Blog Archives

20th June 2020

20/6/2020

Truro Bonus
Trevor Tremethick

The first picture shows the old Truro 'A' signal box doing duty, as Roy Hart pointed out, as the S & T Office. The second picture shows a building very close by. When the late Keith Lloyd originally scanned the slide, he and I discussed this brick structure and decided it was an old stable block. However, this is up for confirmation - or otherwise! I should point out that these are from old Agfa CT18 stock which, as I have said before, have not aged well, the shadow areas becoming a bit blue over time. Both were taken in March 1973, so 47 years old. Best wishes Trevor Tremethick. No worries over the pictures - they are excellent.

S and T Office (the old A Signal Box) March 1973. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Thought to be the former stable block at Truro March 1973. Copyright T Tremethick

Many thanks Trevor - any additional comment Roy?

And true to form Roy Hart advises us - The building certainly looks like a stable. It is shown on the 1906 revision of the 25 inch OS map, but not labelled.The GWR would have had several horses at Truro in the early 20th century, for local deliveries etc., but not for shunting. This is an interesting subject: several Cornish locations had horses well into the 1930s (Hayle wharves until about 1959). Who kept them? Where were they kept? Tresavean, Colcerrow, Newquay harbour were all horse-worked, for example. These three all closed (or traffic ceased) respectively in c1924, 1933 and 1926. Roy Many thanks Roy.

Newquay 1983
Clive Smith

45077 basks in the late summer sunshine on Saturday 3rd September 1983 with the 12.20 Newquay - Leeds at platform 3. The sidings are still in place and the CoOp Leos some years away. This was my second peak of the week to Newquay having had 45144 there on the preceding Thursday albeit a one way trip. Loco hauled services during the 1970s and 1980s were almost exclusively 'summer Saturday only' as far as I recall. The extension of Great Western and Cross Country services to summer weekdays and Sundays is a recent development in the last decade if I am correct. However during the 1970s and early 80s British Rail used to run a holidaymaker special on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the morning from Newquay to Plymouth, returning around 4.30. Usually a type 4 on load 6. As well as this there were occasional SAGA specials for those of a certain age of which I am now one. A question now which I am hoping your readership will be able to answer. We know thanks to Neil Phillips that D151 was the first peak to Penzance on 31-12-69, but what was the first ever peak to Newquay ? Regards Clive Smith

Would you please put this on the website soon rather than 'in the bank' as I have posed a question which Roger Geach asked me today and this has created quite a bit of interest so I am hoping for a quick response !

Newquay 45077 stands at Platform 3 on the 3rd September 1983 with the 12.20 to Leeds. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive.

Cardiff
Adrian King

On seeing another two excellent photographs from Guy Vincent at Cardiff this week I thought to send on two shots I took a few years ago at the same station.
Running through the centre road at Cardiff General Easter 1962 No. 5909 Newton Hall with a freight heading westwards and some interested onlookers with notebooks at the ready.
The second photo is of 6861 Crynant Grange ( a regular visitor to Cardiff in those days) about to set off with an express passenger service for Newport from Platform 2.
Best Regards Adrian

Cardiff General Easter 1962 with 5909 Newton Hall. Copyright Adrian King

Cardiff General Easter 1962 with 6861 Crynant Grange. Copyright Adrian King

Many thanks Adrian

More History
Locomotive movements
Neil Phillips

Dear Roger and Keith, Many thanks to Karl Hewlett for plugging ‘The First Class 08 in Cornwall’ gap – D3526 was still in Cornwall, at St Blazey, in November 1971, but would soon move to Bristol for many years where it was renumbered 08411. Since Karl has added the first Cornish Class 08, we might as well complete the shunter set with the lesser-known Class 03. Only three of these were ever allocated to St Blazey. The first was D2129 (7/10/61 – 11/4/65, to Landore), this was briefly joined by D2183 (21/4/62 – 19/5/62, to Laira). D2127 was next in (24/8/64 – 14/5/67, to Laira), quickly followed by a returning D2183 (8/11/64 – 14/5/67, to Taunton). Thus St Blazey only had all three Class 03s on its books for 5 months (8/11/64 – 11/4/65). Although the depot’s association with the class ended in April 1967 there was one further brief appearance in Cornwall – Laira’s D2177 reached Padstow on track-lifting duties on the North Cornwall line in March 1968. The only one of the four to escape withdrawal in 1968 was ‘Cornish first’ D2129 which migrated north and became 03129 under TOPS. Astonishly now looking back I was living in Lincoln and able to visit the Barrow Hill Open Day in October 1981 where I found 03129 on display inside the roundhouse alongside Class 25 25157 – I quickly recognised the latter as one of Laira’s early Class 25s (D7507) but was completely unaware that the former had been a St Blazey loco (at the time I only knew about D2127, thanks to one photo in a Bradford Barton album). 03129 was withdrawn for scrap just two months later. Alas I can't send you the photo I took as scanning the negative is still on my retirement to-do list! Apologies for the delayed follow-up to Karl’s submission, I’m having ‘a difficult week’..... Best regards, Neil Phillips

Many thanks Neil - enjoy retirement.

Boscarne
Andrew and Diane Jones

A delightful picture as 5552 runs around in April 2011 Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Many thanks Andrew

19th June 2020

19/6/2020

Cement and China Clay
Jamie Dyke

70809 at Respryn heading towards Lostwithiel to run around working 6C36 07:17 Moorswater to Aberthaw. Copyright Jamie Dyke

66131 at Par Chapel Sidings before working the continuation of 6Z60 11:51 Parkandillick to Bescot Down Side. Copyright Jamie Dyke

66012 at Par working 6G09 13:02 Goonbarrow Junction to Fowey Dock Carne Point with 66131 in the background in Chapel Sidings before working the continuation of 6Z60 11:51 Parkandillick to Bescot Down Side. Copyright Jamie Dyke

66012 at Golant working 6G09 13:02 Goonbarrow Junction to Fowey Dock Carne Point. - 19/06/20
The last CDA clay working in Cornwall till mid July apparently. Copyright Jamie Dyke

Thanks Jamie

ECS Move The Night Riviera
Long Rock to Reading TCD
Roger Salter Jamie Dyke Andrew Triggs & Clive Smith

After suffering a slow puncture this morning & on the way to repair facility, I was lucky to get the shots of 5Z71 0830 Penzance-Reading Traincare Depot leaving 10 mins early

57604 resides on Old Bank, Ponsandane with the remaining Night Riviera set, as 'GTi' 2C03 07.10 Plymouth-Penzance 2+4 set passes by. Copyright Andrew Triggs

200619a 57603 Tintagel Castle departs Long Rock Depot with the early running Empty Coaching Stock move of the Night Riviera to Reading Traincare centre. Copyright Roger Salter

200619a 57603 Tintagel Castle departing from the depot at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Salter

200619c 57605 Totnes Castle tails the move on the single line between Long Rock Crossing and the former Mexico Crossing at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Salter

Running as 5Z71 08.30 Longrock T&RSMD-Reading Traincare Depot running 11 early at 08.21 as it passes Marazion. Copyright Andrew Triggs

57603 leading, disappears in the white clag, as it heads up Marazion marsh, with 57605 bringing up the rear. Copyright Andrew Triggs

200619d 57605 Totnes Castle approaches Burngullow. Copyright Jamie Dyke.

200619e 57603 Tintagel Castle tails the train at Burngullow. Copyright Jamie Dyke

200619f 57603 approaches Langham Levels west of Ivybridge station with the 5Z71 08.30 Penzance T&RMSD - Reading Traincare Depot stock working. 57605 is on the rear. The return of the sleepers seems to be on the cards but will we see the daytime coaches temporarily on local services for familiarisation ? In the distance can be seen one of the massive Lee Moor china clay spoil heaps. Copyright Clive Smith

57603, Oath Farm Sleeper ECS 18th June 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

57605,Oath Farm 18th June 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Thanks to Roger, Jamie, Andrew, Clive, & Bill.

Gems from
Truro
Trevor Tremethick

I found these in my box of old slides. They must have come from one of my first ever rolls of colour film. Don't know if they will be of interest, but they show a busy Truro Yard in March 1973. Two 25s shunting! The further one, 7574, is still in green livery, although you can hardly see it - just the white trim at the base of the body side. The one where 7573 has pulled forward (were they expecting snow?) looks like it might have rubble from Truro West Box demolition behind it and a larger pile of rubble further over (from the shed?). Don't know if these are of interest but I thought you might as well see them. At least the yard was fairly full then!
Best wishes to all Trevor Tremethick.

Classes 25 in a busy Truro yard. 7574 in green, 7573 in blue. 22nd March 1973. Copyright T Tremethick

Truro Class 25 7573 shunting. 22nd March 1973. Copyright Trevor Tremethick. Apart from the interest of an active yard notice also the piles of rubble mentioned by Trevor.

A bonus from Roy Hart (Burma):- Dear Keith, I enjoyed studying Trevor's lovely pictures of Truro: one 'gem' not mentioned is that in the second picture, behind the container wagon, is the former Truro 'A' signal box. This box opened around 1875, controlling the old broad gauge layout. It was built by Saxby and Farmer (the GW, like most railways at that time, contracted out for signalling). This old box was replaced by today's Truro box (Truro East until 1971) in 1899. The old Saxby box seen here was re-erected on this site and served as the signal lineman's workshop. Roy Thank you for that Roy.

Many thanks for these great pictures Trevor. Memories of the past, the changing scene at Truro.

Lydford
Michael Manning

The Question - Would you pass around the enclosed photo to see if anyone can Identify this wagon and its normal usage. I assume it was ex-GWR as its on that side of Lydford station. Hope everyone is keeping safe and wishing lockdown for us oldies this end was over and done with. Regards, Mike Manning.
P.S. Sad to say there was no response to my call for information on the demolition of the ex southern railways in Cornwall.

Van at Lydford. Copyright Michael Manning.

The answer - This van is a Southern Region PMV Van (Parcel & Miscellaneous Van) being a four wheeler, they also made PMV with bogies, on any parcel train in the West Country there was nearly always one of these vans to be seen. These vans were built between 1919 through to 1951

The *Diagram 960 PMVs* were a series of *P*arcels and *M*iscellaneous *V*ans built by the South Eastern and Chatham Railway <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Eastern_and_Chatham_Railway> (SE&CR) from 1919. The prototype van was used to carry the bodies of Edith Cavell <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edith_Cavell>, Charles Fryatt <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Fryatt> and The Unknown Warrior <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Unknown_Warrior> from Dover <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dover> to London <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London>. It has been preserved by the Kent and East Sussex Railway <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kent_and_East_Sussex_Railway>. The SE&CR vans were known as the *Cavell Vans* for this reason.

The Southern Railway <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Railway_(Great_Britain)> constructed a number of similar vehicles to *Diagram 3103*, and further batches were turned out by British Railways until 1951. Both types saw service into the 1980s

All the best, Roger Winnen.

Well done Roger, and many thanks indeed.

Railtour Memories
Andrew and Diane Jones

Andrew and Diane have kindly sent in a few pictures of a BR operated railtour in 1983. These pictures have also been added to our railtour files.

The railtour creeps cautiously down towards Nanpean wharves at Drinnick Mill. 20th November 1983. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

The railtour has just arrived at Parkndillack- we look back towards the bridge from which may photographs were taken. 20th November 1983. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

It's the good old days, so we all pile out and explore. 20th November 1983 Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Due to the clay dust the area is predominately white. The field to the right has been built over and is now a waste for energy site - not a pretty sight some would say. 30th November 1983. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Many thanks to Andrew and Diane Jones.

Craig's New Book
Don't forget to order.

Dear all I am really pleased to announce my first railway pictorial book is due out soon. It's Volume 1 of Cornish Railways focusing on the railways and scenery in East & mid Cornwall including the branches. Volume 2 - further down west will follow in due course. It's just having its final proof reading and Volume 1 is off to the printers. https://shop.keypublishing.com/product/View/productCode/B693/Cornish%20Railways Cheers Craig.

18th June 2020

18/6/2020

Ivybridge Cements
Clive Smith

Colas 70809 powers through Ivybridge station with the 6C36 the 07.17 Moorswater - Aberthaw cement wagons.

Colas 70809 powers through Ivybridge station with the 6C36 07.17 Moorswater - Aberthaw cement wagons. This was a bit of a grey foggy start to the day on the southern slopes of Dartmoor. Regards Clive Smith.

N.B. Aberthaw works is about five miles west of Barry.

Many thanks Clive.

Soggy S Wales this morning.
Guy Vincent

Cardiff Central this morning, a very wet and gloomy day after several weeks of fine dry weather. Colourful ex East Midlands Trains 153310 with Transport for Wales liveried 153312 both stand in platform 3 on the 1W07 1037 Manchester Piccadilly service with GWR Turbo 166215 in P2 on the 1F13 1030 to Portsmouth Harbour. At the same time 60015 came rumbling through on a well loaded 6H25 0920 Margam-Llanwern steel coil train. Freight in South Wales seems to be holding up reasonably well despite the current world situation. Guy Vincent

Cardiff Central 166215 153310 153312 18th June 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent. A nice colorful combination - see note above.

Cardiff Central 60015 6H25 0920 Margam-Llanwern Steel Coils 18th June 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy for your bright and cheerful images on such a dull day.

Severn Tunnel
Mark Aston

The Welshman 43188 bursts out of the Severn Tunnel with 2C77 Cardiff to Taunton Severn Tunnel 16th June 2020. Copyright Mark Aston. The sort of picture only available to a professional railwayman - aren't we lucky !

Moving a few yards east from the mouth of the Severn Tunnel we see 6667X climbing away with the 484B Wentlog to Southampton. 16th June 2020. Copyright Mark Aston. The Severn Beach branch once continued to Pilning Low Level passing across the top of the tunnel. In the distance can be seen the towers of the Severn Road Bridge.

A few CRS members may recall that many years ago on a minibus trip we stopped near the lower location and were able to tread a well worn path used by enthusiasts to obtain this view. This location is now securely fenced off!

Many thanks Mark for the dramatic pictures.

Recents & Oldies
Craig Munday

Some recent workings down west have included a visit from a class 143 (two infact), and a transfer of the Night Riviera stock from Reading to Long Rock. This results in both sets being in Cornwall. Some confusion about crew familiarization runs commencing, or the NR starting in service again soon. Either way, it's nice to see Long Rock housing three class 57s at the moment. The 143 is seen returning east at Restormel among the foxgloves with 150239 in tow bound for Exeter. I was out here in 2019 waiting for the evening sand trains in the sunshine, waht a difference a year makes. The sleepers heads west at Dobwalls on 5th June. A huge amount of work achieved by Ground Control clearing vegetation in the area. This view never before seen as Sperritt Tunnel is the vantage point for this. The loco was struggling here, and the train was looped at Lostwithiel and 57605 called for to assist onward from there to Long Rock. (Image 349-351) I've recently scanned some Bristol pictures of the 43183/43185 Great Western new livery launch. I accompanied the train from Bristol St Philips Marsh to Temple Meads for the launch in the bay platform 2. I dont have a date for this, does anyone remember it? (image 427) Finally for today, I found a negative which hasn't scanned particularly well, but shows 31286 working the late running excursion in 1982 through Hayle. We waited all blooming evening for this, and it was nearly dark by the time it passed through. There has been a lot of class 31 interest lately. Kind regards for now

An unusual location on the 5th June 2020 with 57603 on the 5Z79 ECS Sleeper stock working approaches Sperritt Tunnel. Copyright Craig Munday

It's the 8th June 2020 as 143603 leads the defective 150 239 towards Restomel. Copyright Craig Munday

Moving to St Phillips Marsh Depot we see St Phillips 43185 in the then new livery. Copyright Craig Munday

The other end of the New liveried HST where we see 43183 at St Phillips Marsh. Copyright Craig Munday

43183 St Phillips Marsh. Copyright Craig Munday

Seen at a rather wet Hayle is Class 31 286 with a return Excursion. This picture dates to 1982 Copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig.

Chetnole Yesterday
Bill Elston

I was over at Chetnole today (17th June 2020) to see the Tyseley to Bristol High Level Sidings, via Weymouth, Test Train, which produced 67027 and 67023. Fortunately the weather stayed dry. Please see photos.

Best regards, Bill

67027 with test train at Chetnole Halt, 17th June 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

67023 on the other end of the Test train at Chetnole. 17th June 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill.

Marston Footbridge
Ken Mumford

17th June 2020 - 09.44 - Test train (reporting code - 1Z22) running from Birmingham (Tyseley) to Bristol via roundabout route (via Evesham, Oxford, Swindon, Westbury, Yeovil, Weymouth, Frome and Bath). It passed me 6 minutes early - 1-44 pm - at one stage it was much earlier! 0945 - The tail end of 1Z22 passing Marston footbridge 0956 - A Swindon bound "flying cucumber" as some railway enthusiasts call them!

Marston Footbridge 67023 17th June 2020 Copyright Ken Mumford (Also seen at Chetnole by Bill Elston)

Marston Footbridge 09.56 17th June 2020 Copyright Ken Mumford

Many thanks Ken.

17th June 2020

17/6/2020

Combe Jct. today
Jamie Dyke

Combe Junction 150244 at Coombe No 1 GF working 2L78 1106 Looe to Liskeard 17th June 2020

Combe Junction 70809 descends towards Combe with the 02.50 Aberthaw to Moorswater. 17th June 2020 Copyright Jamie Dyke

150244 at Coombe No 1 GF working 2L78 11.06 Looe to Liskeard 17th June 2020 Copyright Jamie Dyke

Many thanks Jamie.

The Calm before the Storm
Andrew Triggs

Good evening Roger/Keith
Another photographic trek to the Glyn Valley to capture the Colas Moorswater Cement traffic before the heavy rain came in mid afternoon (with a divert to Par for the Clay on the way home) 5 shots for CRS
All the Best
Andrew

. Passing in the early fog at 08.03 over St Pinnock Viaduct Colas 70809 with 6C35 load 19 PCAs for Moorswater Copyright Andrew Triggs

Later captured crossing Largin Viaduct at 10.02 having run round at Lostwithiel. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Later at Middleway Crossing 66012 working 6G09 13.02 Goodbarrow Junction-Fowey Carne Point Clay in the overgrown four foot in the pouring rain awaiting the road. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Restarting and now heading for Par at Middleway Crossing. Copyright Andrew Triggs

66012 passing through Par with a healthy rake of CDAs for Fowey during a major downpour. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Thanks Andrew! no doubt you were singing in the rain!

Just the ticket!
Michael Roach

Camborne to Penzance Return Half Day Ticket 17th June 1928. Mike Roach Collection.

Mike Roach very kindly sent in this image of the above ticket in his collection. Quite what the significance of the ticket is unknown. Was it issued in connection with a special event in Penzance? Penzance born and bred Roger has looked up various local references but has found nothing special.

** An update from afar - from Roy Hart, Rangoon (Ex Redruth)
Dear Both, The ancient feast of Corpus Christi occurs around the date shown (i.e.2nd/3rd week in June). Penzance fair was traditionally known as 'Corpus Christi Fair'.In those far-off days these were great events, worthy of special trains etc., etc. At a time when even radio was in its infancy, these were great entertainment events. I would not be surprised if the ticket applied to this. Roy Many thanks Roy.

Also please see http://photoarchive.morrablibrary.org.uk/items/show/4093

Many thanks for your suggestions Roy!
The feast of Corpus Christi at Penzance in 1928 would have been the week previous from 6th June to Saturday 9th June 1928 when Whiteleggs and Anderton & Rowlands fair visited Penzance. On Corpus Christi Sunday 10th June 1928 The Penzance Roman Catholic Church would celebrate the event by have a procession from the Church lead by the Penzance Silver Band out through Rosevean Road, Barwis Hill, St Mary's Street and into the convent grounds for a short service before returning to the church for refreshments, which for the band in later years was food and a crate of ale in the priest garden.
I played with the band for nearly thirty years on this parade.
Roger Winnen

Many thanks Mike.

Clay Chasing
Jamie Dyke

Picture 1 - 66012 at Rundles Walk working 6G09 1302 Goonbarrow Junction to Fowey Dock Carne Point. Picture 2/3 - 66012 arrives at Lostwithiel working 6G09 1302 Goonbarrow Junction to Fowey Dock Carne Point. Picture 4 - 66012 departs Lostwithiel working 6G09 1302 Goonbarrow Junction to Fowey Dock Carne Point.

Picture 1 Par Rundles Walk 16th June 2020 Copyright Jamie Dyke

Picture 2. Lostwithiel - a picture full of interest - semaphores, station signs, even spare rail lies on the sleepers of the up road. 16th June 2020 Copyright Jamie Dyke

Picture 3. Lostwithiel 16th June 2020 Copyright Jamie Dyke

Picture 4 Lostwithiel 16th June 2020 Copyright Jamie Dyke,

Many thanks Jamie - a lovely day, between the showers!

Cathedrals Express
David Ward

David Ward writes - Sunday 1st June 2008 Cathedrals Express Trip Waterloo to Exeter and return. I was on this trip. Out with 6233 Duchess of Sutherland and return with 60019 Bittern just a year after a long restoration at the Mid-Hants Railway. It was an interesting trip to celebrate 60 year since the 1948 Locomotive Exchanges when Duchess 46236 City of Bradford and 60033 Seagull ran in these exchanges on this line. It was a day of mixed fortunes due to last minute itinerary changes on the South-Western Mainline beyond Salisbury and Yeovil, the A30 Bridge at Oborne which had to take very slow. and track maintenance and relaying beyond Yeovil. On the return the trip was curtailed at Clapham Junction. A picture I took a Yeovil, the weather was heavy dull and getting slightly misty. It was hard to get a reasonable image 6233 Duchess of Sutherland due the crowds of passengers around when we stopped and other admirers. I have included one of her backing out of Exeter St David's in the distance across Red Cow Level Crossing to be released to go to the West Somerset Railway for servicing. Though not Great Western my favourite Duchess's are the Two Favourites for the overnight Perth's 46234 Duchess of Abercorn and 46248 City of Leeds both Crewe North Engines 5A. With the A4's I have to tell my friends Sir Nigel Gresley was a London and North Western Premium Apprentice at Crewe under Francis Webb and then with John Aspinall at Newton Heath and Horwich of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway . Richard Trevithick's Son was at Crewe, Francis. As I have said to you, I was brought up with the heavy industry of East Manchester, Gorton Tank Railway Works of the Great Central and later London, and North Eastern Railway. It was where all monobloc casting was done for the London and North Eastern Railway so that is why the cylinders of the A4's where good, Streamlined. Go Well, David.

60019 Bittern. 1st June 2008 Copyright David Ward.

The scene at Yeovil 1st June 2008. Copyright David Ward.

Steam Dreams Cathedrals Express

1ST June 2008
Locos Used
47245 & steam : 6233 'Duchess of Sutherland' & 60019 'Bittern'

Stock Used
99041 & 17013 (2)(3) +4960+5171+5222+1840+5216+13440+9392+3125+5236+1961+5237+5249

Route:
1Z92 : London Waterloo to Exeter St Davids
1Z93 : Exeter St Davids to Clapham Junction
Loco(s)
Route

6233
London Waterloo - Clapham Junction - Earlsfield - Wimbledon - Surbiton - Woking - Basingstoke - Andover - Salisbury - Gillingham - Yeovil Junction

47245 (1)
Yeovil Junction - Yeovil Pen Mill - Castle Cary

6233
Castle Cary - Taunton - Tiverton Junction - Exeter St Davids

47245
Exeter St Davids - Exeter Central - Honiton - Yeovil Junction

60019
Yeovil Junction - (reverse of outward route) - Clapham Junction

Notes
(1) 6233 on rear.
(2) Support Coach 99041 only in consist when 6233 hauling, or at rear of, train.
(3) Support Coach 17013 only in consist when 60019 hauling train.
Source : John Clifford (on the train throughout)

Tour Review
(by John Clifford)
This tour was a commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the locomotive exchange trials held in 1948. The original plan was to use 6233 from Waterloo to Exeter & 60019 back, both via the LSWR main line. However, whilst the bridge problem at Sherborne which caused alterations to steam tours last year has been resolved, relaying work between Yeovil & Exeter now means that our steam locos are out of gauge on this section. To overcome this the route & haulage was altered to that shown. It had been hoped that the diesel part would be in the hands of 50049 but this was under repair so 47245 was used. This latter loco was based at Eastleigh in the last months of Southern steam in the guise of D1922 (known to the Southern enthusiasts at the time as "Paint Brush").
On the day, the train ran well for most of the journey. There was a stop outside Salisbury as we were early &, presumably, our platform was occupied. There are some bridge restrictions west of Salisbury so we were slightly late into Yeovil. The section time from Yeovil to Castle Cary was exceeded as there is a further restriction. The result was that we got to Exeter 27 min late. The return was accomplished to give us just a slightly late arrival at Clapham Junction.
John Clifford

Timings (Booked & Actual)
(from John Clifford)
Location
Booked
Actual
London Waterloo 08.23d 08.23½
Clapham Junction 08/32½ 08/36
22.51a 22.54
Wimbledon 08/40 08/42
22/45 22/46
New Malden 08/44½ 08/46½
22/42½ 22/43
Surbiton 08/47 08/49
22/40½ 22/41
Hampton Court Jn 08/48 08/50
22/39 22/39½
Weybridge 08/55 08/57
22/31 22.26 ~ 22.31
Byfleet & New Haw 08/57 08/58
22/23 22/20½
Woking09.05½a ~ 09.15d 09.08 ~ 09.15
22.13a ~ 22.17d 22.13 ~ 22.14
Woking Jn 09/17 09/17
22/12 22/11½
Farnborough 09/27 09/31
22/05 22/01
Basingstoke09/40 09/45
21/52 21/48
Worting Jn 09/44 09/48½
21/48 21/45½
Andover10/05 10/06
21/27 21/27½
Salisbury Tunnel Jn 10/27 10/22
21/08 21/09
Salisbury 10w34 ~ 11w10 10.35 ~ 11.10
20w50 ~ 21w05 20.54 ~ 21.05
Wilton Jn 11/14 11/16½
20/46 20/49½
Wilton South 11/16 11/17½
20/44 20/48½
Tisbury Loop 11/27 11/31
20/33 20/37
Gillingham 11*38 ~ 11*49 11/48
20*06 ~ 20*20 20.14½ ~ 20.20
Templecombe 11/57 11/59
19/58 20/03
Sherborne 12/05 12/12½
19/4919/47
Yeovil Junction 12L21 ~ 12L38 12.25 ~ 12.49
18L57 ~ 19L38 18.53 ~ 19.37½
Yeovil Pen Mill 12/47 12/58
Castle Cary 13.04 ~ 13.10
13.21½ ~ 13.29
Somerton 13/23 13/41½
Athelney 13/34 13/55½
Cogload Jn 13/38 13/58½
Taunton 13/44 14/02½
Tiverton Parkway14/00 14/17
Tiverton Junction 14*03 ~ 14*11
14.22 ~ 14.33½
Cowley Bridge Jn 14/26 14/49
Chard Jn 18/41 18/38
Honiton 18*19 ~ 18*24
18.20 ~ 18.23
Pinhoe 18/06 18/06
Exmouth Jn 18/04 18/04
Exeter Central18/02 18/01½
Exeter St Davids14.30a 14.57
17.59d 17.59

A lot of timings - Many Thanks David.

One to watch
David Tozer

Our very good friend David Tozer has sent this link - this is definitely is not within the confines of the 'Freedom of the South West Rover'. However as it is here it is - enjoy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E-SSszW-Sc

16th June 2020

16/6/2020

Thanks & Reminiscences
Craig Munday

I've meant to drop you a line to pass on thanks to Michael Forward for his lovely study of my pet 47 47515 at Penzance. It's going to have cult status soon! I only recently discovered it carried large logo blue from a Roger Geach picture. I remember it in BR blue, and inter-city livery when it carried the Night Mail nameplates. (1) Also thanks to Clive Smith for the super shot of 45105 at St Austell. The Driver was Tommy Warren. A dear old fellow based at Penzance. He always looked so OLD! Even then in the mid 80s when he was in his 60s, he looked well beyond his years. I hope he enjoyed a rosy retirement. Funny how many drivers wore the "gendarme" style corporate image peaked cap back then. It never looked very comfortable!
(2) I have rescanned a picture from 1980 of Eddie Ralph sat in 25052 at Hayle Wharves, with the familiar navy jacket with his 125 badges proudly on the lapels. Also included is a class 46 arriving with a down train at Hayle in 1980. The loco still has full headcode panels,so could be 46020 or 46037. The signalbox was still in use, but sadly the up platform waiting room had been replaced with a concrete carbuncle by then.
(3) Also visited Long Rock the other day and was treated to 08645 St Piran in the sun shunting the sleeper stock. The team were carrying out buck-eye tests between the coaches. There is talk of some refresher training runs of the loco and sleepers along the mainline for us to look forward to in the coming months. All the best Craig

(1) Class 46 arrival at Hayle in 1980. Copyright Craig Munday

(2) 25052 seen on Hayle Wharves with driver Eddie Ralph at the throttle. Copyright Craig Munday.

(3) 08645 St Piran at Long Rock. Copyright Craig Munday

Many thanks Craig - more to follow.

50016 Barham
35 Years ago today
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, I hope you are well and I am glad to see you have had a few trips out,with some resulting pictures.
I send a picture taken 35 years ago today 16th June 1985 of 50016 ‘Barham’ after its arrival at Penzance with the 07.02 from Exeter.
Sadly ,this will be my last picture for the website for a while. I have run out of suitable material so ,unless I unearth some more ,its cheerio for now.I shall keep in touch and,of course, look at the site every day.All the best, Michael

Hello Michael Many thanks for your contributions over the years no doubt there will be some digging out to be done to unearth more of your precious photographs in the near future.
Many Thanks Roger

Cogload
Bill Elston

The HOBC (High Output Ballast Cleaner) is back in the South West after a few months away for maintenance. It is seen here at Cogload nearing the end of its journey from Stapleford in Nottinghamshire topped and tailed by 66414 and 66596 respectively. As a bonus, it had water tanks on the back. A few minutes earlier, Castle set 43188 and 094 arrived from Cardiff. Best regards Bill

43188, and 43094. Cogload 15th June 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

66414 descends from the 'fly over' at, Cogload. 15th June 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

A closer view of 66414 at Cogload on the 15th June 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

On the back of the HOBC was 66596, also the water tanks. Cogload 15th June 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks to you Bill.

Truro TOPS
John Murray Roberts

Many thanks to John for writing in, as he says, superb old shots of happenings in Cornwall and elsewhere.

Great shots of Truro Yard and St Blazey AFC, as well as Stoke, Bescot, Dover Marine and Exeter. Even a shot of the Cathedral with bells ringing. I recognise some of the people in the first shots of the old AMO who used to double in the old booking office and travel centre. Beeching saw the decline in wagonload and guard's vans were removed from fully-fitted freights in 1968. Air-braked freight started in 1972 and Speedlink was launched in Sep 1977, so I'm surprised to see so much vacuum-braked and loose-coupled traffic still running. Penzance and Redruth are still divided into NCL and Full Loads. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-yY8nRu3RA

Thank you John.

15th June 2020

15/6/2020

43 097 Now and Then.
Mick House.

Four photos of 43 097 two with its new name attached, but first two old shots with it old name Environment Agency.

43 097 in 2013 at Truro with its old name Environment Agency and in Blue livery. Copyright Mick House.

43 097 in 2019 at Wheal Bois with its old name Environment Agency and in the now familiar Green livery. Copyright Mick House.

43 097 at Truro (14-06-2020) on a down Plymouth Penzance, with its new name Castle Drogo. Copyright Mick House.

43 097 Castle Drogo at Apex Bridge (14-06-2020) on an up Penzance Plymouth. Copyright Mick House.

Lipson
Clive Smith

On a dull New Years Eve Hither Green allocated 33052 'Ashford' passes Lipson east of Plymouth station with 5M22 the 10.45 ECS from Laira to form the 11.38 Plymouth - Manchester Piccadilly which was worked by 47515. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive

Diesels history
Karl Hewlett

In regards to the growing list of confirmed first diesels in Cornwall that Neil has compiled, we must not forget the baby English Electric power units! The first class 08 to reach Cornwall was D3526 and D3527 new to Truro shed 83F from Derby Works on 20/06/1958 later gaining TOPS numbers of 08411 and 412. Some members will recall that D3509/10/14 were down here in the early days, although being slightly older they were not allocated to Cornwall until D3526/27 had already arrived.

Pacer visit details
Karl Hewlett

I saw the images of the Pacer drag to rescue again failed class 150249 ex Falmouth branch by class 143621, I can add some further details that it failed at Falmouth Town station on the last diagram of the day and was later rescued by another class 150 in GWR Green (I didn't get the number), which crept very slowly pass Penmere at approx 01:15am and returned with the errant 249 at approx 01:35am. Which unit was dragging it was in much better nick as it was making very good progress when it passed my house on the way back climbing a 1in96 gradient, nice to see a four coach train on the branch but it would have made my day if the class 143 had ventured down to retrieve it! Will a genuine Chocolate and Cream class 142 ever make preservation in the West Country?

Lynton and Barnsaple
Bratton Flemming
Karl Hewlett

Some further news in Devon, it seems that the deal has fallen through with the person who tried to acquire Bratton Fleming station and it is again back on the market. 'Exmoor Associates' are now trying to raise funds and interest to attempt at buying this station again link: http://www.exmoor-associates.co.uk/2020/06/bf-station-for-sale-again/. Regards Karl (The Friends Of Penmere Station).

Many thanks for all the above information Karl.

14th June 2020

14/6/2020

A sequel to the Truro Clock Restoration
Dave Antony

Seeing Rogers picture of the clock reminded me of a certain mess I made in my kitchen over Christmas 2017.

The clock's inner workings were sent to a clock repairer in Exeter as it wouldn't run for more than a hour or two at best so I brought the case home as I was sure there was a decent bit of wood under many years of black paint. Many days of scraping, chemicals, heat gun, sanding, wire woolling, filling and eventually vanishing are shown in the attached.....

Dave at Home with the clock casing in the kitchen sink 10th December 2017. Copyright Dave Antony

Rubbing down the clock case and filling, its the 16th December 2017. Copyright Dave Antony

Varnishing the clock case and bringing the wood back to life. Copyright Dave Antony

All is needed now is the workings of the clock. Copyright Dave Antony

Almost complete one week before Christmas Day 2017 Copyright Dave Antony

Many Thanks Dave
That was a job well done, you deserved your Christmas Lunch!

'Signs with the Times'
Roger Winnen

200604a-New-signs-at-Perranwell-Station-Copyright-Roger-Winnen

The small notice on the pole reads 'These facilities are checked on a regular basis. However if you notice something we have missed or we can improve on please let us know by Contacting Freephone 0800 912 0843

200604z-Thanks-for-keeping-your-distance-Copyright-Roger-Winnen

200604b The Perranwell Station sign amongst the scaffolding. Copyright Roger Winnen

200604c The restored station clock at Truro. Copyright Roger Winnen

The inscription reads below the clock 'Truro Station Clock 2018 This clock has been fully restored thanks to Great Western Staff and the Great Western Railway with the assistance of funding from the Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership, the Railway Heritage Trust & Designated Community Rail Development backed by the Department of Transport and the Association of Community Rail Partnerships

Swindon Steam
Ken Mumford

70013 Oliver Cromwell at speed near Swindon 28th March 2009. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken.

13th June 2020

13/6/2020

St Austell
Jamie Dyke

66012 working the 6P07 the 07.21 Carne Point Fowey to Parkandillack 12th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke. Very interesting - note how half the train is still on the gradient!

Many thanks Jamie.

More views - Pacer to Penzance and rtn.
St Austell
Jamie Dyke

Another Class 143 came down to Cornwall today to collect a Class 150 from Penzance with a defect. 143621 - 5Z79 13:00 Exeter TMD to Penzance. 143621 + 150249 - 5Z76 16:00 Penzance to Exeter TMD. Both seen at St Austell. - 12/06/20

Bearing an unusual destination 143621 is seen at St Austell on the 5Z79 13:00 Exeter TMD to Penzance working. Copyright Jamie Dyke.

Bearing the correct destination. 143621 + 150249 - 5Z76 16:00 Penzance to Exeter TMD. 12th June 2020. Copyright Jamie Dyke.

Many Thanks Jamie

12th June 2020

12/6/2020

The 2nd Nodding Donkey visits West Cornwall

Photographs by Roger Salter- Andrew Triggs-
Roger Winnen

This is the second time within 5 days that a 143 Pacer 143621 has visited Penzance to collect a defective 150 sprinter, this time 150249 which failed on the Falmouth Branch yesterday.

200612a 143621 Seen approaching St Erth on the ECS Exeter-Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

200612b 143621 Is seen passing St Erth Station on a very wet June day, its Friday 12th June 2020. Copyright Roger Winnen

Passing Rosevidney bridge 143621 on time at 15.21 working 5Z79 13.00 Exeter TMD-Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

200612c 143621 after passing Rosevidney arrives at Rospeath Bridge, this section of line was only doubled between Marazion and St Erth in 1929. Copyright Roger Salter

200612d 143621 is seen passing Rospeath Bridge on route to Penzance to collect defective 150 Sprinter unit. Copyright Roger Salter

200612e The 143 Pacer is seen coupled to the failed unit prior to departure for Exeter. Copyright Roger Salter

The return with defective 150249 in tow at Rospeath bridge, running 12 early at 15.53 as 5Z76 16.00 Penzance-Exeter TMD Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many thanks to Roger Salter , Andrew Triggs and Roger Winnen.

Loram LG 01Loram PLG (01)
Plain Line Rail Grinder Part 2
Mick House

As I have received some interest in this machine I thought I would show you the complete 7 vehicle formation, comprising of 2 Driving cars, 4 Grinding cars and 1 Fluid car. You will also note some interesting artwork on the sides.

79501 is a driving Control car. Copyright Mick House.

79502 is a Grinding car. Copyright Mick House.

79504 is a Grinding car. Copyright Mick House.

79505 is a Grinding car. Copyright Mick House.

79506 is a Fluid car. Copyright Mick House.

79507 is a Driving control car. Copyright Mick House.

With respect to Micks article above David Ward has kindly sent the following additional information and links. This is a large International American Company Lorum from who build these machines from Minneapolis. I looked at their website and found an interesting video of what they do in Rail Maintenance. This is from the Rail Engineer 2017. Kind regards, David. PERMANENT WAY<https://www.railengineer.co.uk/category/permanent-way/>ROLLING STOCK AND COMPONENTS<https://www.railengineer.co.uk/category/rolling-stock-and-components/> Impressive new rail grinders [https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/27359e50b94ced78aad632ff6d282bf5?s=96&d=mm&r=g]<https://www.railengineer.co.uk/author/chris-parker/> CHRIS PARKER<https://www.railengineer.co.uk/author/chris-parker/> 1ST APRIL 2017 1<https://www.railengineer.co.uk/2017/04/01/in-case-you-missed-it-impressive-new-rail-grinders/#comments> RIDC Tuxford, Network Rail’s rail innovation and development centre at High Marnham, is where new on-track machines and heavy plant are put through their paces and certified for operation on the national network. Rail Engineer was there recently (issue 148, February 2017) to look at Network Rail’s new ballast cleaning train.

Many thanks David.

Thanks for the coverage on the grinder Mick - no more please.

Exeter Liveries
Bill Elston

47460 at Exeter on the 11th June 1991 Copyright Bill Elston

Again at Exeter on a rather tatty condition is 47431. 11th June 1991. Copyright Bill Elston.

Attached is a photo of three class 47s at Exeter on 11 June 1991, namely 47100, 47431 and 47460. What they have in common is that were all allocated to Railfreight Distribution, Tinsley Depot at that time. Also, they all received the attentions of Tinsley’s name painter, and were named, unofficially, as follows, 47100 named MERLIN on the 20th September 1989 and withdrawn in July 1991, 47431 named SILURIAN on the 2nd November 1990 and withdrawn in July 1992 ( see photo of name ) 47460 named TRITON 6th March 1991 and withdrawn in February 1992. This loco is of interest as it was named GREAT EASTERN, by Stratford TMD staff unofficially, on 3rd April 1978 but BR management frowned on this and it was removed after only 18 days. It is widely regarded that this proved to be the catalyst to BR abandoning its no naming policy in effect since 1967. The painted names tented to be applied to locos in obsolete liveries and/or with a short service life left, and in general, the themes being Birds for 47/0's, Tanks for 47/3's and Racehorses for 47/4's. There were of course many variations I hope this is of interest, Bill

Many thanks Bill

Barnstaple Town
Roger Winnen

Barnstaple Town Station - taken on the occasion of a Charter Train - 'The Atlantic Coast Express' on the 17th May 1975 Copyright Roger Winnen. Note on the right in the distance the now long gone bridge which carried the metals over the river Taw and heading towards Barnstaple Junction station. This was demolished in 1977. Railtour participants seen here had walked over the bridge from the Junction station,

An hours stop-over by the Atlantic Coast Express at Barnstaple Junction on 17th May 1975 gave time for participants to explore the town. Many took the opportunity to take part in what amounted to a mass trespass exploring the now long gone bridge and the route to Barnstaple Town. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Roger.

Getting back to normal
David Tozer

Getting back to near normal:- Try the link below for services from 6th July.
http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=23622.0

Good news for Roger.
Best regards to all. Dave.

Many thanks Dave

11th June 2020

11/6/2020

Loram PLG 01Loram PLG (01)
Plain Line Rail Grinder
Mick House

The Loram PLG 01 Grinder is working out of Truro Yard this week, as you will probably agree it is a very impressive machine even more so if you happen to see it in action.

DR 79501 leads this 7 vehicle train. Copyright Mick House.

The tanker in the foreground follows the train around the country filling her up with water. Copyright Mick House.

DR 79507 on the rear. Copyright Mick House.

Thank you Mick.

Coalpit Heath
Alan Peters

70015 seen at Coal[it Heath. 7th June 2020. Copyright Alan Peters.

In connection with weekend engineering work at Coalpit Heath between Bristol Parkway and Westerleigh Junction Colas Rail 70815 is seen waiting in the possession with 6C23, a train of loaded side tippers in the morning sunshine of Sunday 7th June, note the changed view of the Great Western Mainline with the electrification overhead wires - Alan Peters

Many thanks Alan

Royal Albert Bridge
Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive.

Support the NHS
Ken Mumford

In my humble opinion these are better photos than I took those on 25th May from the other side of the South Marston footbridge with the train (consisting of the loco - 47815 - and two barrier coaches) which had been used earlier in the day to take withdrawn rolling stock from Ely in Cambridgeshire to a scrapyard in Newport (Gwent), Kind regards, Ken Mumford

Many thanks Ken.

Catholebridge Crossing
Crewkerne
Bill Elston

Not far from home today (10th June 2020), about a mile west of Crewkerne Station, at Catholebridge Road level crossing, we see 1Z83, SAL to EXC with 159020 and 159105, followed by route learner 37612 working Exeter to Bristol via Yeovil Penn Mill , Exeter and Taunton. Please see photos. Hope they are of interest. All the best, Bill

Many thanks Bill

Flood protection at
Cowley Bridge
David Tozer

David Tozer kindly sent in this link. Interesting material.

https://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/rail-news/network-rail-installs-new-flood-barrier-north-of-exeter-

Well worth trying AND don't forget to click on 'more' at the foot of the paragraph.
Dave adds this footnote. This will only protect the relay room on the other side of the bridge. The washouts have been on the side.

Many thanks David.

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43 097 Now and Then.Mick House.

More views - Pacer to Penzance and rtn.St AustellJamie Dyke

Loram LG 01Loram PLG (01)Plain Line Rail Grinder ​Part 2Mick House

Loram PLG 01Loram PLG (01)Plain Line Rail GrinderMick House

Archives

43 097 Now and Then.
Mick House.

More views - Pacer to Penzance and rtn.
St Austell
Jamie Dyke

Loram LG 01Loram PLG (01)
Plain Line Rail Grinder Part 2
Mick House

Loram PLG 01Loram PLG (01)
Plain Line Rail Grinder
Mick House