Blog Archives

10th May 2020

10/9/2020

Damaged Class 47 47479
at Long Rock
Dennis Clarke & Roger Winnen

I am a relatively new member of your society and find your website very interesting. I am a retired railwayman having worked for 41 years at Willesden TMD, Wembley, North Pole and Temple Mills. My wife is from Carbis Bay and her family live in the Hayle area. We have had all of our family holidays in that area and I came across this photograph that I took at Long Rock during one of those times. I do not have a date for the photo but I would love to know if any other member could put some detail on it for me such as what happened to the loco, dates, whether it was repaired etc.

920900a 47479 Damaged 20th September 1992 between Marazion and St Erth whilst working an engineers train running into another engineering train. Copyright Dennis Clarke

Many Thanks Dennis

Originally numbered D1612 then 47479 being named Track 29 on 27th July 1990 at the National Rail Museum York, by the Lord Mayor of York Councillor Keith Wood. She was subsequentl withdrawn after the accident between Marazion & St Erth on Sunday 20th September 1992 involving two enginneering trains where 47479 ran into the back of second engineers train.
The 47 was stabled at Long Rock Depot and Ponsandane sidings until 10th October 1992 when she departed coupled inside of a parcels train.
She was withdrawn in January 1993 and cut up by Booth Roe Rotherham August 1993

920920a Photographed at Long Rock on the day of the accident 47479 Carrying the Nameplate Track 29. Copyright Roger Winnen

921010a Its now 19th October 1992 47479 minus its nameplate awaits departure amongst a parcel rake of vans from Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

921010b A Close up of the engine frontage at Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

921010c The train is seen going up the marsh at Marazion hauled by a Network Rail Souuth East Class 47 . Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks for your report Roger

Laira bus depot
Ken Mumford

We know we are not a bus society, however here at Laira Bus depot is an example which was close by the former line to Sutton Harbour. Apologies about buses - K.J.

From the Ken Mumford Collection. Copyright.

Sutton Harbour branch - passing behind the Laira Western National Depot. Track complete but disused. 9th February 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen

Sutton Harbour branch which was Closed in 1973 Note the back of the Bus depot and Prince Rock Power station. 6th April 1974 Copyright Roger Winnen

An enlargement of the above picture shows that the track has been lifted. Curiousy not in slabs of track panels but by knocking out the keys and pulling out complete rail sections - perhaps for use elsewhere. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks to Roger Winnen.

Silverton
David Tozer

DRS Class 66's 66303 and 66304 top and tail one coach.

A solution from DRS may be for operation on the Gunnislake Branch!

Dave

DRS Class 66's 66303 and 66304 top and tail one coach. Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David.

A P.S. from Dave.
I suspect that the two wagons contained the fuel for subs. Thus the coach had security personal. I reckon when they return it will be two locomotives and two wagons. I am always reluctant to post photos of this train due to the hazardous nature of the load carried. Sadly we live in an age of extremists. I see on leaving Devonport they headed on to the Gunnislake branch. Here the crew changed ends to head back to Crewe. All because Notwork Rail removed part of a point. Yes, all well with me. Looking like another lockdown coming. Dave Now I understand - thanks Dave. On your last point it looks like regrettably yes.
A further P.P.S. from Paul Burkhalter. :-
The flasks are loaded away from Devonport, the flasks are always empty inbound. Cheers, Paul Burkhalter.
Now we know, thanks Paul.

Cogload
Bill Elston

Over at Cogload today for the light engine movement from Devonport Dockyard to Crewe. 66303 and 66304 with support coach. Photos attached. Best wishes, Bill

66303 At Cogload heading north east 9th September 2020 Copyright Bill Eslton

6630 brings up the rear as the pair head away. 9th September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill

Clay Wagon Project Team
Can you help?

Hi all, Part of the Clay Wagon Project is to build up a portfolio and history of pictures, information and stories, if you happen to have any relevant information to assist us with this or even a piece of memorabilia of a clay wagon sitting in your shed or loft we would really like to hear from you and a chance for you to contribute to our very exciting project. You can contact us through social media or by our email address [email protected] Regards Clay Wagon Project Team

Any bits or labels wanted.

9th May 2020

9/9/2020

Visit Liskeard this weekend
Highly Recommended

Keith Just in case you don’t yet know about this...but I’m sure you do https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/liskeard-unlocked-virtual-tour-of-the-liskeard-station-signal-box Chris Osment / Rail West

Many thanks Chris - I didn't know - your tip off is much appreciated.

Yesterday - focus on St Germans
In Cornwall
Steve Widdowson

My apologises to Stephen - his pictures under the title of 'Today in Cornwall were received in time but KJ didn't have the time to update the site.

43088 heads 43194 as it sweeps into St Germans station. 5Z77 1628 Penzance LongRock to Laira } 8th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson

43088 ~ 43194 St Germans Cornwall { 5Z77 - the 16.28 Penzance LongRock to Laira }8th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson

43088 brings up the rear of the 5Z77 passing through St Germans in Cornwall with the 16.28 Penzance LongRock to Laira } 8th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Lovely blue skies as 43156 with 43093 crosses St Germans Viaduct Cornwall with the 2C27 the 14.16 Plymouth to Penzance. 8th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Steve catches the tail end of the train as 43005 on the viaduct at St Germans . The 2E15 12.50 Penzance to Plymouth } 8th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Many thanks for your excellent photos and detailed captions.

The answer
David Tozer

Stephen Widdowson asked what was the device on the front of GWR Class 143 143617.

Modern Railways a while back carried a photograph of this set at Topsham with a device attached to the front. In the Avocet Line Rail User Groups Spring 2019 Issue No 43 the relevant page from Modern Railways was reproduced.

It is in fact Fulgro's Rail Infrastructure Alignment Acquisition Platform. The device is fitted to service trains to measure track alignment with lasers. This reduces the workload on Network Rail's other test trains such as the NMT HST. I did not copy the article as it may infringe copyright.

Colas Rail Class 66 66848 was fitted with some similar gear when it visited Exeter (Central) in 2016 - photographs attached.

Regards, Dave

66848 at Exeter Central 2nd February 2016. Copyright David Tozer.

Close up of 66848 with the Fulgro's Rail Infrastructure Alignment Acquisition Platform fitted at Exeter Central 2nd February 2016 Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks to you David.

Flask train Dawlish
Stephen Widdowson

66304 TnT 66303 Teignmouth Parsons Tunnel Dawlish { 0539 Crewe to Devonport Royal Dockyard } 8th September 2020 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

Very many thanks Stephen. Your pictures of the train en-route go so very well with the item (under yesterdays date) by Roger Winnen of the flasks entry into the Dockyard.

8th September 2020

8/9/2020

05.39 Crewe Coal Sidings (DRS) Devonport Royal Dockyard
Roger Winnen

200908a 66303 66304 Arrives at Keyham with the flask train from Crewe Coal Sidings (DRS) to the Royal Naval Dockyard. Copyright Roger Winnen

200908b 66303 Enters the Dockyard Branch at 13.16hrs. Copyright Roger Winnen

200908c 66303 on the branch complete with barrier coach and flasks. Copyright Roger Winnen

200908d The flask are gently moved into the Royal Naval Dockyard. Copyright Roger Winnen

200908f 66304 tails the train into the Royal Navel Dockyard. Copyright Roger Winnen

Dawlish All Change
Part 2 Clive Smith

Following on from my previous feature on trains passing through the station, here are some photos from 5th September 2020 showing the station from the sea wall. Large boats will be arriving soon with pile driving equipment and rigs will be built that will be twice the size of the ones that were used to repair the sea wall breach in 2014. Regards, Clive Smith.

(1) Dawlish Station & Colonnade Viaduct From The Stone Jetty. Copyright Clive Smith.

(2) Dawlish Station Down Platform & Sea Wall From The Stone Jetty. Copyright Clive Smith.

(3) This pigeon is understandably dejected as it is soon to lose this perch with a view on the platform fence not to mention the many roosts they occupy directly underneath in the eves above the sea wall path. Copyright Clive Smith.

(4) The Sea Wall Footpath Underneath Dawlish Station Down Platform. Copyright Clive Smith.

(5) The Sea Wall Footpath Alongside Dawlish Station. Copyright Clive Smith.

(6) Coastguard's Footbridge & Sea Wall Dawlish. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive for this most interesting series - we look forward to Part 3 as the changes take place.

Dawlish debate
Stephen Widdowson

Have you seen 143617, it has a device bolted on the front, see attached pic.

Does anyone know what its for? Cheers Stephen Widdowson.

143617 & 150243 Dawlish { 2F27 1640 Paignton to Exmouth } 7th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson

A close up of the above attachment. Copyright Stephen Widdowson.

Thanks for your query Stephen. Does anybody know?

Late night visitor at
Penzance
Andrew Triggs

Colas 66849 arrived at Penzance tonight working 6C98 15.10 Westbury Down T.C-Burngullow Junction rail drop (via Slopers for run round purposes)

66849 'Wylam Dilly' at 22.00 on the 7th September 2020 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many thanks Andrew

7th September 2020

7/9/2020

IMPORTANT NOTICE
Due to Convid 19 the Cornwall Railway Society Meetings for the Autumn have been cancelled, this is common with many other organisations. It is however hoped that we will be able to return to our monthly indoor meetings at the Memorial Hall Redruth with effect from 9th January 2021. We have an exciting provisional programme prepared for next Spring and later in the year when we hope to resume our outdoor events. It all depends on restrictions current at the time. Current membership for 2019/20 will be extended to cover 2020/21.

Exeter Refueling
Alan Peters

A couple of pics of the fuel and water run on Tuesday 1st September 2020 with 37025 "Inverness TMD" and the Network Rail test train from Exeter Riverside (pictured in glorious weather) to Exeter Depot where 37025 is pictured being fueled on the GWR fuel point, the train then returned back to Exeter Riverside ready for the evening trip to Penzance. Driver Alan Peters

Glorious weather for the smashing photograph of 37025 at Exeter refueling. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

37025 at Exeter ready for the evening run. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks indeed Alan.

Long Rock
The late John Cornelius

Dawlish All Change
Part 1 Clive Smith

Well the day has arrived.The Dawlish station we have come to love for so many years is about to get a radical transformation starting on Monday 7th September 2020 to provide facilities for the disabled with a lift and new footbridge and a huge rebuilding to protect it from the sea with a raised promenade between the station and the sea. I have taken the odd random photos here over forty years but on Saturday 5th I took the opportunity to focus on what will be lost and record it for posterity. A weekend off, a good weather forecast and a high tide at 08.55 meant this was now or never. Here are five pictures showing a variety of traction during the morning's activities at this gem of a station on this iconic stretch of railway. Part 2 will focus on the infrastructure that will soon disappear. Please use the link below to see the planned development https://www.google.com/search?q=Dawlish+railway+station+major+improvement+plans+approved&oq=Dawlish+railway+station+major+improvement+plans+approved&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.3473j0j15&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

(1) 43040 has arrived at 08.39 with the 05.40 Penzance -Exeter St Davids. The rear power car is 43004. The fencing on the left will disappear. Copyright Clive Smith.

(2) Pacer 143603 and a 150 cross the Colonnade Viaduct over the small stream Dawlish Water with the 08.15 Paignton - Exmouth. The pacers are seemingly on endless borrowed time but the bridge is to be replaced and there will be no more barrow crossings. The area to the left of the bridge and under it is to be revamped. The recent alterations to the sea wall along Marine Parade can be seen between the tracks and the sea. Copyright Clive Smith

(3) An unidentified 150 leading 150216 arrives at the station with the 08.25 Exmouth - Paignton. Built out over the sea wall with wooden fencing this used to be a wooden plaform in my memory which goes back a bit. The walkway along the sea wall goes under the platform. This will soon be replaced by a new taller sea wall incorporating a high-level wider and safer public promenade. Gone will be the days when I had to make a dash in between breaking waves at high tide to walk along the sea wall here. Won't be half as fun as getting a good soaking due to poor judgement. Copyright Clive Smith.

(4) A Cross Country Voyager set hurries through Dawlish with the 08.10 Bristol TM - Paignton. This view will be dominated by the new footbridge and lifts. Copyright Clive Smith

(5) West Coast Railways 57316 top and tails with 57601 on the 1Z27 07.15 Swansea - Paignton 'Northern Belle' Pullman charter as it passes the old boathouse. The boathouse is due to demolished on Monday 7th September. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks for an excellent article Clive Part 2 tomorrow.

6th August 2020

6/9/2020

Inside the
'Northern Belle'
Bill Elston

You may have noticed through our columns today and yesterday that the 'Northern Belle' paid a visit to Paignton yesterday.

Bill Elston kindly sent in the following pictures to show you what luxury travel really is like :- Bill writes seing this train today reminds me of a fabulous trip my wife and I made on it in July 2012. This was from Euston to Blackpool for a day at Lytham St Anns for the Open Golf Championship. I’ve attached a few photos showing the well appointed interior, the carriage we travelled in being WARWICK CASTLE. Hope they are of interest,
Best wishes, Bill

Welcome aboard the 'Northern Belle' July 2012. Copyright Bill Elston

Luxury aboard the Northern Belle July 2012. Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill for this 'insight' - superb. I presume you don't do this too frequently!

More Northern Belle
Bill Elston, Andrew Triggs & Steve Widdowson

The down Northern Belle headed by 57316 seen at Cogload. 5th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

You will see Roger Winnens coverage of this railtour at Paignton in an earlier News Item.

Bringing up the rear of the Northern Belle is 57601, 5th September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

The returning Northern Belle at Powderham 5th September 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The return Northern Belle 57601 TnT 57316 Dawlish { 1Z29 1628 Paignton to Swansea } 5th September 2020. Copyright Steve Widdowson

The return Northern Belle 57316 TnT 57601 Dawlish { 1Z29 1628 Paignton to Swansea } 5th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson

802020 + 802022 Dawlish { 1C84 1403 London Paddington to Penzance } 5th September 2020 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Also from Stephens lofty view point, parked in Torbay are seen - Queen Mary II & P&O's "Ventura" & "Azura" all moored up due to COVID

Queen Mary II moored at Dawlish due to Convid 19 5th September 2020 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

P&O Ventura again at Dawlish 5th September 2020 Copyright Stephen Widdowson

Many thanks to Bill Elston and Steve Widdowson.

Hallenbeagle
Andrew Triggs

43194 & 098 working 0Z79 17.46 Laira T&RSMD-Longrock T&RSMD at Hallenbeagle in the last rays of sunlight at 19.24 5th September 2020. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew.

5th September 2020

5/9/2020

The Northern Belle runs Swansea to Paignton return
Roger Winnen

200905a 57316 Brings The Northern Belle into Goodrington Sidings for a layover before returning to Swansea at 16.26 today. Copyright Roger Winnen

200905b Some very nice rolling stock is running with this prestige train. Copyright Roger Winnen

200905c 57601 Windsor Castle in chocolate and cream livery has tailed the train from Swansea High Street Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

200905dd 57601 Windsor Castle looking very nice indeed in chocolate and cream livery. Copyright Roger Winnen

200905d This train formation is complete with sleeping cars seen as she departs Paignton. Copyright Roger Winnen

200905e 57601 Departs Paignton on the return leg to Swansea. Copyright Roger Winnen

Around Plymouth
Craig Munday

Some time spent over the border in Devon recently. Firstly at the Ground Frame at Keyham for the colourful DBC/ DRS class 66 combo on 1st September, then on the 4th, the equally colourful Loram class 20 visit to the city. 20142 leads 20007 away from the former parcel docks bound for Derby. The Loram crew advise this will be the last visit (for now) of the locomotives to Plymouth. Also pictured on 4th is the NHS thanks liveried 802020 in the station. Kind regards Craig

66122 66425 arriving at Keyham for a trip into Devonport Docks. Copyright Craig Munday.

Please see an account of the above visit by 66122 & 66425 by Roger Winnen in the 'News' dated 1st September 2020

Another event of great interest was the arrival of the very smartly liveried 20142 & 20007 seen here in the dock at Plymouth 4th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday.

20142 & 20007 and crew seen at Plymouth 4th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday.

The colourful duo seen leaving Plymouth on the 4th Septmeber 2020. Copyright Craig Munday.

and finally the NHS liveried 802020 seen at Plymouth on the 4th September 2020. Copyright Craig Munday

Many thanks Craig a most interesting selection.

Whoops
Stephen Widdowson

Damaged cab of 43071 seen at Laira 1994. Copyright Steve Widdowson

47781 & Damaged 158833 seen at Laira 1994 Copyright Steve Widdowson

158833 doesn't seem to have come off so badly!! Copyright Steve Widdowson

For further information on this accident which occurred at Newton Abbot please click here https://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/eventsummary.php?eventID=8964

With many thanks to Steve Widdowson.

Ruthern Bridge Branch
Andrew and Diane Jones

Andrew and Diane ave written a most interesting and detailed history of this short branch line, To see this please click here and scroll to Item 2020.

Uncovered remains of the original railway. 28th June 2020. Copyright Andrew Jones.

Unfortunately Cormac when resurfacing the Camel Trail earlier in the year damaged the original Ruthernbridge Railway bridge and access to Grogley Halt is now restricted to pedestrian traffic only. It was found that the original decking was not up to 20 ton lorries crossing so we await funding for repairs.

Many thanks to Diane and Andrew.

4th September 2020

4/9/2020

Dawlish Today
David Tozer

20142 & 20007 head back to Derby 4th September 2020. Copyright David Tozer. An excellent view of the beautifully turned out locos and also of the magnificent time worn red sandstone cliffs.

Out to sea off Teignmouth is parked the rather large liner - the SS Queen Mary. 4th August 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks as usual David

Bude branch - Fatality
Phil Hawke

Keith, I also came across this very sad story from seventy years ago during an internet trawl. I've never heard anything about this in the past but I suppose it's the sort of event that people don't want to remember. https://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/documents/MoT_Hopworthy1950.pdf

Many thanks Phillip for the above and below items

Parkandillack - last train
Phil Hawke

Keith, I noticed the report about Parkandillick in your news section. I was told last weekend 31st August 2020 by an Imrys manager that was the last train to be loaded there. Something about longer trains and the problem of shunting.

Engines on Shed at the Forest Railroad Dobwalls 1998
Andrew Triggs

For further coverage of Andrews visit and other contributors photographs
Click Here for Pleasure Tramways & Light Railways scrolling down the page

Bathpool observations
Bill Elston

43097 leading the 10.20 Taunton to Cardiff seen at Bathpool. 3rd Sept 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

70812 with the Moorswater – Aberthaw cement empties again at Bathpool running an hour early. 3rd September 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

20's at Cogload
Bill Elston

Another pair of Loram Rail’s class 20s, Derby RTC – Plymouth, green 20007 leading London Underground liveried 20142, named SIR JOHN BETJEMAN, passing through Cogload Jct. 3rd September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston

20142 brings up the rear. 3rd September 2020. Copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill

The 20's
Exeter Flood Relief channel.
Paul Barlow

20007 20142 0945 Derby - Plymouth passes over Exwick flood relief channel, Exeter. Running around an hour early. 3rd September 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul

The colourful 20's burst on the scene at
Parson Tunnel
Clive Smith

Clive writes :- We westcountry rail enthusiasts have been spoiled by Loram Rail's generosity in sending more vintage choppers down yet again. This time the colourful London Transport liveried 20142 made a fine debut with a second appearance from green liveried 20007. Despite the low cloud and general murkiness in south Devon my hopes were up as Dawlish was bathed in sunshine for an hour around 13.00 but sadly this did not last and the grey skies returned with a bit of drizzle thrown in resulting in not the best conditions for photography. The working is 0Z16 09.45 Derby RTC - Plymouth. Alas I will have to miss the return working.
Regards Clive Smith

Parsons tunnel Dawlish as 20007 plus 20142 burst onto the scene. 3rd September 2020 Copyright Clive Smith

20007 leads 20142 towards Teignmouth. 3rd September 2020. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive.

For a little bit more about Loram Rail try this link https://loram.co.uk/

Crewkerne
Bill Elston

150233 on route learning duties passing through Crewkerne on route to Yeovil Junction on the 2nd Sept 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill

3rd September 2020

3/9/2020

FGW's 47 finals
Exeter area
Paul Barlow

47815 07.18 Paddington to Penzance. Seen at Exeter St Thomas 11th December 2004 Copyright Paul Barlow

47815 47811 1410 Penzance-Paddingon relief 11 December 2004 FGW class 47 farewell. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul

Exhibition Way
Exeter
David Tozer

The GWR Interloper ran today. I was able to reach Exhibition Way in plenty of time to photograph 150233 working the 1614 5Z30 Exeter (TMD) to Castle Cary via Honiton. In other words the outward working which then works the 1745 5Z31 Castle Cary - Exeter.
Regards Dave

150233 seen from Exhibition Way, Exeter, 2nd September 2020. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks David.

Bodmin '94
Stephen Widdowson

20197 seen at Bodmin - Walker Lines (B & W) 23rd October 1994 Copyright Steve Widdowson

There is some doubt as to the location of this loco and whether it still exists? The answers -

After much research I located this announcement on the internet Crewe Heritage Auctions 17th-20th July 2020
Diesel Locomotive flame cut number panel '20197'as carried by BR Class 20 D8197 becoming 20197 from 2/74 up to withdrawal 11/91
Cut up by EMR Kingsbury 10/11
Original as cut condition
Roger Winnen

33110 seen at Bodmin Walker Lines (B & W) on the 23rd October 1994. Copyright Steve Widdowson

Many thanks Steve.

Where is it?
Alan Harris

I am trying to help an old schoolfriend of mine in identifying a house that was occupied by his great grandfather. The photo should be attached. My initial thoughts were that the pathway looked like the ballast that had been left after the removal of a railway line. Another that I have shown it to thinks the same way, All that is known is that it is likely to be in our area here, not far from Redruth. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Regards Alan Harris

The mystery photograph. The location seems to be fairly high up - do the well established pine trees and the overhead power line give a clue? From the grass growth it looks as if railway sleepers once occupied the spot. It can't be the Tresavean branch as that had granite blocks. Maybe the Portreath branch but this view seems unlikely. The Chacewater - Newquay line comes to mind perhaps near Lanteague or maybe the North Cornwall line, but we're getting a bit far from Redruth ! Perhaps it wasn't a railway after all!!

Thanks to Alan and his school friend for this teazer.

2nd September 2020

2/9/2020

Peaks 40 years ago
Paul Barlow

A few shots taken 40 years ago with my newly acquired first SLR camera, a Practica MTL3

Kind regards, Paul Barlow.

46010 and 45021 on the 08.15 Plymouth to Leeds 1E30 seen at Taunton. 46010 was on test and was removed at Taunton. 29th August 1980, Copyright Paul Barlow.

Seen at Newton Abbot on the 30th August 1980. 45072 on the 09.45 Nottingham to Paignton the 1V77. Copyright Paul Barlow. This view has changed very considerably now.

Long time ago, many thanks Paul.

- and last Monday at
Dawlish
Paul Barlow

A few shots at Dawlish on Bank holiday Monday. With the second phase of rebuilding the sea wall around the station due to start soon, I made the effort to get some photographs before it is changed forever. Fantastic cloud formations made it worthwhile. Details of work to be completed see here https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/western/south-west-rail-resilience-programme/dawlish-sea-wall-section-two/

Kind regards, Paul Barlow

Many thanks for the link.

43005 and 43122 on the 09.15 Laira to Bristol ECS passes Dawlish on the 31 August 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.

The Dawlish coast and a mothballed cruise liner - a sign of the times. 31st August 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Class 150 and 143 units on 1023 Exmouth to Paignton pass Coryton Cove Dawlish. 31st August 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Dawlish sea wall east of the station before alterations take place. 31st August 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A look at the fragile structure of Dawlish station down platform on the 31st August 2020.

Dawlish station, the downside before modification, 31st August 2020. Copyright Paul Barlow. Note the superb clouds.

Alongside Dawlish down platform - a final look before it all changes. 31st August 2020 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul for your views of what will be history.

The Pixie Returns Railtour
Steve Widdowson

23rd October 1994
Pathfinder Tours The Pixie Returns
Locos Used08645, 08663, 37146 & 37412
Stock Used17151+4956+4949+4939+4909+5037Route : 1Z27 throughout
Loco(s)Route
37412Bristol Temple Meads - Westbury - Yeovil Pen Mill - Yeovil Junction - Exeter St Davids
37146 + 37412Exeter St Davids - Plymouth
08663 (1)Plymouth - Bere Alston
08645 (2)Bere Alston - Plymouth
37146 (3)Plymouth - Liskeard [Main Platform] (5)
37412 (4)Liskeard [Branch Platform] - Coombe no. 1 ground frame
37146 (3)Coombe no. 1 ground frame - MP2 (Sandplace) (6)
37412 (4)MP2 (Sandplace) - Coombe station
37146 (3)Coombe station - Liskeard [Branch Platform] (passengers detrained)
37412 (4)Liskeard [Main Platform] - Plymouth
37146 + 37412Plymouth - Exeter St Davids
37412Exeter St Davids - Taunton - Bridgwater - Bristol Temple MeadsNotes :
(1) 08645 on rear.
(2) 08663 on rear.
(3) 37412 on rear.
(4) 37146 on rear.
(5) Passengers had to detrain as train was not permitted over connection loaded due to lack of check-rails.
(6) Train was planned to go to Looe but due to lack of check-rails it was only permitted as far as milepost 2, just on the Looe side of the station at Sandplace.
Sources : class 37's used provided by Steve Marshall (Globe Video)
remaining data from Stuart Smith (joined/left the train at Bristol TM)
with some additional data from Steve Cassidy & Alan Sheppard

Photo Review
(all photos from Roger Geach)

37146 (above) & 37412 (below) on St Germans bank.

Timings (Booked & Actual)
(from Alan Sheppard)
TABLE 1
M.CLocationBookedActual
0.00Bristol Temple Meads07.50d07.56d
0.60North Somerset Jn07/5207/59
11.35Bath Spa08/0208/09
13.51Bathampton Jn08/0508/12
22.45Bradford Jn08/1608/22
28.17Westbury08*32 cc 08*4708*30 cc 08*47
29.51Fairwood Jn08/4908/49
32.73Clink Road Jn08/5208/54
34.75Blatchbridge Jn08/5408/55
47.64Castle Cary09/0409/06
59.40Yeovil Pen Mill09*17 ~ 09*2409*20 ~ 09*36
61.19Yeovil Junction09.29 op 09.3009/43
78.03Chard Jn09/4509/59
93.31Honiton09/5810.16 ~ 10.17
107.11Pinhoe10/0910/30
108.72Exmouth Jn10/1010/31

TABLE 2TABLE 5
M.CLocationBooked (out)ActualBooked (rtn)ActualM.C
110.01Exeter St. Davids10L15a ~ 10L35d10L36 ~ 10L5819.28a ~ 19.31d19.27 ~ 19.3469.61
121.25Dawlish Warren10/4511/0819/1819/1659.19
130.77Newton Abbot10/5411/1619/0819/0749.47
139.54Totnes11/0411/2618/57?40.70
152.10Ivybridge11/2011/3818/44?28.35
156.01Hemerdon11/3411/4318/40?24.43
161.26Lipson Jn11/3911/4918/33?19.18
162.66Plymouth11L41a ~ 12L11d11L51 ~ 12L1318L08a ~ 18L30d18L11 ~ 18L3117.58

TABLE 3
M.CLocationBooked (out)ActualBooked (rtn)ActualM.C
0.00Plymouth~ 12L11d~ 12L13d14L24 ~ 15L1914L41 ~ 15L1910.09
2.72St. Budeaux Jn12/2312/2714/1214/277.17
7.25Bere Ferrers12/4112/5213.22a ~ 13.52d #13.30 ~ 14.062.64
10.09Bere Alston12p53a13p0413p08d ##13p18d0.00

Key
## - Retimed to 13p15d
# - Retimed to 14.00d

TABLE 4
M.CLocationBooked (out)ActualBooked (rtn)ActualM.C
0.00Plymouth~ 15L19d~ 15L19d18L08a ~ 18L30d18L11 ~ 18L3117.58
2.72St. Budeaux Jn15/2415/2518/0318/0614.66
4.18Saltash15/2715/2917/5918/0213.40
9.16St. Germans15/3315/3717/5217/548.42
17.58Liskeard (Main Platform)15.43a ~15.49a ~~ 17.42d~ 17.44d0.00
0.00Liskeard (Branch Platform)~ 16.13d~ 16.18d17.12a ~17.23a ~2.03
1.72Coombe No.1 GF16.19 ~16.25 ~17/0517/160.11
-Coombe Station--16.59 ~ 17.0417.14 ~ 17.150.00
4.34
0.00Coombe No.1 GF~ 16.24~ 16.3016/5817.10 ~ 17.114.23
1.49St. Keyne16/2816/3816/5417/052.54
2.74Causeland16/3216/4216/5017/011.29
4.23Sandplace16.36a16.4716.46d16.570.00

TABLE 6
M.CLocationBookedActual
69.61Exeter St. Davids~ 19.31d~ 19.34d
71.01Cowley Bridge Jn19/34?
86.27Tiverton Parkway19/47?
100.41Taunton19/5919/59
105.44Cogload Jn20/03?
112.06Bridgwater20/08?
125.49Uphill Jn20/22?
128.42Worle Jn20/26?
143.38Parson Street20/4220/30
145.27Bristol Temple Meads20.45a20.37a
Private Preservation Site
at Bere Ferrers
Loco UsedNo. 3395 Hunslet 0-4-0DM of 1946
Stock UsedBrake Vans - RNAD 178 + RNAD 364

Trip 1
Platform13.35d
End of Line13.36 ~ 13.36
Platformnon-stop
upto Turntable13.37 ~ 13.37
Platform13.38a

Trip 3
Platform13.45d
End of Line13.46 ~ 13.46
Spur Line13.47 ~ 13.47
Main / Spur Jn13.48 ~ 13.48
Platformnon-stop
upto Turntable13.49a

Trip 5
Cab Ride
Middle of Turntable14.02d
Platform14.03a

The above courtesy of the excellent Six Bells Junction Website.

The notes about the lack of check rails make interesting reading okay as the Liskeard curve is not required fro normal passenger use but one wonders how they thought normal passenger trains reached Looe??
N.B. More pictures of this train in our Railtour section.

37146 TnT 37412 Liskeard { 1Z27 F&W The Pixie Returns } 231094 Copyright Steve Widdowson

37412 TnT 37146 Liskeard { 1Z27 F&W The Pixie Returns } 231094 Copyright Steve Widdowson. The train comes to a stand and the passengers take the obligatory walk around to the Looe branch platform.

37412 TnT 37146 arrive at Coombe junction halt, on the Looe Branch { 1Z27 F&W The Pixie Returns } 23rd October 1994 Copyright Steve Widdowson

37412 TnT 37146 passes Sandplace on the Looe Branch { 1Z27 F&W The Pixie Returns } 23rd October 1994 Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Steve was well positioned for this one as the Pixie returns continues on to pass over Terras Crossing before returning to Liskeard. 23rd October 1994. Copyright Steve Widowson.

The final view of this selection shows the length of the train as it returns towards Liskeard. 23rd October 1994. Copyright Steve Widdowson.

Many thanks Steve.

1st September 2020

1/9/2020

Out in the twilight
David Tozer

Taken at 19.40 in the fading light. GWR route learner/refresher approaches Exhibition Way overbridge, Exeter. 150248 was working the 1745 5Z31 Castle Cary - Exeter (New Yard). Dave

150248 1st September 2020 Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David - taken 1 and a half hours ago!!

Crewe Coal Sidings (DRS) to
Devonport Royal Dockyard
Roger Winnen

Quite a number of Railway Enthusiasts gathered at Keyham this lunchtime for the run of 2 Class 66s on a training run into Devonport Dockyard. 66122 in DBS Livery together with 66425 in DRS Livery.
Craig Munday travelled up from Cornwall as part of the organisation (MOM) operating the ground frame etc. Problems arose moving the points after such a longtime out of use, however it came right in the end. The engines were split on the branch and then recoupled before entering the Dockyard for a short stay. The return journey via St Budeaux Victoria Road reverse Plymouth to Bridgewater.

200901a 66122 in DBS Livery together with 66425 in DRS Livery stands in the through road at Plymouth Station on route to Devonport Royal Dockyard. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901b Looking from the other end sees 66425 in the smart DRS Livery. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901c The pair are seen arriving at the junction for the Dockyard Branch. Note the missing rail on the crossover. This crossover has had little use for a number of years, so it was removed by Network Rail. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901d Action at the junction with the orange army, Craig Munday was the MOM in attendance seen lower left by the now enclosed ground frame. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901e The Two Class 66s enter the branch which hasn't seen traffic for a number of years. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901f On the Dockyard Branch with the sign 'End of Staff Section. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901g An uncoupling exercise was carried out as this photograph shows before both engines went into the yard. Unfortunately it is now impossible to take a photograph looking in the opposite direction.as the original fence has now been covered complete with timber. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901h Leaving the branch and unable to use the crossover the engines headed for St Budeaux Victoria Road to return on the up main to Plymouth Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

200901i Returning from St Budeaux the pair crosses the abandoned crossover heading to Plymouth & Bridgewater. Copyright Roger Winnen

Roger reports to be very tired after another long day with his camera - well done and thanks Roger. A rare and interesting operation.

Cogload
HST & Crewe to Devonport working
Bill Elston

Over at sunny Cogload this morning. Photo 1 shows 2C67 Cardiff – Taunton, led by 43122 Dunster Castle, with still unnamed 43005 bringing up the rear. Even GWR green appears half decent in the sun ! Close behind were DBC 66122 with DRS 66425 working from Crewe to Devonport Dockyard. Best wishes, Bill