and is now owned by the AVR, having been generously donated by the last owner. There are no projections for when it might return to service.

Kind regards
Paul

The boiler of Littleton No. 5 awaiting restoration at the Avon Valley Railway. Copyright Paul Negus.

Many thanks Paul

Swindon - 16.05.24
Ken Mumford

IET 80201 heads for Bristol (Temple Meads] passing 4L33 [Wentlogg to London Gateway] headed by 66519 - this train had been held for a few minutes alongside 'The Works', then was further held on the UML to allow 1L16 [Carmarthen-Swansea-Paddington] to get ahead of it. 66519 with 4L33 was allowed to proceed eastwards 3 minutes after 1L16 had left - the driver of 66519 put n the power immediately BUT yet again this train had more empty trucks than loaded ones! Copyright Ken Mumford.

66652 with 6V15 [Swindon Stores to Toton Up Sidings] waits quietly to leave later that day. This locomotive has recently been re-geared. This brings the maximum speed of the loco down from 75mph to 60mph. It also increases the tractive effort of the loco. Since the Class 60s have been withdrawn some of the trains now require two normal class 66 locos to pull the train instead of 1 class 60. By re-gearing some of the 66s it is hoped to eliminate the double heading. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Taken the previous day on a much sunnier day is the statue of Brunel in the Town Centre. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks, Ken.

Spring colours in the Trenance Valley
Jon Hird

GWR 43198 leads 2P15 (The 12:50 Penzance - Paddington) over Trenance Viaduct. 43004 was on the other end. A sunny day with lots of nice, bright spring colours providing a bit of contrast to the dark GWR green livery. 17.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

May 17th 2024

17/5/2024

Westbury & Didcot
Craig Munday

Hi there

More travels out of the Duchy for work. This time a Victa Rail freight familiarisation course at Didcot, which was very informative.

On the way via Westbury & Melksham, a brief stop off allowed a nice view of 6Z20 bound for the cement yard. A great deal of Mendip services are double stamps these days, with combined trains coupled together. This duo was 66620 leading 59206. Colas Rail's 67027 was stabled alongside. The new platform extensions allow a wander a little further west now to observe workings.

Following the course next day, a 0Z20 was spotted on Traksy which equated to a Eastleigh to Barrow Hill light loco move. Various other cameras started to appear which indicated something exotic! The movement was routed into the platform to follow a class 2 from Didcot North Jn so Katie and I were delighted to see D1015 Western Champion reveal itself behind a GWR 387 unit. Tagged on the rear were 20311/302 in garish orange! The 15th (next day) commemorated my 35th year on the railway, here I was in Didcot looking at a blue Western! How bizarre.

Cheers for now

Craig

13.05.2024 - 66620 and 59206 pass Westbury with 6Z40 whilst 67027 is parked up in the yard. Copyright Craig Munday.

14.05.2024 - D1015 'Western Champion' heads through Didcot Parkway with 0Z20. Copyright Craig Munday.

14.05.2024 - 20302 and 20311 in Harry Needle Railroad Company house colours being taken home from the recent Swanage Diesel Gala by D1015. Copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig - right place at the right time! Congratulations on reaching your 35-year railway milestone, also.

Otterham Station House
Roger Geach

The former LSWR station house at Otterham on the old North Cornwall line - 18.05.2010. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - more photos of Otterham available in the North Cornwall Line section - please click here.

The Treviscoe Trip
Jon Hird

66130 passing Trewoon with the once-a-week Treviscoe - Cliffe Vale clay working. 16.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

As the train is exposed to the wind crossing Gover viaduct, the excess clay blows off the wagons. 16.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Mid Cornwall Memories
Roger Winnen

Lostwithiel Signal Box. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

The upside station buildings at Lostwithiel. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A DMU calls at the down platform at Lostwithiel. China clay 'hoods' stabled in the busy yard behind. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

The 09:30 Paddington - Penzance arrives behind D1009 'Western Invader'. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1022 arrives with the Bradford - Penzance. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1051 stops to pick up Roger whilst working the 14:00 Penzance - Birmingham. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A quick dash over the footbridge at Bodmin Road (as it was then) to photograph D1051 as it heads onwards to Birmingham. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1070 calls at Bodmin Road whilst working the 11:30 Paddington to Penzance. 28.02.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

'Goliath' at Paignton
Martin Scane

Hi

We took a trip from Paignton to Kingswear and back today and I was delighted to find that 5239 was doing the honours.

Cheers
Martin

16.05.2024 - 5239 'Goliath' running round at Paignton on the Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway. Copyright Martin Scane.

Thanks Martin, a lovely trip by train whilst the sun is shining.

May 16th 2024

16/5/2024

Hayle Model Railway Exhibition
This weekend, 18th/19th May

A date for the diary for those among us who enjoy model railways as well as the full-size version!

Bridport Railway Remains
Richard Sims

I was interested to see the recent photographs on the Bridport Railway (click here and scroll down). The two attached photos may be of interest. The field in Loders was briefly the site of a siding laid in WW2 for a rail mounted anti aircraft gun. The second shows one of the typical gates accessing the line which has been recently painted by local residents.

Finally, click here for an article we wrote a few years ago on Edward Gill Flight, the man who was behind the promotion of the railway.

Best wishes
Richard Sims

A site in Loders which was the site of a siding in WW2, which housed a rail-mounted anti aircraft gun. Copyright Richard Sims.

Unmistakably a piece of railside furniture, one of the original gates recently repainted by a resident. Copyright Richard Sims.

Many thanks to you Richard for providing these interesting photographs.

Please make sure you check out the link to the article in Richard's text.

Clay coming and going
Jon Hird

14.05.24 - 66101 with 6G09 (Goonbarrow-Fowey), 16 loaded JIA's, rolling over Ponts Mill bridge at around 12:50. This was the scene of a serious derailment involving the CDA wagons in March 2005, when rot in the timbers of the bridge allowed the rails to spread. Pictures and info on that incident is available by clicking here - note also how much the vegetation has grown up in the last 19 years. Copyright Jon Hird.

14.05.24 - 66101 with 6G05 (Fowey - Goonbarrow) pulling off the Newquay branch into Goonbarrow. The train has stopped in at St. Blazey and dropped off 5 JIA's which would be used for a trip to Par Harbour the following morning. Copyright Jon Hird.

Cornish Lizards at Coulson Park
Roger Geach

Two of St. Blazeys finest, 37181 and 37207 are seen from Coulsons Park climbing the bank away from Lostwithiel. Both locos have the Cornish Lizards motif on their sides. 28.08.1984, copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks, Roger. It's remarkable how much the view has changed here, you'd struggle to see the branch in the foreground nowadays let alone the mainline behind.

May 15th 2024

15/5/2024

A Preliminary Announcement
The funeral of Christine Simmons will take place at 2pm on Thursday May 30th, at Treswithian Crematorium, Camborne.

The Swanage Railway Diesel Gala 2024
Andrew Triggs

Hi Roger/Keith/Jon
The promised shots from the excellent Swanage Railway Diesel Gala for CRS, my first Diesel Gala of the year, the weather was fantastic for photography too
All the Best
Andrew

50021 'Rodney' on Corfe Common approaching Townsend overbridge working the late running 09.48 Norden-Swanage service before later failing with a minor electrical fault later in the day 10.5.2024 Copyright Andrew Triggs

HNRC 20302 with 20311 at Townsend Overbridge working the 10.32 River Frome Bridge-Swanage 10.5.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

69002 'Bob Tiller CM&EE' at Quarr Farm Crossing working the 11.32 River Frome Bridge-Swanage 10.5.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Resident 33012 arriving at Swanage with the 13.39 from Corfe Castle 10.5.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Veteran D5054 'Phil Southern' (with D1015 at the Rear) passing Furzebrook working the 13.39 Swanage-River Frome Bridge 10.5.2024 Copyright Andrew Triggs

D1015 'Western Champion' passing Creech Bottom working the 14.32 River Frome Bridge-Swanage (with D5054 at the rear) 10.5.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

The Looe Branch
Roger Geach

Very nice to see Roger Winnen's pictures of the Looe branch 50 years ago (click here and scroll down).

Here is one of mine at Landlooe bridge near Causland.

'Bubble Car' P125 at Landlooe Bridge, November 1976. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks indeed, Roger

Cotswold Rail in Cornwall
Jon Hird

On 15/08/2004 Pathfinder Railtours ran a Chester - Penzance excursion using Cotswold Rail 47316 and 47200. Here the pair arrive at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Jon Hird.

Passing through St. Austell we meet a First Great Western HST, no doubt headed for Paddington. 15.08.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

The pair of locos push back at Penzance past the signal box in order to run round at Long Rock. 15.08.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

47316 has been detached and 47200 remains on the stock. I always thought this was a great look for the 47's, a light-coloured livery with 3 piece ploughs. 15.08.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

47316 reverses onto the train with the multiple working cable hanging from the socket in the headcode panel. 15.08.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

We say goodbye to the tour at Bodmin Parkway where the pair of locos make a spirited departure, with the trademark plume of 'clag' from both their exhaust ports. 15.08.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

'Westerns' at Plymouth
Roger Winnen

20/04/1976 - D1010 Western Campaigner on the 15.08 Plymouth Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

21/04/1976 - D1048 Western Lady on the 08.45 Plymouth to Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

21/04/1976 - Another view of D1048 Western Lady on the 08.45 Plymouth to Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

Severn Tunnel 'Tug'
Roger Geach

60005 with the Corby - Margam freight at Severn Tunnel Junction. 19/03/2003. Copyright Roger Geach.

Thanks again, Roger

<<Previous

Forward>>

The longest daysCraig Munday

Exeter CentralMartin Scane

Dobwalls DelightRoger Geach

More Westbury 'Grid' actionGuy Vincent

10217 at Long Rock - on the roadDennis Clarke

Bodmin RailwayBranch Line Gala25th - 26th May 2024

A loco in the landscapeRoger Geach

An interlude at LostwithielAndrew & Diane Jones

Eagle at PendalakeRoger Geach

Last light at LavreanJon Hird

Changing Times at PenzanceRoger Winnen

The early bird at HallenbeagleDennis Clarke

Pink and Blue to NewquayJon Hird

Re: Loco 4591Roy Hart

TeignmouthMartin Scane

Westbury Springtime 'Grids'Guy Vincent

South Devon RailwayFreight Train ExperienceSam Ryder

TreverrinJon Hird

A sad scene at ExminsterRoger Geach

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 85The Life and Times of Prairie 4591Michael L. Roach

Weedkiller at SilvertonDavid Tozer

Avon Valley Railway - LittletonPaul Negus

Swindon - 16.05.24Ken Mumford

Spring colours in the Trenance ValleyJon Hird

Westbury & DidcotCraig Munday

Otterham Station HouseRoger Geach

The Treviscoe TripJon Hird

Mid Cornwall MemoriesRoger Winnen

'Goliath' at PaigntonMartin Scane

Hayle Model Railway ExhibitionThis weekend, 18th/19th May

Bridport Railway Remains​Richard Sims

Clay coming and goingJon Hird

Cornish Lizards at Coulson ParkRoger Geach

The Looe BranchRoger Geach

Cotswold Rail in CornwallJon Hird

'Westerns' at PlymouthRoger Winnen

Severn Tunnel 'Tug'Roger Geach

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