Blog Archives

August 21st 2024

21/8/2024

'The Northern Belle' visits Paignton
Martin Scane

57315 and 57313 top and tail the Northern Belle running as 1Z30 Birmingham to Paignton, seen passing Sprey Point, Teignmouth right time on 20.08.2024. Copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin - a nice, sunny scene.

The English Riviera Express
Mick House

Last Saturday 17/08/2024 The English Riviera Express ran from Pool to Kingswear and return, top & tailed with D1924 Crewe Diesel Depot (47 810) leading and 57 311 on the rear.

The pair were photographed passing Totton Yard.

D1924 Crewe Diesel Depot (47 810) heads the tour past Totton Yard. 17.08.2024, copyright Mick House.

57311 on the rear. Copyright Mick House.

Many thanks Mick

August 20th 2024

20/8/2024

950001 Arrives at Penzance
Andrew Triggs

Hi Roger 2 shots of 950001 working 2Q08 03.26 Plymouth-Penzance arriving at Penzance earlier, actual arrival being at 09.27 (23 early) All the Best Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

34074 at Exeter
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, here is another of the surprise finds from Michael Adams . It shows 34074 ’46 Squadron’ coming into ,I think, Exeter St’Davids.The service and the date are unknown but the loco. was withdrawn in June 1963. Thanks, best wishes, Copyright Michael Adams

Many Thanks Michael

Eastleigh Works
Roger Geach

From the old works overbridge at Eastleigh, 70005 passes with 4O90 Leeds to Southampton heading South. 14.08.2024, copyright Roger Geach.

70016 with 4M61, the Southampton to Trafford Park services passing the Marchwood trip with 66738 sat on the main! 14.08.2024, copyright Roger Geach.

Eastleigh works - many will recall when this entrance was in use, now boarded up and locked out of use. One can see the former BREL works behind, thankfully still in use. 14.08.2024, copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks to you Roger

Small Sulzers
Roger Winnen

15.07.1978 - Two 25s, 25155 & 25307, working 12.12 Newquay to Nottingham at Bugle. Copyright Roger Winnen

Hemerdon Units
Jon Hird

A couple of photographs of DMU's climbing Hemerdon on Sunday 18.08.24 whilst waiting for the steam to turn up. Not the most interesting subject matter, but sadly there are slim pickings to choose from nowadays. At least the lighting was atmospheric and photogenic.

A pair of 5-car GWR IET's climb Hemerdon. Electricity/phone wires everywhere! 18.08.24, copyright Jon Hird.

A pair of Crosscountry Voyagers head east. Note the graffiti on the now-condemned relay cabinets - I think it's bizzare that anyone would walk into the middle of nowhere to paint them - how did they even know they were there?! 18.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

August 19th 2024

19/8/2024

44871 works 'The Royal Duchy'
18.08.2024
Roger Winnen, Max Elton, Neil Phillips & Jon Hird

The Royal Duchy arrives in Plymouth behind 44871 on route to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

Taken from Platform 6 as the train is photographed by its participants. Copyright Roger Winnen

We had hoped to depart from Plymouth prior to the steam departure. We were beaton to it as the other services we running late. Copyright Roger Winnen

West Coast 47848 is seen tailing the train as it leave Plymouth. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 passes Trerulefoot with the Bristol Temple Meads - Par 'Royal Duchy'. Copyright Max Elton.

44871 reaches journey's end at Par with 'The Royal Duchy'. 18th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Shunting moves at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

Seen from the footbridge 47848 provides diesel back-up - in April 1970 I photographed D1640 on the Par - Park Royal Freightliner service from this same location, could 47848 be D1640 in disguise? Sadly no, it was built as D1652 - close but no cigar! 18th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

47848's other purpose was to provide Electric Train Supply to the air-conditioned coaching stock. 18th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

The loco arrives at St. Blazey to be turned and fuelled. Copyright Max Elton.

44871 on St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 re-coaling in progress on the St Blazey turntable. 18th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Broadside of 44871 on St Blazey Turntable. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Inspection at St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

As many will know the turntable area is not the easiest to photograph locomotives 'in situ' - this classic front 3/4 view combined a angle adjustment to align the rails for 44871's departure with a momentary balancing act on the fencing! 18th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

The loco pauses on the turntable after having been turned/serviced. Copyright Max Elton.

44871 In the Newquay Platform at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Running round at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

Awaiting to push back in order to gain access to Platform 3 for departure to Bristol Temple Meads where it arrived 80 minutes late owing to track defects. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The train is now approaching Platform 3 for departure to Bristol at 16.51. Copyright Roger Winnen

44871 passing the old Par Signal Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

The return tour pounds up Treesmill. Copyright Max Elton.

Moving up to Liskeard we see the train working well on the gradient into the station with assistance from the rear. Copyright Roger Winnen

The 'Royal Duchy' is about to exit the Duchy as the returning tour crosses Coombe-By-Saltash viaduct. Copyright Jon Hird.

With the setting sun behind her, 44871 storms up and over Hemerdon (with a little assistance from the '47' on the rear!) Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks for sharing your photos, Max & Neil

Wings over the sea wall
Paul Barlow

61306 Mayflower 0634 Poole to Kingswear approaches Teignmouth 17 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43097 43186 1221 Exeter to Penzance Sprey point Teignmouth 17 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - it's lovely to see the steam, but equally nice to see a HST along the sea wall nowadays.

Swindon Freight
Keith Gale

Dear CRS,

I hope you don't mind me sending you this picture - it is a little out of the area but I see you often include happenings around Swindon. As many know, there are sidings serving a scrap yard (EMR) at Stratton that see an occasional train for loading scrap to be taken to Liverpool Docks. The train usually operates on a Friday (if it does work) and a quick look on Realtime Trains saw that this had arrived on 16 August 2024. As I live some distance away from Swindon I do have some history trying to photograph this working - in fact the last time I tried, Swindon seemed to have a monsoon episode and I could not take any photographs but received a right soaking for my efforts. Anyway, thank goodness for Realtime Trains and a sunny day. The usual heavy motorway traffic (M4) meant that I arrived a little later than planned but very fortunately the train was still being loaded and in a good position. Around ten minutes later the train was brought forward (under the road bridge) and the shot was lost. So please see a picture of 66797 loading the Swindon EMR to Liverpool scrap train on Friday 16 August 2024.

kind regards Keith

66797 with a scrap train being loaded at EMR metals, at Highworth 16 August 2024. Copyright Keith Gale.

Keith, many thanks indeed for this most interesting photograph. Swindon is very much within the area we cover and we are most grateful for this interesting view, one which I'm not sure we have seen before - certainly not recently. It's very much appreciated, well caught.

More from 'down South'
Roger Geach

66148 with 4O21 the 0920 Trafford Park - Southampton west docks passes St Denys on 14.08.2024. Copyright Roger Geach.

66731 leads 4Y19, the 1222 Mountfield - Southampton docks through St. Denys on 14.08.2024. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - a few more of this area from Roger to follow - stay tuned.

The North Cornwall Miniature Railway open day
18.08.2024
Jon Hird

This miniature railway on the outskirts of St. Teath holds 4 public open days a year. All funds raised go to charity. It's well worth a visit, they're a lovely friendly bunch and go above and beyond to be accomodating. Their next open day is September 22nd.

Motive power at St. Teath West. Copyright Jon Hird.

One of the lines steam locos awaits departure from St. Teath West. Copyright Jon Hird.

'Gracie', a diesel hydraulic skirts the lake. Copyright Jon Hird.

Top and tailed Mardyke Hymeks. Copyright Jon Hird.

'Pengelley' with a full train. Copyright Jon Hird.

The Hymeks on an elevated section of track. Copyright Jon Hird.

I believe this is what you could call a 'work in progress'! A diesel loco awaits departure. Copyright Jon Hird.

For more info on this railway, please visit their Facebook page - click here.

August 18th 2024

18/8/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 100
Welsh Holiday September 1962
Michael L. Roach

When I was much younger I made several longer distance trips chasing and photographing trains when I stayed away for a few nights in bed and breakfast; however I only took three such holidays which lasted a complete week. The third holiday was to the north-east of England in September 1975 for the 150th anniversary celebrations of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway and I returned home an enthusiast for all things north-east and North Eastern Railway. The second holiday was to Mid and North Wales in the summer of 1969 to visit all the narrow-gauge railways. The first complete week's holiday was to Wales and the four lines out of Brecon in September 1962. This was after the TUCC Hearing which had recommended closure of all four lines and it was just a matter of weeks or a couple of months at the most before the closures would be implemented. In a way it was a very sad and melancholy time knowing that this would be the last time that I would see these fascinating lines, trains and stations set in beautiful countryside because this would be my last visit before closure; and that hundreds of railwaymen would lose their jobs with the withdrawal of passenger and freight trains and lifting of most of the track. The passenger routes to be closed were:

Route   Mileage
Brecon – Three Cocks Junction – Moat Lane Junction              60
Brecon - Three Cocks Junction – Hereford                               38½
Brecon – Newport                                                                    47
Brecon – Neath                                                                        33¼
                TOTAL route mileage 178¾

The date chosen for the holiday was the first week in September 1962 which was quite fortuitous as the children had returned to school for the autumn term and some would be seen using the train to and from secondary school in Brecon. I invited my friend Charles Fennamore to accompany me but work and study commitments prevented him doing so. It was a bit difficult to decide whether to press on alone with the holiday but I decided that this was really my last chance to do the four lines in a comprehensive fashion so alone it would have to be. The intention behind the holiday was to go by car to take photos in the countryside but to make at least one return journey by train on each route out of Brecon. The plan was to start at Newport Station and head north by car stopping at every station and halt along the line through to Brecon and then on to Moat Lane Junction on the line from Whitchurch to Aberystwyth. That was over 100 miles and 45 stations, and if there was time I would also go west from Brecon down the line to Neath and east from Three Cocks Junction to Hereford as far as possible. I knew from the outset that it was a tall order and so it proved; I got as far west as Cray on the line to Neath but did none of the stations on the former LMS route to Hereford.

I journeyed up from my home in Plymouth to Newport on Saturday 1 September 1962 and the trip was horrendous with traffic jams and slow moving traffic in many places. In the late 1950s and 1960s summer Saturdays were notorious for traffic jams and journeys taking more than twice as long as usual. There were almost no dual carriageways and few bypasses on the A38 with the road passing through many towns and villages. This was the last Saturday of the school holidays and the last Saturday of the peak season. I left home in Plymouth at 09.25 and ran into the first jams at Haldon, before Exeter, then at Exeter, near Tiverton, Wellington, Taunton, Bridgwater and Highbridge. I arrived at the Aust ferry queue north of Bristol at 16.30 It was always a conundrum travelling in this direction whether to go to Aust and see the length of the queue waiting for the ferry across the River Severn because it was a long way off the A38 direct route if going around Gloucester which itself added many miles to the journey. The main road went right through the centre of Gloucester which could add more traffic jams to the trip. Travelling in the opposite direction from Wales to the West Country was easier because the ferry was only two miles off the A48 from Chepstow to Gloucester. After gradually moving up the queue and waiting well over two hours to get on the boat I finally drove off the ferry and up the slipway at Beachley at 19.15 and through Chepstow. The ferry fare for a small car and driver was 7 shillings and 6 pence (37½p). At the time petrol was 5 shillings (25p) a gallon and the car only did about 30 miles to the gallon so there was not much difference in the cost of going round the long way and the ferry fare. The advantage of taking the ferry was that it gave the single driver a break and it was a real experience to cross the River Severn by boat which would cease with the opening of the Severn Bridge in 1966. Needless to say the ferry did not run in the dark or in rough seas.

I stopped twice in Chepstow in different places to photograph Brunel's famous bridge across the River Wye which was being rebuilt at the time. My arrival in Newport was at 20.40 and I found bed and breakfast at 39 Corporation Road, Newport NP19 0AY. It had taken 11¼ hours to cover 172 miles from Plymouth to Newport. Luckily the car had not overheated (a common problem in those days) and I always took plenty of reading matter with me to read while waiting for trains. The car was a maroon 1939 Morris 8 Series E registration FKB 972 and not very reliable, but I only had one incident in the whole holiday that has stayed in the memory when I had to brake heavily on a narrow road. I had been watching “Bangers and Cash” on Yesterday TV Channel for a couple of years when during the writing of this article I saw the first Series E Morris 8 go through the Mathewsons auction in Thornton-le-Dale. It had the registration FAF 785 which means the car was first registered in Cornwall in 1939. The car had been resprayed in non-standard colours, looked immaculate, and fetched an amazing £4,300.

Before setting out on the holiday I had decided that everything that could be recorded about the holiday and the railways seen would be recorded, including engine numbers, coach numbers, train logs, expenditure, times of arrival/departure, photos taken and a couple of lines about each station visited; and sometimes a sketch of the station and track layout. The first expenditure even before leaving was a new notebook (cost 9d) to do the recording. It was wire-bound with a page size of 6 inches by 4 inches to fit in the pocket. On returning to the guest house each evening completed pages were torn out of the notebook and left in my luggage to ensure that even if the notebook was dropped or lost not all the information noted would be lost. In the autumn of 1962 the loose pages were put in a distinctive second-hand cardboard box for safe keeping and they are still there 60 years later and the notes do make it much easier to write articles about this 1962 holiday.

There were many interesting railway stations on the rail routes out of Brecon but four of the best were on the former Brecon & Merthyr line heading south over the Brecon Beacons. Just in the first 17 miles were Talylllyn Junction, Pentir Rhiw, Torpantau and Pontsticill Junction. We are lucky in Cornwall that, more than 60 years later, we still have two rural stations that bear comparison for interest and they are the junction stations at Liskeard and St. Erth which in 2024 retain a mechanical signal box, semaphore signals and a range of older buildings. A few of the photos taken on that 1962 holiday have appeared in this series already in Parts 83, 86 and 87. Those seven days in Wales in September 1962 were almost certainly the best, most memorable, and most productive (in terms of photos and memories) of any railway holiday I ever had. This may be the last you will see or read about it. Accompanying this article are the photos taken on the evening of Saturday 1 September 1962 of the rebuilding of Brunel's famous bridge across the River Wye at Chepstow.

Authors Note: This is the last in a series of 100 articles, mostly about 1962, posted over the last 18 months. My thanks go to the CRS webmasters past and present for publishing the articles including some on quite esoteric subjects only vaguely related to railways. A new series of articles will commence soon.

In this view I am looking west from the bridge carrying Beachley Road, Chepstow over the railway line on the evening of 1 September 1962. The down line is in use by trains in both directions while the bridge carrying the up line has been replaced but not yet brought into use because parts of Brunel's bridge were still being removed. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Ten minutes later I am looking at the old and new railway bridges from beside the River Wye in the middle of Chepstow. This view of the railway bridge has now been blocked out by the road bridge carrying the A48 road over the river. The nearest car is a very desirable Wolseley 1500 (although the Riley 1500 was very similar) while the far one is the ubiquitous minivan. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks to you Michael, on behalf of the CRS and all our readers who I am sure have greatly enjoyed the '1962' series. We look forwards to seeing what comes next.

For all of Michaels articles, please click here.

Newquay developments - 17.08.24
Roger Winnen

240817a The buffer stops at Newquay Station today. Soon there will be an additional platform here. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817b Platform 1 has been trackless for many years. Extenions to this platform can be seen making it the longest platform in Cornwall. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817c Looking back at the redundant platform together with Newquay Police Station and a former railway building which is in for the chop. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817d Looking towards Quintrell Downs showing sections of the platform missing. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817e This is the limit for passengers on Newquay's platform today. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817f A Class 150 arrives at Newquay on the 12.20 Par to Newquay service. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817g Entering the overgrown platform at Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817i Departure from Newquay as the train passes the old railway building. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817j Hardcore laid in preparation for the second platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817k Demolition of the former railway building. Copyright Roger Winnen

240817l The former railway buildiing adjacent to the old Platform 1. Copyright Roger Winnen

'Down South'
Roger Geach

Its a long time ago I was last here, the trees have grown. 70010 is seen on 4O14 0639 crewe to Southampton liner on Thur 15 8 2024. Copyright Roger Geach.

A different angle but 47281 passing the same spot with 205026 also in frame, 1986. Copyright Roger Geach.

70016 on 4M61 the 1256 Southampton - Trafford Park liner on Thur 15 8 2024. Copyright Roger Geach.

59004 powers away from eastleigh station with 6O68 0911 westbury to Crawley service 14.08.2024, copyright Roger Geach.

70010 4O14 0639 Crewe - Southampton approaching Eastleigh. 14.08.2024, copyright Roger Geach.

The new Beacon Rail shunter now working for Gb Railfreight shunting box wagons. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - more to come from this area from Roger over the next couple of days.

The end of 1976
By Roger Winnen
Part 6

29.12.1976 - Carbis Wharf near Bugle. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - China Clay dries at Greensplatt near Trenance Junction St Austell once had a signal box to control the sidings. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - A Class 50 with the 09.30 Paddington Penzance service passes the closed dries. Copyright Roger Winnen

31.12.1976 - D1048 Western Lady approaching Doublebois Copyright Roger Winnen

This instalment concludes Rogers 'end of 1976' series, we hope you've enjoyed the photos.

Swindon Shots
Ken Mumford

60049 'Ben Nevis' [a long way from the Fort William area!!] stops briefly in platform 1 with 6Z.52 [Tytherington to Willesden] from Left Tytherington 74 EARLY! BUT left Bristol Parkway at 1301 - ! EARLY!! Due Swindon 14 35 to 14 43 - actual 1436 to 1438 - roughly 4 EARLY and reached its destination 40 EARLY!! Copyright Ken Mumford.

800312 [5A48 Bristol (Temple Meads) to Paddington ECS running in the path of the cancelled 1A48 - Bristol (Temple Meads) to Paddington on the UML (Up Main Line] running 3 EARLY overtakes (in platform 3) a Paddington bound IET - this was [I worked out from RTT] was 1A25 [Paignton to Paddington] which was running late with IET unit 802103 and left Swindon 17 LATE. Copyright Ken Mumford.

387166 & 387164 [1U20 - Paddington to Bristol Parkway] with station departure staff acknowledging driver in first photo. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks to you, Ken

August 17th 2024

17/8/2024

Work begins at Newquay Station
Richard Curtis

Hello,

Ive attached 3 pictures I took today showing the cleared trackbed of former sidings and part of the old platform 3. I assume this is to be a compound for the various equipment and infrastructure that is required for the reinstatement of platform 1.

Work only started on Tuesday but they have already uncovered the old platform 1 and removed the palm trees. I was there just before an expected arrival (around 10.45) and it surprised me how many people were waiting. I can understand network rail choosing platform 1 rather than 3 as it will help spread out the number of people using the station which at a time like boardmasters makes complete sense.

Finally a picture of what I believe was the original pre GWR station building which is due to be demolished soon to make way for a multipurpose building for Cornwall council.

Kind regards,

Richard

The former sidings/platform 3 area cleared and a temporary surface laid in preparation for construction work at Newquay. 16.08.2024, copyright Richard Curtis.

Work begins on the former platform 1 - it's understood that this is the platform which is to be reinstated as part of the 'Mid Cornwall Metro' scheme. 16.08.2024, copyright Richard Curtis.

The original, pre-GWR station buildings at Newquay, sadly due to be demolished after all these years. Copyright Richard Curtis.

Many thanks indeed Richard - exciting times for Newquay.

The end of 1976
By Roger Winnen
Part 5

29.12.1976 - Clay on route from Burngullow to Drinnick. 29th December 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - The pair of Class 25s at Drinnick. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - Low level sidings at Drinnick. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - Class 50 near Trenance Junction St Austell. Copyright Roger Winnen

Number 1 at BTM
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

Lurking in the gloom of the roofed section of Bristol Temple Meads is 50001 'Dreadnought'. 1987, copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil

Lymington Pier
Roger Geach

Lymington Pier - 450070 Working 1J49 the 1814 to Brockenhurst - Wed 14.08.2024. Copyright Roger Geach.

Now to Brockenhurst where 450070 arrives with 1j46 1729 from Lymington Pier - Wed 14.08.2024. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks to you, Roger

The Northern Belle
at Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

57313 t&t 57315 approach Swindon with 1Z82 - the Birmingham International to Weymouth Belmond Pullman/Northern Belle. 15.08.2024, Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

57315 on the rear. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

The train awaits departure from Swindon. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin and to Ken Mumford for sending these in.

Filling in the gaps
Roger Geach/Roger Winnen

Roger Geach has been kind enough to send in some additional info on a couple of Roger Winnen's photographs which have been published over the last couple of days.

29.12.1976 - D1023 Western Fusilier passes Grampound Road on 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

R.G. Writes:
1023 was on 1e21 the 1020 PZ - Leeds as far as Plymouth

29.12.1976 - The 08.00 Bristol to Penzance with a Peak approaching Grampound Road. Copyright Roger Winnen

R.G Writes:
46021 was the peak on 1b81 0800 Bristol - Pz

Many thanks Roger - your record keeping is excellent!

Truro Tamper
Joe Birchall

Today we saw the Colas tamper on its way from Penzance to Taunton, running 3 minutes early on its way out of Truro. It was a lovely morning to do some Permanent-Way Watching, being not too cold, but still cold enough to feel like a fresh day. Copyright Joe Birchall.

Thanks Joe - it did turn out a nice day!

August 16th 2024

16/8/2024

Paul's Football Question Answered!

Yesterday, we posted the above image with the caption:

'One from 2009 with 67019 and 67005 on a football special, 07:57 1Z70 Plymouth to Finsbury Park. I don't know who Argyle were playing but I think is was an important match! I'm sure somebody will know!'

We received the following responses:

Mike Rothery writes:
The football special in 2009 was for the FA Cup game between Argyle and Arsenal

And Thomas O'Flaherty writes:
This is presumably on the occasion of Plymouth vs Arsenal FA cup 3rd round at the Emirates Stadium on Jan 3rd 2009. Arsenal won 3-1

So there we go - presumably a bit of a sombre mood on the return working unfortunately!

Thank you Mike and Thomas for filling in the gaps.

The end of 1976
By Roger Winnen
Part 4

29.12.1976 - Approaching Grampound Road. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - A Class 50034 at Grampound Road on 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - The 08.00 Bristol to Penzance with a Peak approaching Grampound Road. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - A Penzance to Paddington working at Grampound Road on 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - What a photo! Class 25s at Burngullow on Clay Workings to Treviscoe etc 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - Class 25s at Burngullow on Clay Workings to Treviscoe etc 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

A morning at Par
Steve Clark

The Colas Power cars - 43251/43257 on 5Z43 depart Par for Derby. 14.08.2024, copyright Steve Clark

Castle set 43189 and 43093 on the 2P08 08.50 Penzance to Plymouth. Copyright Steve Clark.

Blue 150219 on the 2C09 09.15 Newquay to Penzance. Copyright Steve Clark.

802005 on the 1N69 06.48 BTM to Newquay. Copyright Steve Clark.

A large number of passengers wait to board 802109 'Shania Train' on the 1A82 09.10 Penzance to Padd. Copyright Steve Clark.

A nice play on words! Copyright Steve Clark.

Thanks Steve - good to see Par so busy both with passengers and enthusiasts/photographers alike.

Roving Roger's Report
14.08.2024
Roger Winnen

240814a 43093 Legends of Old Oak Common arrive at Penzance to form the 08,50 service from Penzance to Plymoiuth. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814b The 09.15 Newquay to Penzance service departing Par Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814c A Network Rail Train departs Par at 10.27 for Derby. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814d One of the former Great Western motor rail van included in the shipment from St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814e Refurbished Power Car 43257 is seen in the combination. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814g The Welsh Dragon seen at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen.JPG

240814h Forming the 10.15 service to Newquay from Bristol Temple Meads. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814i Clay from Treviscoe arrives at Par Copyright Roger Winnen

240814j This service runs past the overbridge to back back into the through line adjacent to the Newquay Branch platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814k Awaiting to back into the through road. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814m 66244 Awaits departure later in the afternoon for Exeter Riverside. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814n The red livery shows up well on 66244, Copyright Roger Winnen

240814o Clays to Exeter being passed by the Goonbarrow to Fowey working. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814q 66025 and 66244 side by side at Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814r Its 14.27 at Liskeard, approaching is the Burngullow to Exeter Riverside clay. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814s 57315 is seen passing through Liskeard on a Northern Belle from Cardiff to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814u Tailing the train is 57313 Scarborough Castle. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814v The returning train approaches the through road at Plymouth Station hauled by 57313 Scarborouth Castle. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814w Tailing the train through Plymouth is 57315. Copyright Roger Winnen

240814z This signal gantry dates from the installation of the Plymouth Panel in the early 1960s Copyright Roger Winnen

August 15th 2024

15/8/2024

A busy day in the West!

Yesterday (14.08.24) was a busy day on the railway in the Westcountry. We had a Colas HST Power Car move, The LSL Blue Pullman has been to Paignton, WCRC ran a tour to Par and back, as well as the two clay trains running. It's been a lovely sunny day in Cornwall and it's been great both to see the trains and also to see all your photos - thank you.

We've separated the photos up below so each 'attraction' has its own heading.

Homeward HST
Craig Munday, Max Elton, Paul Barlow, Ross Griffiths, 83G Photography, David Tozer & Bill Elston

43257 collects the barrier coach from the sidings at St. Blazey. Copyright Craig Munday.

The train is formed up and ready for a departure at 10:30. Copyright Craig Munday.

43251 leads the recently-repaired ex-motorail van which has been stranged at St. Blazey plus 43257 through Par. Copyright Max Elton.

43257 on the rear. Copyright Max Elton.

A smashing shot of the ensemble crossing Largin Viaduct. Copyright 83G Photography.

The ensemble is a perfect fit for this gap in the landscape at Treboul, near St Germans. Copyright Craig Munday.

43251 and 43257 sandwich an ex-Motorail Van, 96608 running as 5Z43 St. Blazey - Derby RTC on 14.08.2024. Pictured passing the site of Defiance Platform near Saltash. Copyright Ross Griffiths.

43251 96608 43257 on the 1030 St Blazey to Derby RTC pass Rockstone bridge Dawlish 14 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43251 96608 43257 on the 1030 St Blazey to Derby RTC pass Rockstone bridge Dawlish 14 August 2024 (Going away shot). Copyright Paul Barlow.

43251 & 43257 pass Exminster 14.8.2024. Copyright David Tozer.

Passing Cogload, we see Colas HST power cars 43251 and 43257 sandwich coach 96608, as 5Z43, working from St Blazey to Derby rtc. Copyright Bill Elston.

Freshly painted 43257 on the rear. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks to you all.

The Northern Belle - 'Cornish Lunch'
Cardiff - Par, 14.08.2024
Bill Elston, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Craig Munday, Neil Phillips, 83G Photography, Jon Hird & Max Elton

The Northern Belle passing Cogload, working from Cardiff to Par, 1Z80, T/T 57315 and 57313. Copyright Bill Elston.

57315 and 57313 pass Exminster with the 1Z80 1045 Cardiff Central - Par. Copyright David Tozer.

57315 57313 work the 1045 Cardiff to Par 1Z80 Northern Belle Pullmans Rockstone Bridge 14 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

57315 57313 work the 1045 Cardiff to Par 1Z80 Rockstone Bridge 14 August 2024. going away shot. Copyright Paul Barlow.

The tour crosses St. Pinnock Viaduct. Copyright 83G Photography.

57315 passes Respryn. Copyright Max Elton.

Some super light for the tour as it rounds the bend at Restormel. The field behind has already been harvested - a reminder of how far into the summer we actually are. Copyright Craig Munday.

Neil Phillips writes:

I intercepted today's (Wednesday's) WCRC special from Cardiff to Par at journey's end, where it rested in platform 3 for just 16 minutes before returning to Cardiff. The Pullman-style train was top & tailed by 57315 and 57313 in matching livery and arrived just 2 minutes down. There was enough time for the participants to stretch their legs on the platform and take some souvenir photos before the 'all aboard' whistle blew. An interesting situation arose 2 minutes before departure time when the 15-minute late-running 2P17 13.50 Penzance - Plymouth formed of IET 802017 arrived at platform 2 - and it was further delayed while the special was allowed to depart on time ahead of it at 15.08 (not 14.52 as reported on RTT - that's when it arrived!) 2P17 then followed under a caution signal just 2 minutes later, but was 21 late at Lostwithiel and 26 behind by the time it reached Plymouth, which the non-stop special had cleared at 15.54.

I always like to look up the original identities of such locomotives and as Class 47s 57313 was built as ER freight-only D1890 (its status now somewhat upgraded from MGR coal trains!) and 57315 started out as WR D1911, a Cardiff Canton-based loco which would have occasionally visited Cornwall when still relatively new.

57315 leads 1Z80 10.45 Cardiff General - Par into Par's platform 3. 14th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

57313 'Scarborough Castle' brings up the rear of 1Z80. 14th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

57313 'Scarborough Castle' in close-up - we're quite used to 'Castle' names on trains in Cornwall, but not this one! 14th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Now running as 1Z81, 57313 gets the green light ahead of 2P17 on the right and departs on time at 15.08. 14th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

57315 is now 'Tail End Charlie' for the run back to Cardiff. 14th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

The returning tour powers up through Treesmill. Copyright Max Elton.

57315 on the rear as the tour passes below Stoneybridge overbridge. Copyright Max Elton.

57313 leads the return 'Northern Belle', 1Z81 15:08 Par - Cardiff, over Pendalake Viaduct in the Glynn Valley. Copyright Jon Hird.

Thanks all!

The Midland Pullman
Chesterfield - Paignton - 14.08.2024
Bill Elston, Paul Barlow & David Tozer

The Blue Pullman working Chesterfield to Paignton, 1Z76, seen coming off the Westbury line at Cogload. Copyright Bill Elston.

Blue Pullman, led by 43046. Copyright Bill Elston.

The Midland Pullman with 43046 and 43049 at Exminster with the 0552 1Z76 Chesterfield to Paignton. Copyright David Tozer.

43046 43049 work the 0552 Chesterfield to Paignton 'Torbay Riviera Pullman' passes Rockstone Dawlish 14 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43046 43049 work the 0552 Chesterfield to Paignton 'Torbay Riviera Pullman' heading into Dawlish station 14 August 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Thanks to you all for sharing your images.

Clay on a sunny day
Jon Hird & Max Elton

An early start for me this morning, 66244 reverses 6B00, the St. Blazey - Treviscoe empty JIA's, out of St. Blazey yard past the signalbox and former station. 14.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

By the time I got to Par, the loco had already been 'chopped off' and was starting its run round using the lines from Par - St. Blazey. Copyright Jon Hird.

66244 using Par Platform 3 to run round its train. Copyright Jon Hird.

The loco runs round towards St. Blazey in preparation for a departure to the west. Copyright Jon Hird.

A shot I've wanted for a while, but struggled to do with work/times/kids etc. Just before 8am 66244 departs for Treviscoe with its JIA's in some nice, sharp morning sunshine. Copyright Jon Hird.

Having returned from Treviscoe full of 'white gold', 66244 is parked in the summer sun at Par whilst waiting its path to Exeter Riverside. Copyright Max Elton.

The second clay train in operation in Cornwall today, 66025 passes Middleway, St. Blazey with 6G09, the Goonbarrow - Fowey trip. Copyright Max Elton.

66244 passes through Lostwithiel whilst heading for Exeter Riverside with 6C10, the Treviscoe - Exeter Riverside loaded JIA's. Copyright Max Elton.

Thanks, Max

'Castles & Units' - 14.08.24
Craig Munday, Neil Phillips, 83G Photography & Max Elton

This composition was irresistible! Blue 150219 at rest in Par's Chapel Siding. 14th August 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

A GWR 'Castle Class' HST running as 2C26 ahead of the Northern Belle at Restormel. The GWR green livery off-set by the lovely silage bales and stubble in the background. Copyright Craig Munday.

A 'Castle' heads East over Largin Viaduct. Copyright 83G Photography.

A 'Castle Crossover' at Respryn. Copyright Max Elton.

43042 calls at Par. The clock is ticking for the HST's. Copyright Max Elton.

The end of 1976
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

26.12.1976 - D1013 Western Ranger at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

26.12.1976 - Class 50 Sea Sidings Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - Possibly 50019 at Wheal Busy Scorrier on 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - Wheal Busy. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - D1023 Western Fusilier passes Grampound Road on 29th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

29.12.1976 - D1023 Going away passing the loading banks at Grampound Road. Copyright Roger Winnen

A frosty morning at Rewe
Paul Barlow

One from 2009 with 67019 and 67005 on a football special, 07:57 1Z70 Plymouth to Finsbury Park. I don't know who Argyle were playing but I think is was an important match! I'm sure somebody will know!

Many thanks Paul.. any ideas, football fans?

Classic Scenes at Dawlish
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

50034 on an 'up' train at Dawlish in 1989. Copyright Phil Smith.

Thanks Phil.. the old sea wall, a '50', the classic cars.. it's all there!

August 14th 2024

14/8/2024

GBRf & Colas visitors to the Duchy
Craig Munday

After such a humdrum period, it's been nice to see some visitors to the Duchy's railways.

The GBRf Weedsprayer train visited the area and was outbased at Truro, and is seen in the yard on 6th.

Colas HST power cars 43257 43251 arrived back to back at St Blazey on 12th to return errant coach 96608 to Derby on Wed 14th. The shadows were growing as they arrived on the depot.

66781 basks in the summer sun at Truro at the head of the weedkiller on 06.08.2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

66751 on the opposite end of the weedkiller. 06.08.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

The colourful 43257 arrives at St. Blazey to collect coach 96608 from St. Blazey on 12.08.2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

The pair of Colas power cars reverse into the yard. 12.08.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks indeed Craig, a lovely colourful selection.

The end of 1976
By Roger Winnen
Part 2

26.12.1976 - D1013 Western Ranger in the former loading bays at Penzance Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

26.12.1976 - 47086 Colossus in the former loading banks at Penzance Station 26th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

26.12.1976 - 47086 Colossus and D1013 Western Ranger at Penzance 26th December 1976.. Copyright Roger Winnen

26.12.1976 - At least six locos stabled in Penzance Station during the Christmas period owing to removal of track at Long Rock. Copyright Roger Winnen

26.12.1976 - 47086 together with a James Coach running a shuttle to the Heliport. Copyright Roger Winnen

Creech St. Michael
Bill Elston

Turbo 165133 working ecs from Bristol to Taunton. Copyright Bill Elston.

The unusual sight of Colas HST power car 43251 working solo from Derby rtc to St Blazey. 12.08.2024, copyright Bill Elston.

It was a close call for Bill as an east-bound IET passes by at the same time as 43251! 12.08.2024, copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill - very lucky - a second later and you'd have been 'bowled'!

'Courageous' at Pilning
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

An undated photo from 1986 shows 50032 'Courageous' storming up Pilning Bank. You can imagine the noise, I'm sure. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks Phil - a powerful image.

August 13th 2024

13/8/2024

Out and about with the Camera
Andrew Triggs

An overdue visit to Helston Railway with Peckett no.2000 awaiting departure with the 13.00 Prospidnick-Truthall Platform 4.8.2024 (Taken with permission and PTS certification) Copyright Andrew Triggs

Colas Tamper DR75407 'Gerry Taylor' on Oil 2 siding at Penzance 9.8.2024 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The Ongoing works at Ponsandane Yard from Ponsandane footbridge 11.8.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs

150207 with 150244 ascending Portkidney Bank working 2A27 14.18 St Erth-St Ives 12.8.2024 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

The life and times of Manston
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, I hope you are well and coping with the heat,it’s currently 29 degrees here in Surrey so I have retreated indoors to catch up on paperwork and emails. Here is the first of four pictures sent by Michael Adams of 34070 ‘Manston’. The first has the same background as last weeks shots from an unknown photographer and I hope they bring back memories.This one is at a station stop at Axminster and I expect someone can work out from the discs and reporting number what service we are seeing. Date unknown. Thanks , Mchael

I am thinking that the train is the daily service that ran from Brighton to Plymouth. The headcode is for a service between Brighton to Salisbury via Southampton.
An image of the reverse working with the same headcode is seen here at Southampton in a Railway Magazine issie of April 2017 The beginning and end of Southern Steam.
Many Thanks Richard Simms

Further to my earlier email, the photograph of 34070 Manston is likely to date from November 1961 to August 1964. These span the dates it was at Exmouth Junction having been transferred from the South Eastern Division of the Southern Region following the electrification of their lines. It was withdrawn in 1964, probably following the WR taking over the line to Exeter.Best wishes

Richard Sims

Roger, Michael Adams own photo. of the engine at Barry scrapyard in the Summer of 1967.

Michael’s own picture of the now resplendent engine being prepared for it’s next duty at Norden,Swanage railway, this Spring.

Many Thanks Michael

The end of 1976
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

19.12.1976 - D1023 Western Fusilier arrives at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

19.12.1976 - D1023 Western Fusilier leaves Penzance on the Cornishman 19th December 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

19.12.1976 - Long Rock depot on 19th December 1976. Work in progress to build the then new HST Depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

19.12.1976 - Lifting track at Ponsandane yard. This area is now once again under development for stabling IET units. Copyright Roger Winnen

Saltash 'Western',
and a question
Ross Griffiths

Possibly D1029 Western Legionnaire (cab markings match photos online) runs wrong line into Saltash station with an unidentified up service sometime during 1973. The up line/goods yard siding is occupied by a train of track panels, suggesting that relaying was underway in the area - if anyone has any info about this it would be gratefully received! Copyright Ross Griffiths.

Many thanks for your recent pictures Ross, I'm sure they have been very much enjoyed.

Can you add any details to the above image? If you can, please email us - [email protected]

Back-to-back Powercars
Jon Hird

A pair of HST powercars have been sent to St. Blazey to recover the stricken ex-motorail coach which was left at the yard after suffering brake issues a few weeks ago. It's understood that replacement wheelsets have been fitted in the workshop at St. Blazey.

43251 worked from Derby to Laira light engine. At Laira, it was attached to recently outshopped 43257. 43257 then led the train to St. Blazey.

Breaking cover for the first time in its smart new Colas Rail livery, 43257 leads 43251 through Respryn, working as 0Z43 to St. Blazey. A few of us were fortunate enough to visit Laira in June where we saw this power car being painted. The finish is a real credit to the paintshop staff at Laira, it was great to see the finished article. 12.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The pair of power cars were held at Lostwithiel for a Newquay train to depart from Par. I got ahead of them and caught them arriving at Par. 12.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Just around the corner, we see the pair pausing at St. Blazey before reversing into the yard. 12.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

We walked to the foot crossing hoping to catch sight of the power cars from the path, but the vegetation was too thick. Another drone shot of the pair of power cars shut down beside DB Cargo 66244. It's believed that this is the second time that HST power cars have been into the yard - unless anybody knows different? 12.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The errant coach. It's believed the return working will take place on Wednesday. The question is, will the coach be sandwiched between the power cars, or will it be towed using the emergency coupling? 12.08.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A mid-week railtour to Par
14.08.2024

Readers may be interested in the following mid-week special train to Par on Wednesday 14.08.2024:

1Z80 1045 Cardiff Central to Par - click for times
1Z81 1508 Par to Cardiff Central - click for times

Traction is expected to be a pair of WCRC Class 57's/47's top and tailed.

August 12th 2024

12/8/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 99
Public Executions at Bodmin
Michael L. Roach

When the Bodmin and Wadebridge Railway opened in 1834 it was one of the earliest railways in Great Britain. Indeed the B&W predated the Cornish main line by some 25 years. According to Wikipedia the first privately chartered excursion train advertised to the public was on 5 July 1841 from Leicester to Loughborough, organised by one Thomas Cook. However the Bodmin and Wadebridge had been running their own excursion trains from as early as 1836. On 14 June 1836 the B&W organised a trip from both Bodmin and Wadebridge to Wenford Bridge at a fare of one shilling (5p) a head. Among the other trips that the B&W organised were trips to Bodmin to witness public executions at the same fare of one shilling.

Just a quarter mile from its terminus at Bodmin (later Bodmin North in British Railways days) the railway passed Bodmin Jail. Between 1802 and 1909 some 32 men and women were executed at the jail. Up until 1868 these were public executions done outside the main entrance of the jail which was then in Berrycoombe Road. In the years after the opening of the railway such public executions averaged about one every five years, and they became a spectacle that many people wanted to see. The impecunious but enterprising Bodmin and Wadebridge Railway saw an opportunity to make a quick buck by running excursions to Bodmin on the day appointed for an execution, even (allegedly) to the extent of stopping the excursion train directly opposite the jail so that the passengers could get a grandstand view of the event. The first such execution when the B&W might have run a special train was on Monday 30 March 1835. John HENWOOD had been found guilty at Launceston after a trial lasting one day on Saturday 28 March 1835. Justice was swift and he was executed at Bodmin two days later on the Monday at 12.00 noon. However the Royal Cornwall Gazette reported that there were no large crowds for the execution.

The next execution at Bodmin took place on 13 April 1840 when there was a double execution of two brothers side-by-side. They had been convicted of the brutal murder of Mr. Neville NORWAY, a Wadebridge merchant, who often had goods delivered by the railway. James (23) and William LIGHTFOOT (36) were found guilty after what the Royal Cornwall Gazette called a “long course of wickedness.” The RCG also reported that the town became densely crowded with people from all parts of the County, some of them walking 20 or 30 miles through the night to be there. Some had even brought their own sustenance in the form of pasties. The field opposite the main gate of the prison, where the gallows had been erected, were full with a crowd estimated at 20,000 persons filling the valley. Interestingly both the Royal Cornwall Gazette and the West Briton carried sketches of the two defendants in court, something that still happens today.

The next hanging was four years later and again huge crowds descended on Bodmin for the public execution. The Royal Cornwall Gazette reported people coming from as far away as Penzance and an equal distance in the other direction. This time the RCG was much more restrained in its reporting of execution day, without so much of the detailed and emotive language it had used in 1840. On Monday 12 August 1844 a 22-year old farm labourer called Matthew WEEKS was executed for the murder of a 19-year old dairy-maid called Charlotte DYMOND. They had both worked at the same farm on the edge of Bodmin Moor outside Camelford. The murder had taken place on the Moor, within sight of Rough Tor on 14 April 1844. A monument to Charlotte was erected by public subscription and marks the spot where her body was found not far from the end of the public road. It is a magnificent monument more than three metres high located at grid reference SX 138 818 and only a short walk from the car park at the end of the public road. Charlotte was buried in the Churchyard of Davidstow Parish Church on 25 April 1844.

The Shire Hall Visitor Centre at Bodmin formerly contained an interactive exhibition of the trial of Matthew WEEKS in the courtroom where the original trial was held in 1844; called “The Courtroom Experience,” Unfortunately it is now closed. Due to the monument on Bodmin Moor; the location and circumstances of the murder; the circumstantial evidence against Matthew WEEKS; and continuing interest and articles, the murder of Charlotte DYMOND has become one of the best known and enduring murder stories to take place in Cornwall. The entry for Matthew WEEKS can be found in the Criminal Registers for Cornwall and it shows he was tried at the County Assizes on 31 July 1844, found guilty and sentenced to death. He was executed 180 years ago today and his body was buried within the grounds of Bodmin Jail.

Bodmin Jail was built in 1779 and operated as a prison until 1927. Most of the buildings survive to this day and it now operates as a tourist attraction with guided tours; and as an hotel and bistro. Ten years ago the restaurant advertised itself with the slogan “serving our guests since 1779.” Today one does not have to be locked in to eat or stay there. So do I think that the Bodmin and Wadebridge Railway stopped its excursion trains directly opposite the gallows. They may have done once perhaps, and that would have shown up the difficulties:- getting some passengers off the train who wanted to be further away from the gallows; blocking the view of the 20,000 people on the hillside opposite; holding the train on the steep gradient in the absence of continuous brakes; and the oblique view that many of the passengers would have had of the scaffold. For railway enthusiasts there is an interesting aside to the public execution in 1844. In the very same issue of the Royal Cornwall Gazette that the execution of Matthew Weeks was reported on Friday 16 August 1844, right alongside in the next column is a short report that the construction of the South Devon Railway from Exeter to Newton had commenced.

AUTHOR'S NOTE. This article is a revised version of one that was first published on the website of the Cornwall Railway Society on 12 August 2014 to mark the 170th anniversary of the public execution at Bodmin that day.

The monument to Charlotte Dymond is located behind the tree in the middle of the photograph. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The monument with Rough Tor in the background. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The top of the monument. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The original entrance to Bodmin Jail. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Part of the jail lost its roof many years ago. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

This is where the scaffold (or drop as it was then known) would be erected. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The railway line formerly ran along the left hand side of the road, looking east towards Bodmin North. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

In this drone view looking east the prison is on the left with the original entrance (where the scaffold was erected) at the start of the bend in the road, which was very narrow. The later improved road was built on the line of the railway which went straight on to Bodmin North Station. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks as always Michael.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Lostwithiel gains a footbridge
Tim Hughes

After many years, the temporary bridge has been lifted into place over night. Workmen are seen here late at night after the last trains have passed linking the two platforms together. 11.08.2024, copyright Tim Hughes.

An alternative view from the platform as the bridge deck is slowly lowered into place. 11.08.2024, copyright Tim Hughes.

The view from the level crossing. The crane is parked in the former down goods yard/bay platform. 11.08.2024, copyright Tim Hughes.

Many thanks Tim - well done to you and the people of Lostwithiel for getting this to happen - it's been a long time coming.

The new Lostwithiel Footbridge
(in daylight)
Jon Hird

After seeing Tims photos, I decided to add some daylight photos of the new structure to the site. The bridge is not yet open to pedestrians. A GWR IET unit passes beneath it on 11.08.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

The bridge is currently weighed down by a number of IBC's (Intermediate Bulk Containers) full of water on either side. Copyright Jon Hird.

A number of slabs have been lifted to provide a level base for the feet of the structure. Copyright Jon Hird.

The IET departs. Much has changed here in the last 6 months - the signal box has closed, the semaphores have gone, and now a footbridge has appeared. Copyright Jon Hird.

Bodmin Road 'Western'
Ross Griffiths

D1023 'Western Fusilier' climbs the grade into Bodmin Road with the 1025 Penzance to Leeds. Copyright Ross Griffiths.

Many thanks Ross, a classic loco and a classic location, excellent.

More from the 2008 SDR Diesel Gala
Paul Barlow

33202 works 1050 Buckfastleigh to Totnes. Copyright Paul Barlow.

47237 D6737 work the 1227 from Totnes to Buckfastleigh approaches Staverton Bridge where the 47 was removed 26 April 2008. Copyright Paul Barlow.

20118 leaves Staverton Bridge on 1225 Buckfastleigh to Totnes. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks to you, Paul

The Blue 150 at Marsh Barton
David Tozer

One of two GWR Class 150/2's still to retain their blue 'First Great Western' paintwork, 150219 is seen at Marsh Barton with the 1057 Exmouth to Paignton on 10.08.2024. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks Dave - the pair of blue 150's are always worth a photo!

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Latest News & Features

'The Northern Belle' visits PaigntonMartin Scane

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'Down South'Roger Geach

The end of 1976By Roger WinnenPart 6

Swindon ShotsKen Mumford

Work begins at Newquay StationRichard Curtis

The end of 1976By Roger WinnenPart 5

Number 1 at BTMPhil 'Shattered' Smith

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Truro TamperJoe Birchall

Paul's Football Question Answered!

The end of 1976By Roger WinnenPart 4

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A busy day in the West!

Homeward HSTCraig Munday, Max Elton, Paul Barlow, Ross Griffiths, 83G Photography, David Tozer & Bill Elston

The Northern Belle - 'Cornish Lunch'Cardiff - Par, 14.08.2024Bill Elston, David Tozer, Paul Barlow, Craig Munday, Neil Phillips, 83G Photography, Jon Hird & Max Elton

The Midland PullmanChesterfield - Paignton - 14.08.2024Bill Elston, Paul Barlow & David Tozer

Clay on a sunny dayJon Hird & Max Elton

'Castles & Units' - 14.08.24Craig Munday, Neil Phillips, 83G Photography & Max Elton

The end of 1976By Roger WinnenPart 3

A frosty morning at RewePaul Barlow

Classic Scenes at DawlishPhil 'Shattered' Smith

GBRf & Colas visitors to the DuchyCraig Munday

The end of 1976By Roger WinnenPart 2

Creech St. MichaelBill Elston

'Courageous' at PilningPhil 'Shattered' Smith

The end of 1976By Roger WinnenPart 1

Saltash 'Western',and a questionRoss Griffiths

Back-to-back PowercarsJon Hird

A mid-week railtour to Par14.08.2024

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO – PART 99Public Executions at BodminMichael L. Roach

Lostwithiel gains a footbridgeTim Hughes

The new Lostwithiel Footbridge(in daylight)Jon Hird

Bodmin Road 'Western'Ross Griffiths

More from the 2008 SDR Diesel GalaPaul Barlow

The Blue 150 at Marsh BartonDavid Tozer

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