Blog Archives

July 31st 2024

31/7/2024

'The Royal Duchy'
Paul Barlow

Black 5 44871 crosses Exwick flood channel Exeter on 1651 Par to Bristol 47812 was on the rear 28 July 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - we'll add this and all the others to our 'Features' section over the next few days.

A sunny day in Cornwall
Jon Hird

DB Cargo 66025 gets away from Goonbarrow with todays (30.07) 6G09 Goonbarrow - Fowey China Clay. The boroughs in the background a local landmark caused through centuries of China Clay extraction. Copyright Jon Hird.

The train took a few minutes to make its way through St. Blazey and Par, which meant I was able to get ahead of it to see it arriving at Lostwithiel Goods loop. Copyright Jon Hird.

Restormel Castle watches on in the background as 66025 pulls its 16 JIA's into the up loop. Copyright Jon Hird.

This is the shot I'd really been after, with the others effectively being 'bonus' shots. 66025 crosses the Causeway at Golant about an hour after high tide. It's difficult to achieve train/sun/tide shots these days because of both how infrequently the trains run and how infrequently the weather plays ball! Copyright Jon Hird.

'Vacs' to Newquay
Roger Winnen

17.06.1978 - An unrefurbished Class 50 Heads a train to Newquay, seen passing through Bugle. Copyright Roger Winnen

17.06.1978 - 50027 'Lion' arrives at Bugle with a lengthly train for Newquay. Note rails to Carbis etc. still in place. Copyright Roger Winnen.

17.06.1978 - there's no mistaking the location as 'Lion' touts for passengers at Bugle. Copyright Roger Winnen.

On 25.06.1978 Roger was again in Mid-Cornwall and recorded 50016 'Barham' swinging onto the branch at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen.

July 30th 2024

30/7/2024

West of Cornwall Freight
29th December 1974
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

25275 pauses on the Hayle swing bridge. 29.12.1974, copyright Roger Winnen.

A photograph of the returning freight train from the overbridge on the branch. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The class 25 tackles the considerable incline as it works back towards Hayle Station. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A final shot of 25275 from the station platform as it regains the mainline. The chimneys of the power station can be seen in the background - Hayle was once a place of great industry. Copyright Roger Winnen.

High Speed Happy Hour
Par 26.07.2024
Steve Clark

43098 arrives at Par on the 2C29 15.47 ex Plymouth, 26.07.2024, copyright Steve Clark.

43092 on the 2C31 15.55 ex Plymouth. Copyright Steve Clark.

43092 on the 2C31 down passes 43187 on the 2P21 15.50 Penzance to Plymouth. Copyright Steve Clark.

43187 and 43198 at Par. Copyright Steve Clark.

2C31 heads West out of Par into the heat haze. Next stop St Austell. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve - we've got to get the HST's whilst we still can!

July 29th 2024

29/7/2024

Betty Chandler

The funeral service of Betty Chandler takes place at St Merryn Parish Church near Padstow on Thursday 15th August 2024 at 11.00am followed by a private cremation. Family flowers only.

44871 works 'The Royal Duchy'
Bristol Temple Meads - Par & Return
28.07.2024
Martin Scane, Roger Winnen, Neil Phillips, David Tozer, Andrew Triggs, Steve Clark & Jon Hird

44871 at Bishopsteignton in the Teign Valley on its way to Par. Copyright Martin Scane.

Plymouth - 44871 With the Railway Touring Company Bristol to Par service. Copyright Roger Winnen

Variety at Plymouth its the Sunday Lunch hour. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 crosses the River Tiddy at St. Germans. Copyright Jon Hird.

Black 5' No.44871 working 1Z33 08.48 Bristol T.M-Par 'Royal Duchy' passing Restormel, running 25 late at 14.09 (with 47812 at the rear Copyright Andrew Triggs

44871 arrives at Par Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 on 1Z33 08.48 Bristol Temple Meads - Par arrives at its destination, 22 minutes late at 14.19. A down train in the up platform 2 is an unfamiliar sight. 28th July 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Off loading its passengers foe a coach tour around the St Austell Bay sites. Copyright Roger Winnen

47812 and the Newquay to Paddington arrives at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 has just eased forward slightly to allow 800307 a clear departure from Par with 1A89 13.35 Newquay - Paddington. 28th July 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

The Newquay to Paddington service departs Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Class 47812 moves forward before reversing into the Newquay lines for stabling. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 With the rolling stock moves forward to stable the stock. Copyright Roger Winnen

The former bracket signal post still stands after nearly 6 months. Copyright Roger Winnen

Having left back-up diesel 47812 to park the train, 44871 as 0Z33 finds a semaphore signal on its way to St Blazey's turntable and a coal lorry. 28th July 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

'Welcome to Clay Country' - 44871 reverses through St. Blazey T&RSD past CDA Wagon 375102. Copyright Jon Hird.

Coaling in progress (a very generous provision, I hope there were no 'flying lump' incidents on the return journey!) 28th July 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

A side-on view of 44871 during refuelling from the eaves of the former roundhouse. Copyright Jon Hird.

CDA 375102 and 44871 on the turntable. Copyright Jon Hird.

47812 working 0Z34 15.52 St Blazey LIP-Par, running out of the Station. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Almost a full house at Par with a Class 158, 220/221 and the railtour. The young enthusiasts on the platform end are hoping for some 'tones' from the departing XC service! Copyright Steve Clark.

44871 running back into Par working 5Z34 16.13 Par-Par. Copyright Andrew Triggs

44871 appears from the curve. Copyright Steve Clark.

As 802004 pulls away with 2P21 15.45 Penzance - Plymouth, 44871 waits to follow with the return special. 28th July 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Nothing much wrong with 44871's boiler as it gets under way with 1Z34 16.51 Par - Bristol Temple Meads. 28th July 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Steve and Neil must have been stood practically shoulder to shoulder as this photo proves. Copyright Steve Clark.

On time departure from Platform 3 with the return 1Z64 16.51 Par-Bristol T.M, 47812 on the rear of the Tour with 44871 leading in the distance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

In absolutely perfect conditions, 44871 rushes through Restormel on her way back to Bristol. Copyright Jon Hird.

The return train being the 16.51 Par to Bristol is seen approaching Liskeard Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 1Z34 'The Royal Duchy' 1651 Par to Bristol Temple Meads taken at the Exwick Flood Relief Channel, Exeter. Copyright Paul Barlow

Betton Grange on
The West Somerset Railway
Trevor Tremethick

Hello Keith and Roger
Just three from today's visit. but hopefully they will give an impression.
Kind regards
Trevor

6880 arrives Williton, 1440 ex-Bishops Lydeard, WSR 28.07.2024. Signalman prepares ro receive token. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

7812 crosses 6880 at Williton WSR 28.07.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick (38)

6880 leaves Williton, 1440 ex-Bishops Lydeard, WSR 28.07.2024. Copyright Trevor Tremethick (43)

Many Thanks Trevor

West of Cornwall Freight
29th December 1974
By Roger Winnen
Part 2

29.12.1974. Roger has walked down from the station to the wharf, to photograph 25275 on the Hayle Freight. Copyright Roger Winnen.

'Beware of trains!' Roger certainly is being that. The Class 25 propels its wagons past a selection of (now) classic cars. Copyright Roger Winnen.

With Hayle power station in the background, 25275 continues to propel back. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A small sulzer driven by a driver with a flat cap and a pipe - a perfect 1970s British Rail scene! Copyright Roger Winnen.

With the shunting complete, 25275 heads for the gradient which will take it back to the mainline. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The train crosses the swinging bridge at Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Stranded Network Rail Vehicle
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger and Keith,

On 4th July Jon H posted a drone's eye view of St Blazey Yard featuring a Class 37-hauled Network Rail test train which had run into brake problems while working the Parkandillack branch. The former motorail van behind 37219, NVA 96608, must indeed have been the culprit since nearly 4 weeks later it is standing forlorn in St Blazey Yard awaiting rescue. If repair where it stands cannot be achieved it's likely that rescue will be in the form of road transport.

I'll be keeping an eye on it!

Best regards
Neil Phillips

NVA 96608 on an extended Cornish getaway at St. Blazey, awaiting rescue. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks Neil - please let us know if you spot it on the move!

Cornish Mixture - 28.07.2024
Roger Winnen & Jon Hird

GWR Small Prarie 5552 on the first Bodmin Railway train of the day at Bodmin Parkway. 5552 recently returned to traffic following repair work to her pistons. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A GWR IET heads west over St. Germans viaduct. Copyright Jon Hird.

A Crosscountry Class 220 Voyager heads West over St. Germans Viaduct. Copyright Jon Hird.

5552 Is seen at Bodmin General on the last train of the day. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The Class 10 Shunter at Bodmin on loan from the Helston Railway. Copyright Roger Winnen

A GWR Hitachi unit heads east through Restormel. Copyright Jon Hird.

July 28th 2024

28/7/2024

West of Cornwall Freight
29th December 1974
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

This is the first of a three-part instalment, featuring goods traffic in West Cornwall as recorded by our very own roving reporter, Roger Winnen. We hope you enjoy.

A 'Western' shunts the milk at St. Erth on 29.12.1974. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Busy busy at St. Erth Loading banks, railfreight is alive and well. Copyright Roger Winnen

Moving up the line by one stop, we see a Class 25 on Hayle Viaduct propelling the freight to the harbour. Copyright Roger Winnen

25275 swings onto the Wharf branch with the Hayle Freight. Copyright Roger Winnen

25275 propels the Hayle Freight down the branch, around the sharp curve. Copyright Roger Winnen

25275 disappears around the curve as it heads for the wharf. Copyright Roger Winnen

A glimpse of the class 25 and its train having arrived at its destination. Copyright Roger Winnen.

More to follow soon.. stay tuned!

Taunton 'Super Voyager'
Joe Birchall

An unidentified class 221 speeds through Taunton on 27.07.2024. When first introduced, these 5 car sets boasted tilting capabilities and were named 'Super Voyagers'. The tilt system was later isolated to improve reliability and to reduce maintainence expense. Copyright Joe Birchall.

Many thanks, Joe.

Swindon Sulzers
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Class 33 D6515 works 1Z54 [Basingstoke to Lydney Junction for Dean Forest Railway] using platform 1 to pass through Swindon 64 minutes LATE! Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

A close-up of the immaculate class 33 at Swindon. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

A short while after, we see the Class 33 at Purton Common foot crossing. Copyright Ken Mumford.

The second instalment of Sulzer action came in the form of 5Z30 Southall to Bristol (Kingsland Road) Empty Coaching Stock with Brush Type 4 47812 piloting Black Five 44871 passing platform 4 3 minutes EARLY. This train will form todays (28.07) 'Royal Duchy' railtour to Par. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Ken and Colin, great to see some classic traction out and about on the mainline.

July 27th 2024

27/7/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 97
Evening Trips August 1962
Michael L. Roach

This is the story of two trips on consecutive evenings in the summer of 1962. The first was on Monday 20 August to Tamerton Foliot Halt on the ex-Southern route from Okehampton and Tavistock North to Plymouth Friary. The village of Tamerton Foliot was four miles north of the City Centre (as the crow flies), and in 1962 outside the city boundary but after boundary extensions in 1967 just within the City boundary. Three miles to the east of Tamerton Foliot is the valley of the River Plym; and two miles to the west the River Tamar and the boundary between Cornwall and Devon running down the middle. More than a mile to the west of the village lies the railway at the end of a long cul-de-sac. Tamerton Foliot station opened seven years after the line in 1897 and closed completely on and from 10 September 1962, which was why I was there on the evening of 20 August. The residents of Tamerton Foliot village would have found the regular bus service to Plymouth City Centre much more convenient than the train service resulting in the station always being lightly used but the station remained staffed until 5 January 1959. In 1936 the Southern Railway declared it to be the least-used station west of Salisbury with just 424 tickets issued in the 12 months. The two platforms were connected by an occupation bridge which gave access to the fields beyond.

The next evening, I visited the valley of the River Plym mentioned above for a walk up the valley from the Plym Bridge itself. Before starting the walk, I photographed the 5.40pm from Launceston to Plymouth arriving at Plym Bridge Platform – this was the last train of the day to stop here. There was another train half hour later which passed through non-stop; this was the 7.10pm auto from Tavistock South to Plymouth. However, I did not photograph it because being a Tuesday I probably had a young lady with me and she had to take precedence most of the time. This was a wonderful length of railway through the Plym Valley which has been featured many times in this series, and where I took dozens of railway photographs. When the line closed at the end of that year, I missed the trains and the opportunity to photograph steam in wonderful scenery. However, you can still enjoy the scenery because the line was converted into a cycling and walking trail.

Ivatt 2-6-2T no. 41216 has stopped at Tamerton Foliot at 7.10pm on 20 August 1962 hauling the 6.48pm Tavistock North to Plymouth train. Copyright Michael L. Roach

Here we see the station house looking north towards Bere Alston and Tavistock. The station had been last painted 4/53. It is now a private 3-bed house and last changed hands in November 2022 for £750,000. Copyright Michael L. Roach

N-class 31837 approaches the halt with the 7.18pm Plymouth to Exeter Central. In front of the engine, and on the other side of the creek, is the post-war Ernesettle Estate. Copyright Michael L. Roach

A cropped scan from the same original negative. Copyright Michael L. Roach

Prairie tank 5569 arrives at Plym Bridge Platform with the 5.40pm Launceston to Plymouth on 21 August 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach

A cropped scan from the same original negative. Copyright Michael L. Roach

Many thanks as always, Michael.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

The monthly visit of
'The Flying Banana'
26.07.2024
Joe Birchall, Mick House, Andrew Triggs & Jon Hird

Friday the 26th of July saw the 4-weekly visit to the southwest of the Network Rail New Measurement Train, hauled by 43062 and 43013, running as 1Q18.

43013 leads the 'down' working, approaching Truro. Copyright Joe Birchall.

The 5 coaches and 43062 on the rear. All above images copyright Joe Birchall.

43013 Mark Carne CBE heads the train through Redruth heading down to PZ. Copyright Mick House.

43062 John Armitt through Redruth at the rear. Copyright Mick House.

43013 passes the ripening crops as it crosses Angarrack Viaduct. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Having reversed at Penzance, 43062 leads over Gwinear Road level crossing. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

43062 John Armitt heads past Wheal Busy Crossing on its way to Paignton. Copyright Mick House

43013 Mark Carne CBE past Wheal Busy Crossing at the rear. Copyright Mick House.

The returning train east of Truro running 31 minutes late behind a slow HITACHI. Copyright Joe Birchall.

The NMT crosses Trenance Viaduct, St. Austell. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks all for allowing us to display your photographs of this colourful train.

'The Royal Duchy'
28.07.2024

Tomorrow, 28.07.2024, Cornwall is due to be visited by mainline steam working 'The Royal Duchy' as far as Par, where the loco (TBC) will be turned on St. Blazey turntable. The timings are:

1Z33 0848 Bristol Temple Meads to Par - click for times
1Z34 1651 Par to Bristol Temple Meads - click for times

Don't forget to send in your photos!

July 26th 2024

26/7/2024

GWR Diesel Railcar
on the Kent & East Sussex Railway
Mick House

A bit out of our area but I thought it was worthy of putting on the site as it is relevant.

On a recent visit to the Kent & East Sussex Railway (06/06/2024) and having a number of trips up and down the line from Tenterden to Bodiam, hauled by Class 20 087, I then made my way over to the shed at Tenterden and as the doors were open, I could see one of their restoration projects just inside the doorway it was GWR Diesel Railcar No. W20W. I inquired as to the possibility of a tour of the shed and to my surprise the answer was yes, not only that, but I was treated to a look around the interior of the Railcar.

The railcar is fitted with a separate high-low ratio gearbox on the final drive side of the gearbox, which allowed a top speed of about 60–70 mph (97–113 km/h) in high and about 40–45 mph (64–72 km/h) in low and was capable of hauling a tail load of up to 60 tons. No. W20W purchased by the K&ESR, it arrived at Robertsbridge on 3rd April 1966. It formed the first fare paying public train on 3rd February 1974 and for the next five years it regularly ran, Saturday morning services. Although in mechanically sound condition, it was withdrawn from service during 1980 suffering badly from bodywork corrosion.

Towards the end of my visit around the shed, I also looked at D9504 having work done on its, Paxman 6 cylinder Ventura 6YJXL engine with Voith L217U hydraulic transmission, this was one of the Swindon built class 14s nicknamed 'Teddy Bears'.

I would like to thank all the staff both on the trains and in the shed for a memorable day out, many thanks.

We would be interested to receive any information/photos of this Railcar No. W20W, where it used to run on GWR.

GWR Diesel Railcar No. W20W. Copyright Mick House.

Roof panelling is well on the way to being finished. Copyright Mick House.

Roof panelling, lighting and side panelling virtually finished. Copyright Mick House.

Cab Interior. Copyright Mick House.

One of the sides is almost finished. Copyright Mick House.

Built at Swindon in 1940, it has two AEC diesel engines each driving the inner axel via a Cardan shaft on each of the two four wheeled bogies, the Cardan shaft leading from the engine to one bogie. Copyright Mick House.

The guards end, showing the double doors to the guards/baggage compartment and the sides of the vehicle. Copyright Mick House.

Class 14 D9504 having work done on its, Paxman 6 cylinder Ventura 6YJXL engine. Copyright Mick House.

Many thanks Mick - if anybody has any info on the railcars workings over the GWR, please drop us an email - [email protected]

Within a few hours of putting the above on the website, we received the response below from Peter Dawe - Many thanks for this additional information, Peter.

GSWR Railcar 20
Peter Dawe

I moved with my family just aged 7 to Dorchester on New Year’s Day 1955.

Local services, all stations and halts, through Dorchester West from Weymouth to Maiden Newton or Yeovil were provided by either a GWR railcar or a 14xx plus a push pull carriage. Some busier services were 57xx plus two carriages.

20 was one of the railcars which I remember along with 24 and 25 on this duty. Only one was allocated to Weymouth (82F)at a time. I regret that I cannot remember 20’s exact dates.

These workings were largely replaced by Cross Country units often running as 2 cars c1959 and the last GWR railcar was moved away.

Peter Dawe

Thanks again, Peter.

Grogley Halt Buffet
Andrew & Diane Jones

Dear Admin, Roger and Keith,

50 years too late, a station buffet has been established at Grogley Halt.

Under the proposed re-nationalisation of the railways, I wonder if any lessons have been learnt, or will another Dr Beeching appear under the guise of efficiency!

Very best wishes Andrew and Diane

At Grogley Halt, a 'snack van' has appeared serving drinks etc. Copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Many thanks Andrew & Diane, I am sure it will keep the walkers and cyclists well-refreshed - a shame that railway passengers can't sample the products (without a bit of a walk first!)

China Clay Trains
Roger Winnen & Jon Hird

66025 passes Par with 6G09, Goonbarrow - Fowey on 24.07.2024. Copyright Roger Winnen.

66025 joins the main line and heads on towards Lostwithiel. 24.07.2024, copyright Roger Winnen.

66244 with 6M53, Parkandillack (Treviscoe) - Cliffe Vale powdered clay pictured east of Respryn on 25.07.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

July 25th 2024

25/7/2024

'The Cornish Riviera Statesman'
47712 & 47810 Dorridge - Penzance & Return
24.07.2024

Colin Pidgeon, Clive Smith, Jon Hird, Roger Winnen, Andrew Triggs, Joe Birchall, Jonathan Harbage, Steve Clark, Martin Scane & Mick House

47810 leads 47712 and 'The Statesman' set into Swindon. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

'The Statesman' calls at Swindon. The old and the new, with a GWR IET alongside. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

47810 and 47712 powering past Sprey Point at Teignmouth. Copyright Martin Scane.

D1924 (47810) and 47712 head the 1Z69 06.05 Dorridge - Penzance at Daveys Bridge east of Ivybridge station. Copyright Clive Smith.

47810 leads 47712 across the River Tiddy via St. Germans viaduct. Copyright Jon Hird.

The railtour continues through St. Germans station, passing the grounded coaches which are in use as holiday accomodation. Copyright Jon Hird.

The Cornish Riviera Statesman approaches Par this morning. Copyright Roger Winnen

High class travel to the far west. Copyright Roger Winnen

'The Statesman' approaching Truro. Copyright Joe Birchall.

47712 tucked inside 47810. Copyright Joe Birchall.

D1924 Crewe Diesel Depot & 47 712 Lady Diana Spencer at Apex Bridge, Scorrier. Copyright Mick House.

D1924 Crewe Diesel Depot. Copyright Mick House.

47 712 Lady Diana Spencer. Copyright Mick House.

Coaching stock used on the tour. Please click an image above to obtain an enlargement. All images above copyright Mick House.

In the driving rain at Ponsandane, 47810 with 47712 nearing journey's end working 1Z69 06.05 Dorridge-Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

On arrival at Penzance my luck was in as the train was still in the station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Later while running round 5Z69, 47810 (D1924) and 47712 running back towards Slopers and the Statesman ECS. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

47712 with 47810 propelling 5Z69 14.28 Penzance-Penzance (Via Slopers) into platform 2 running 44 early. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

The station scene viewed from the station wall. Copyright Roger Winnen

47712 Lady Diana Spencer. Copyright Roger Winnen

I departed Penzance at 15.50 in time to catch the special at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

Under the station roof. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The returning tour heading north to Dorridge passing Buckshead near Truro. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

The 'Soggy St. Austell Statesman'. Copyright Steve Clark.

A head-on shot of 47712 as the train approaches Lostwithiel. Copyright Jon Hird.

47712 leads the way through Lostwithiel. Copyright Jon Hird.

Here we see The Cornish Riviera Statesman approaching Liskeard with plenty of clag. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The 1Z71 16.02 Penzance - Dorridge passes through Ivybridge station with 47712 leading 47810. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks to all for sending in your photos of this working and also for braving the afternoons rain! What a rubbish summer we are having so far.

If you missed this, worry not - 'The Statesman' returns to Penzance again next Wednesday (31.07.2024).

Clay on the move
Jon Hird

A rare mid-week day off for me today (24.07.24) fell quite well with the LSL tour, but I also took the opportunity to photograph the two Wednesday clay trains in some places I can't usually get to with work commitments.

Shortly before 9am, 66244 was found shunting the JIA's in Par Harbour. Copyright Jon Hird.

The wagons are shuffled around to be loaded one by one beneath the canopy. Copyright Jon Hird.

At 13:00, 66025 was seen climbing through Treesmill with the Goonbarrow - Fowey train. Copyright Jon Hird.

Here is 66244 again, approaching Moorswater with the St. Blazey - Exeter Riverside clay, with the JIA's we saw earlier being loaded at Par Harbour. One of two opportunities each week to witness a loaded freight train east of Lostwithiel. Copyright Jon Hird.

66244 draws closer and we get a glimpse of the wonderful rolling Cornish landscape in the background. This is my favourite 'railway spot'. Copyright Jon Hird.

At Lostwithiel at 17:00, almost as soon as the barriers had lifted following the railtour, they dropped again for 66025 and the empty wagons coming off the Fowey branch. There were two young enthusiasts who had turned out to photograph the railtour, they were very pleased to have this as a bonus attraction. Copyright Jon Hird.

66025 passes the former signal box whilst running round the train which has been left in the down goods loop. Copyright Jon Hird.

My last shot of the day as 66025 winds on the power to climb the gradient out of Lostwithiel. Copyright Jon Hird.

July 24th 2024

24/7/2024

Betty Chandler

We are saddened to learn of the passing of Betty Chandler, wife of Gerry Chandler, of St. Merryn. Both Betty and Gerry being long standing and much respected members of the Cornwall Railway Society.

Our thoughts are with Gerry and the family during this difficult time.

May she rest in peace.

Tuesdays Clay
Jon Hird

At around 13:00, 66025 tips into the curve whilst climbing away from Par, passing Stoneybridge. A shot taken from a private garden with kind permission from the owner. 23.07.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Later in the day, I noticed a glimmer of sunshine appearing, the first I'd seen all day. A check of Real Time Trains showed the returning empties nearly at St. Blazey, so I jumped in the car and headed for Lavrean to capture this shot of the return nearing journeys-end at Goonbarrow. The drone had to be deployed for this one, as the lineside vegetation is far too high for a handheld shot now. I was quite pleased with the dark sky with brilliant evening sun in the foreground. For a change, the sun vanished immediately after the train had passed, rather than immediately before! 23.07.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The Southern Route
Roger Winnen

13.05.1978 - Double headed Class 33s at Chard Junction with the Exeter to Brighton. Copyright Roger Winnen.

13.05.1978 - Class 33 Going away from Axminster Station eastbound. Copyright Roger Winnen

13.05.1978 - Class 33112 at Whimple Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

13.05.1978 - 33112 Departs Whimple Station for Yeovil etc. Copyright Roger Winnen

13.05.1978 - A goods loading shed at Whimple. Copyright Roger Winnen

13.05.1978 - A class 33 running into Whimple. Copyright Roger Winnen

13.05.1978 - A DMU photographed passing Broadclyst on an Exeter to Axminster working. Copyright Roger Winnen

July 23rd 2024

23/7/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 96
Defiance Platform, Saltash
Michael L. Roach

It was good to see Roger Winnen's record of the CRS boat trip down the River Tamar from Calstock which took place thirty years ago. The Southern Belle also made a side trip off the Tamar that day up the River Lynher to St. Germans Viaduct, Here the boat was travelling parallel to the Cornish main line, where the line could be seen crossing the 1908 viaducts at Forder, Notter and St. Germans. Before 1908, and doubling of the line from Saltash to St. Germans, the line was single and was located further south between the 1908 line and the bank of the River Lynher, with steeper gradients and more viaducts. There was little habitation along this length of railway and yet for some 25 years a halt or platform was provided above Wearde Quay, and one of the photos attached shows that it was well-used at certain times of the day.

HMS Defiance of 1861 (there have been several with that name) was the last wooden line-of-battle ship built for the Royal Navy. The ship was built at the Royal Navy Dockyard at Pembroke Dock between 1858 and 1862, and displaced 5,700 tons. It lasted until 1930, and the following year was sold for scrap and broken up in Millbay Docks, Plymouth. The ship never saw active service and in 1884 it became a school ship for naval trainees at Devonport. Shortly afterwards it was moored in the River Lynher at its confluence with the River Tamar. As well as classroom lessons the trainees would have learnt practical seamanship in small boats safely clear of the main shipping lanes. The nearest and easiest road access was on the south side of the river at Antony Passage. Above the north bank of the river passed the Great Western Railway's line from Paddington to Penzance, single line and still broad gauge in 1884.

In 1905 a single platform was built on the single line which had been converted to standard gauge in 1892. The location was approximately three quarters of a mile west of Saltash Station adjacent to a road overbridge; and the 150 feet long platform was built by the Royal Navy for the use of its officers and men. The public were also permitted to use the station accessing it by steps from the adjacent road bridge. The station opened on 1 March 1905 and was initially called Defiance Halte. Within a year or two the line from Saltash to St. Germans was being doubled but on a new alignment to the north of the existing alignment and this time the GWR provided two platforms 350 feet long, later lengthened to 400 feet. Further improvements were carried out over the years, including the provision of toilets, and facilities for dealing with parcels. Fourteen months after opening the station was renamed Defiance Platform – the significance of this change being that a booking office and clerk would have been provided for part of the day. The station closed on 27 October 1930.

The attached photos from the GWR Magazine for 1907 show just how busy the station could be at certain times. Most of the naval personnel would have been travelling east to Devonport or Plymouth and it is significant that on that eastbound platform there were no less than three pagoda waiting shelters. I doubt that any other platforms or halts could match that. The book Great Western Railway Halts Volume One includes a wonderful photo showing the proximity of the ship to the railway.

The GWR report of Defiance Halt being moved to the new double line in April 1907

Sailors in abundance in October 1907

Many thanks as always Michael. If you haven't read Rogers report of the boat trip which Mike mentions, please scroll down and view the previous few days news articles.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Par Signal Box - The next chapter
Craig Munday/Network Rail

The below text comes from a Network Rail press release, kindly shared with us by Craig Munday.

Future of Par signal box secured as a railway training facility

The future of Par signal box in Cornwall, one of the oldest signal boxes still standing, has been secured with an agreement to use it as a railway training facility.

A ceremony was held to hand over the keys to the signal box from Network Rail’s operations team to the maintenance team.

Built in 1879, Par signal box was finally closed on 4 March 2024 when a new digital signal system was launched in mid-Cornwall.

But the grade Grade II II-listed box will now continue to serve the railway for decades to come.

The box, which used to control trains on the Cornish mainline and Newquay branch line, will be used to help train new signallers, with skills gained in mechanical signalling equally valuable on a digital system.

Mechanical signalling is also still in use in West Cornwall, including on the Newquay branch line.

Par will add to Network Rail’s signal training centres in the West with other bases in Bristol, Exeter and Westbury.

Dan Collins, Network Rail infrastructure maintenance delivery manager, said:

“We’re so pleased to have the chance to take Par signal box into the next stage of its life.

“The box has served the railway for over more than a century and we’ll preserve its proud history and make sure it’s still here for future generations to enjoy.”

Paul Gardiner from Par S&T receives the box key from John Kelly. John was a regular Signalman at Par and fittingly presented the key. John still works with NR in Ops Risk. Copyright Network Rail.

A group of invited guests pose outside the box with the original sign returned for reattachment. Copyright Network Rail.

Thank you very much Craig, a fitting use for a special and historic structure.

Sir Kenneth Grange
Designer of the 'Intercity 125'
17.07.1929 - 22.07.2024

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Kenneth Grange yesterday, 22.07.2024.

Sir Kenneth was the designer of the iconic 'nose' of the Class 43 along with the early liveries which the class wore.

He also designed many more everyday objects, such as the Kodak Instamatic camera.

Roger has searched the archives for some of his earliest 'HST' images which are shown below.

27.11.1976 - a nearly-new Class 43 at Bristol Temple Meads in its original livery and trim. Copyright Roger Winnen.

09.10.1976 - The HST with its futuristic looks, designed by Sir Kenneth Grange, looks like a vehicle from another world when compared to the classic styling of the Peak it sits alongside. Copyright Roger Winnen.

09.10.1976 - The Prototype High Speed Train at Bristol Temple Meads. Without going into too much detail - other websites have this covered in great depth - Sir Kenneth was asked to design a livery for this locomotive. He instead pushed for a complete remodel of the nose and to loose the buffers, which gave us the well-known 'face' of the Class 43. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Luxulyan
Jon Hird

22.07.2024 - 12:49 - 150263 heads through Luxulyan with the delayed Penzance - Newquay service. Copyright Jon Hird.

22.07.2024 - 13:01 - 66025 heads the other way through Luxulyan with 16 JIA's full of China Clay for Fowey. The first train to Fowey for a week. Copyright Jon Hird.

Roaming the Newquay Branch
Roger Winnen

25.06.1978 - 50016 Barham passing a DMU at St Dennis Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

25.06.1978 - Arrival at Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen

25.06.1978 - 50050 Running around at Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen

25.06.1978 - 47001 and three trains at Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen

July 22nd 2024

22/7/2024

The 150th Anniversary of the Watchet to Minehead section of the Minehead Branch
John Ball

Hi, Roger
Yesterday, I went to see the celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the Watchet to Minehead section of the Minehead branch. The ex-Furness Rly 0-4-0 loco, built in 1863 by Sharp Stewart of Manchester, was the star of the show at Watchet. I attach a few photos which you may wish to put on the website.
Regards

John

The Furness Railway 0-4-0 Awaits departure from Watchet Station. Copyright John Ball

Departure from Watchet Station. Copyright John Ball

The Furness Railway 0-4-0 at Minehead. Copyright John Ball

Many Thanks John

A memorable event - 51 years ago
Roger Geach

On Saturday 21st July 1973, if any of the older members were out down in the far west, they may have had a long wait for a train.

At around 1315 D1662 expired west of Saltash on 1V34, the 0810 Ken Olympia motorail to St Austell, blocking the down main at a very busy time of the day.

Rescue came from St Blazey with D7573 and D7574 passing liskeard at 1420 on the up. However, 1V34 did not appear at Liskeard until 1537 hrs - nothing passing Liskeard on the down after the 1b11 0836 cardiff - pz at 1259 hauled by Class 47 D1920.

Behind 1V34 all the delayed down trains started to appear but most remained late all day, which also affected the up road with Penzance running out of locos and coaching stock.

A smashing photo taken at Moorswater of a pair of St. Blazey small Sulzers, D7573 and D7574 assisting a failed D1662 on a Penzance-bound service, 21.07.1973. Copyright Roger Geach.

Rogers notes for the day on 21.07.1973 - slightly more variety than you'd see today! Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks for sharing this one with us Roger, a lovely memory and a great photo too.

Sunny scenes at Pendomer
Bill Elston

Hi All,

I was over at Pendomer this afternoon for the EXD to Waterloo, 1L52. Everything was fine until it got as far as Chard Jct., but then it was looped because of a very late running westbound train, 1L29 being stuck at Crewkerne for some 40min.

1L52 eventually left Crewkerne at 1517, about 57 late, and is seen passing Pendomer with 158880 and 159104 both still in South West Trains livery .

The joys of single line working!!

Best wishes,

Bill

158880 leads 1L52 through the cutting at Pendomer on 21.07.2024. Copyright Bill Elston.

159104 bringing up the rear, both units still wearing the eye-catching South West Trains livery. 21.07.2024, copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill, the weather up there looks like it was a lot better than what we had here in Cornwall!

Classic Traction at St. Dennis Junction
Martin Duff

Saturday afternoon (20.07.24) 16.04 at St. Dennis Junction. The 15.43 from Newquay approaches. Copyright Martin Duff.

Many thanks Martin - the junction looking a little sorry for itself there.

<<Previous

'The Royal Duchy'Paul Barlow

A sunny day in CornwallJon Hird

'Vacs' to NewquayRoger Winnen

West of Cornwall Freight29th December 1974By Roger WinnenPart 3

High Speed Happy HourPar 26.07.2024Steve Clark

44871 works 'The Royal Duchy'Bristol Temple Meads - Par & Return28.07.2024Martin Scane, Roger Winnen, Neil Phillips, David Tozer, Andrew Triggs, Steve Clark & Jon Hird

West of Cornwall Freight29th December 1974By Roger WinnenPart 2

Stranded Network Rail VehicleNeil Phillips

Cornish Mixture - 28.07.2024Roger Winnen & Jon Hird

West of Cornwall Freight29th December 1974By Roger WinnenPart 1

Taunton 'Super Voyager'Joe Birchall

Swindon SulzersKen Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 97Evening Trips August 1962Michael L. Roach

The monthly visit of'The Flying Banana'26.07.2024Joe Birchall, Mick House, Andrew Triggs & Jon Hird

'The Royal Duchy'28.07.2024

GWR Diesel Railcaron the Kent & East Sussex RailwayMick House

GSWR Railcar 20Peter Dawe

Grogley Halt BuffetAndrew & Diane Jones

China Clay TrainsRoger Winnen & Jon Hird

'The Cornish Riviera Statesman'47712 & 47810 Dorridge - Penzance & Return​24.07.2024