Blog Archives

August 31st 2024

31/8/2024

Wheal Busy Pullman
Jon Hird

43049 leads 'The Cornish Riviera Pullman' past Wheal Busy Enginehouse on 30.08.2024. 43046 was on the opposite end. A very lucky spot of sunshine caught the train, a thick blanket of grey cloud was rolling in behind it. Copyright Jon Hird.

Over the weekend the 'Pullman' will work the following services (click them for a schedule):

1Z43 0800 Penzance to Bath Spa (31.08.2024)
1Z44 1653 Bath Spa to Penzance (31.08.2024)
1Z43 1005 Penzance to Dumfries (01.09.2024)

The Midland Pullman Penzance to Bath and return 31st August 2024
Mick House, Andrew Triggs & Roger Winnen

43049 (with 43046) nearing journey's end passing Ponsandane working 1Z43 07.00 Dumfries-Penzance 'Cornish Riviera Pullman' 30.8.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

240831a The Cornish Riviera Pullman under the roof at Penzance prior to departing at 08.00 for a day excusion to Bath. Copyright Roger Winnen

240831b The sun rises on a glorious Saturday morning. Copyright Roger Winnen

The 'Bath Spa Pullman' at Platform 2 awaiting 08.00 departure from Penzance 31.8.2024 Copyright Andrew Triggs

43046 with 43049 at Platform 2 prior to departing with the 'Bath Spa Pullman' 1Z43 08.00 Penzance-Bath Spa 31.8.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The 'Bath Spa Pullman' departing Penzance with 43046 'Geoff Drury 1930-1999' leading with 43049 'Neville Hill' at the rear 31.8.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

240831c Awaiting departure at 08.00 hrs. Copyright Roger Winnen

240831d Midland Pullman Geoff Druiry 1930-1999. Copyright Roger Winnen

An 800 IET at Wheal Busy thismmorning followed the Midland Pullman. Copyright Mick House

The Midland Pullman at Wheal Busy this morning. Copyright Mick House

Arrival back into Penzance at 22.20hrs Copyright Roger Winnen

Viewed from the station balcony at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Going out to stable for the night. Copyright Roger Winnen

A minor event on the Falmouth Branch yesterday
John Ball

A class 158 was noted at Falmouth Docks Station yesterday, no doubt a shortage of rolling stock facing Great Western

Many Thanks John

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 9

16.01.1977 - All platforms full at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

20.01.1977 - D1048 Western Lady hauls the 22.10 Penzance to Paddington sleeper on 20th January 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

21.01.1977 - Cab front of D1023 Western Fusilier. Copyright Roger Winnen

More coming soon..

Pendalake Clay
Jon Hird

66152 with 6C10 (Par Harbour - Cliffe Vale) crosses Pendalake Viaduct on 29.08.2024. One of only two loaded freight trains per week to be seen east of Lostwithiel (and west of Exeter) nowadays. Copyright Jon Hird.

'Triumph' at Bodmin
Roger Geach

A very smart 50042 arrives at Bodmin Parkway on 05.05.2002. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks, Roger - can't beat 'Large Logo' on a 50.

August 30th 2024

30/8/2024

The East Somerset Railway
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, Thanks for dealing with the last pictures here are the last three for this week ,from Michael Adams . A visit to Cranmore on 21 August 1979 finds E1 32110 and Schools ‘Repton’ looking a bit forlorn. The Schools is now at The Bluebell railway ,Sussex and the E1 tank is awaiting restoration on The Isle of Wight steam railway. Copyright Michael Adams

A clear view of Cranmore Station. Copyright Michael Adams

Many Thanks Michael

57312 Test Run at Marazion
Andrew Triggs

Hi Roger
57312 worked to Truro and back this morning on Test following work at Longrock Depot for GWR, running as 0Z79 09.05 Longrock T&RSMD-Longrock T&RSMD (Via Truro), I popped over to Marazion to record the Up working
All the Best
Andrew

Many Thanks Andrew

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
'Last Chance Westerns'
By Roger Winnen
Part 8

02.01.1977 - D1013 Western Ranger on the sleeper at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

16.01.1977 - D1041 Western Prince looks in a rough condition at Penzance on 16th Jan 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

16.01.1977 - D1041 awaits departure from Platform 2 at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen.

More 'Westerns' coming soon..

Night moves at Newquay
Jon Hird

37610 arrives at Par from Penzance just before 22:00 with the test train (3Q53). 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The train had to pull forwards a few feet to clear the pointwork behind the former signal box. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Taken from the road bridge at Par shortly before the train departed for Newquay. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

DBSO 9714 leads through Luxulyan. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

37610 on the rear at Luxulyan. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Arrival at Newquay where work is in progress to reinstate the former platform 1. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The train reverses at Newquay ready to head to Exeter via Looe. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

This is a stack of 3 images of varying exposures. As this side of the train is unlit, this was the only way to capture it without burning the highlights in the image. I was quite pleased to see a bit of a purple aurora in the sky, not a hugely uncommon occurance when messing about with nighttime photography around the North coast of Cornwall, but the first time I have managed to capture a photograph of a train beneath such a display. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

One from my way back home, the train travelled slowly so it was easy to get ahead of it. 37610 leads the way through Roche. I could hear it coming across the Goss Moor for a good couple of minutes before it arrived. A very high ISO/grainy shot but when else do you have a chance at photographing a cl.37 at Roche? 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The Scene at Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

66655 on 6V15 Boston Sleaford Sidings to Swindon. This loco was 66167 before being regeared by DB at Toton. 29.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

69008 on 5Q87 Long Marston to Eastleigh TRSMD with 701034. 29.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

701034 being dragged to Eastleigh. 29.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

GWR's 802109 has been renamed 'Shania Train'. The name is to be removed after October once Shania Twain has done a concert tour of Britain. 29.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin, you still get a bit of variety up in your neck of the woods!

This weekends railtours
(Times, etc.)

Links below to Realtime Trains, for anybody wishing to see/photograph the Locomotive Services Midland Pullman HST set which is due to visit our region over the next few days:

1Z43 0700 Dumfries to Penzance (30.08.2024)
1Z43 0800 Penzance to Bath Spa (31.08.2024)
1Z44 1653 Bath Spa to Penzance (31.08.2024)
1Z43 1005 Penzance to Dumfries (01.09.2024)

We also have the final 'Royal Duchy' tour of the year due to visit Par on Sunday 01.09.2024, expected to once again be hauled by 'Black 5' 44871.

1Z33 0848 Bristol Temple Meads to Par (01.09.2024)
1Z34 1651 Par to Bristol Temple Meads (01.09.2024)

Be sure to send in your pictures! [email protected]

August 29th 2024

29/8/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART TWO
Exeter Central on 22.08.1964
Michael L. Roach

In Part 1 of this new series, I showed some photos taken at Exeter Central on Saturday 22 August 1964 just before a large number of changes were initiated at Exeter and on The Withered Arm. The remainder of the photos taken that day are attached to this article.

I travelled from Plymouth to Exeter at 2.45pm and returned from St. Davids at 7.39pm which gave me 2 hours and 20 minutes at Exeter Central to watch the comings and goings. All four legs of the rail trip were diesel-hauled by consecutively a Western, D63xx, Hymek and Western. A total of ten steam engines were seen at Exeter Central of five different classes: one Ivatt 2-6-2 tank; one BR Standard Class 3 tank; two ex-GWR pannier tanks; two Merchant Navy Pacific’s and four Bulleid Light Pacific’s. All ten engines were withdrawn and scrapped within three years.

I saw two ex-GWR pannier tanks at Central that day and described them as pilot engines, but they were much more than that. When necessary one or both would go down to St. Davids Station to assist a heavy train up the steep incline to Central usually by banking at the rear of the train. The very heaviest of the ballast trains from Meldon Quarry would have two engines at the rear and a pilot engine in front of the train engine, making four steam engines in all.

The first panniers to arrive at Exmouth Junction Shed were in late 1959, when the then Southern Region acquired a number of 57XX locomotives from South Wales sheds. Some did not last long, some moved on to other sheds and the last examples at Exmouth Junction were withdrawn in June 1965 with the closure of the shed to steam. They were 4655, 4666 and 4694. The website shedbashuk.blogspot.com provides an insight into what was on shed on various dates. For example, on Sunday 2 August 1964 there were five panniers on shed.

34089 602 Squadron is on the 5.54pm to Waterloo with 7C. Note the 70E shedplate. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The fireman of 34089 watches out for the signal to depart at 5.57pm a couple of minutes late. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

BR Standard Class 3MT 2-6-2 no. 82042 runs though the station LE. 82042 had ranged all over the Western Region since construction in 1955. It had previously been at Taunton for three years and would end its days at Gloucester one year later in August 1965. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

34107 Blandford Forum enters Central with a down stopping train past Ivatt 2-6-2T 41284. 34107 was withdrawn the following month. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Blue Funnel Line enters Central under the footbridge with 8C on the 3.00pm from Waterloo. The time is 6.31pm. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Five minutes later 35013 runs back to Exmouth Junction shed. The engine moved to Bournemouth Shed the same month. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

4694 is ready to remove the middle three coaches of the 3.00pm from Waterloo including the RC. The Plymouth portion has already departed, while the Ilfracombe portion was at the rear. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks to you as always, Michael.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
'Last Chance Westerns'
By Roger Winnen
Part 7

With the clock ticking loudly for the Class 52 'Westerns', Roger was keen to record as many as he could, often at his home station of Penzance.

15.01.1977 - D1023 Western Fusilier at the buffer stops of Platform 3 at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

15.01.1977 - Locos in the yard at Penzance. Two Class 50s, One 47 and D1023 Western Fusilier. Copyright Roger Winnen

15.01.1977 - D1023 Western Fusilier inbetween duties in Penzance yard. Copyright Roger Winnen.

16.01.1977 - D1041 Western Prince (now preserved at the East Lancashire Railway) at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen.

16.01.1977 - The nameplate of D1041 Western Prince. at Penzance. The bodywork looking very shabby - the end was nigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

16.01.1977 - A very workworn D1041 'Western Prince' at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.01.1977 - No Westerns present in this one. The station yard at Penzance where a Class 50 can be seen tucked away for the night. Copyright Roger Winnen

Swindon Station 27-08-2024
Colin Pidgeon

56049 on 6Z35 Westbury Yard to Swindon Transfer with Network Rail FEAs 642039, 642014, 642025, 642046, 642012 & 642032 to be based at Swindon for the RHTT season. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66067 on 6C03 Northolt to Severnside. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

43272 t&t 43274 on 1Q15 Derby RTC to Landore TMD. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin - a nice selection

A meeting of freight
Jon Hird

66244 with 6G09, (the mid-day Goonbarrow - Fowey clay), passes 66152 with 6C10 (the Treviscoe - Exeter Riverside clay) at Par. 6C10 is waiting time before its path to Exeter later in the afternoon. 28.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

No hanging around for 66244 which got straight out onto the mainline to continue on to Lostwithiel. Copyright Jon Hird.

66152 'Derek Holmes Railway Operator' idling away waiting for its turn to leave. This loco has replaced 66025. Copyright Jon Hird.

Details of the product being carried within the wagons of 6C10. Copyright Jon Hird.

Later in the day, a strategically timed walk at Respryn nicely co-incided with 66152 returning light engine to St. Blazey from Exeter Riverside. My son gives it a wave as it passes by. Tomorrow this loco should take further wagons from Par Harbour up to Exeter, the two halves will be joined, then the full set of wagons will travel up to Cliffe Vale. Copyright Jon Hird.

Re: Rogers Mystery Western
Guy Vincent

For Roger's info, the mystery 'Western' paired with D1013 at Penzance on Sunday January 9th 1977 is D1022 'Western Sentinel'. The two locos arrived at the head of the overnight sleeper from Paddington (D1013 was added at Plymouth) and they later departed with the 1E21 1138 to Bradford (D1022, also photographed by Roger) and the 1A25 1800 Paddington (D1013).

Track Record Press is an invaluable website resource that lists many recorded 'Western' workings for years 1975 1976 and 1977.

Many thanks again to Roger, and all other contributors who share their 'Western' photos on CRS.

Regards

Guy V

Rogers photo from 09.01.1977 which we now, thanks to Guy, know is D1013 plus D1022 'Western Sentinel'. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Guy - a mystery solved - it's only taken 47 years!

August 28th 2024

28/8/2024

37610 Works a test train from Penzance via Newquay, Looe to Exeter Riverside
Andrew Triggs Roger Winnen

Evening Roger/Keith and Jon
Some different shots of veteran HNRC 37610 from the Station wall, stabled on Oil 2 siding in late afternoon sunshine, for the record 37610 was new to traffic 21.10.1963 as D6881, also being renumbered as 37181/37687 and finally to 37610
All the Best
Andrew

37610 at Penzance awaiting its return journey to Exeter Riverside at at 20.48 Copyright Roger Winnen

Another angle of 37610 at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Departure tonight at 20.48 hrs. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Tractor and the Mount. Copyright Andrew Triggs

37610 arrived this morning working 3Q50 23.33 Exeter Riverside N.Y-Penzance at 05.30 (73 late Copyright Andrew Triggs

Due to depart tonight as 3Q53 20.48 Penzance-Exeter Riverside N.Y Copyright Andrew Triggs

Tonights departure from Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

China Clay at Par
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, A nice shot to compare with today’s clay trains where we see 37673 waiting for the road at Par with CDAs for Fowey.
Thanks
Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

34052 'Lord Dowding'
at Axminster
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, here is another picture found in Michael Adam’s loft and this shows 34052 ‘Lord Dowding’ with a milk train.

Photographer and date unknown but we seem to be at Sidmouth jctn.

Thanks, all the best, Michael.

Many Thanks Michael

The Quantock Flyer
at Yeovil Junction
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, Great pictures on the site and yours of Long Rock shed brought the memories back for me.

Here is another of the pictures ,by an unknown photographer, which Michael Adams discovered recently but this time we can get to the date, namely 16 February 1964.

It shows 35030 which brought the special down from Waterloo to here at Yeovil Junction.

Tank engines 4593 and 9663 took the tour onwards to Taunton etc.

Always interesting to me to see the enthusiasts in their sports jackets and macs.

35030 at Yeovil Junction on 16.02.1964. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks for your comments Michael

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 6

09.01.1977 - D1013 plus a mystery Western at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many Thanks to you Guy

09.01.1977 - Class 50s at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.01.1977 - D1023 Works the 22.10 Sleeper to Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

17.02.1977 - D1013 working the 17.45 From Plymouth at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Roger - more 'Westerns' coming soon..

More of the South Devon Railway
'Rails and ales gala'
Mark Lynam & Sam Ryder

25262 returns back down the line passing Bishops Bridge Loop working 11.20 Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside. 26.08.2024, copyright Mark Lynam.

25262 runs round the coaches at Buckfastleigh. 26.08.2024, copyright Mark Lynam.

Class 121 W55000 working a service. Copyright Sam Ryder.

25262 arrives at Totnes. Copyright Sam Ryder.

Many thanks to Sam and Mark - we have a large number of photos of this interesting event now and we've added them to our 'features' page - click here for the full set.

Around The Fowey
Jon Hird

I've had an idea in my head for a while of a shot at Golant looking back towards the shore over some kind of sailing boat. Today, the tide was right, the sun was right (as in - nowhere to be seen!), however there were no 'traditional' sailboats moored anywhere close to the Golant side of the river. 'Lowenna', a small motor boat, instead got to play the starring role. She swings on her mooring as the tide turns whilst 66244 creeps past behind her en route to Carne Point. At least it's a nice, Cornish, name. 27.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The train crawls over the crossing at Golant. Copyright Jon Hird.

After work, I popped back down to the River, this time slightly further upstream at Lostwithiel. The heavy rain stopped just 2-3 minutes before 66244 came into sight. Here the driver has just operated the token machine and is proceeding towards the mainline. Copyright Jon Hird.

A brief forray away from the river to see the loco running round at Lostwithiel, passing the former signalbox. Copyright Jon Hird.

The driver changes ends. The new footbridge is not yet open to the public. Copyright Jon Hird.

Back to the Fowey again as 6G05 departs Lostwithiel for Goonbarrow via St. Blazey. Copyright Jon Hird.

One final view, spinning around with the drone and climbing to about 100m, the Fowey branch peeling off to the left following the course of the river, whilst the train heads up the mainline and climbs to Treverrin Tunnel. Copyright Jon Hird.

Teignmouth sea wall
Martin Scane

A GWR IET unit heads east beneath the slanted bridge at Teignmouth, 27.08.2024. Copyright Martin Scane.

Another IET heads west. Copyright Martin Scane.

A Crosscountry Trains Voyager unit heading west near Sprey Point. Copyright Martin Scane.

A GWR 'Turbo' on a Paignton - Exmouth service near Sprey Point. Copyright Martin Scane.

GWR 150232 rounds the curve to Teignmouth. Copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin - one example of pretty much everything you're likely to see along the wall nowadays.

Re: Lymington 'Slammers'
Paul Negus

Hi Keith

I too was very impressed with Steve Clark's photographs. They reminded me of very interesting times working on EMU and Loco maintenance and repair on the Southern Region in the 1970s.

A small detail in the shot of the Amp meter gauge that your readers may not have spotted is that it is reading kilo Amperes (kA) - the unit is drawing about 1050 Amps! This equates to roughly 1000 bhp on the 750V DC supply, which would tend to dip a bit when a unit was drawing high currents, especially if it was some distance from the 750V feeder points.

The most ampere hungry units were the 4 REPs (Restaurant Electro Pneumatic Brake) on the Bournemouth to Weymouth line. The two powered cars each had 4 x 400bhp traction motors, one per axle, giving a total of 8 x 400 = 3200 bhp for the 4 REP. This would draw over 3000 amps during acceleration and I seem to remember that only one 4REP unit was allowed to leave Waterloo at a time to avoid any 750V power breaker tripping!

Kind regards
Paul Negus
(Figures courtesy of Wikipedia)

Steve Clarks photograph of the equipment in the guards compartment of a Southern EMU. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks for your observations and for the additional info, Paul.

August 27th 2024

27/8/2024

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 5

02.01.1977 - D1023 Western Fusilier at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

03.01.1977 - D1048 Western Lady at Penzance on the 13.55. Copyright Roger Winnen

09.01.1977 - D1022 Western Sentinel works the 11.38 Penzance to Bradford. Copyright Roger Winnen

09.01.1977 - D1022 Western Sentinel works the 11.38 Penzance to Bradford. A Class 50 stands in Platform 1. (Can anybody tell us which?) Copyright Roger Winnen

09.01.1977 - D1013 Western Ranger under the station roof at Penzance. Copyyright Roger Winnen

More tomorrow!

Bank Holiday in Bodmin
Jon Hird

The team at The Bodmin Railway have been hard at work clearing trees from around the viaduct at Bodmin Parkway, making for a lovely clear drone shot. 5553 drifts down the gradient with the final Bodmin General - Bodmin Parkway train of the day, 26.08.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

After running round, the train departs again back to Bodmin General. I wonder if any of the passengers enjoyed the new view of the River Fowey from their windows. 26.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

After photographing the viaduct, I took a quick walk over to Respryn to see 43188 and 43187 working 2C31, the 15:55 Plymouth - Penzance. The late summer colours starting to creep into the shot in the countryside which makes up the backdrop. 26.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The South Devon Railway
Rails & Ales Gala
Tony Shore

33002 12.10 Totnes -buckfastleigh. staverton. Replacing 25262 under repairs at buckfastleigh. 25-08-2024. Copyright Tony Shore.

W55000 14.05 totnes-staverton. Approaching Staverton. 25-08-2024. Copyright Tony Shore.

33002 TNT 25262 15.55 Totnes -buckfastleigh. Approaching Staverton. 25262 working 15.05 of buckfastleigh after repairs. 25-08-2024. Copyright Tony Shore.

25262 on the rear of a train approaching Staverton. Copyright Tony Shore.

6412 15.55 buckfastleigh -totnes. Staverton. 25-08-2024. Copyright Tony Shore.

Staverton 25-08-2024. Rail and Ales- South Devon Railway 25-08-2024. Copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks Tony - plenty to see up in South Devon by the look of it.

Lymington 'Slammers'
Steve Clark

I saw a couple of pictures recently in the news section and thought some Members like to see the inside of the Heritage Slammer 1497 that used to work on the Branch.

I was a Guard based at Bournemouth between 1999 and 2016 and worked hundreds of trips on the Branch with 4-VEPS, 4-CEPs and 4-CIGs also 3-CIGs and 3-CEPs, Class 158 DMUs and of course Class 450 DESIROs. The 3 Car CIGs dedicated to the Branch were converted at Ashford in Kent and had Magnets fitted to the Doors to act as a locking system allowing them to continue in service after the rest of the Slam Door fleet was withdrawn from SWT metals.

To even out wear on the Wheel flanges there was a fortnightly 'turning move' when the Spare unit at Bournemouth Depot was sent to Fareham Bay platform via Swanwick then up to Eastleigh via Hedge End then back to Bournemouth via Southampton.

The end came on 22nd May 2010 and I swapped duties to ensure that I worked the final trips on the Branch, the 21.59 to Lymington Pier and the 22.14 back to Brockenhurst then ECS back to Bournemouth.

Inside of the Guards Office showing Amp meter gauge, Loudaphone to contact Driver, PA system and the Door locking 'side selector' operated by Carriage key. Copyright Steve Clark.

Brake pressure gauges, red handle was used to perform Brake Tests by watching the pressure fall on the Brake pipe gauge on the right. Copyright Steve Clark.

First Class compartment. Copyright Steve Clark.

Standard Class saloon. Copyright Steve Clark.

First service of the day, 05.59 ex Brockenhurst pausing at Lymington Town. Copyright Steve Clark.

Spring has sprung at Lymington Pier. Copyright Steve Clark.

Door magnet locking mechanism which was energised by a door control switch near the Guards office. Copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve - some great photos of what we wouldn't normally see!

August 26th 2024

26/8/2024

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 4

01.01.1977 - It's the 1st January 1977 with D1048 Western Lady on the loading bank at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

01.01.1977 - An alternative view of D1048 'Western Lady'. The 'Lady' thankfully survives in perservation, however she has not moved under her own power for a very long time. Copyright Roger Winnen.

03.01.1977 - The last day of service for Long Rock Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

03.01.1977 - Built in 1914, we see the demolition of Long Rock Shed in 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

03.01.1977 - Demolition at Long Rock. E Thomas & Sons were the contractors building the (then) new HST shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

03.01.1977 - The entrance to the depot at Long Rock from the old A30 road. Copyright Roger Winnen

03.01.1977 - The Demolition viewed from the Eastern Green Beach. Copyright Roger Winnen

More to follow tomorrow..

Marazion Station
Philip Hale

Roger, good day.

I am an avid reader of your website and am greatly impressed by the quality and reproduction of the photos you display. So much going on in Cornwall and not much here near Swansea. However, I attach a scan of a photo of part of Marazion station that I took in August 1967 whilst on holiday in one of the camping coaches alongside the station. I holidayed there three times in all. I know the photo is not of the standard you include on your website but, if you think it worth reproducing, please go ahead. For copyright purposes, please quote my name.

Best wishes,
Philip Hale

Marazion Station in August 1962. Copyright Philip Hale.

Thank you very much indeed, Philip - both for your compliments and for your wonderful photograph.

The 'English Riviera Express' in Somerset - 24.08.2024
Andrew Triggs

Hi Roger/Keith/Jon

Up in Somerset once more, popped over to Taunton and Norton Fitzwarren to capture LNER B1 no.61306 'Mayflower' with LSL 57311 working 1Z60 07.10 Slough-Kingswear (For Dartmouth) working the Leg west from Taunton, previously 47810 'Crewe Diesel Depot' had been removed on arrival at Taunton for 'Mayflower' to take the Tour west (having previously worked Light Engine in from Bishops Lydeard).

All the Best
Andrew

Mayflower running light through Norton Fitzwarren as 0Z60 09.51 Bishops Lydeard-Taunton. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Mayflower at Taunton awaiting 11.01 departure from Platform 2 at Taunton with 1Z60 for Kingswear (For Dartmouth). Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Approaching Norton Fitzwarren Footbridge at 11.02. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

LSL Black 57311 on the rear of the Tour clearing Norton Footbridge. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Heading away towards Wellington. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks, Andrew

A trip to the South Devon Railway
Paul Barlow

FGW blue 150238 works the 1025 Okehampton to Exeter Central, seen at Exeter St. Davids on 24 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43004 (43186 on rear) arrive at Exeter on the Saturdays only 0740 Penzance to Exeter St Davids 24 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

25262 at Totnes in blue undercoat paint 24 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

25262 reverses onto the 1300 to Totnes at Buckfastleigh 24 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Bubble car W55000 arrives at Totnes 24 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Thanks Paul - nice to see some diesel action at the SDR

Kemble Specials
Ken Mumford

35028 heads through Kemble with a railtour on 24.08.2024. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Later in the day, the tour returns through Kemble. Copyright Ken Mumford.

WCRC 47812 on the rear of the tour, providing power to the air conditioned mk.2 coaching stock. Copyright Ken Mumford.

The Locomotive Services Limited 'Statesman' train also passes Kemble, with what appears to be 47593 and either 47810 or 47805 at its head. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken

Sutton Harbour Branch Remains

Hello,

I noticed this today even though walked past many times before and not noticed.

This may have been sent to you before but may be of interest.

An inscription in the blockwork of the bridge across the above branch just up from Shepherds Lane.

A nice reminder of the past - a GWR inscription in blockwork on a bridge above the Sutton Harbour Branch.

The sender of this image has requested to remain anonymous. We are very grateful to them for thinking of us and sending in the above, a nice spot.

Bodmin 'Beds'
Jon Hird

57603 eases the up sleeper to a stop at Bodmin Parkway on 23.08.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

An image which well displays how isolated Bodmin Parkway is - in the black of the night, the station is the only source of light for miles around. Copyright Jon Hird.

August 25th 2024

25/8/2024

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

31.12.1976 - Looking out of the sheds at St. Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen.

31.12.1976 - The turntable at St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - A Class 25 together with an 08 Shunter and a breakdown crane at the depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - The entrance to St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

Rogers winter ramble continues tomorrow - where next? You'll have to check back to find out!

Various HST's
Jon Hird

A FGW HST crosses a Virgin Trains HST at Goonbarrow, summer 2003. Copyright Jon Hird.

14.08.2004 - 43002 (now preserved at the NRM, York) arrives at Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Jon Hird.

11.12.2005 - a HST heads for Penzance through Dowgas. Copyright Jon Hird.

15.01.2005 - 43132 arrives at Par. Copyright Jon Hird.

August 24th 2024

24/8/2024

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 2

31.12.1976 - A peak crosses Trenance Viaduct on the approach to St Austell. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - Trenance Viaduct St Austell. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - A Class 50 at Wheal Busy near Scorrier

31.12.1976 - The 08.00 Bristol Penzance working near Probus. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - St Blazey Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - The turntable at St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - Inside the depot at St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - Looking through the depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

More to come tomorrow!

Swindon Specials
Colin Pidgeon

70000 Britannia on 1Z46 Paddington to Bath . Steam Dreams London & Chiltern Hills to Bath. 22.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

69011 on 5Q85 Eastleigh TRSMD to Long Marston with 701057. 22.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks to you, Colin

'Ratsody' in blue
Sam Ryder

A Selection of photos showcasing Class 25 No. 25262 (D7612) in its new BR blue livery, shunting around Buckfastleigh yard in preparation for the South Devon Railway's 'Rails and Ales' event.

Freshly repainted 25262 breaks cover, shunting the yard at Buckfastleigh on 22.08.2024. Copyright Sam Ryder.

Shunting the DMU at Buckfastleigh. Copyright Sam Ryder.

25262 at Buckfastleigh. Copyright Sam Ryder.

Many thanks, Sam - excellent photographs of an excellent loco, much appreciated.

The NMT's 4-weekly visit
Roger Winnen & Jon Hird

43272 arrives at St. Erth for a signal stop on 23.08.2024. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The Network Rail Measurement Train and the new bridge abuntments at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

Purple 43274 on the rear passes the last semaphores on the Great Western main line at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The returning Measurement Train arrives at St Erth at 12.42. Copyright Roger Winnen

The NMT and a GWR Castle Class HST arrive at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

The NMT passes the St Erth Box on route to Paignton. Copyright Roger Winnen

43274 leads the NMT with 43272 tailing. Seen crossing Moorswater Viaduct on 23.08.2024 whilst working the 4-weekly 1Q18 0543 Reading Triangle Sidings to Paignton via Penzance. Copyright Jon Hird.

St. Erth footbridge progress
Roger Winnen

The linking section of the new bridge awaits lifting into position on 23.08.2024. Copyright Roger Winnen

August 23rd 2024

23/8/2024

The Bodmin Railway
China Clay Gala
07.09.24 - 08.09.24

From Bodmin Railway:

Please join us over the weekend of the 7th and 8th of September for our ever-popular 'China Clay Gala', celebrating the rich history of China Clay in Cornwall and that of moving China Clay by rail.

We’ll be running an intensive timetable with:

GWR Small Praries 5552 and 5553 in steam and Class 47 No. 47306 running, each hauling both the Service and Goods trains.
Port-of-Par Bagnall 'Judy' in steam and ex-ECC Sentinel Shunter 'Denise' running, providing clay wagon rides and mini driver experiences at Bodmin General.
'Judy' will make a trip to Boscarne with a Brake van at the end of each day.
The rake of CDA wagons will be out for one trip each day behind 47306, with limited capacity for footplate rides (book online).
In the yard we will have on display the Beattie Well Tank, the GWR shunters truck and ex-Fowey Docks Class 10 D3452, showcasing our China Clay collection.
The workshops will be open once again with 'Alfred', Austerity Saddle Tank 2766 & 08444 under overhaul.
There will also be a clay modelling activity for kids, to see who can make the best clay model of the Beattie!

A selection of traction engines will also be on display in the yard.

We hope to see you there!

For further info or to book your tickets, please click here.

47306 with the CDA rake. Copyright Jon Hird.

Brake van rides with 'Judy'. Copyright Jon Hird.

Double headed GWR 'Praries' 5552 + 5553. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks - it sounds like a good weekend is planned!

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

43046 & 43049 on 1Z43 Norwich to Paignton LSL'S Torbay Riviera Pullman. 21.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

60047 on 6Z52 Tytherington Quarry to Quainton Railhead. 21.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66092 on 0Z41 Westbury to Swindon via The B&H. 21.08.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks to you, Colin (and to Ken for sending these over).

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

30.12.1976 - A Class 47 opens up at Gwinear Road. Copyright Roger Winnen

30.12.1976 - 47104 Runs light engine to Penzance at Gwinear Road. Copyright Roger Winnen

30.12.1976 - Viewed from the train window with Carn Brea in the background. Copyright Roger Winnen

30.12.1976 - A Class 47 in the bushes. Copyright Roger Winnen

30.12.1976 - A Class 50 near Wheal Busy. Copyright Roger Winnen

30.12.1976 - 50032 near Holmbush, St. Austell. Copyight Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - D1054 Western Governor at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more to come from this period over the next few days, stay tuned!

Britannia at Bath
Paul Negus

Hi Keith

Please find attached images of Britannia hauling Steam Dream's "London and Chiltern Hills to Bath" excursion from Paddington via Beaconsfield, Princes Risborough, Bicester Village, Oxford and Didcot.

The train was 19 down at Challow but with the help of an 8 minute pathing allowance at Swindon and some smart running, Britannia was only 1 minute down on arrival at Bath Spa.

The passengers all alighted at Bath Spa so the train ran ECS thence to Bristol. It made a spirited departure from Bath Spa and the sound through Oldfield Park was wonderful - the two cylinder bark of a Britannia at full chat! It was hauling a Class 47 at the rear and this was idling as it passed by.

Images are copyright myself and my wife Maureen (just in case you wondered how I managed to scamper between platform and bridge level!)

Kind regards
Paul Negus

A great sight at Oldfield Park as 70000 'Britannia' arrives with a railtour. 22.08.2024, copyright Paul & Maureen Negus.

A platform-level shot of 'Britannia' passing Oldfield Park. 22.08.2024, copyright Paul & Maureen Negus.

One last view before the steam train passes beneath the footbridge. 22.08.2024, copyright Paul & Maureen Negus.

Many thanks Paul (and Maureen) - a great set of photos.

G&WR Diesel Day
Paul Barlow

Hello Keith

A few shots from the G&W.R not sure if it is in area, but I've sent them anyway!

The Peak was working a shareholders/supporters special and the 37's were on a Growler group special.

No normal services were running that day.

Kind regards

Paul

45149 at Winchcombe waiting to depart to Broadway 16 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

45149 Broadway 16 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

45149 Cheltenham 16 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

45149 Cheltenham Racecourse waits to depart on the 1015 to Broadway 16 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Growler group special 37215 1715 from Broadway arrives at Toddington16 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks, Paul - engines with snouts for aficionados of both Sulzer and English Electric!

August 22nd 2024

22/8/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART ONE
All Change on the Southern
Michael L. Roach

Sixty years ago in September 1964 it was all change on the railway lines around Exeter and on the Withered Arm to the west of Exeter with major changes to many aspects of railway operating. In no particular order: there would be almost no through trains beyond Exeter Central; all trains on the Withered Arm would be local trains; Waterloo to Exeter trains would be dieselised; final elimination of steam on the Exeter - Okehampton - Plymouth route; no steam west of Taunton on the Western Region (in theory); Callington Branch to be dieselised; Exmouth Junction's large fleet of N-class locos were mostly withdrawn with a few transferred elsewhere; and Plymouth's Laira Shed was to receive is last regular visiting steam engines.

That summer I spent more time than usual visiting and travelling on the ex-Southern lines west of Exeter, and the Taunton to Barnstaple line and recording the final weeks of steam on many lines. The resultant photographs will be shown in several parts in this new series mainly, but not exclusively, about the year 1964.

In this first Part I will start with a visit to Exeter Central Station around teatime on Saturday 22 August 1964, just two weeks before most of the changes kicked in.

Merchant Navy 35008 Orient Line stands at Central with 12 coaches on the 4.30pm to Waterloo. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

34056 Croydon waits with the Okehampton to Surbiton car carrier train. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

34056 departs four minutes later. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

34032 Camelford runs light through the station heading for Exmouth Junction shed. Copyright Michael L Roach.

Pannier 4694 is seen during shunting operations. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

There were two panniers on pilot duty that day – here is the second one 4610. Both panniers were shedded at Exmouth Junction, 4610 from August 1963 to October 1964; and 4694 from January 1963 to June 1965. The engine had previously been at Wadebridge for three years. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always, Michael.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here (now indexed).

Par by moonlight
Jon Hird

GWR's 57602 arrives at Par with the up 'Night Riviera' sleeper service. The scene is illuminated by the Super Blue Moon (or if you're an astronomer - 'perigee syzygy' Moon!). 20.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Shortly before the sleeper arrived, 150243 arrived ECS from Liskeard as 5L98, pausing briefly in Platform 3 before scuttling away to Chapel Siding for the night. 20.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Blue era at Southampton
Roger Geach

73113 pictured at southampton with the 0940 Waterloo - Weymouth on Sat 17.08.1985. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - 39 years ago this week.

Going round the bend!
Roger Winnen

18.05.1978 - A DMU rounds the tight curve between the mainline and the Looe branch at Liskeard. Copyright Roger Winnen

<<Previous

Latest News & Features

Wheal Busy PullmanJon Hird

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 9

Pendalake ClayJon Hird

'Triumph' at BodminRoger Geach

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977'Last Chance Westerns'By Roger WinnenPart 8

Night moves at NewquayJon Hird

The Scene at SwindonColin Pidgeon

This weekends railtours(Times, etc.)

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART TWOExeter Central on 22.08.1964Michael L. Roach

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977'Last Chance Westerns'By Roger WinnenPart 7

Swindon Station 27-08-2024Colin Pidgeon

A meeting of freightJon Hird

Re: Rogers Mystery WesternGuy Vincent

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 6

More of the South Devon Railway'Rails and ales gala'Mark Lynam & Sam Ryder

Around The Fowey​Jon Hird

Teignmouth sea wallMartin Scane

Re: Lymington 'Slammers'Paul Negus

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 5

Bank Holiday in BodminJon Hird

The South Devon RailwayRails & Ales GalaTony Shore

Lymington 'Slammers'Steve Clark

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 4

Marazion StationPhilip Hale

The 'English Riviera Express' in Somerset - 24.08.2024Andrew Triggs

A trip to the South Devon RailwayPaul Barlow

Kemble SpecialsKen Mumford

Sutton Harbour Branch Remains

Bodmin 'Beds'Jon Hird

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 3

Various HST'sJon Hird

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 2

Swindon SpecialsColin Pidgeon

'Ratsody' in blueSam Ryder

The NMT's 4-weekly visit​Roger Winnen & Jon Hird

St. Erth footbridge progressRoger Winnen

The Bodmin RailwayChina Clay Gala07.09.24 - 08.09.24

Swindon ScenesColin Pidgeon

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977By Roger WinnenPart 1

Britannia at BathPaul Negus

G&WR Diesel DayPaul Barlow

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART ONEAll Change on the SouthernMichael L. Roach

Par by moonlightJon Hird

Blue era at SouthamptonRoger Geach

Going round the bend!Roger Winnen

Archives

Wheal Busy Pullman
Jon Hird

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 9

Pendalake Clay
Jon Hird

'Triumph' at Bodmin
Roger Geach

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
'Last Chance Westerns'
By Roger Winnen
Part 8

Night moves at Newquay
Jon Hird

The Scene at Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

This weekends railtours
(Times, etc.)

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART TWO
Exeter Central on 22.08.1964
Michael L. Roach

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
'Last Chance Westerns'
By Roger Winnen
Part 7

Swindon Station 27-08-2024
Colin Pidgeon

A meeting of freight
Jon Hird

Re: Rogers Mystery Western
Guy Vincent

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 6

More of the South Devon Railway
'Rails and ales gala'
Mark Lynam & Sam Ryder

Around The Fowey
Jon Hird

Teignmouth sea wall
Martin Scane

Re: Lymington 'Slammers'
Paul Negus

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 5

Bank Holiday in Bodmin
Jon Hird

The South Devon Railway
Rails & Ales Gala
Tony Shore

Lymington 'Slammers'
Steve Clark

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 4

Marazion Station
Philip Hale

The 'English Riviera Express' in Somerset - 24.08.2024
Andrew Triggs

A trip to the South Devon Railway
Paul Barlow

Kemble Specials
Ken Mumford

Bodmin 'Beds'
Jon Hird

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

Various HST's
Jon Hird

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 2

Swindon Specials
Colin Pidgeon

'Ratsody' in blue
Sam Ryder

The NMT's 4-weekly visit
Roger Winnen & Jon Hird

St. Erth footbridge progress
Roger Winnen

The Bodmin Railway
China Clay Gala
07.09.24 - 08.09.24

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

The end of 1976 and the start of 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

Britannia at Bath
Paul Negus

G&WR Diesel Day
Paul Barlow

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART ONE
All Change on the Southern
Michael L. Roach

Par by moonlight
Jon Hird

Blue era at Southampton
Roger Geach

Going round the bend!
Roger Winnen