Blog Archives

20th September 2020

20/9/2020

Meldon Dam
Mike Roach

Hi Roger and Keith Hope you are both well. One picture for Sunday 20 September please when it will be 50 years old. It was taken on 20 September 1970 and shows the reconstructed deck of Meldon Viaduct. A short distance upstream of the viaduct is the Meldon Dam built 1970 - 1972 of mass concrete. The aggregate for the concrete was sourced from Meldon Quarry alongside the dam site and would have been needed in huge quantities. The deck of the half the viaduct was rebuilt to take the lorries carrying the aggregate to avoid public roads and is seen just after completion of the new deck. Regards Mike Roach.

Meldon Viaduct - the downside cnverted for road traffic. 20th September 1970. Copyright Mike Roach.

Many thanks indeed Mike. The question is will this viaduct or its replacement ever carry trains again as part of the restored Dawlish avoiding route.?

An interesting picture taken earlier in 1970 shows the down line still in position and the former up line having been cut on the approach to the viaduct. Note also the signals still in position on the far side of the viaduct. Copyright.

Let's enjoy another of Mikes photographs taken in June 1964 as a down service leaves the viaduct. Copyright Mike Roach. Note the catch point to derail any unfortunate runaways.

From Mikes collection - many thanks again.

Meldon Memories
Graham Mann

Hi Keith Maybe a bit of interest for some of your readers. Just looking at the Meldon Viaduct pictures in your Meldon Dam feature which took me back to the early eighties when I was tasked to renew all the longitudinal timbers on the old up line. During the renewal the weather most of the time was horizontal freezing rain and we were all wondering why we were renewing these timbers at a cost of 2-3k per timber for what was then just used as a Headshunt and it wasn’t many years later I was back again severing access to the viaduct and creating a curved head shunt avoiding the viaduct, seemed such a waste of money. Regards Graham Mann

Thanks for that Graham - the 'Good Old Days' !!!

The 'Beds' pauses at
Camborne
Mark Lynam

Good evening, Last night (18th September 2020) I got a photo of Direct Rail Services liveried 57306 on the up beds at Camborne, which I don't think has made a visit for some time. 57306 at Camborne working 1A50 2145 Penzance to London Paddington. Thanks, Mark Lynam

57306 heads the sleeper - the 'Up beds' calls at Camborne on the 18th September 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam

Many thanks Mark - a crystal clear picture. One wonders were there any passengers?

South Marston
Ken Mumford

South Marston as 800023 passes on an up service on the 19th September 2020 Copyright Ken Mumford,

Kathryn worked as a paramedic for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation (SWAST) for 16 years and passed away aged 41 on her 41st birthday the 18th April 2017, after a battle with melanoma. 800023 was named in her honour.

Seen at South Marston. 60062 'Stainless Pioneer' 19th September 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford

Many thanks Ken.

19th September 2020

19/9/2020

Exeter and the Southern
Roger Winnen

200917a 143603 coupled to a 158 unit heads the 12.11 St James's Park and 12.19 Exeter St David's to Barnstaple. Copyright Roger Winnen

200917b Axminster Station dates from 1859 as shown on the facade of the station. Copyright Roger Winnen

200917c The Station Cafe at Axminster offers a good service of food, well recommended. Copyright Roger Winnen

200917d Viewed through the train window. Track being laid on the former Exmouth Junction Engine Shed site in connection with the rebuilding of the line from St James' Park to Polsloe Bridge on the Exmouth Branch including Exmouth Junction. The work takes place from Sunday 25th October through to Friday 30th October and Sunday 8th November 2020 Copyright Roger Winnen

200917e The site viewed through the 159 from Axminster. Copyright Roger Winnen

More then and now - focus on
Dawlish
Paul Barlow

More Dawlish pictures as promised. Hope they are useful
Kind regards- Paul Barlow

150234 143611 form 10.44 Topsham to Paignton Strted at Tpsham due to late incoming service. A concrete footbridge will be built parallel with the viaduct. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43321 with 43378 on the rear passes over Colonnade viaduct with the 06.11 Leeds to Plymouth on the 1st September 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43158 with 43042 on the rear crosses the viaduct with the 08.00 Cardiff to Penzance on the 16th September 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow

One for the Peak fans - of which there certainly were some on board this train as can be seen with the arms out of the windows of the first coach. 46044 arrives at Dawlish with the 09.00 Paignton to Sheffield the 1E29 on the 18th September 1982. Copyright Paul barlow.

Many thanks indeed Paul.

That extraordinary train
Craig Munday

The most extraordinary working out of Devon saw 5E23 consisting of 43029 / 43027 / / 43022 / 42580 / 42087 / 6348 with 47815 tagged on the rear running as 5E23 1047 Laira T.& R.S.M.D. to Doncaster. The train is seen passing South Brent in a dry spell after heavy rain. The train is also seen at Laira just prior to departure.

Seen at Laira just prior to departure is the special to Doncaster on the 15th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday.

The extraordinary working is also seen passing through Brent en route to Doncaster. 15th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday.

An extraordinary train is caught for us at an extraordinary location within the confines of Laira depot. Many thanks Craig for your valued shots

Terry Baker in Devon
Bill Elston

Hi Keith, Please find attached 3 photos of Colas 66847 Terry Baker, taken firstly at Chard Jct whilst waiting for the 0820 W’loo – Exd to pass. and thirdly on its return from Castle Cary to Exd taken 1/2 mile west of Crewkerne Sta. This was shuttling between Exeter and Castle Cary via Honiton and Yeovil throughout the day. ( route learning? ) Does anyone out there know who Terry Baker is?. Best regards Bill.
Colas Rail 66847 has been named Terry Baker at Eastleigh Works on 22 April 2019. Terry was one of Colas Rail's drivers who passed away in 2018 and is now remembered by 66847 carrying his name. In reply to your question Bill - the above courtesy Mainline Diesels.NET.

66847 at Chard Junction 17th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

66847, Chard Junction 17th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

66847, Near Crewkerne 17th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks to you Bill.

Cornish Hymeks
Neil Phillips

I saw Simon Howard’s item regarding the exceptionally rare working of Lickey Banker Hymek D7022 into Cornwall in April 1969. This occurred while I was on a school trip to Germany – my first time out of the country! - Simon told me about it after I got back and I had trouble believing it! However the link provided by David Critchlow apparently showing the same loco preparing to depart Plymouth North Road with milk empties in the early hours of 15 December 1974, just three months before the class became extinct, is a total surprise – up to now it was believed that the last Hymek into Cornwall was D7093 which only made it as far as Saltash on a ballast working, on 7 March 1974. Before that on 11 August 1973 D7011 reached Truro under very similar circumstances to D7022. If ’22 did head west from Plymouth I would be very interested to know how far it got. I am also very surprised that this Bernard Mills photo has gone unnoticed until now! Regarding Phil Wilton’s assertion that the Kensington Olympia – St Austell Motorail was worked by double-headed Hymeks in 1970, I have never seen this claimed before. They certainly did work the train during summer 1970 & 1971 but only singly, and the identities are known for most if not all dates. However on 3 July 1971 D7070 collected D7085 as a pilot from Plymouth on the up working (dep. St Austell 22.50). I know better than to claim it never happened, as on the railways it seems anything is possible, but double-headed Hymeks were rare, even around their usual haunts, and photos even rarer, so confirmation of such events in Cornwall would be stupendous! One well-known Hymek double-heading of course was the use of D7001 + D7028 on the Hymek Swansong tour of 22 September 1973, for which I was fortunate enough to obtain a ticket – but this got nowhere near the South West. Best regards, Neil Phillips Dated 17th September 2020.

Many thanks Neil for all the details supplied.

Those Hymeks!
David Critchlow

Apologies if this is getting boring but it seems the history of Hymeks in Cornwall is creating some interest. Quite by accident I came across a photo of a double-headed Hymek, albeit with a Western, on Flickr. Unfortunately it's undated. https://www.flickr.com/photos/45603744@N06/8615968633/ Whether the two in the following pic were the same, we'll possibly never know. https://www.flickr.com/photos/curly42/5395831806/ All the best to everyone Dave Critchlow

Many thanks David.

18th September 2020

18/9/2020

Lostwithiel Castle
Alan Peters

The Driver of GWR Castle HST gives a wave approaching Lostwithiel with 2C28 the 14:46 Plymouth to Penzance on 16th September 2020 (The picture being taken from 6C35 the cement train in the Up Loop) - Driver Alan Peters

Another 'ace picture' from Driver Alan Peters - the sort we cannot get! 16th September 2020. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan.

Weekend Engineering trains
Craig Munday

Hi Keith It seems the last few months of 2020 are bringing the South West some interesting workings. The Fowey single line was was relayed at Miltown near Lostwithiel, and three trains visited accompanied by fine weather: DB Cargo's 66112 is seen returning to Westbury passing Budge's Shop near Trerulefoot. GBRf 66752 and 66761 make a colourful appearance on the autoballasters seen at Dobwalls and Lostwithiel. DB Cargo's 66175 and 085 work the Balfour Beatty rail deliver train back to Westbury past Dobwalls, with a busy scene in the fields with silage bales being made up. A visit to Goonbarrow box later in the day saw the two industrial shunters Isaac and Alex posed nicely in the afternoon sunshine. Alex still sees regular use shunting the CDAs for the time being. Cheers for now, Craig.

66112 6W01 Budge's Shop Nr Trerule Foot. 15th September 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

66752 and 66761 on the 6G73 at Dobwalls 13th September 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

66752 66761 6G73 at Lostwithiel 13th September 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

66175 and 66075 Dobwalls on the Balfor Beatty rail train. 13th September 2020 Copyright Craig Munday 2020

Isaac at Goonbarrow on the 13th September 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

Alex at Goonbarrow on the 13th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday.

Lucky '13' for you and for us - many thanks Craig.

17th September 2020

17/9/2020

The adventures of
66847 Terry Baker
David Tozer & Roger Winnen

66847 Terry Baker works the 06.35 Westbury Down to Westbury Down via Castle Cary-Yeovil Pen Mill-Yeovil Junction-Chard Junction -Axminster-Honiton to Exeter St David's before returning to Castle Cary, then a further two runs again to Exeter St David's before returning on the same route back to Westbury Down.
A Total Milage covered was 290.78 miles

200917a 66847 Eastbound from Exeter St David's at 09.47 passes Pinhoe. Copyright David Tozer

200917b Later in the day 66847 is seen passing Cranbrook on the second run from Exeter St Davids.at 14.52 Copyright David Tozer

200917c The scene at Axminster as 66847 heads for Exeter St David's at 13.22. Copyright Roger Winnen

200917d A close up at Axminster Station as she heads for Exeter St David's. Copyright Roger Winnen

200917f 66847 is named Terry Baker seen at Honiton awaiting to pass the 15.15 Waterloo to Exeter St Davids service. Copyright Roger Winnen

200917g 66847 Terry Baker awaits departure from Honiton.Copyright Roger Winnen

200917h The arrival of the 15.15 service SWT to Exeter St David's clears the section to Axminster and the loco departs as the 159 unit stops at the platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

Then and now
Dawlish Sea Wall
Paul Barlow

Before and after photographs of the sea wall at Dawlish. A lot has happened in two years. Coincidentally the 43042 is in both shots!

The new section of seawall was closed for installation of lighting, seating, fencing and paving.

Temporary fencing has been erected on the sea wall adjacent to the station, closing off the walkway below the platform. A sign says the path is now closed until July 2021.

Big changes are on their way!

kind regards

Paul Barlow

43092 43042 0505 Penzance to Paddington Dawlish 13th July 2018 Copyright Paul Barlow

43158 43042 0800 Cardiff to Penzance behind the wall on 16th September 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow

These two pictures emphasise the changes in 'railscape' at Dawlish - Many thanks Paul. Well done getting the same train.

Cornish Hymeks
Neil Phillips

Hello Keith and Roger, I saw Simon Howard’s item regarding the exceptionally rare working of Lickey Banker Hymek D7022 into Cornwall in April 1969. This occurred while I was on a school trip to Germany – my first time out of the country! - Simon told me about it after I got back and I had trouble believing it! However the link provided by David Critchlow apparently showing the same loco preparing to depart Plymouth North Road with milk empties in the early hours of 15 December 1974, just three months before the class became extinct, is a total surprise – up to now it was believed that the last Hymek into Cornwall was D7093 which only made it as far as Saltash on a ballast working, on 7 March 1974. Before that on 11 August 1973 D7011 reached Truro under very similar circumstances to D7022. If ’22 did head west from Plymouth I would be very interested to know how far it got. I am also very surprised that this Bernard Mills photo has gone unnoticed until now! Regarding Phil Wilton’s assertion that the Kensington Olympia – St Austell Motorail was worked by double-headed Hymeks in 1970, I have never seen this claimed before. They certainly did work the train during summer 1970 & 1971 but only singly, and the identities are known for most if not all dates. However on 3 July 1971 D7070 collected D7085 as a pilot from Plymouth on the up working (dep. St Austell 22.50). I know better than to claim it never happened, as on the railways it seems anything is possible, but double-headed Hymeks were rare, even around their usual haunts, and photos even rarer, so confirmation of such events in Cornwall would be stupendous! One well-known Hymek double-heading of course was the use of D7001 + D7028 on the Hymek Swansong tour of 22 September 1973, for which I was fortunate enough to obtain a ticket – but this got nowhere near the South West. Best regards, Neil Phillips

Thank you for that Neil - any further comment, anybody?

16th September 2020

16/9/2020

RILA Test Train
Alan Peters

The RILA test train will visiting the area on Thursday & Friday 17th & 18th September 2020 using a Colas class 66 with RILA test equipment attached, departing Westbury via Bristol Temple Meads as 0C07 to Exeter St Davids then onwards to Honiton arriving 10:00. The loco will return to Exeter St Davids as 0C08 arriving at 10:30, and back to Honiton as 0C09 arriving 11:00, then back to Exeter New Yard as 0C10 for a crew break.An Afternoon run from Exeter New Yard to Honiton as 0C11 arriving 13:00, then back to Exeter St Davids at 13:30 as 0C12 and back again to Honiton as 0C13 arriving 14:00 and finally as 0C14 Honiton to Exeter St Davids and onwards back to Westbury via Bristol Temple Meads. Estimated timings as Exact timings still to be confirmed but plenty of opportunity to see the train with several trips between Exeter and Honiton. Alan Peters
Click on the link below
https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/R07506/2020-09-17/detailed

Many thanks Alan for the advice - apologies for being rather later putting your notice on site

Surprise at Dawlish
Dawlish
Paul Barlow

I was at Dawlish this morning for the Laira to Doncaster works HST working. Surprisingly the two front HST power cars were hauling the train, even though they had probably not worked at all for at least 9 months. Their paintwork was quite faded and bleached. The class 47 was dead on the rear.

Probably the last time we will see a HST in FGW blue livery and possibly the most unusual working of the year!

Kind regards, Paul Barlow.

43029 43022 1047 Laira to Doncaster works 47815 was on the rear. About to enter Clerk Tunnel on the 15th September 2015. Copyright Paul Barlow

43027 and 43022 head the 10.47 Laira to Doncaster works 47815 was on the rear heads past Langstone rock 15th September 2015. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul for your pictures of this most unusual working passing those magnificent red cliffs.

Surprise + at
Cogload
Bill Elston

Cogload (again) for the stock move from Laira to Doncaster wagon repair works, being led by 43029, with 43027 and 43022, 2 mk3 trailers and 47815 in tow. Thirty minutes later, 66415 arrived from Westbury to Fairwater yard ballast working. Please see photos. Stay safe Bill

43029+27+22 Cogload, 15th September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Bring up the ear of this most unusual consist is 47815 (dead in tow), Cogoad 15th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

66415 passes with a Westbury to Taunton working. 15th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks to you Bill.

Lostwithiel
Dennis Clarke

Hi Keith, 66020 at Lostwithiel today in the process of running around the Goonbarrow Junction to Fowey Docks loaded CDAs, the driver having collected the single line token from the signalman, Regards, Dennis

66020 at Lostwithiel 15th September 2020 Copyright Dennis Clarke

Many thanks Dennis

Hymeks at
St Austell
Phil Wilton

Hi CRS, I'll put my hand up straight away to say I am not a member (not yet anyway) but as a St. Austell boy born and bred and active from 1969 through to 1973, I just wanted to add some more detail to the "HYMEK's in Cornwall thread. It was probably 1970 when double headed HYMEKS worked through to St. Austell on the early morning motorail from Kensington Olympia on numerous occasions. Sadly I no longer have my combined volumes or any of my notes so I am unable to identify which members of the class were involved, but I clearly remember getting up early on summer Saturday mornings for I think a circa 07.00 arrival to hopefully see the double headed interlopers rounding the corner into the station after climbing the bank from Mount Charles. Regards Phil Wilton.

Many thanks Phil - you've already joined our band of contributors - any photos?

15th September 2020

15/9/2020

James Tidball
Michael L Roach

JAMES TIDBALL
When guard James Tidball retired from working for the Great Western Railway at Plymouth in 1928 his retirement was reported in the local daily newspaper. We will see why later in the article, and also get an insight into how far passenger guards travelled in those days when trains travelled much slower than now. We read very little about guards and their duties in the millions of words written about railways.
James Richard Tidball was born in the Paddington area of London on 16 September 1861. He joined the GWR on 16 January 1877 as a messenger in the Secretary's Department on the princely wage of 10 shillings (50p) a week. He received regular increases and in June 1884 became a passenger guard at Kensington at 23 shillings a week (There were 20 shillings in the pound). James remained a passenger guard for the next 44 years until retirement, with an unblemished record. He could have been a model employee because he seems to have gone wherever the GWR asked him to go including Swindon, Yeovil, Bristol, Paddington and finally Plymouth where he spent the last 17 years of his working life.
In the 1881 census James (19) is living at home with his parents in Chelsea. In 1891 at Bedminster, Bristol with wife Sarah and 2 children aged 2, and 9 months. In 1901 James is 39 and living at 14 Barfett Street, Kensal Town W10 4NP with wife and 7 children aged 12, 10, 9, 7, 5, 2, and 8 months; and finally in 1911 aged 49 at 33 Edith Avenue, Plymouth PL4 8TJ with wife and 6 of the 8 children that were born to James and Sarah. James would live at Edith Avenue for the rest of his life. He died on 15 September 1936 one day before his 75th birthday. In his will he left £583.
The newspaper report of his retirement appeared in the Western Morning News of 8 June 1928.
FINAL TRIP TODAY
G.W.R. GUARD RETIRES AFTER
51½ YEARS' SERVICE
Today, Mr James Tidball, the last of the broad-gauge Great Western Railway guards, makes his final journey from Plymouth to London with the 1.00pm express. For several years past he has travelled with the North Express to Bristol and then proceeded to London, arriving there at 8.45pm and returning on alternate days by the 9.15am express from Paddington. He has completed 51½ years service, and, although he is 66 years of age, he looks several years younger. Mr. Tidball is one of those men who have helped to make history for the Great Western Railway. Of cheery manner, and always calm and collected, he has a happy knack of meeting every emergency in the coolest possible manner, and with a smile. He started his railway career at Paddington Station as personal assistant to the late Sir Daniel Gooch, chairman of the G.W.R., and he relates many personal incidents of his association with that eminent railway leader.
Briefer reports of James Tidball's retirement also appeared in the following newspapers:
9 June 1928 – Gloucester Citizen
13 June 1928 – The Cornishman
15 June 1928 – Market Harborough Advertiser
Some of those reports say in fact James Tidball worked the last broad-gauge train. There are believed to be about a dozen people living in Plymouth today with the surname Tidball.

Many thanks Mike for your time and trouble researching this article on Jame Tidball.

Rarest working into Cornwall
Hymeks in Cornwall
David Critchlow

Hi Keith, thought I'd have a look around the web in response to Simon Howard's question. Neil Phillips provided some info in 2016 - http://www.cornwallrailwaysociety.org.uk/latest-input--news--old-pictures-etc/archives/11-2016/2 and at https://classictractionimages.weebly.com/class-35-hymeks.html it is recorded that D7022 went into Cornwall again with milk empties in 1974. All the best Dave Critchlow

Many thanks Dave for your research in pursuit of the rarest working in Cornwall.

Stoke Canon
Paul Barlow

A shot of the ROG Derby to Laira move with 47815, running 1 hour and 23 minutes early approaching Stoke Canon.

King regards, Paul Barlow

47815 on the 10.14 Derby to Laira approaches Stoke Canon signal box 14th September 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul

Burnham on Sea
Alan Harris

We spent last week on a visit to Burnham on Sea, and took a few snaps of a fairly recent addition of a "spoof" signal box taken against the sun with the two plaques attached to it. It is currently acting as some sort of information office but was closed at the time of my two visits to it. I could not find any other photos on the website, so here they are.

All The Best, Alan and Sue

Burnham Box. Erected on the site of the former platform. September 2020. Copyright Alan Harris.

The 'Blue Plaque' on the replica signalbox at Burnham on Sea. September 2020. Copyright Alan Harris,

The original Burnham on Sea Signal Box at Washford on The West Somerset Railway 1st September 2018 Copyright Roger Winnen

130323bf Inside Burnham on Sea Signal Box at Washford on 23rd March 2013 Copyright Roger Winnen

Also affixed to the replica signalbox at Burnham on Sea. September 2020. Copyright Alan Harris.

A fine tribute in memory of the S & D. Many thanks to you Alan.

High tide at
St Germans
Chris Harvey

Please find attached my best shot from Sunday afternoon. A few minutes after high tide on the river Tiddy, the 1520 Plymouth - Penzance 2+4 HST rolls west across the viaduct. What a lovely day it was!
Cheers, Chris.
Chris Harvey Bodmin

A lovely picture at a lovely spot on a lovely day. The St Germans viaduct on the 13th September 2020 with the 15.20 Plymouth to Penzance crossing. Copyright Chris Harvey.

Very Shallow water here you caught it just right, many thanks to you Chris.

14th September 2020

14/9/2020

Cornish '66' Fest
13th September 2020
Andrew Triggs

66175 clagging well leading 6W01 15.00 Lostwithiel-Westbury Down T.C empties at Respryn running 29 early at 14.41. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Having cleared Respryn Road overbridge, 66085 trails 6W01 heading for Bodmin Parkway, the 'Four Foot' here being very overgrown. Copyright Andrew Triggs

GBRf 66752 leads 6G73 12.08 Westbury Down T.C-Lostwithiel autoballasters (with 66761 on the rear) at Restormel, running 36 late at 16.15. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Having arrived at Lostwithiel Down Goods Loop 66761 is at the rear of 6G73 from Westbury Down T.C, for Fowey branch ballast drop Copyright Andrew Triggs

Thanks Andrew

Cheston Bridge
Clive Smith

GBRf 66752 top and tails with 66761 on the rear of the 6G73 12.08 Westbury - Lostwithiel autoballasters in preparation for work on the Fowey branch this week. A glorious afternoon in South Devon and a perfect time for the sun at 15.08 at this location in full sun which is directly behind. This spot is on Primrose Lane between Brent and Wrangaton. Regards Clive Smith.

From Cheston Bridge 66752. Brent hill in the background 13th September 2020. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive - lovely day.

Cogload
Bill Elston

Good afternoon, Keith A busy period at Cogload today produced; a) 158957 ecs Bristol TM to Exeter b) 43097 leading 1312 2U18 Taunton to Bristol , c) GBRF 66752 leading a rake of loaded autoballasters from Westbury to Lostwithiel Down Goods Loop. This was tailed by 66761, however, I didn’t get a going away shot as I’d filled the memory card! (drat). A lesson to be learned I think. d) DBC 66112 working from Lostwithiel to Westbury empty autoballasters, running some 2 1/2 hours early. Please see photos. Stay safe, Bill

43097, 43097 leading 1312 2U18 Taunton to Bristol 13th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

66752, GBRF 66752 leading a rake of loaded autoballasters from Westbury to Lostwithiel Down Goods Loop. This was tailed by 66761 13th September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

66112, DBC 66112 working from Lostwithiel to Westbury empty autoballasters, running some 2 12 hours early. 13th September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill, a busy session.

Bescot
Driver Alan Peters

A reply from driver Alan Peters - Parkandillack - Bescot I have been asked how far my route knowledge extends, I often work to Bescot in the West Midlands where DB liveried 66128 is pictured in the Down Sidings with the clay from Parkandillack, the other end of the long journey from Cornwall to Bescot on the 11th September 2020, of note the sidings have recently been de-wired and the yard is expected to be redeveloped for a new electric depot for West Midlands Trains - Alan Peters

Although well out of our normal reporting region we are delighted to include this picture by Alan Peters, and an answer to the question of his route knowledge posed by Mike Roach. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan for your answer and the photograph.

An interesting story
Purton Crossing 1
Trevor Hancock

12th September 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Hi all, It's ironic that Ken's attached photos were taken at Purton Common, and mostly of this wonderful steam train. Many years ago (I apologise to those who have heard it before) my grandfather John Hancock had a job cutting the grass next to the track near Minety, where in fact my dad was born. My grandad's scythe slipped and dug into his leg! Bleeding profusely, he keeled over and collapsed next to the line. A steam train came down the line - this was probably slower than the one in the picture. The driver saw my grandad and put the brakes on. They picked him up, and no doubt stemmed the flow of blood somehow, then got him to a doctor or hospital. As he couldn't do the grass-cutting anymore because he now had a bad leg, he was offered the opportunity to be a Level Crossing Keeper - which he took up. This job was at Purton, I would imagine less than 200 metres from where this picture was taken! (Thus, so far as we are concerned, the picture has come full circle!) Of course there is no gated level crossing at Purton now, but the Level Crossing Keeper's cottage is still there - and as someone has told me, this has now been extended. This cottage is where my dad grew up (Bob Hancock, later apprentice in the Swindon Railway Works, followed by Drawing Office and Track Testing work). It's also true to say that if my grandad had not moved to Purton, my dad would not have been travelling as a schoolboy up to secondary school in Swindon, and would not have met my mum, also travelling to school on the same trains. Purton Station was ideal for these children and other people from Purton to commute to Swindon. I hope this anecdote was interesting to those who hadn't previously heard, or had not heard the full story. Magazine guys - you are welcome to use this story in your publications. Do please contact me if you need to know any more. Best wishes and stay safe, Trevor Hancock

Many thanks Trevor, a very interesting story.

Purton Crossing 2
Roy Hart

Dear Keith, To add a little to this story: there were two crossings at Purton, one to the north of the station (Purton Common crossing) and one to the south (Collins Lane crossing). Both were under the supervision of the Purton signalman, being within his signals. Common crossing was closed to vehicular traffic on 12/5/81; Collins Lane was closed 9/7/67. This whole stretch (Swindon to Kemble) was singled in an act of corporate lunacy in 1968: subsequently, of course, it has had to be re-doubled at colossal expense. Roy

It is always a pleasure to include comment received from far away Burma where Roy lives. Not only does it come from such a long distance but it also comes within minutes of the original being posted. It's great to have such a knowledgeable proof reader 'close by'. Many thanks Roy.

More on Purton Common Crossing
and Collins Lane Crossing.

The Collins Lane crossing is in operation now as an "automatic half barrier" crossing. Roy is no doubt correct in saying that this crossing "closed" on 9/7/67, but presumably as an attended crossing, the road across the line remains there. The Purton Common crossing, now with no vehicular access as Roy says, has dwindled to a rather more scary foot crossing. I can still remember going over this crossing as a child with my dad years ago to visit Hills Brickworks, and entering what seemed to me a huge kiln, still warm. The brickworks are now taken over by the small industrial estate shown in Ken's photos, but Hills still run a recycling depot there. More memories! Trevor Hancock.

13th September 2020

13/9/2020

Nr. Tiverton & Dawlish
Andrew Triggs

Evening Keith. Received 23.25 12th Sept.2020 Another 'Northern Belle' visit to Torquay and Paignton today with 57601 and 57316 once more, this time running from Birmingham International, captured at Tiverton Parkway and Dawlish. Also at the public foot crossing just short of Tiverton Parkway a couple of IET photos going about their everyday GWR business. All the Best, Andrew

1. 57601 'Windsor Castle' leading 1Z75 07.56 Birmingham International-Paignton 'Northern Belle' shortly after passing through Tiverton Parkway at 12.082. 12th September 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs

The return Northern Belle passes Dawlish 1WCR 57316 leading the return 1Z76 16.38 Paignton-Birmingham International 'Northern Belle' through Dawlish at 17.073. 12th September 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Class 800/3 IET working 1C76 10.03 London Paddington-Penzance from Junction 27 M5 bridge, shortly after departing Tiverton Parkway. 12th September 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

2 x Class 802 IETs working 1A82 09.12 Penzance-London Paddington approaching Tiverton Parkway. 12th September 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs,

Many thanks Andrew

Purton
Ken Mumford

The First train this evening in the fading light I photographed was a 'Flying Cucumber' on a Cheltenham to London express. Because of trespassers in the Stroud area, the STEAM SPECIAL train was stopped while police went ahead and searched the track. Thus the steam special (organised by Saphos trains and hauled by ex-Southern Region rebuilt Bulleid Light Pacific 34046 'BRAUNTON') was about 20 minutes late passing my location. Actual times :- STANDISH JUNCTION - 2 mins EARLY STROUD - 3 mins LATE KEMBLE - 21 mins LATE SWINDON - 15 mins LATE MILTON JUNCTION (near Didcot) - 12 mins LATE Regards Ken Mumford.

The setting sun illuminates 34046 Braunton at Purton Common on the 12th September 2020 Copyright Ken Mumford

Many thanks Ken

September 12th, 2020

12/9/2020

Darting around Devon
Roger Winnen

200912a 57601 Windsor Castle heads the Northern Belle through Exeter St David's on route to Paignton. Copyright Roger Winnen

200912b The 13.25 Exeter St David's to Waterloo passes St James' Park. Copyright Roger Winnen

200912c A Pacer heads the 13.52 From St James' Park to Paignton. No social distancing on the other platform! Copyright Roger Winnen

200912d The Northern Belle in Goodrington Siding awaiting its move to Paignton Station to form the 16.35 to Birmingham. Copyright Roger Winnen

200912e We shall remember them at Newton Abbot. This plaque commemorates the 80th Anniversary of the station being bombed on the 20th August 1940 and lists the names of those 15 killed in the raid. Copyright Roger Winnen

200912f The return working of The Northern Belle passes through Newton Abbot. Copyright Roger Winnen

200912g 57601 Windsor Castle tails the train. Copyright Roger Winnen

Truro
Mark Lynam

I too was out for the GBRf 66 last night, at Truro, where the train stopped for some Network Rail crew to board. GBRf 66761 at Truro arriving 74 minutes early with 6G70 1726 Westbury Down T.C. to Truro (via Penzance) GBRf 66761 at Truro before working an early 6G70 0245 Truro to Westbury Down T.C. Thanks,Mark Lynam

66761 Truro (1) 01.34 11th September 2020 Copyright Mark Lynam

66761 Truro (5) 01.36 11th September 2020. Copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks to Mark - out and about in very unsociable hours. This message was timed at 14.08 on the 11th but due to my being otherwise engaged was not opened until 05.20 this morning (12th) when I turned on to update. K.J.

First tinges of Autumn
Craig Munday

Hi Keith There, I've said the "first tinge of Autumn". Not bad for early September I guess? I popped down to Trenowth recently on to the (private) fields over looking the recently trimmed back main line. A Castle set is seen cruising west with 2C30 with the gorgeous Cornish countryside being harvested on 8th. The former mine working and chimney at Coombe can be seen in the picture. Then with the sunlight rapidly being lost at St Blazey, a shot before my night shift at St Blazey with sharp sunlight hitting 66020 bows on working the empty CDAs to Goonbarrow on 9th. So good to see the CDA traffic back regularly, and increased wagon loads to Stoke ahs seen the two trips up on a Wednesday and Thursday afternoon once again. Finally for this week, a super sight of GBRf Bluebird class 66 66761 at Penzance having worked a short autoballster train down from Westbury 6G70 at midnight last evening. The loco is seen at Penzance driven by local man Martin Clemes. Further GBRf and DBC trains will be in action on the Fowey branch with relaying at Milltown over the coming weekend, the weather looking promising too. Kind regards Craig

At Trenowth on the 8th September 2020 2C30 led by 43187 emerges onto the colorful scene. Copyright Craig Munday

66020 6G05 at St Blazey on the 9th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday

66761 at Penzance on the 10th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday

Many thanks to you too Craig, always up and about on your job again frequently at unsocial hours. Many thanks once again.

The rarest working into Cornwall??
Simon Howard

I wonder if it might be interesting for readers to share what they think is the rarest working into Cornwall (excluding charter trains)? Back in the 60’s and early 70’s, engine changing at Plymouth meant that very few ‘foreign’ locomotives made it over the Saltash Bridge on regular turns. In the days before Westerns were air-braked, there might be the odd LMR Class 47 working to Par on the Freightliner or Burngullow on the tanks, but these were ‘expected’. However for the most part, our diet in those days was just Westerns, Warships and NBL Class 22’s plus the occasional 47 or (from 1970) Peak. The rarest working I ever saw was when one of the Lickey bankers – D7022 – turned up on the Penzance-Liverpool one morning (08.55 off Truro) in April 1969 (I think). It was practically black but underneath still in original green livery. I’d love to know how it got there. My only thought is whether it took over the down Wolverhampton parcels after an engine failure near Lickey and then for some reason was not changed at either Bristol or Plymouth.

Any thoughts or contributions from other readers??

Keep up the good work!!

Many thanks to you Simon.
As Simon says, can you beat this?

11th September 2020

11/9/2020

Thanks
to One and All
Adrian King

Hi Keith

I do hope you and your family and all at CRS are keeping well despite this damn virus.

I'm just writing to thank you and all the team at the Society for the Autumn Magazine which arrived yesterday. What a fantastic job you have all done to produce the magazine under the present circumstances. I was amazed to receive it to be honest as everything this year has been in such turmoil since the arrival of Covid 19. So well done to the CRS crew.

I always like to send you a photograph even if its well out of CRS territory so please find attached a shot of 70000 Britannia masquerading for the day as 70022 Tornado. The photo was taken at Pyle Station on the 29th July 2020 on the return leg of The Red Dragon railtour (although the tour was listed as the Pembroke Coast Express) from Exeter to Carmarthen and back. The locomotive coming onto, and subsequently off, the train at Bristol Temple Meads so at least it did originate from West Country metals!

Anyway many thanks again for the Autumn magazine take care and stay safe.

Best regards

Cheers Adrian

The Red Dragon passes Pyle on the 29th July 2020. Copyright Adrian King. This was received on the 10th September 2020.

Pyle (Y Pîl) is a village and community (in Bridgend county borough Wales). This large village is served by the A48 road and lies less than one mile from Junction 37 of the M4 Motorway, and is therefore only a half-hour journey from Cardiff, in fact it lies approximately equidistant between the capital Cardiff and second city Swansea. The nearest town is the seaside resort of Porthcawl. Within the Community, to the northeast of Pyle, is the adjoining settlement of Kenfig Hill, North Cornelly also adjoins Pyle and the built-up area had a population of 13,701 in 2011. Therefore just outside our boundary. The foregoing is courtesy of Wilipedia,

Many thanks to Adrian for his thanks and of course to ALL our contributors far and wide - Good Health to you all.

Westbury to Penzance
Bill Elston & Andrew Triggs

Morning (just) Roger/Keith, Arriving at 00.05 and following running round on Slopers, departing again at 00.55 for Truro, a rare visitor in the early hours of GBRf 66761 with a rake of 5 loaded autoballasters. 4 shots for CRS enclosedRunning as 6G70 17.26 Westbury Down T.C-Truro (via Penzance). All the Best, Andrew

Firstly 66761 on the Westbury to Truro via Penzance seen at Oath on the 10th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

It's a pleasure to include pictures of the same train very near and at the ends of its journey as Andrew Trigs views the train in the 'crystal clear' night air.

66761 arrives at Penzance working 6G70 it;s 0005 on the 11th September 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs. - one can just imagine the conversation between the two figures on the platform!

Penzance 66761 has run round its train working the 6G70 Wesbury to Truro. 11th September 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many thanks to Bill and Andrew - a valiant effort.

Also at Oath
Bill Elston

66621 on the empties Exeter Riverside to Whatley Quarry, 10th September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks again Bill.

Exmouth Junction
David Tozer

Received from David on the 10th September 2020 - For several weeks GWR Exeter Depot have been operating a route learner/refresher, generally on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from Exeter to Castle Cary via Yeovil. They have been using Class 150/2's which have traversed the route previously.

A pleasant surprise today. Whilst we are used to seeing SWR two car Class 158's on this route today is the first time I have seen a Class 158 on this working. I photographed 158767 passing Exmouth Junction with the 1528 5Z30 Exeter TMD to Castle Cary via Yeovil Junction. Whilst GWR Class 158's can be seen in the turnback siding at Exmouth Junction this appears to be the first one of thie GWR version to operate between Exmouth Junction and Yeovil Pen Mill.

Regards Dave

158767 at Exmouth Junction on the 10th September 2020. Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David

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