Blog Archives

May 14th 2024

14/5/2024

Coryton Cove
Roger Salter

CORYTON COVE
Work is still progressing to stabilise the cliffs at Coryton Cove .Work has move to the south side directly over the line.
Lea Mount & footpath is open after 6 months, although some walkways still remain closed

Copyright Roger Salter

Many Thanks Roger

'Peaks'
At Westbury and in the West Country
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, Here are a few shots from Michael Adams of Peaks . Firstly 45142 waits to depart Bristol Temple Meads on 3 May 1983 with the 11.30 Manchester to Plymouth,several class 47s can be seen on Bath Road depot. Copyright Michael Adams

Now we see 45048 at Exeter St. David’s with a service from Leeds to Paignton on 1 August 1981. Copyright Michael Adams

45057 arrives at Westbury on 13 August 1981 with some of the four wheeled hoppers of the time. Copyright Michael Adams Thanks, all the best, Michael

Many Thanks Michael

D1015 Western Champion at Swanage
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, Thank you for dealing with the last pictures.
There has been good coverage of D1015 on the Swanage railway at the weekend so I thought it would be nice to make a comparison with the same loco. at Swanage station on 11 May 2007.(Just over 17 years to the day since I retired,how time flies)

Many thanks, Michael Forward

Copyriight Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

Western Action
At the Swanage Diesel Gala
Clive Smith

Just a few more photos to complement Paul Barlow's recent feature (click here and scroll down), specifically of D1015 Western Champion as we all love a Western. Also an update on the weekend's events. The first two photos were taken at Corfe Castle, the latter two at Swanage.

Following 50021's temporary failure on the Friday, it decided to fail completely on the Saturday. That was nothing compared to 50026 at 18.00 when it derailed and spread the track at exactly where it is in my first picture. Trains were then cancelled for the rest of the evening with the Swanage Railway organising taxis and buses for stranded to passengers who needed to be elsewhere.

A valiant effort in the circumstances with staff working through the night to enable a reduced service to run on the Sunday.

Regards

Clive Smith

D1015 and the ill-fated 50026 at Corfe Castle, 11.05.2024. Copyright Clive Smith.

A closer view of D1015. Copyright Clive Smith.

'Western Champion' awaits her next turn at Swanage. 11.05.2024, copyright Clive Smith.

With her blue paint shimmering in the sunshine, D1015 waits for the off at Swanage. 11.05.2024, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive - who doesn't love a 'Western'?

Diesel Day on The Bodmin Railway
Jon Hird

Lots of lovely spring colours on display as 47306 heads down the gradient to Bodmin Parkway. 11.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

'The Sapper' heads back up the hill towards Bodmin General, passing 'racing straight'. 11.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Heading back up from Boscarne Junction, near Crabtree Lane. 11.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A strategically planned shot which involved threading the drone through a small opening in the thick canopy of trees produced this shot of the train crossing the viaduct at Bodmin Parkway. The trees are so thick you'd be forgiven for not realising the train was actually on a viaduct over quite a deep valley. I will retry with a steam train going the opposite way when the weather/schedule allows! 11.05.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Upcoming events at the Bodmin Railway:

Branch Line Gala - 25th & 26th May
Featuring 5552, Bubble Car 121020, Port of Par Bagnall 'Judy', workshop tours and several other locomotives on static display

Diesel Running Day - June 8th
Loco TBC.

Visit the Bodmin Railway website for details - click here

Memories of the CDA's
Roger Geach

Semaphores and CDA's both alive and well at Par in this shot from 2012 as 66005 rounds the bend with 6G08 , the 1427 Rocks - Fowey. 27.11.2012, copyright Roger Geach.

Thanks Roger, a scene never to be repeated.

13/5/2024

Remembering
Christine Simmonds

Sad news reached us yesterday evening, of the passing of Christine Simmonds - a long-term supporter of the Cornwall Railway Society.

Christine was a marvellous person who took her various posts on our committee willingly.

To describe her as a mainstay of the committee would be a huge understatement.

Over the years Christine carried out a variety of roles for the CRS, most recently taking on the post of Club Treasurer and membership secretary. She produced flawless accounts for us for a number of years. She also managed the book stall with great efficiency, both operating the stall at various events and managing it in between outings, ensuring stock was ready for the next event we were due to attend.

Christine was also a staunch supporter of Rogers events, attending almost all club meetings along with numerous outdoor events.

We will greatly miss Christines smiling face, and we will all remember her with a tremendous fondness.

May she rest in peace.

140830p Lady Elizabeth Kitson and our party bidding farewell to Yelverton Station. Christine stands far right in the photograph . Copyright Roger Winnen

The Bridport Railway Remains
Andrew Triggs

Hi Roger/Keith
On the way home from the Swanage Railway Diesel Gala, I stopped off at Bradpole, Bridport and West Bay and took the enclosed shots of the former branch from Maiden Newton, which closed some 49 years back finally on 3.5.1975
All the Best
Andrew

The replica gates at Bradpole which have been replaced again in 2023 and are the 2nd replica gates there, the rails are still embedded in the tarmac 49 years after final closure in 1975 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The information sign with the history of the Bridport Railway 1857-1975 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The second part featuring the site of Bridport Station, which was demolished in 1977, and the site is now the Bridport Co Op with Sea Road North to the right covering the former trackbed to West Bay

The approach from Bradpole with the former line coming in from the left Copyright Andrew Triggs

In the opposite direction the Travis Perkins Yard covers the trackbed which curved to the right Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Co Op building on the station site, looking towards Bradpole. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The station site mainly is covered by the store car park, looking towards West Bay. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Part 3 covers West Bay Station, which closed to passengers in 1930 and finally in 1962, today it's in use as 'The Station Kitchen'
Copyright Andrew Triggs

The preserved coaches on site, in use as seated areas for the Station Kitchen business. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The preserved coaches on site, in use as seated areas for the Station Kitchen business Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Station Buildings at West Bay, some 94 years after closure to regular passenger. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Station Buildings at West Bay, some 94 years after closure to regular passenger . Copyright Andrew Triigs

Many Thanks Andrew

Weedkiller on the move
Joe Birchall

Dear Jon

Today we saw the weed killer train coming past at 20:25, running 21 minutes early. Headed by 66 757 with 66 719 trailing behind. Always nice to smell some proper locomotives at work from the bridge, which will be a thing of the past once the HSTs have been phased out.

Kind Regards
Joe

66757 just east of Truro with 3Q98 - Truro Yard to Truro Yard via Parkandillack, St. Ives and Penzance. 12.05.24, copyright Joe Birchall.

Many thanks Joe, you were lucky to catch this 'nocturnal' train outside of the cover of darkness!

The Looe Branch
1st February 1974
Roger Winnen

740201a 55018 at Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201aa On route to looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201b 55018 at Looe. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201c Old railway land past the present station. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201d Skirting the Looe Rstuary. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201f Skirting the Looe River. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201f Terras Crossing. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201g Approaching Terras Crossing. Copyright Roger Winnwn

740201h 55018 at Sandplace. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201h An abandoned lock near Terras. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201i The Looe Valley. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201j Causeland Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201k St Keyne Well. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201l The junction at Coombe. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201m Coombe Junction Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

740201n 55018 at Coombe Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

A 'Castle' to Newquay
Jon Hird

Due to a shortage of serviceable class 150 DMU's, on Sunday 12.05.2024 GWR sent one of their short formed 'Castle' HST sets consisting of 43156 and 43098 to cover 3 Par - Newquay diagrams.

The GWR Green stands out quite well against the light brown gorse of the Goss Moor. 43156 leads the way with 2N02, the 10:04 Par - Newquay. 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

43098 trailing on 2N02. Three generations of cross-Cornwall travel on display here - the railway, the original A30 beside it, and in the distance the 'new' A30. 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

Just a few miles away from the moor, at Tremodrett, things are much more green. 43156 on the rear of 2N05, the 14:25 Newquay - Par. 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

43156 leads again on 2N06 the 16:35 Par - Newquay, passing Lavrean (near Goonbarrow). 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

43098 on the rear of 2N06. 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

The final train of the day, 2N09 the 17:55 Newquay - Par slows for Prideaux viaduct in the Luxuylan Valley. I like the exposed granite visible in the opposite valley wall. 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

Our final view of the train as it crosses Prideaux Viaduct. 12.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

Swindon Area
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

10.05.24 - 1Z48 [Birmingham to Bristol section of a Vintage Trains special] on the UML through Swindon. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

10.05.24 - 1Z46 cruised into the eastern end of the UML, then about halfway alomg, the red signal changed to green, the whistle was blown and 7029 made a majestic 4-cylinder sound with the appropriate 'Castle' 4-6-0 determined acceleration instead of stopping from12.36 to 12.44. This was because the IET which 1Z46 would have stopped on the UML to pass was delayed, so 7029 was given the road leaving Swindon 10 minutes EARLY! Class 47, 47773, was on the end of this special. Copyright Ken Mumford.

10.05.24 - 70805 hurries through Swindon on the UML with 6M40 [Westbury Down to Cliffe Hill Stud]. Copyright Ken Mumford.

11.05.24 - 7029 'Clun Castle' with 1Z48 [Plymouth - Bristol - Paddington - Birmingham]. A fantastic sight and sound as it speeded through the station on the UML - no class 47 which followed a few minutes aftewards. Copyright Ken Mumford.

The clss 47 [47773 in its original two-tone green which I prefer] which followed passing nonstop on the UML. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks to you both, Ken and Colin.

May 12th 2024

12/5/2024

Lee Moor Crossing on Saturday 11th May 2024
The Plym Valley Railway
Chris Bellett

Please find attached a couple of photos you might like to publish on the website. Taken on the Plym Valley Railway at Lee Moor Level Crossing during a drivers experience course.

Take Care,
Chris Bellett
Semi-Retired S&T Engineer
CRS Member

Many Thanks Chris

Clun Castle Visits the West
Craig Munday, Martin Scane, David Tozer, Trevor Tremethick, Ian Inch Roger Salter & Clive Smith

From Craig Munday:

Fri 10th / 11th saw me booked on the Vintage Trains Charter between Bristol Temple Meads and Plymouth as travelling MOM, returning next day. I rode a variety of rolling stock during the days - the Mark 1 BSK compartment was the most comfortable of course!

On Fri 10th, the class 47 dragged the train to Bristol East Depot after the guests had alighted. A water tanker was provided for replenishment for 7029 Clun Castle. The sun shone brightly and the Castle gleamed beside its GWR counterparts flying by on the mainline. 1C11 is seen near journeys end - showing off very different express trains through the generations!
On arrival at Plymouth the evening light was divine and a couple of pictures were obtained.

Sat 11th the train returned from Plymouth, not without incident, but the team on board, Signallers and Route Control worked quickly to ensure little delay was incurred on the mainline. The class 47 was attached to the rear and remained there til Bristol TM (arriving on time I'm pleased to report)!

10.05.2024 Bristol East Depot with 7029 Clun Castle. Copyright Craig Munday.

10.05.2024 Looking stunning against Brent Tor in the glorious evening light, 7029 Clun Castle works the 1Z47 15.47 Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth Vintage Trains tour past Aish near South Brent. No smoke but you can't have everything. I thought there would be a small crowd in the field to capture this but it was just me, Bernard Mills and his wife Audrey. Copyright Clive Smith.

10.05.2024 47773 precedes 7029 Clun Castle by ten minutes as the 0Z47 Bristol East Depot - Plymouth light engine movement. The two tone green liveried 47 sparkles in the evening sunshine. Much better to see these support locos running independently rather than towed on the back and often powering on gradients. Copyright Clive Smith.

Friday evening at Exminster. Copyright David Tozer

Friday evening at Exminster. Copyright David Tozet

The Class 47 at Eastdon running in front of the steam. Copyright Roger Salter

7029 Clun Castle at Eastdon. Copyright Roger Salter

10.05.2024 7029 Clun Castle arrives at Plymouth with 1Z47. Copyright Craig Munday.

7029a at Laira 1 Copyright Ian Inch

7029b at Laira 2 Copyright Ian Inch

7029c at Laira 3 Copyright Ian Inch

7029d at Laira 4 Copyright Ian Inch

7029e at Laira 5 Copyright Ian Inch

7029f setting back to North Road. Copyright Ian Inch

7029g setting back to North Road. 2 Copyright Ian Inch

7029 leaves Laira yard on ECS for 1Z48 11.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

7029 leaving Laira ECS for 1Z48 11.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

7029 passing Laira on 1Z48 11.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

11.05.2024 Here’s the return of Clun Castle bursting into the sea wall at Teignmouth. She was running pretty fast presumably to make up time as she was running late. Copyright Martin Scane.

Roger, 7029 taken at Rewe this morning following the stall on Hemerdon Bank shortly after leaving Plymouth. 47773 was on the rear.Copyright David Tozer

11.05.2024 Vintage Train's 47773 at Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Craig Munday.

Thank you very much Craig, Martin, David, Trevor, Ian, Roger and Clive for sending us your photographs, it's much appreciated.

Out of the Duchy
Craig Munday

Hi there

Looking at my schedule, I wont be called the Cornwall MOM for much longer. I seem to be travelling East quite a lot lately!

Firstly up to Cardiff for a concert which allowed me 90 mins at Cardiff Central to get accustomed to all things red! The ATW livery is striking, and I find the lack of yellow warning fronts a bit alien if I'm honest!
67008 worked 1W55 from Cardiff up the North and West (Hereford road) to Manchester Piccadilly. Nice to have scheduled loco hauled trains, even if in push-pull mode with a DVT on the other end.
ATW 197006 worked a Maesteg to Cheltenham Spa service.
The only freight I saw (not like the old days) was the Robeston tanks 6B17 with 66001 leading 66083. The days of class 60s on the tanks sadly over - with a pair of 66s needed obviously.

Fri 10th / 11th saw me booked on the Vintage Trains Charter between Bristol Temple Meads and Plymouth as travelling MOM, returning next day. (Please see above post!)

More travelling next week.

Cheers for now

Craig

09.05.2024 67008 with 1W55 at Cardiff Central. Copyright Craig Munday.

09.05.2024 66083 and 'pioneer' class 66 66001 with 6B13 at Cardiff Central. Copyright Craig Munday.

09.05.2024 197006 with 2G48 at Cardiff Central. Copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks as always Craig, a bright selection of liveries.

The Swanage Railway diesel gala
Paul Barlow

20311 20302 Harmans Cross 1215 Swanage to Corfe castle. Copyright Paul Barlow.

37219 and 73136 Swanage 10 May 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

37219 Corfe Castle 10 May 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

50021 leaves Norden with 0948 to Swanage. this loco failed on its next turn causing delays of 80 minutes for the rest of the day. Copyright Paul Barlow.

50021 leaves Swanage with 1139 to River Fowey this loco failed on this trai causing delays of 80 minutes for the rest of the day.50026 is ticking over on the right. Copyright Paul Barlow.

69002 drops the token with a service from Corfe Castle 10 May 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

D1015 Western Champion Swanage 10 May 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

D5054 Norden on the rear of a service to River Frome 10 May 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

D5054 Swanage shed 10 May 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - quite some variety!

A Cornishman at Eastleigh
Dennis Clarke

Hi Keith, Roger, Jon,

Hope all well.

I was at Eastleigh on 9th May and GBRf’s 69007, named Richard Trevithick, was stabled next to the station. The loco was 56037 in its previous life !

Regards,
Dennis

GB Railfreight 69007 'Richard Trevithick' stabled at Eastleigh. Mr. Trevithick of course being one of the most famous Cornishmen to have lived! The class 69's are re-engined class 56's, using much the same running gear as a Class 66. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks Dennis, a nice nod by GBRF to a very important engineer.

The Weedkiller in action
Jon Hird

I had planned to photograph the weedkiller in Newquay last night (10.05), but I needed to get some petrol first so popped into St. Blazey. Lucky I did really, as the train only made it as far as the signal box before being turned back and sent to Liskeard, skipping its trip down the branch! I'd have been in for a long and fruitless wait.

66757 arrives at Liskeard beneath a lovely crescent moon. 10.05.24, copyright Jon HIrd.

The train stopped in the up platform. I waited around for about 40 minutes to see if it headed for Looe, but there was no sign of movement in that time. One of the staff onboard told me that there was an issue with the token machine. 10.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

66719 at the Penzance end of the train beneath the moon and semaphores. 10.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

One last look at 66719 before heading for home and bed! 10.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

Truro Weedkiller
Jonathan Harbage

Dear sir,

Photos taken at Truro 10/05/24 of 66719 Metro and 66757 West Somerset Railway on a weed killer train. 66719 visited Truro a couple of months ago on a engineering train. It must like Cornwall.

66719 waits for night to fall so that it can go about its business killing the growth around the 4 foot. 10.05.2024, copyright Jonathan Harbage.

Many thanks Jonathan

May 11th 2024

11/5/2024

Clun Castle at Teignmouth
Martin Scane

Hi

Here is Clun Castle running Bristol TM to Plymouth on the sea wall approaching Teignmouth at about 17-55 this evening.

Also, the Class 47 which was running about 10 mins ahead of the Castle.

Cheers
Martin

'The warm-up act' 47773 running ahead of the steam tour at Teignmouth. 10.05.24, Copyright Martin Scane.

7029 'Clun Castle' looks very much at home running along the sea wall as she heads for Plymouth. 10.05.24, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin, lovely images.

Clun Castle on Rattery
Trevor Tremethick

Evening all

Here is my attempt at Clun climbing Rattery at Tigley today, May 10 2024.
Is this the first visit of Clun to Devon since her 1985 special?
The 47 backup (which preceded) was I think D1755.
Regards
Trevor
7029 Clun Castle climbing Rattery Bank at Tigley with 1Z47 10.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick.jpg

7029 Clun Castle climbing Rattery Bank at Tigley with 1Z47 10.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Class 47 backup. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Many Thanks Trevor

Kennaway Tunnel Cliff Repair
Roger Salter

All photographs Copyright Roger Salter

Many Thanks Roger

The Weedkiller at Truro
Mick House & Jon Hird

The GBRF-hauled weedkiller train is making its annual trip to Cornwall.

Over the next few nights/mornings it will work the following.

10.05.2024
Truro Yard - Truro Yard via Newquay, Looe and Falmouth

12.05.2024
Truro Yard - Truro Yard via Parkandillack, Penzance and St. Ives

13.05.2024
Truro Yard - Truro Yard via Laira and Fowey

14.05.2024
Truro Yard - Exeter Riverside via Truro (reversal at Plymouth and Truro)

66757 parked at the London end of the train in Truro yard. A bit of an awkward spot for photography as a lot of recovered track panels have been stacked on the siding nearest the car park. Copyright Jon Hird.

66757 on the London end of the train in Truro yard. Copyright Mick House.

93371 Generator wagon.. Copyright Mick House.

95380 Two man control and application wagon. Copyright Mick House.

93450 Water tanks. Copyright Mick House.

66719 on the Penzance end of the train in Truro yard. Copyright Mick House.

66719. Somebody has written a shed code in the dirt on the nose - 10F - Lower Ince or Rose Grove depending on the year? Maybe somebody could change it to 83F or 84C for the duration of its stay! Copyright Jon Hird.

66719 & 66757 top and tail today’s weed killer train. Copyright Mick House.

The semaphore graveyard at the London end of Truro yard. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks Mick for your notes and images

GWR 150 Steam Tours
Roger Geach

4930 and 7819 steam from Plymouth to Bristol on Monday 8/4/1985, seen near Stoke Cannon with lots of smoke.

1985 was a good year for mainline steam in Devon, it brought out the crowds.

4930 7819 Plymouth - Bristol GWR 150 celebrations, pictured near stoke cannon On Easter Monday, 8.4.1985. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger

May 10th 2024

10/5/2024

37116 Heads towards Pinhoe
David Tozer

Roger,
2101 hours last night with the light fading fast 37116 heads towards Pinhoe with the 2031 Exeter Riverside to Salisbury and return.

Dave

37116 Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

GWR 7029 'Clun Castle'
A visit to the West
Times & Schedules

In what will surely be a highlight of any steam enthusiast's calendar this year, ex-GWR 'Castle' No. 7029 'Clun Castle' is due to visit Devon today, returning on Saturday 11.05.

Some times are below (click to be taken to the RTT schedule for each movement).

Friday 10.05

Diesel:
0Z47 1435 Bristol East Depot Dbc to Plymouth
Steam:
1Z47 1547 Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth
Steam
5Z47 1854 Plymouth to Laira T.& R.S.M.D.

Saturday 11.05

Steam (and diesel?):
3Z48 0802 Laira T.& R.S.M.D. to Plymouth
Steam:
1Z48 0931 Plymouth to Bristol Temple Meads
Diesel:
0Z48 0941 Plymouth to St Philips Mrsh H S T D

Going out to see the tour? Please send us your photos! [email protected]

Tomorrow night (11.05.2024)

Cornwall Railway Society
Indoor Meeting

Chris Heaps presents a show entitled
'A life of Buses & Trains'

The Wesley Memorial Hall, Redruth
Saturday 11th May 2024
Commencing 18.30 hours

A moment at Doublebois
Roger Geach

47828 with a Penzance - Manchester service at Doublebois on 16.05.2000. Always a nice spot in May for the flowers and trees in bloom. Copyright Roger Geach.

Thank you very much, Roger.

'Make Clay while the sun shines'
Jon Hird

A quick trip out to photograph 6M53 - the only freight service which runs west of Par currently.

66130 and 6M53 arrived at Burngullow at the exact moment I did, on 09.05.24. A quick phone shot (no time to retrieve the camera from the car boot) of it arriving from the Parkandillack branch. 09.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

I knew from keeping an eye on Open Train Times that an IET had just passed through the Burngullow section, so I hoped I'd have time to get over to Gover for another shot with the drone. I made it and got the device up into the air with moments to spare again. The spring colours are in full display in the valley. 09.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

Just as I was packing away I heard the distant, distinctive rumble of an MTU power unit. Back in the air for a (rather poorly composed) photograph of a GWR 'Castle' consisting of 43098 and 43156 working a slightly late-running 2C11, Plymouth - Penzance service. In hindsight I was probably lucky it was running a little late, otherwise I'd have been 'bowled' for my shot of the clay! 09.05.24, copyright Jon Hird.

May 9th 2024

9/5/2024

A view of Penzance from days gone by
Eric Curnow / The Curnow Collection

The “gem” of my collection so far, I think, as a double headed express pulls away from Penzance Station in the early 1900s with steam and smoke spreading everywhere. The original signal box – rarely seen in remaining photographs – is nearly opposite single line token equipment, and a brave man ascends a precarious ladder to the cable runs on the wall. Copyright Eric Curnow / The Curnow Collection.

Many thanks to Eric for allowing us to reproduce the above photograph.

Eric has a marvellous website full of similar scenes, please do take a look - click here.

A note RE: the above image of Penzance, from Roy Hart

Dear Jon/Roger,

The picture dates from 1906-11. The engines are Bulldogs or Atbaras and the coaching stock includes 'dreadnoughts', which were new in 1906.

The electric staff apparatus is for the single line over the old Penzance viaduct (token did not come along until 1912).

The box shown opened in 1880 when the station was rebuilt. It was replaced by a new box in 1912, along with new boxes at Ponsandane and Long Rock.

In the distance, next to the goods shed, can be seen a small lean-to structure. This was the original Penzance engine shed of 1852.

Hope this is of interest,

Roy

Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge with us, Roy.

Class 67s at Swindon
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, What a great selection of pictures from the busy weekend of specials.

Here are two pictures from Michael Adams taken at Swindon on 19 July 2007.

The first shows 67012 with the 16.23 Avonmouth to Wembley yard ‘Enterprise’ service,which was diagrammed for a class 67.

Hello Roger, What a great selection of pictures from the busy weekend of specials. Here are two pictures from Michael Adams taken at Swindon on 19 July 2007. The first shows 67012 with the 16.23 Avonmouth to Wembley yard ‘Enterprise’ service,which was diagrammed for a class 67.

A bit later on the same day 67029 appeared with some empty coaches ,and after running round, departed on the Gloucester line,the working remains a mystery. Thanks and best wishes, Copyright Michael Adams

The wreck of St. Chamond - and it's railway connection!
Neil Hartwell

Hi

If Maurice had still been around, I'd have asked him if he knew about the wreck of the St Chamond in WW1.

Torpedoed off St Ives Bay with a cargo of 5-7 Locomotive engines (4-8-0's).

It doesn't seem to feature on the Cornwall Railway website (yet).

Scuba divers regularly go to visit the remains.

'The 2866 ton St Chamond was built in 1913 by W Gray and Co at West
Hartlepool for the Soc Anon des Chargeurs de l'Ouest. As far as I know
it was her owner when she was mined and salvaged in the North Sea on 3 September, 1915. It was still her owner when she was torpedoed and sunk by U60, just over a mile off Clodgy Point, St Ives, on 30 April 1918. The St Chamond of Nantes was 314ft long with a beam of 46ft, which gave enough room for five (some divers say they have counted seven) 75 ton railway locomotives as deck cargo when she left Glasgow for St Nazaire.

The locos and British rolling stock were part of a drive by the Allies
to prevent French railways collapsing under the huge movement of men and munitions for the 'Big Push' in 1918 against the German Army'

More info: https://divernet.com/scuba-diving/wreck-tours/wreck-tour-38-the-st-chamond/

Many thanks Neil - really interesting stuff.
Please make sure you watch the video above!

Mixed freight at Bolitho
Roger Geach

60039 at Bolitho with 6M72 - St. Blazey - Cliffe Vale. Note the fuel tanks on the rear. 5/4/2004. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - the 60's, 153's and even the wagons, all gone now 20 years later.

Load 10 from Rocks
Jon Hird

66101 leads yesterdays (08.05.24) Goonbarrow - Fowey china clay. Wednesdays usually see a slightly shorter train, as some of the JIA wagons are used for a train to either Par Harbour or Treviscoe. The location is near Luxuylan - the 6th wagon from the loco is roughly at the location of the HST derailment of 1991. Copyright Jon Hird.

A few days ago, we posted a small piece about a recent visitor to our region touching on its previous westcountry heritage (click here and scroll). Bill has kindly provided the below article about another recent visitor and its link to our 'patch'.

37667 - in a past life
Bill Elston

Last weekend saw the return to the West Country of 37667 (along with stablemate 37521 ) on railtour duty.

Twenty seven years ago, this loco headed a special train to Meldon Quarry for its naming ceremony on 24 May 1997.

After refurbishment around 1986, this loco (along with 37668) went 'new' to Thornaby Depot and thence to Cardiff and the west country.

Hope these are of interest

Bill

The train leaving Exeter St Davids, tailed throughout by 37415. Copyright Bill Elston.

The train west of Crediton at Gunstone Mill. Copyright Bill Elston.

The returning train passing Upton Pyne, nameplates unveiled. Copyright Bill Elston.

Passing Riverside Yard, led by 37415. Copyright Bill Elston.

Nameplate detail. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks for taking the time to send these in Bill, much appreciated.

8/5/2024

Cornwall Railway Society
Chris Heaps presents a show entitled
A life of Buses & Trains
At the Wesley Memorial Hall Redruth
Saturday 11th May 2024 Commencing 18.30 hours

An early morning test train from St. Ives passing through St. Erth
Roger Winnen

240508a 37116 hauls a test train from St Ives seen passing St Erth at 05.52 this morning. Copyright Roger Winnen

240508b 37116 hauls a test train from St Ives seen passing St Erth at 05.52 this morning. Copyright Roger Winnen

West Cornwall in 1964
Gavin Johns / D. Lawrence

Photos taken in March 1964 by D Lawrence.

Carn Brea station from a DMU. Copyright Gavin Johns.

Marazion station. Copyright Gavin Johns.

the soon to be replaced plane for the isles of Scilly at Lands End aerodrome. Looking very similar to the planes used by the GWR in the inter-war years. Copyright Gavin Johns

Many thanks for sending us these remarkable images, Gavin - it's very much appreciated.

20 years ago today - 08.05.2004
3440 'City of Truro' works 'The Ocean Mail 100'
Bristol Temple Meads - Kingswear
Jon Hird

A railtour arranged to mark 100 years since 3440 'City of Truro' first (unofficially) reached 100mph. I was fortunate enough to be asked along on the trip, an unforgettable experience - seeing photographers on the hard shoulder of the M5 Motorway at Cullompton was quite surreal!

3440 arrives at Bristol Temple Meads with the stock for the tour. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

A quick stop at Taunton. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

BBC News crew on the footplate at Taunton speaking to the crew. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

Arrival at Exeter St. Davids, where I jumped off to catch a service train on to Paignton so that I could get a photo of the special arriving. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

3440 arriving at Paignton with the charter. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

A busy scene at Paignton as the train pulls into the station. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

Running shortly behind the tour was Ian Rileys 37197. Shamefully, I was more excited to travel behind this than I was 3440! 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

'City of Truro' over the pit at Paignton for servicing etc. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

37197 at Kingswear waiting to return the tour to Bristol Temple Meads. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

After a brilliant run along the Sea Wall, it was time to say goodbye to 37197 at Exeter St. Davids. 08.05.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

The May Bank Holiday in Somerset
Andrew Triggs

Some more shots from Somerset taken over the last couple of days for CRS, with Railtours and Loco haulage galore, it was certainly the place to be this weekend
All the Best
Andrew

WCR 37668 leading 37518 at Charlton Road overbridge, running 12 late at 09.57 passing Charlton Road overbridge, Cogload Junction, with the 'Spring Cornish Explorer' Copyright Andrew Triggs 4.5.2024

WCR 37668 leading 37518 at Charlton Road overbridge, running 12 late at 09.57 passing Charlton Road overbridge, Cogload Junction, with the 'Spring Cornish Explorer' Copyright Andrew Triggs4.5.2024

Later on, running 29 late at 12.36 59202, 59101, 59104, 33012 with 73136 at the rear hauling the preserved 4TC Maroon set while working 1Z73 06.48 Eastleigh-Exeter Central 'May the Fourth Be With You' Charter clearing Cogload Junction at Charlton Road overbridge. Copyright Andrew Triggs

. The Sun came out at Longlands Road overbridge, WSR, for LNER B1 No.61306 'Mayflower' working the 14.00 Norton Fitzwarren-Minehead, WSR Spring Steam Gala 4.5.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Complete change of weather conditions at Silk Mills Road overbridge, Taunton with 'Black 5' no.44871 leading 1Z33 08.48 Bristol T.M-Par 'Royal Duchy' in grim overhead conditions, with 47746 'Chris Fudge' at the rear 5.5.2024 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

A visit to the West Somerset Railway, and steam at Marsh Barton
David Tozer

44871 Marsh Barton 5.5.2024 working the return Par to Bristol Temple Meads Copyright David Tozer

The Coal tank near Crowcombe Heathfield. Copyright David Tozer

6990 with the freight at Crowcombe. Copyright David Tozer

61306 Mayflower at Crowcombe Heathfield. Copyright David Tozer

Double Headers at Crowcombe with 9351 leading. Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

Trevor Tremethick visits the West Somerset Gala on the last day

6695 arr. Dunster, late running 1415 ex-Minehead, WSR Spring Gala, 06.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

9466 and 6990 1255 Bishops Lydeard-Minehead, WSR Spring Gala, 06.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

61306 on 1400 ex-Norton Fitzwarren dep. Blue Anchor, WSR Spring Gala, 06.05.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Many Thanks Trevor

'Tangmere' at Respryn
Roger Geach

34067 'Tangmere' leads 70013 working the Great Britain 5 Tour, the BTM - PZ leg past Respryn on Saturday 28.04.12. Copyright Roger Geach.

Thank you very much Roger - plenty of steam!

7/5/2024

Up in Somerset
Andrew Triggs

Up in Somerset for the weekend and spent some on the first day out with the camera, in generally fair conditions, perhaps Summer is actually just around the corner, looking forward to the 3 Railtours due this way tomorrow (04.05.24), weather forecast is looking good too.

All the Best
Andrew

Visiting LNER B1 no.61306 'Mayflower' at Longlands Road overbridge working the 10.45 Minehead-Norton Fitzwarren during the WSR Spring Steam Gala Copyright Andrew Triggs

LSL 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' trailing 5Z24 13.56 Goodrington CHS-Southall LSL (47805 'Roger Hosking MA 1925-2013' leading) passing Norton Fitzwarren. Copyright Andrew Triggs

800321 working 1C85 14.36 London Paddington-Paignton passing 43062 with 43274 working 1Z18 15.39 Paignton-Taunton at Norton Fitzwarren. Copyright Andrew Triggs

34046 'Braunton' working 5Z47 15.45 St Phillips Marsh HSTD-Bishops Lydeard with BSK M35465 gaining WSR metals at Norton Fitzwarren Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

The last few days in the West
Craig Munday

Sat 4th May saw a good forecast across Wiltshire where we were staying, but thick fog shrouded the early morning and 37668 and 37518 with the Penzance bound charter. They made a fine sound and sight looming out of the fog at Thingley Jn and passed a London bound IET - like a visitor from another dimension!

37668 and 37518 at Thingley Junction on 04.05.2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

Sun 5th, back to work which saw Black five 44871 on May's Royal Duchy working. The loco is seen in the Par / St Blazey area. This was Exeter workstation's first charter with many shunts, and it was all accomplished in good time with sterling teamwork by all. The loco gleamed in the bright sunshine between showers. The M Power Kernow team are pictured (up close this time)!

44871 arrives at Par with the first 'Royal Duchy' of the season. 05.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

44871 being refuelled at St. Blazey. 05.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

The M-Power Kernow team are pictured before the loco departed for Par. 05.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

44871 departs for Par, pictured beside St. Blazey signal box. 05.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

Bank Holiday Monday 6th saw stunning blue skies and the new leaves so bright green it made the perfect canvas for some late afternoon Castle sets at Respryn and Lostwithiel.

2C29 passing Respryn with 43188 and 43189. 06.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

2C31 calls at Lostwithiel with 43098 and 43156. 06.05.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig - a stunning selection of images as always.

The West Somerset Railway
Spring Steam Gala
Bill Elston

Hi One and All

To round off a busy weekend, I visited the WSR on Fri 3May, and attached are a few photos of the occasion which I hope will be of interest.

Best wishes, Bill

0-6-2T 6695, ready to leave Bps Lydeard. Copyright Bill Elston.

Industrial tank no.18 JESSIE at Minehead. Copyright Bill Elston.

Manor 7828 and Hall 6990 approaching Crowcombe Heathfield. Copyright Bill Elston.

LNWR coaltank 1054 at Crowcombe H. Copyright Bill Elston.

Mogul 9351 tailing pt 9466 at Crowcombe H. Copyright Bill Elston.

LNER B1 61306 leaving Crowcombe H for Minehead. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill, a very interesting selection of images.

The Royal Duchy
Bristol Temple Meads to Par and return
44871
Roger Winnen

240505a 44871 Arrives at Plymuth with the Bristol to Par service. Coyright Roger Winnen

240505b 44871 Arrives at Plymuth with the Bristol to Par service. Coyright Roger Winnen

240505c 44871 Arrives at Plymuth with the Bristol to Par service. Coyright Roger Winnen

240505d The Black Five arrives at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505e The Black Five arrives at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505f The train enters the up platform at Par in the down direction. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505g At Par the train backs back to gain access to the line to St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505h At Par the train backs back to gain access to the line to St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505i Par Station from the road overbridge Copyright Roger Winnen

240505j Craig Munday stands by the old Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505k A Large crowd has gathered by the turntable Copyright Roger Winnen

240505l These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thanks

240505m These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thank

240505n These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thank

240505o These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thank

240505p These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thank

240505q These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thanks

240505r These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thanks

240505s These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thanks

240505t These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thanks

240505u These next photographs were taken by Network Rail Staff inside the fence. With gratefull thanks

240505v The black five rounds the bend into Par Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505w Coupling to the stock stabled at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505x Arriving at Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505y Arriving at Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505z Being watered in Plymouth the Black Five returns to its train. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505za Departure from Plymouth at 18.34 for Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505zb Departure from Plymouth at 18.34 for Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen

240505zc Departure from Plymouth at 18.34 for Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen

7/5/2024

The English Riviera Express
Nantwich to Kingswear
Roger Winnen

240504b 34046 Braunton heads the English Riviera throgh Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504c Going away towards Torre Torquay and Paignton

240504d 47828 tails the train. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504e The returning express runs non stop through Paignton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504f The returning express runs non stop through Paignton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504g The returning express runs non stop through Paignton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504l The returning express runs non stop through Paignton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Spring Cornish Explorer
Dorridge to Penzance and return
Roger Winnen

240504m The Spring Cornish Explorer approaches Newton Abbot behind 37668 and 37518. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504n The Spring Cornish Explorer approaches Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504o The Spring Cornish Explorer approaches Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504p The Spring Cornish Explorer approaches Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504q The returning Cornish Spring Explorer passes through Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504r The returning Cornish Spring Explorer passes through Newton Abbot on route to Dorridge Copyright Roger Winnen

240504s The returning Cornish Spring Explorer passes through Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

240504t Pristine rolling stock for the Saphos Train. Copyright Roger Winnen

7/5/2024

Branch Line Society Railtour
'May the fourth be with you'
Eastleigh to London Waterloo via Exeter
locomotives D6515 73136 66205 66114 59005 66541
Roger Winnen