Blog Archives

June 30th 2024

30/6/2024

Triumph, Defiance & Hercules
James Goodhall

Whilst preparing 50042 for her running day next Saturday (06.07.24), the opportunity was taken to send her to Bodmin Parkway to say hello to two of her sisters. 50042 'Triumph' waits in the Bodmin Railway headshunt as 50007 'Hercules' and 50049 'Defiance' coast past with the Pathfinder Tour to Penzance. Copyright James Goodhall.

Many thanks indeed James, a one-off video for sure!

The Mazey Day Cornishman
50007 + 50049
Dorridge - Penzance & Return
29.06.2024

Joe Birchall, Martin Duff, Mick House, Mark Lynam, Naomi Sheppard & Jon Hird

The pair of class 50's approaching Truro. Copyright Joe Birchall.

Another view as the pair of locos approach Truro, passing a redundant semaphore post. Copyright Joe Birchall.

50007 and 50049 call at Truro with the downward leg of the tour. Copyright Martin Duff.

The tour approaches Apex Bridge, Scorrier. Copyright Mick House.

50007 'Hercules'. Copyright Mick House.

50049 'Defiance'. Copyright Mick House.

50007 + 50049 arriving at Penzance on 1Z69 0610 Dorridge to Penzance - The Mazey Day Cornishman. Copyright Mark Lynam.

The former western-region workhorses look quite at home beneath the station roof at Penzance. Copyright Martin Duff.

The 50s running round from Ponsandane Footbridge, they also went up to Longrock depot to refuel, so it was a long wait for them to come back. Copyright Mark Lynam.

50007 + 50049 in Slopers having run around the coaching stock, Note Andrew Triggs walking towards me. Copyright Mark Lynam.

Quite a bit of quality diesel power, with both tours in the station just after 4pm. Copyright Mark Lynam.

The 50s leave Penzance working 1Z70 1628 Penzance to Dorridge. Copyright Mark Lynam.

50007 leads 50049 past Barncoose Road Overbridge. Copyright Naomi Sheppard

The returning tour in some dull light approaching Moorswater. Copyright Jon Hird.

A bonus drone shot of the pair crossing Moorswater Viaduct. Copyright Jon Hird.

VThe Cornish Riviera Mazey Day Statesman
47712 + 47810
Wolverhampton - Penzance & Return
29.06.2024

Joe Birchall, Martin Duff, Mick House, Mark Lynam, Naomi Sheppard & Jon Hird

47810 leads 47712 towards Truro. Copyright Joe Birchall.

'The Statesman' approaches Truro. Copyright Joe Birchall.

D1924 / 47810 leads 47712 past Apex Bridge, Scorrier. Copyright Mick House.

47810 'Crewe Diesel Depot'. Copyright Mick House.

47712 'Lady Diana Spencer'. Copyright Mick House.

Ponsandane with D1924 + 47712 on 1Z64 0520 Wolverhampton to Penzance - Cornish Riviera Mazey Day Statesman. Copyright Mark Lynam.

The tour arrives at Penzance passing the stock of the Pathfinder/class 50 tour. Copyright Martin Duff.

The 47's run round, seen from Ponsandane Footbridge. Copyright Mark Lynam.

The train formed up and waiting in Slopers Siding. Copyright Mark Lynam.

The 47s leaving Penzance working 1Z65 1602 Penzance to Wolverhampton. Copyright Mark Lynam.

The return working at Barncoose Road Overbridge. Copyright Naomi Sheppard.

Scotrail 47712 leads green 47810 towards Moorswater. Copyright Jon Hird.

A drone shot of the tour slowly crossing Moorswater Viaduct behind a late-running HST. Copyright Jon Hird.

Very many thanks to all of the above contributors for allowing us to display your wonderful photographs.

June 29th 2024

29/6/2024

Maurice Dart Memorial Train

A special memorial train in honour of Maurice has been organised to take place on the Bodmin Steam Railway on Saturday 13 July 2024. All who knew Maurice are welcome to attend.

You may travel free of charge on the last service train from Bodmin Parkway at 16.15, arriving at Bodmin General at 16.35. Pasties and cream teas are available after arrival at Bodmin General - must be booked in advance and paid for on the day. The memorial train leaves Bodmin General at 18.00, probably hauled by one of the 55XX Prairies after Morris Men have danced on the platform.

Bookings to Roger Winnen on 01736 350048 by 9th July 2024

Burngullow Banana
Jon Hird

The 'Flying Banana', or the Network Rail New Measurement Train (NMT) passes Burngullow on 28.06.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

Bristol Open Top Bus
David Tozer

Gents,

Michael Adams photograph of the open topper in Minehead led me to delve into my slides of buses.

Attached is a photo of 1936 VDV 753 'Sir Humphrey Davy' working Service 507 from Penzance to Marazion on the the 11th June 1974, yes forty years ago this month. This vehicle was one of two Bristol LDL's converted to open toppers. The other was 1935. These also worked the open top service in Falmouth to Pendennis Point. The photo was taken near the old Marazion Railway Station. The second LDL was 1935.These were the only LDL's in the Western National fleet.

During that period Western National revised all service numbers and the majority in Cornwall were in the 500 services. The exceptions were some in East Cornwall and from Delabole to Plymouth.

Dave

1936 VDV 753 'Sir Humphrey Davy' working Service 507 from Penzance to Marazion on the the 11th June 1974. Copyright David Tozer.

The same bus at Minehead station in 2010, as published on our website on 27.06.24. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks David, nice to see the old bus still going.

A day out with the Railway Touring Company
Mick House

Wednesday 26th June a lovely sunny day and the Railway Touring Company ran a day trip, 1Z92 from London Victoria (1 late at 08.17) to the Swanage Railway (74 late at 14.07). I photographed it passing under the foot bridge at Totton yard (54 late at 12.02), having started losing time between West Byfleet and Woking.

At the head of the train was 44871 LMS Black 5 and on the rear was West Coast Railways 47 826 both locos were under power to enable the train to try and make up some time.

I was en route home to Cornwall a short time after photographing the train and was listening to the local radio (radio Solent), an announcement came in with reports of delays on the railway between Beaulieu Road and Brockenhurst, due to line side fires, this affected services for a long time, the return journey of the steamer was delayed even with the diesel leading, 29 late from Swanage 16.58, 45 late at Woking 21.13, the train was terminated at Clapham Junction 21.57 now only 4 late, due to a fire, no more reports after that.

44871 leads the tour past Totton Yard. 26.06.2024, copyright Mick House.

47826 giving a good push from the rear. 26.06.2024, copyright Mick House.

Many thanks to you, Mick

An interlude at Par
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger and Keith,

I had an appointment this afternoon (27.06.24) which took me past Par station on the way home, where 66101 was awaiting a path eastwards with 6M53 11.51 Parkandillack - Cliffe Vale china clay comprising 8 JIAs. It appears that the summer use of IETs on the Newquay branch resulting in the Class 150 occupying Chapel Siding for 2 hours (14.12 - 16.05) complicates matters for the 'clay' which would usually lay over in the siding itself; instead it is planned to run to Lostwithiel to run round before returning to recess in St Blazey Yard, where another run-round would be required - this is according to Realtime Trains, although a lack of reporting from Lostwithiel and St Blazey suggests it simply awaits time in the loop alongside Par station. A much simpler (and cheaper) solution to be sure!

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

66101 awaits its path at Par with 6M53 while 43042 + 43189 call with 2C26 13.40 Plymouth - Penzance. In the distance 150202 is parked up in Chapel Siding. 27th June 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

An elevated view of 66101 from the footbridge. 27th June 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Following a 10-minute late departure by an up IET, 66101 gets underway with 6M53 22 minutes early at 15.07. Recent clearance of tall vegetation outside the railway boundary fence immediately below where I'm standing has allowed this angle to be taken from the very end of the bridge parapet. 27th June 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks Neil, as you say - seems a good use of the available space to save running the train round multiple times.

Newquay HST
Jon Hird

A nice little working which almost slipped undetected beneath the radar. Owing to a late-running Paddington service, GWR dispatched 43004 and 43187 to Newquay working as 1Z74. The return working, 1A94 Newquay - Paddington, is seen here passing a rather overgrown Middleway. The HST would be swapped at Plymouth for an IET. Copyright Jon Hird.

43187 leads the train away from the branch platform at Par right on time at 15:43. The 'beheaded' semaphore still standing for now. Copyright Jon Hird.

June 28th 2024

28/6/2024

Maurice Dart Memorial Train

Tomorrows Railtours

Tomorrow (29.06.2024), Cornwall will be visited by two railtours. One by Pathfinder using a pair of Class 50's, and one by Saphos, likely to use a pair class 47's/57's from the Locomotive Services stable.

1Z69 - 0610 Dorridge to Penzance (Cl.50's):
RTT link - https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:U12103/2024-06-29/detailed

1Z64 0520 Wolverhampton to Penzance (Cl.47's/57's):
RTT link - https://realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:U12110/2024-06-29/detailed

1Z65 1602 Penzance to Wolverhampton
RTT link - https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:U12112/2024-06-29/detailed

1Z70 1628 Penzance to Dorridge
RTT link - https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:U12105/2024-06-29/detailed

Don't forget to send us your photos!

West Somerset Railway
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, Thanks for dealing with the Western pictures,here are a few more from Michael Adams taken on 21 August 2010.starting with 34046 on shed at Minehead. Copyright Michael Adams

Now we see D1661 waiting to leave Minehead on a train to Bishop’s Lydeard. Copyright Michael Adams

Roger, An old faithful Bristol ??Lodekka waits for custom outside Minehead station. Copyright Michael Adams

Many Thanks Michael

Gents,

Michael Adams photograph of the open topper in Minehead led me to delve into my slides of buses.

Attached is a photo of 1936 VDV 753 'Sir Humphrey Davy' working Service 507 from Penzance to Marazion on the the 11th June 1974, yes forty years ago this month. This vehicle was one of two Bristol LDL's converted to open toppers.The other was 1935. These also worked the open top service in Falmouth to Pendennis Point. The photo was taken near the old Marazion Railway Station. The second LDL was 1935.These were the only LDL's in the Western National fleet.

During that period Western National revised all service numbers and the majority in Cornwall were in the 500 services. The exceptions were some in East Cornwall and from Delabole to Plymouth.

Dave Tozer

Many thanks David this bus brings back many memories around Penzance

Exeter Central
Paul Barlow

South West trains liveried 158881 159108 work the 1025 Exeter Waterloo Exeter Central 27 June 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

NMT 43013 43062 passes Exeter central with the 1029 Exeter Riverside to Salisbury 1Q23 27 June 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

NMT HST on the 1029 Exeter Riverside to Salisbury 1Q23 27 June 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks, Paul - the NMT looks great when the sun's out!

Mail by rail
Roger Geach

67002 with the 1723 Plymouth - Low Fell vans near Harford, Ivybridge 01.07.2003. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger, a much missed part of the railway.

June 27th 2024

27/6/2024

Cornwall Railway Society
Visit to the Plym Valley Railway Transport Weekend
Sunday 30th June 2024

Depart Penzance 09.18, Camborne 09.36, Redruth 09.43, Truro 09.54, St Austell 10.11, Par 10.18, Bodmin Parkway 10.30. Plymouth arrive 11.10

Busses dept from the main bus stop going into Plymouth. Service 51 will depart at 34 and 04 minutes past the hour and will take you to Marsh Mills, then a short walk to the Plym Valley station.

Purchase an Off Peak day return to Plymouth.
The Plym Valley fares are an Adult Return at £7.00 or a Rover Ticket at £12.

There are a number of trains returning home.

To find the bus stop for Plymouth, follow the route of the line through the old Marsh Mills Station which goes under the dual carriageway, then turn left for a flight of steps leading to the bus stop.

For more info on the event, click here.

The Welsh Marches Tour
Paul Barlow

Hello Keith

A few of yesterdays (25.06.24) Welsh Marches tour from Paignton to Shrewsbury.

Hope they are of interest

Kind regards

Paul

47593 on the 0545 Paignton to Shrewsbury 25 June 2024 Exeter St Davids. Copyright Paul Barlow.

61306 Mayflower 25 June 2024 Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Paul Barlow.

61306 Mayflower on the 1548 Shrewsbury to Paignton at Bristol Temple Meads 25 June 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

61306 Mayflower on the 1548 to Paignton Shrewsbury 25 June 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

61306 waits to take over 47593 on the 0545 Paignton to Shrewsbury 25 June 2024 Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Paul Barlow.

67008 leaves Shrewsbury on a Manchester to Cardiff serivice 25 June 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Essential supplies for the crew. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Semaphores and a grand signal box. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - a grand day out!

46003 at Dainton
Roger Geach

46003 at Dainton with the RPPR 'Deltic Ranger' re-run on 05.03.1978. 46003 did the Newton Abbot to Par and return section. 46003 was an early withdrawl. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks as always, Roger

Finished for the week
Jon Hird

66025 arrives back at St. Blazey in the evening sunshine on 26.06.2024. Its weekly work on the local clay trips completed. Copyright Jon Hird.

Sherborne to Barnstaple
James Bown

An enjoyable trip through beautiful countryside on a real summer’s day. The evergreen Class159 as comfortable and reliable as ever took me to Exeter St David’s and thence onward to Barnstaple criss crossing the beautiful river Taw. The Class 158 rather lack the comfort of the 159’s but were ‘on time’.

The iron work at Sherborne is shown to good effect, and one is able to contemplate the ghosts of the past at Barnstaple, straight on for Bideford and Torrington and curving right for “ The slow train to Morteho” (with apologies to Flanders and Swan) and on wards to Ilfracombe. Finally a train on platform 2 at Barnstaple, perhaps the best we can hope for?

The class 159 arrives at Sherborne. 26.06.24, copyright James Bown.

'End of the line' - for now? Barnstaple, 26.06.2024. Copyright James Bown.

GWR 158798 at Barnstaple. Copyright James Bown.

Platform 2 at Barnstaple. Copyright James Bown.

Many thanks for sharing your journey with us James, a corner of our region we don't tend to see too much of.

Bodmin CDAs
Andrew & Diane Jones

Please find attached 3 photographs on the Bodmin Railway, reference CDA training runs.

Unfortunately I missed the early run to Boscarne, but caught up with the proceedings at Bodmin General.

True to form the consist was not running to schedule and after some debate, possibly with regard to braking training or mechanical detail, left at 11.20 for Bodmin Road.

I decided to drive down to Charlie,s Gate to capture the return trip at 11.56.

Its rather ironic that we enthusiasts are chasing around taking photographs of the very CDA’s that hastened the demise of the Wenfordbridge branch, but life goes on and thanks to the efforts of the Bodmin team we are able to still experience the recent past.

Very best wishes Andrew and Diane

A close-up of 47306 'The Sapper' at Bodmin General. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

47306 and the 8 CDA's depart Bodmin General for Bodmin Parkway on 22.06.2024. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

47306 powers away past Charlies Gate heading for Bodmin General. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Many thanks, some fantastic images of an interesting day.

June 26th 2024

26/6/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 90
The Cornish Riviera Express
Michael L. Roach

In a few days time it will be 120 years since the original Great Western Railway started running a new “Limited Express” from Paddington to Plymouth and Penzance; with an equivalent train in the opposite direction starting at Penzance. The train ran via Bristol and was non-stop to Plymouth (245 miles) a fact which was only possible by the then recent installation of more water troughs. Although at first the train was summer only it soon became all-year round, basically the train has run continuously ever since apart from the war years making it one of the oldest named trains in the world. Today it is numbered 1C76 and leaves Paddington at 10.03am and 1A83 leaving Penzance at 10.20am. The new train first ran on 1 July 1904 and was an instant success. Unlike today when there are hourly (or more frequent) trains for much of the day on many long-distance routes in those far off days there were only a handful of trains each day. The 1902 GWR timetable showed just five trains per day from Paddington to Penzance leaving London at 05.30; 10.40; 11.45; 22.00 and 24.00 – this last train conveyed sleeping cars for first class passengers only who paid five shillings (25p) for a berth in addition to the first class fare. The last daytime train off Paddington was the 11.45am which reached Penzance at 21.23 In addition to the five trains to Penzance there were four terminating at Plymouth and one going to Falmouth. The latter was an interesting train because it left Paddington at 13.10 and was the last daytime train from London to enter Cornwall, reaching Truro at 22.19 and Falmouth at 22.55 This last train of the day to Cornwall was obviously very popular at holiday times because on Maundy Thursday (28 March) 1907 it ran at 15.30 to Falmouth. At the head of the train was year-old 4-6-0 Saint-class no. 2903 “Lady of Lyons” and it would have needed every ounce of its tractive effort to move its huge load of 18 coaches, of which just one was a 6-wheeler and 17 were 8-wheel bogie coaches. Despite this huge load the train, which was non-stop to Exeter, passed Westbury at an average of 57mph from Paddington. It is believed that the train would have slipped a coach (or coaches) at Westbury for Weymouth and Taunton to reduce the load before 2903 had to face the gradients of Whiteball Bank.

The GWR announced a competition, with a prize of three guineas, to find a name for the new limited express from which the name Cornish Riviera Express evolved, but by a strange twist of fate the GWR had earlier that same year 1904 published a guidebook to Cornwall as a winter resort called “The Cornish Riviera.” The book was printed on heavy art paper with many beautiful illustrations and got first-class reviews from the press. However it was left to members of the public, and railwaymen, to suggest the name for the train. Just two years later on 21 July 1906 (scan 7878 gives details) the CRE was able to start running on the new shorter route to the West Country via Castle Cary saving about 20 miles and bringing Plymouth down to 225 miles from London. The diagram shows a total of 548 seats in the 10 coaches; i.e. 340 in the Cornish portion plus 104 each in the slip portions for Exeter and Weymouth (slipped at Westbury).

The first CRE via the new route was hauled by brand-new four-cylinder Atlantic 4-4-2 No. 40. The second image (7876) shows the savings in journey time to various towns in the west country as a result of the opening of the new shorter route. No. 40 was later rebuilt as a 4-6-0 Star-class engine, and later still as a 4-6-0 Castle-class engine. It is well-known that on Summer Saturdays in the 1950s the CRE often ran in more than one part but the same thing was happening forty years earlier. The GWR Magazine for September 1915 reported that despite the First World War and the suspension of excursion and cheap bookings August Bank Holiday traffic was heavy and the 10.30am Limited Express was run in three parts on three consecutive days; and on the last of those days 2,137 passengers were carried out of Paddington on those three parts of the CRE. This would suggest that each part would need another three coaches to seat all the extra passengers.

With the onset of the Covid Pandemic in March 2020 the twice yearly pocket timetables ceased production with the frequent changes/reductions in train times as the public were asked to stay at home, and publication has not resumed except in a few isolated cases. The change from HST to Hitachi IETs resulted in the cessation of destination labels stuck on coach windows. These two changes caused me to wonder if I would be able to find the magic words “Cornish Riviera Express” written anywhere – indeed did the named train still exist ? Neither RealTrain Times or OpenTrainTimes ascribe a name to 1C76 the 10.03 Paddington to Penzance. I eventually found the named trains listed on the last page of each of the GWR's online PDF timetables, with a two-letter code at the head of the column for each named train. Named trains are not annotated on the electronic version of the National Rail Timetable (eNRT). It will be interesting to see what celebrations take place on 1 July 2024 to mark this 120th birthday.

A final word about the Cornish Riviera Express from the Great Western Railway itself. This is what the company wrote in 1915 in the middle of a war to introduce a photo of the Cornish Riviera Limited Express hauled by a Star-class engine with at least a dozen coaches in tow. “We reproduce an interesting photograph of the famous G.W.R. Cornish Riviera Limited express restaurant car train. This train, which is one of the best equipped trains in the kingdom, is unique in so far as it performs the longest regular non-stop run in the world, running seven days a week, the journey from London to Plymouth – a distance of 225 miles – occupying 4 hours 7 minutes. Restaurant cars are run on the up and down journeys, and lady attendants are on the train to be of assistance to ladies travelling either alone or with children.”

An article from the GWR Magazine of August 1906 about the Cornish Riviera on the occasion of the first run via Castle Cary. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Two months earlier than the last scan the GWR Magazine published this table outlining the savings in time of the fastest trains to various towns due to the new shorter route. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

A table of notable runs on Thursday 28 March 1907 which includes the 3.30pm to Falmouth. It will be noted that many trains were still being hauled by 4-4-0s at this time, while one train had nothing larger than a 4-2-2 single driving wheeler. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

50035 “Ark Royal” (PRESERVED) approaches Lostwithiel with 10C on the down Riviera on the occasion of its 75th birthday on 1st July 1979. Copyright Michael L. Roach

Our thanks to you as always, Mike - another interesting article.

For more of Michaels work, please click here.

Westerns at Bishops Lydeard
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, What nice days out you have had recently and lovely pictures from all concerned.

Here are a couple of shots from Michael Adams of Western locos.taken at Bishops Lydeard and Crowcombe on 16 June 2007 ,firstly D1062 and then D1015 and don’t they look great.
Thanks Michael

D1062 at Bishops Lydeard. Copyright Michael Adams

D1015 Taken at Crowcombe. Copyright Michael Adams

Many Thanks Michael

Bodmin CDA's
Alan Peters

Saturday 22nd June 2024 saw a crew training run for the preserved CDA clay wagons with 47306 "The Sapper" later in the day it was the turn of the class 50. The class 47 is seen leaving Bodmin General with the 11:10 departure to Bodmin Parkway in glorious black and white! Copyright Alan Peters

Many thanks Alan - you'd be forgiven for thinking this was a historic photo, rather than a modern-day preserved scene.

Saphos Special at Stoke Canon
David Tozer

Saphos rail tour 0547 1Z49 Paignton to Shrewsbury at Stoke Canon with 47593 top and tailing with 47810 on the rear. Taken at 0716 the early morning mist is just starting to clear. 25.06.2024, copyright David Tozer.

A closer view of 47593 leading the railtour. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks Dave. An early start for you.

Clay on a summers day
Jon Hird

66025 leads 16 JIA's past a small pond between Lavrean and Luxuylan as it heads for Fowey on 25.06.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

All change at Westbury
Alan Peters

Colas Rail 70801 has been moved from the elephant house at Westbury and is seen on the fuel point awaiting parts (note the missing buffer) it has had a new engine fitted but it is assumed it will still be out of traffic for some time yet, thanks to Stu Cowan for the information. An unidentified DB class 66 can be seen in the background on 18/06/24. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

A change around of the 2 x class Colas Rail class 67's, as 67023 "Stella" is now on the 'Stump Road' awaiting parts at Westbury in place of 67027 which has now been moved back to the elephant house for repairs, both locomotives should be back in traffic in time for the RHTT season which works out of Swindon, 67023 is pictured devoid of Colas branding on 19/06/24. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks for providing us with these privileged views, Alan - they are much appreciated.

June 2th 2024

25/6/2024

The new footbridge at St Erth on Saturday evening last
Dennis Clarke

Further to Roger’s article about the St Erth station bridge, I took these photos on Saturday 22nd when returning from Bodmin. The Baldwins crane is in position to lift the shaft frames into position, Regards, Dennis

240622a The Baldwins Crane in position at St Erth. Copyright Dennis Clarke

240622b The Baldwins Crane at St Erth. Copyright Dennis Clarke

240622c Viewed from the station frontage. Copyright Dennis Clarke

240622d Viewed from the station frontage. Copyright Dennis Clarke

Many Thanks Dennis

The new footbridge at St. Erth takes shape
Roger Winnen

240624a The new bridge at St Erth takes shape today. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624b The St Ives Branch running to capacity. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624c Cardiff Castle works the 16.05 service to Plymouth at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624d Following the departure of Cardiff Castle a 5car Iet arrives on a service from Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624e The old and the new at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624f The lift shaft on the up platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624h Here we see the lit shaft on the down platform to Penzance viewed from the footbridge Copyright Roger Winnen

240624i This is the view from the approach road to St Erth Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624j The station approach. Copyright Roger Winnen

240624k Work in progress at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bristol to Minehead
Paul Barlow

Hello Keith

A few from way back in 2007 with the experimental Bristol to Minehead service which sadly did not last. A busy day for Minehead with a tour to London Victoria too!

Kind Regards

Paul

31452 on the rear of a Bristol to Minehead 31454 on the front. This was an experimental service which ran for 2007 only. Copyright Paul Barlow.

31454 31452 on a Minehead to Bristol through service at Williton 21 July 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

34067 Tangmere 0700 Minehead to Victoria at Exeter Central. Copyright Paul Barlow.

34067 Tangmere works the 0700 Minehead to Victoria tour at Exeter central 21 July 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

47840 D6566 has just arrived at Minehead on the 1125 from Bishos Lydeard 21July 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

73133 Fairwater yard Taunton 21 July 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

S D J R 7F 88 arrives at Williton 21 July 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks to you, Paul

Plymouth Shunter
Roger Geach

One from back in the days when Plymouth had its own 08 pilot. 08904 in EWS livery is seen at Plymouth Station on 23.12.2003. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger, the shunter looks very smart in its fresh EWS livery.

The Blue Survivor
Dennis Clarke

Hi Roger, Keith, Jon,

Here are a couple of pictures of 150219 arriving at and departing from Hayle on 19th June.

It is working 2C09, 09:15 Newquay to Penzance service, which reverses at Par.

I believe this diagram is there to free up the Newquay branch for the arrival from Bristol, which then forms 1A86 to Paddington,

Regards,
Dennis

One of two units still to wear its First Great Western blue and pink colour scheme, 150219 is a popular unit amongst enthusiasts and photographers, providing a little bit of colour in an otherwise endless stream of dark green trains. It's seen here on 19.06.24 arriving at Hayle with a Newquay - Penzance service. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

The unit continues west to Penzance. Copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks Dennis

June 24th, 2024

24/6/2024

Locos at Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

20205 & 20007 on 5V82 Wembley LMD to Bristol Barton Hill with DVT 82301. 21.06.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66007 & 66148 on 6B33 Theale to Robestson. 21.06.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66134 on 6V32 Tilbury to Trostre. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin and also to Ken for sending these in to us.

Celebrate Locomotive 4566's 100th birthday at the Severn Valley Railway!

With just 12 weeks to go before the 100th birthday celebrations for Locomotive 4566, make sure you set aside time to visit the Severn Valley Railway for a unique historical experience.

Today, Locomotive 4566 stands as a testament to the golden age of steam, from its position as an exhibit in the excellent Engine House at Highley the locomotive is still delighting visitors and rail enthusiasts alike with its rich history and enduring charm as its centenary approaches.

Over the weekend of 31 August and 1 September 2024, come to the Engine House at Highley for a festive celebration. The event will feature a variety of activities for all ages:

Magic Show: Be mesmerised by captivating magic tricks (Saturday only).
Fete Games: Enjoy classic games and activities.
Raffle and Tombola: Try your luck and win exciting prizes.
Cake: Indulge in a specially commissioned and delicious birthday cake to mark the occasion
Model Railway Layouts: We have some lovely examples coming for you to enjoy.
Models: Do you have a scale model of 4566? If so visit us and add to the collection, we are planning something special.

This is not just a celebration but an opportunity to join the 4566 Preservation Group and support the ongoing efforts to maintain and preserve this historic locomotive. Head to www.4566.org.uk to become a regular supporter or to make a one off donation.

The Severn Valley Railway is renowned for its meticulous restoration work and dedication to railway heritage, and we are proud to be working with them to host this centenary celebration.

Make plans to join us in celebrating Locomotive 4566's remarkable journey and its continued legacy on the Severn Valley Railway.

A Brief History of Locomotive 4566

Locomotive 4566 is a cherished example of the Great Western Railway. Built in 1924 at the GWR Swindon Works, 4566 quickly became a mainstay on rural and branch line services. Known for its versatility and reliability, this engine served diligently through the pre-war and post-war years, hauling both passenger and freight trains. After being retired from active service in the early 1960s, it was preserved by a group of dedicated enthusiasts, eventually finding a home at the Severn Valley Railway where they first overhauled the engine for heritage passenger and goods service.

Many thanks to The 4566 Preservation Group for sending this in. Although not a 'local' event, 4566 is very much a local engine, having been based in Cornwall for many years during its working life.

Tarka Line Crompton
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

It's 1988 and 33107 heads along the Tarka Line from Cowley Bridge Junction. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil, another superb image.

23/6/2024

Class 10 Running Day, plus CDA action at The Bodmin Railway
Roger Winnen/Dennis Clarke/Jon Hird

Class 10 D3489 'Colonel Tomline', on hire to The Bodmin Railway from the Helston Railway, was used to haul 5x trips on the Bodmin line on 22.06.2024. As an added attraction, the recently preserved set of CDA wagons were out for crew training, behind both Class 47 47306 'The Sapper' and 50042 'Triumph'. An interesting day out!

240622a D3489 Colonel Torline arrives at Bodmin Parkway with the first train of the day. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622b D3489 awaits departure with the 10.40 service to Bodmin General. Copright Roger Winnen

D3489 at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Dennis Clarke

240622c 66101 with the clay empties from Exeter Riverside race through Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

Just around the corner, the same train photographed by Jon at Respryn. Copyright Jon Hird.

47306 heads for Boscarne Junction with the CDA's at around 09:30. Copyright Jon Hird.

A spirited departure from Boscarne Junction with the return working to Bodmin General. Copyright Jon Hird.

47306 The Sapper. Copyright Dennis Clarke

240622f Opposite the Signal Box at Bodmim. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622g By kind invitation to visit the Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622h From the signalbox window we see the CDAs departing for Bosmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622i The Class 10 at the buffer stops at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622j D3489 at Boscarne Junction with the 11.30 service from Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622k D3489 Awaiting to return on the 12.05 to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622l 47306 at Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622m D3489 running around to perform the 13.00 service to Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

D3489 at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Dennis Clarke

'Colonel Tomline' tackles the bank from Bodmin Parkway, passing 'Racing Straight'. Copyright Jon Hird.

The 37 inside the workshop at Bodmin. Copyright Dennis Clarke

The second trip of the CDA's was to Bodmin Parkway, seen just down from Colesloggett Halt. Copyright Jon Hird.

The CDA's about to pass beneath the A38 road bridge. Copyright Jon Hird.

The 47 bringing the CDA's back up the hill passing 'Racing Straight'. Copyright Jon Hird.

240622n 43097 Heads a service to Penzance at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

50042 Triumph. Copyright Dennis Clarke

47306 brings 50042 out of the siding, all three of the Bodmin mainline diesels in one shot. Copyright Jon Hird.

With a plume of exhaust, 50042 runs round the CDA's at Bodmin General. Copyright Jon Hird.

50042 on the train of CDA's. When was this last witnessed? The early 90's? Copyright Jon Hird.

50042 leads the train down the gradient past Charlies Gate. Photo taken from private property with the kind permission of the owner. Copyright Jon Hird.

240622o 50042 Triumph arrives with a train of CDAs at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622p Triumph at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622q A young boy watches the event at Bodmin. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622r Don't fence me in at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622s 50042 Running around at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622t Departure from Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

240622u Returning to Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

A shot I never imagined I'd be taking! 50042 leads the CDA's over Bodmin Parkway viaduct. An IET unit is on the up main at Bodmin Parkway in the background. Copyright Jon Hird.

One last shot of 'Triumph' powering away up the gradient. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks Dennis for providing your additional photos - much appreciated.

50042 has a running day booked on July 6th at Bodmin. Click here for the Bodmin Railway website.

The Thunderbird heads home
Roger Geach

47782 had been the standby loco at Newton Abbot and is seen returning to St Blazey at Plymouth Mutley, July 2003. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - an important duty/working for many years, which for some reason we don't tend to see many photographs of.

June 22nd 2024

22/6/2024

Summer Saturday at Dawlish
Jon Hird

A de-branded Virgin HST heads west at Langstone Rock. 14.08.2004. Copyright Jon Hird.

A GNER HST on hire to Virgin XC heads East. Copyright Jon Hird.

A FGW HST with mixed liveries on display heading west. Copyright Jon Hird.

47811(?) heads west with a Motorail van. Copyright Jon Hird.

67026 heads for Par with an 'Eden Ex'. Copyright Jon Hird.

Class 175's for GWR?

The rumour mill is rife at the moment with theories of ex-Transport For Wales Class 175's to be transferred to GWR.

Here's an article from Modern Railways with some more info on the theory - click here.

Swindon 66's
Colin Pidgeon

Re-geared and ex-works 66653 on 6V15 Boston Sleaford Sidings to Swindon Stores. Photos taken 10.25 20/06. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

The nameplate of 66653. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66050 on 0Z54 Swindon to Westbury via Gloucester & Severn Tunnel. Photo taken 12.23 20/06. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66598 on 6A16 Whatley to Oxford Banbury Road. Photo taken 09.24 20/06. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66618 on 0B12 Merehead to Wootton Bassett. Photos taken 13.48 20/06. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks for sharing your photos with us Colin, and thanks to Ken for forwarding them on, much appreciated.

June 21st 2024

21/6/2024

Passing time at Burngullow
Jon Hird

A pleasant 20ish minutes at Burngullow this afternoon, watching the comings and goings.

The broader side-on shot at Burngullow currently obstructed by a sycamore tree which has grown up from below the bridge. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

From the bridge itself, a shot is still possible, it's a bit head-on for my liking though. GWR 800021 speeds by with a service for Cardiff Central. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Shortly afterwards came 43098 and 43156 headed for Penzance. The old shunters cabin is being absorbed into the vegetation. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Here's the main attraction, 66101 arrives from Treviscoe with 8 JIA's full of clay for the potteries of the midlands. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A service was due on the mainline so there was time to get to Trewoon for a shot of the clay leaving. Here is that service, 150249 with 2N06, the 11:15 Penzance to Newquay. An interesting addition to this years timetable, whilst an IET unit travels to Newquay along the branch, the days unit does a trip to Penzance and back. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

66101 slowly creeps away, leaving the silos and decay of Burngullow behind. The signal behind me was showing red, so the train was creeping along. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The train at a snails pace crawling up to the signal. It turned orange seconds after this shot. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A bonus shot from the drone which was hovering above the road ready for the train. Always nice to have a backup option in case of a camera (or operator!) malfunction. 20.06.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Looking smart at Salisbury
Roger Geach

Looking very clean and smart in its heritage BR green livery, 33008 is seen stabled at Salisbury on 04.10.1986. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger. I think these locos look great with the white 'bandits mask' around the cab windows.

<<Previous

Latest News & Features

Triumph, Defiance & HerculesJames Goodhall

The Mazey Day Cornishman50007 + 50049Dorridge - Penzance & Return29.06.2024

VThe Cornish Riviera Mazey Day Statesman47712 + 47810Wolverhampton - Penzance & Return29.06.2024

Maurice Dart Memorial Train

Burngullow BananaJon Hird

Bristol Open Top BusDavid Tozer

A day out with the Railway Touring CompanyMick House

An interlude at ParNeil Phillips

Newquay HSTJon Hird

Tomorrows Railtours

Exeter CentralPaul Barlow

Mail by railRoger Geach

The Welsh Marches TourPaul Barlow

46003 at DaintonRoger Geach

Finished for the weekJon Hird

Sherborne to BarnstapleJames Bown

Bodmin CDAsAndrew & Diane Jones

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 90The Cornish Riviera ExpressMichael L. Roach

Bodmin CDA'sAlan Peters

Saphos Special at Stoke CanonDavid Tozer

Clay on a summers dayJon Hird

All change at WestburyAlan Peters

The new footbridge at St. Erth takes shapeRoger Winnen

Bristol to MineheadPaul Barlow

Plymouth ShunterRoger Geach

The Blue SurvivorDennis Clarke

Locos at SwindonColin Pidgeon