Blog Archives

Sunday 10th September 2023

10/9/2023

China Clay Gala 2023
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th September
Photographs by Jon Hird Mark Lynam & Roger Winnen

230909h A quick dash across the road to catch the returning special. Copyright Roger Winnen

5553 Working hard on the climb to Bodmin General. Copyright Jon Hird

For further photographs of the China Clay Gala 2023
Click Here for Features Item 2322 August to December 2023 and scroll down to the bottom of the page

The Statesman Railtour Shrewsbury to Penzance and Return
Saturday 9th September 2023

The Statesman Railtour passes Cockwood Harbour. Copyright Roger Salter

The Statesman at Penzance Copyright Mick House

For more pictures of this railtour CLICK HERE for Railtours August 2023 onwards

The Blue Pullman Paignton to Fort William
Andrew Triggs

43047 leading the LSL charter at Platform 4 at Taunton Copyright Andrew Triggs

43046 on the rear of 1Z43 05.46 Paignton-Fort William 'Blue Pullman' 3 day Scotland excursion at fog bound Taunton at 07.10 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many thanks Andrew.

Somerset HSTs
Andrew Triggs

Evening Keith/Roger,
Spent this afternoon driving around West Somerset endeavouring to capture the planned final Sunday Cross Country HST workings, as the final sets are due to be retired from traffic next Saturday 16th September, the weather eventually breaking around lunch time into a lovely late Summer's afternoon..What will we do when they're gone? Cross Country's poor old 'Customers' having to tolerate 'Voyagers' only from next Sunday onwards...premium prices for awful traction and even worse comfort. Anyway, enclosed 5 shots for CRS
All the Best
Andrew

XC 43304 (with 43303) passing Silk Mills Bridge, Taunton, working 1V48 08.11 Leeds-Plymouth, running 15 late at 12.45 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Going away from Norton Fitzwarren, XC 43303 (with 43304 leading) working 1S55 14.27 Plymouth-Edinburgh, running 7 late at 15.57 Copyright Andrew Triggs

GWR 43092 (with 43154) running 17 late at 16.12, working 2C79 14.00 Cardiff Central-Plymouth, passing Norton Fitzwarren Copyright Andres Triggs

XC 43321 'Dusty Bin' leading 1V56 09.08 Edinburgh-Plymouth (with 43378) passing Norton Fitzwarren at 16.21 (1 late) Copyright Andrew Triggs

In between the HST 'chasing' I popped over to Crowcombe Heathfield, WSR as the 12.20 Minehead-Bishops Lydeard service arrives Tender first Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

1962 Part 41
The Life of GWR Prairie Tank 4555
Michael L. Roach

The Great Western Railway's small prairie loco 4555 would become well-known towards the end of its service with British Railways and after its subsequent preservation. The loco was built in September 1924 and was one of a batch of six constructed that month numbered 4555 – 4560. Two of the six locos went new to Laira and four went to Tyseley – a shed that would become very familiar to 4555 many years later. Two of the batch have been preserved i.e 4555 and 4560. 4555 was condemned by British Railways in December 1963. During its 39 years of service the loco was quite nomadic moving sheds a total of 7 times accordng to one source but another quotes 13 moves just after nationalisation, including 8 between Machynlleth and Pwllheli in 4 years. 4555 spent a total of 17 years at those two sheds working trains up and down the Cambrian Coast. I was privileged to see 4555 working out of Laira because it has become one of the most well-known tank engines and non-named engines in preservation.
My interest in 4555 began when it moved to Plymouth on 19 May 1962 because that was where I lived at the time. It would be in service at Laira for about a year and was condemned on 2 December 1963. I photographed 4555 for the last time on 8 June 1963 so it may have not done much work in the last few months. From May until December 1962 the loco would be mostly hauling passenger and freight trains over the 34 miles between Plymouth and Launceston via Tavistock South until the line closed. In the first couple of months of 1964 the loco was hauled away to Swindon Works for a light overhaul before entering preservation in the spring of 1964.
For the next 18 months 4555 was based at Tyseley Shed in Birmingham which was still open to steam at the time and the loco operated some railtours while based there. The first one was on 2 May 1964 when it hauled a railtour from Merthyr to Brecon and back, in tandem with pannier tank 3690 on the weekend the line closed to freight (it had already closed to passengers at the end of 1962). The loco did not formally change ownership until 19 May 1964. The new owners paid just £750 for the engine which included the cost of the overhaul and a spare boiler which surely was the bargain of the twentieth century. While the loco was based at Tyseley it was used on all sorts of normal BR trains. It is worth looking at the story of 4555 on the website preservedbritishsteamlocomotives.com
Note: This is a revised version of an article which first appeared in the Newsletter of the Norfolk Railway Society

MLR / 21 August 2023

5728 4555 Leaves Yelverton Tunnel and passes through Yelverton Station with 11 wagons on the 2.20pm freight from Launceston to Tavistock Junction Yard running a few minutes late at 4.28pm on 22 September 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7255 4555 powers down the bank between Lipson Junction and Laira Junction past Laira steam shed on the 12.14pm SO Plymouth to Launceston train on 28 July 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7310 4555 stops at Coryton with the 3.05pm Plymouth to Launceston train on 18 August 1962., Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7312 4555 sets out from Coryton with the 5.40pm Launceston to Plymouth on 18 August 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Michael we look forward to Part 42.

Comment on the current livery on
4555
Roy Hart

Dear Keith,
Further to Mike Roach's nice piece on 4555, I notice that the poor little engine has been decked out by its present owners in an absurd parody of Great Western livery. When purchased back in 1964 by the late Pat Whitehouse, she was painted in unlined green - correct GW livery for tank engines. Now, she carries a copper capped chimney (she never carried one in service. Only the first dozen of the class did, but they were removed before the first world war), Her tanks are adorned with the full GWR insignia (only carried, between the wars by Castles and Kings) The final insult to aesthetics ithat the lining goes round the back of the bunker!
I suppose that one could say "It's their engine,,," etc., but alternatively, it just looks ridiculous.
Roy Hart

Thanks Roy - all the best.

Above and alongside at
Staffords Bridge
Paul Barlow

Out and about with Pauls wonderful flying machine.

166220 + 166206 Exeter to Cardiff Staffords Bridge approaching 9 September 2023 Copyright Paul Barlow.

D1924 and 47712 The statesman The 05.00 Shrewsbury to Penzance at Staffords Bridge near Exeter. 9th September 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43098 43162 0800 Cardiff to Penzance approaches Staffords Bridge 9 September 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43122 43094 0930 Plymouth to Bristol ECS 5C73 passes over Staffords Bridge 9 September 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43154 43092 on the 06.40 Penzance to Cardiff passes over Staffords Bridge 9th September 2023

43321 43378 0611 Leeds to Plymouth 1V44 in the vicinity of Staffords Bridge 9 September 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks indeed Paul - superb pictures.

Dawlish & Cockwood
Bill Elston

Hi Keith,

I managed to escape from Somerset today and visit Dawlish and Cockwood to observe the last day's workings of the Summer timetable,
especially those involving HSTs
Photos attached are of,
1) Blue 150219 passing Coryton Cove,
2) 43155/153 on Exd -Pnz
3) Turbo 165131 on Paignton-Exmouths
4) 43378/321 on Plymouth-Glasgow
5) 66101 on Riverside to St Blazey china clay empties. atCockwood
6) 43303/304 on Edinburgh-Plymouth, at Cockwood

Hope these are of interest

Cheers, Bill Elston.

Photo 1) Copyright Bill Elston

Photo 2) Copyright Bill Elston

Photo 3) Copyright Bill Elston

Photo 4) Copyright Bill Elston

Photo 5) Copyright Bill Elston

Photo 6) Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill - you obviously had a good day.

More Lyme Regis
Colin Burges

Dear Keith,

A return to Lyme Regis on Tuesday 7th September 2023 has enabled me to fill the gaps in my "scouting" piece.

There is mention of Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Meryl Streep, and also a detailed look at Cannington, particularly the less obvious stabilization work.

https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/89-lyme-regis/

Colin

The few words above are insufficient to advertise what is a very detailed coverage of the Lyme Regis branch - I urge one and all to use his link - you'll be fascinated I can assure you. KJ Highly recommened.

Pilning signs
Phil Smith

Both photos Copyright Phil Smith

Apologies Phil for not including the second picture.

Saturday 9th September 2023

9/9/2023

Exeter & District Model Engineering Society's
shed and siding opening.
A very colourful review and report
Mick House and David Tozer

Ajax with Samuel Woolley driving. Copyright Mick House

Southern 2-4-2 762 Lyn. Copyright David Tozer

The new shed is declared open. Copyright Mick House.

For a full report with many pictures taken on this delightful day very much enjoyed by one and all please click here for our Pleasure & Light Railways section - the items are in alphabetical order so please scroll to Exeter and Disrict Model Engineering Society.

Many thanks to Mick House and David Tozer.

Bude Sand Railway
Andrew and Diane Jones

Dear Keith and Valerie,
I had read about the sand railway before and the remains that were uncovered a few years back but didn't realise that there was a substantial length embedded in the canal embankment.
Although not the original rails they date back to 1924 and were last used in the 40's. Interestingly the sleepers are steel and considering the corrosive atmosphere they have stood up well.
Bude was very busy on the day we visited and I could only think that Beeching did very little to promote North Cornwall which until recently had suffered for many years in the aftermath of such short sighted decisions.
Very best wishes Andrew and Diane

Bude Sand Railway 3rd September 2023. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Bude Sand Railway - note the steel sleepers. 3rd September 2023. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Many thanks Andrew - hope Diane enjoyed her swim!

From the Phil Smith Collection

Seen at Pilning station on the 3d September 2023. Copyright Phil Smith. No idea how long the notice has been there.

Nearing the end - picture at Patchway staiton. Near the end of my road. Copyright Phil Smith

Thanks Phil.

8th September 2023

8/9/2023

Our first Cornwall Railway Society indoor meeting of the autumn will take place on Saturday 16th September 2023 the third Saturday of the month. From October we revert back to the second Saturday of the month

Latest HST News
Guy Vincent

Further news regarding the Castle class phased rundown.

43009 was reportedly stopped and stored on Tuesday evening (5th). The last reported working was 2C96 2230 Cardiff Central - Bristol Temple Meads. Unsure of its current location.

43010 received a day's stay of execution, finally retiring last night (Thursday 7th) after arriving at Plymouth with the 2C89 1900 ex Cardiff Central.

43016 is reportedly due to be retired on Sunday 10th.

43186 has re-entered traffic following repairs.

Worth looking out for 43027 and 43029 as these should be the final pair of 1976 WR power cars to remain in service, the only other one from that series currently in traffic, 43042, is due to be put onto mileage restricting duties.

Two sets of coaching stock are due to be stood down, GW12 on Monday 11th and GW16 on Sunday 10th. Certain other sets are due to be reformed for maintenance and operational reasons.

Two paths have appeared on Realtime Trains, one for Monday 11th: 5Z12 0958 Laira - Minehead (WSR) the other for Tuesday 12th: 5Z25 0958 Laira - Minehead (WSR), arr 1517. These are reportedly for movement of redundant Castle sets for storage.

Daily reports of Castle allocations usually get posted onto IO Groups SW-SWRG and GWG and are of course normally available on Real Time Trains.

Hopefully of use to those currently following the HST scene in the West of England.

Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy, we are extremely grateful for your up to date information during these sad times.

Help requested
Andew Jenkins

Good Morning
I came across your interesting website whilst researching the location of the attached photograph which is dated 1907. It depicts a watermill in very close proximity to a single track railway.
I have shared this with a number of rail / industrial groups and whilst none has been able to identify the precise location the general consensus is that it could be Cornwall or Devon, possibly the Wenford Bridge line or a mineral railway

If you can help with any information I would be very grateful

Many thanks

Andrew Jenkins

A most interesting photograph - worth taking a close look at - note the smartly dressed gentleman complete with top hat.

Many thanks Andrew - we'll see what comes of it, please reply to the CRS and Andrew Jenkins.

Help supplied
It's near Bodiniel Mill.
Andrew and Diane Jones

Hello Keith, please find attached photograph taken at or near Bodiniel Mill just north of Dunmere....although now much changed with the original building long since demolished it is the track that gives the position away with an oblique crossing which is rare in railway terms.
A building above Helland Bridge looks similar but is not on a curve and the lane is at 90 degrees.
Hope this helps

Best wishes Andrew and Diane

The crossing at site of Bodineliel Mill on the Bodmin and Wenford Railway. Copyright Andrew and Diane Jones.

Many thanks for your reply Andrew - as suspected it lies on your local branch.

Some more on this subject:

If Andrew consults Mike Messenger's excellent history of the Bodmin and Wadebridge railway # pages 140 -141 he will find his photograph plus another. It is described as BERRYCOOMBE MILL. There is an accompanying extract from the OS map (1881 edition) showing the mill.
The trackbed is the original from the 1830s. This was all swept awahy when the London and South Western railway took over and rebuilt the Bodmin North branch on a new deviation.

# The Bodmin and Wadebridge Railway. Michael Messenger. Twlveheads Press 2012 ISBN 978 0 906294 76 5

Roy Hart.

Views from
Langstone Rock
Paul Barlow

New views as Paul drones around that famous rocky point - the venue for so many railway photographers.

43304 43303 0612 Leeds to Plymouth passes Langstone rock Dawlish Warren 6th September 2023

43010 and 43042 work the 0900 Cardiff to Penzance Langstone rock This was 43010's penultimate day in service 6th September 2023.

Pauls drone climbs to new heights and distances away from dry land to get the two remarkable views below.

43094 and 43122 work the 0740 Penzance to Cardiff past Langstone rock Dawlish 6th September 2023

43094 and 43122 work the 0740 Penzance to Cardiff past Parsons tunnel 6th September 2023

Many thanks indeed Paul for your amazing views.

Thought and report from
Par
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger and Keith,

While I was out yesterday photographing dismembered CDA wagons, I noted that the info source which erroneously reported an 18-car IET on the Newquay branch - Realtime Trains (the formation graphic was quite an eyeful!) - was also showing 43010/43042 as working the 2P20 15.15 Penzance - Plymouth. I remembered that Guy Vincent's latest HST update had mentioned that 43010 was to be taken out of service during September so I decided to walk around to Par station to photograph it there at 16.17. After all, this might just be its final run - and so it was.

Thanks to Guy's great 'intel' I was able to take a last photograph of one of the power cars of the original set 253005, which together with 253001 had been the very first production sets I had seen, parked on Bristol St Philips Marsh depot on 31st July 1976, so I was particularly pleased to get this photo. 43010's excellent external condition made it hard to believe that it was just entering its final hour in passenger service. According to Guy's info its partner 43042 is also now on restricted duties.

Best regards,

Neil Phillips

43042 leads 2P20 15.15 Penzance - Plymouth into Par. 6th September 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.

43010 tailing 2P20 15.15 Penzance - Plymouth at Par on its final passenger duty. 6th September 2023

Your nostalgia Neil is shared, I think, by many enthusiasts and the travelling public. I travelled up to Exeter a couple of days ago out by IET and return by HST, gone very soon will be the quiet carriages of the HST to be replaced by the rumbling of the underfloor diesels, gone too will be the comfortable seats of the HST's being replaced by the hard IET seats - we seem to be moving backwards in rail travel. Remember the low back seats in the HST's seems like a good friend is slowly dying.

But wait a minute - or a day
Bodmin Parkway
Howard Sprenger

Hi Keith,

Further to Neil Phillips's photographs of 43010/43042 at Par on 6th September, I can confirm that they were in use again yesterday (7th September). They are seen here at Bodmin Parkway on the 1015 Plymouth-Penzance service, presumably returning later in the day. So... was this the set's last day...?

Best regards, Howard.

Bodmin Parkway 7th September 2023 (1) 43010 Copyright Howard Sprenger.

Bodmin Parkway 7th September 2023 (2) 43042. Copyright Howard Sprenger.

Keep watching folks - thank you Howard.

Colin Pidgeon
views traffic at
Swindon

Click on a picture to obtain an enlargement. All pictures copyright Colin Pidgeon.

3 Photos 37610 t&t 37116 on 1Z23 Bristol Kingsland Road to Derby RTC.
60015 shunting 6V53 Boston Docks to Swindon Stores.
66532 on 4L36 Wentloog to Felixstowe.
70803 on 6M50 Westbury to Bescot.
756104 & 756105 on 3Q37 Swindon to Newport milage accumulation run

Many thanks to both Ken and Colin Pidgeon for the above.

Thursday 7th September 2023

7/9/2023

Photographs of Hayle and Gwinear Road
From the Trevor Smitheram Collection

A Warship Diesel Hydraulic departs from Hayle Wharves crossing the swing bridge and the former A30 road before climbing to Hayle Station. Trevor Smitheram Collection

This is believed to be Hayle Station path. Trevor Smitheram Collection

Gwinear Road goods yard July 1960 Trevor Smitheram Collection

Many Thanks to Trevor Smitheram

Roaming around Devon with a Ranger Ticket
Final Part on 3rd Sept 2023
Roger Winnen

230903L The 08.11 Leeds to Plymouth arrives behind celebrity Power Cars 43008 43007 Copyright Roger Winnen

230903m Power Car 43007 on the rear. This set is now out of service until the final day of thr scheduled run takes place on September 16th and the Farewell Tour of September 26th being sold out.. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903o South West Trains old livery at Exeter St David,s Copyright Roger Winnen

230903p The new Marsh Barton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903q Marsh Barton Station looking towards Exeter. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903r Marsh Barton looking towards Exminster. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - you certainly get around- well done.

CDA scrapping commences
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger and Keith,
Out and about this afternoon to witness a reported 18-car IET coming off the Newquay branch (no, of course it wasn't - 9-car only.......but I had to be there just in case), I looked over the gate at the far end of St Blazey Yard, close to Middleway Crossing, and noticed that, as far as I could tell from that distance, the first two long-stored CDA wagons have been dismantled - the hopper bodies have been taken off and one of the underframes has already been cut in half.

I wonder whether St Blazey yard will lose some sidings once the CDAs have all departed (one way or another.....)

Of the seven 'new' bogie wagons which arrived recently, one of the two JIAs is in St Blazey yard with newly white-painted handrails, lamp brackets etc; the other JIA is near the turntable on the end of the five JGA types which are being put through the wagon repair shop. The two JIAs already carry Imerys logos, having been stored in the usual condition for Imerys JIAs! The JGAs are mostly white which is probably the best colour for china clay wagons.....

Best regards, Neil Phillips.

CDA Scrapping operations at St Blazey. 6th September 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips

A closer view. Scrapping operations at St Blazey. 6th September 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Neil has already written us a most detailed article on the history of the CDA's - this to be found in our features section item '2320 China Clay Wagons - a brief look back - A History of the humble CDA. Neil Phillips'
To see this item please click here and scroll as necessary.

Many thanks for your continued reports and observations in the Par and St Blazey areas. These are much appreciated.

Also Re the CDA fleet.
Farewell CDA's
Paul Stanford

Paul is to be be congratulated on a lengthy and well illustrated artice under the title above. This highly recommended article to be found in the current edition (September 2023) of the Railway Magazine. Also congratulations to our local photographer Craig Munday who has provided many illustrations within this detailed report.

Many thanks to the 'Railway Magazine, Paul Stanford and Craig Munday.

More sad notes
Last day in traffic
Guy Vincent

On what was reportedly its last day in traffic, 43010 Lydford Castle at Bristol Temple Meads heading 2C69 0900 Cardiff Central - Penzance with stock set GW08 (49117 48122 48123 48124) and 43042. The final public working on today's turn was 2P20 1515 Penzance - Plymouth (arr 1718) followed by 5P20 1755 Plymouth - Laira (arr 1832) and, presumably, storage. Another one from the initial WR fleet with almost 47 years service to its credit, part of 253005 with partner 43011, sadly lost in the 1999 Ladbroke Grove collision.

With regrets.... Guy Vincent

43010 & 43042 Bristol TM 2C69 0900 Cardiff C - Penzance 6th September 2023 Copyright Guy Vincent

43010 Lydford Castle (last day in traffic) Bristol TM 2C69 09.00 Carfiff to Penzanc Wednesay 6th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy.

More sightings around
Bristol T.M.
Guy Vincent

Hello Keith / Roger

Some sightings at Bristol Temple Meads this morning - (7th September 2023). Saphos Trains charter 1Z27 0631 Worcester Shrub Hill - Plymouth 'The Mayflower' headed by 47805 (running as D1935) and tailed by 47593. At Taunton LMS 46100 'Royal Scot' replaced 47805 with 47593 staying at the the rear for assisting over the Devon banks.

Cross Country HST headed by 43304 on the 1V46 0612 Leeds - Plymouth with 43303 at the back. Sadly the retro-liveried pair (43007 43008) were not in use today.

Castle set headed by 43162 tailed by 43098 arriving with the 2U10 0540 Penzance - Cardiff Central.

43098 again passing through Bristol with the 2C75 1200 Cardiff Central - Taunton.

Guy Vincent

Bristol TM 47805 1Z27 0631 Worcester Shrub Hill - Plymouth 6th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Bristol TM 47593 rear of 1Z27 0631 Worcester Shrub Hill - Plymouth. 6th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Bristol TM 43304 1V46 0612 Leeds - Plymouth. 6th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Bristol TM 43162 2U10 0540 Penzance - Cardiff. 6th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Bristol TM 43098 2C75 1200 Cardiff - Taunton. 6th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy, a bumper bundle - much appreciated.

Also on the 6th - The Golden Hind.
Brent
Trevor Tremethick

Saphos Trains completely caught me out today and I missed the down train, hearing the whistle as it passed Laira Jct.

A dash out to Brent got a few shots (attached). My third near miss of the season saw a Pride liveried IET disappearing under the bridge as the Scot approached. That might have been an interesting shot for this day and age!

The 1Z28 1600 Plymouth to Worcester Shrub Hill (according to Railway Herald called The Golden Hind) had a 33 minute late start from North Road because (according to those on the bridge with me) there was a medical emergency on the train. That’s spoiled someone’s day out and I hope they will be OK.

I seem to remember when the old Golden Hind came in back in the day, it was diagrammed for Western haulage..... 1964? The first one waved off by the Second Sea Lord in the absence of Sir Francis Drake.

Where once Kings and Castles ruled the Devon banks, now we have Duchesses and Royal Scots, I’m not complaining though!

Best wishes all, Trevor Tremethick.

66101 on the up clay at Brent 6th September 2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

2C77 1300 Cardiff Central to Penzance (43029 and 43198) at Brent 6th September 2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick.

A fine sght - 46100 on up Golden Hind 1Z28 1600 Plymouth to Worcester Shrub Hill at Brent Copyright Trevor Tremethick.

1A92 1415 Penzance to London Paddington (800311) Brent 6th September 2023. Copyright Trevor Tremethick.

Thanks Trevor - glad you 'went to Brent.

Wednesday 6th September 2023

6/9/2023

Roaming around Devon
with a Ranger Ticket
Part 2
Roger Winnen

230903f Viewed from the footbridge at Okehampton the line continues to Meldon (not in use) Copyright Roger Winnen

230903g The return service to Exeter awaits departure from Okehampton. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903h Signs of the amenities available at Okehampton

230903i The Bullied Buffet at Okehampton. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903j Connect to Bude, will it ever happen!. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903k The return service arrives at Okehampton with the connecting bus service standing i outside the station building Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger.

All friends at
Penmere Platform
Karl Hewlett

Dear Keith,

Regarding the article in the CRS about the 'Friends Of Penmere 30th Anniversary Gala', your roaming reporter Roger Winnen had to dodge the brief but brisk rain showers we had on the day and also caught our free coach service to Penryn, so I didn't have much time to ask if he could get a group photo of the friends. I wondered if you could please put in the article a group shot of the friends I obtained afterwards?

In the image left to right are: Karl Hewlett (myself), Steve Lloyd, Janet Peacock, Phyllis Lloyd, Rosemary Ball, John Ball and David Bishop. We have another two members not in the shot, David Peacock and Daniel Cummings. In the image are three of the original working members from 1993, Karl, Steve and John. I was just 12 years old when I started, possibly the youngest on the National Network and it would not be allowed these days, I believe the minimum requirement age now is 16.

Regards

Karl.

A smashing group photo of a great and memorable day at Penmere Platform. Copyright Karl Hewlett.

Thanks Karl - the picture will be added to the article in due course. Friends of Penmere Platfrom are friends of the CRS of course.

Along Dawlish way
Paul Barlow

Six feet take a paddle as GWR Castle set 43027 43187 on the 10.50 Penzance to Cardiff approaches Parsons tunnel. Copyright Paul Barlow

43239 43303 Parsons Tunnel on the 06.06 Edinburgh to Plymouth 1V50 23rd August 2023 Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Murder
Bodmin General

Bodmin 5th September 2023. Copyright Chris Bellett.

Hot off the press this one. Tuesday evening 05 September. 2030 hours Murder Mystery service Bodmin General to Paris via Channel Tunnel (actually got no further than Bodmin Parkway and had to turn back).
Take Care,
Chris Bellett, Semi-Retired S&T Enginee, B&WR Signalman, CRS Member

Thanks Chris - I hope you focussed on who the murderer was?

Tuesday 5th September 2023

5/9/2023

Roaming around Devon
with a Ranger Ticket
Part 1
Roger Winnen

230903a Join the queue for the 08.15 Penzance to Paddington service. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903b 150243 Departs Dawlish with a service to Paignton. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903bb The new and the old at Dawlish. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903c Cross Country Voyager the 09.30 Penzance to Edinburgh passes Dawlish. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903d The new Dawlish. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903dd The new bridge at Dawlish awaits its customers. Copyright Roger Winnen

230903e Passing the Railway Club at Exeter St Thomas. Copyright Roger Winnen

10 minutes at
Treesmill
Jon Hird

Please find attached two photos taken just 6 minutes apart earlier today (4th Sept. 2023) at Treesmill.

The first of 43155 (with 43153 on the other end) working the 11:50 Penzance to Plymouth service (With a mystery photographer on the bridge if you look closely!).
Then 66190 hot on its heels en route for Fowey via Lostwithiel with 13 JIA’s full of white gold! (I guess the photographer wasn’t into 66’s as he seems to have vanished in this photo!).

Nice to have a bit of sunny weather up here in mid-Cornwall after what feels like an eternity of gloom and Cornish ‘mizzle’!

All the best, Jon

Treesmill with a mystery photgrapher. 4th September 2023. Copyright Jon Hird

66190 at Treesmill. 4th September 2023. Copyright Jon Hird.

Thanks Jon. Sorry no idea who the mystery photographer is.

Chacewater - Newquay remnents
St Agnes & Goonbell
Howard Sprenger

Herewith three photos taken in August 1977 on the Chacewater to Newquay line. The station building at St Agnes still exists, surrounded by a small industrial estate, but when I returned to the site of Goonbell Halt a couple of years ago, the cutting had been filled in up to the level of the road bridge. I wonder whether the halt still lies beneath - I bet the platform does! By the bridge, some spear fencing and a gate still marked the entrance.

Best regards, Howard.

St Agnes 14th August 1977 (1) Copyright Howard Sprenger.

St Agnes 14th August 1977 (2) Copyright Howard Sprenger.

Goonbell Halt 14th August 1977. Copyright Howard Sprenger.

Many thanks Howard. Going past the Goonbell site recently on a U1C bus confirms the bridge wall and railings still exist - these can be seen on Google Earth street view. Agreed that the platform remains and I believe that the building was simply crushed by buiding waste being tipped in over it. The cutting towards St Agnes station and Goonbell is completly lost.

HST's
a long way from home
Bill Elston

Hi Keith,
For HST followers, the vessel, BBC Arkhangelsk carrying HST vehicles to Mexico, is now at anchor off Corpus Christi,USA, having arrived
on September 4 at 0237 UTC. Will any more make that trip??

Best wishes, Bill Elston

Many thanks for that Bill - thats about 4,238 miles from Laira as the 'crow flies' - some crow!

Monday 4th September 2023

4/9/2023

Special Notice
Our first indoor meeting of the CORNWALL RAILWAY SOCIETY will take place on the 3rd Saturday September 16th 2023- This change is for just one month only

Aerial view at
Exeter
Paul Barlow

46100 Royal Scot on the 05.39 Bedford to Kingswear passes over Exwick flood channel on 2nd September 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

You are doing very well with your 'flying machine' Paul, many thanks for the views.

Visit to Wareham and the Swanage railway.
Paul Barlow

In the pouring rain a 4 car DMU arrives at Wareham station on the 10.44 from Corfe Castle.. Copyright Paul Barlow.

The 4 car DMU waits at Wareham station on the 1119 to Swanage 31 August 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

The Wareham leaflet - a copy by Paul Barlow.

On and above the
Swanage Railway
Paul Barlow

34028 Eddystone arrives on the 15,20 Swanage to Norden arrives at Corfe Castle 28th August 2023 Copyright Paul Barlow.

Another one of Paul's wonderful aerial views. 33111 on the 1700 Swanage to Norden leaves Corfe Castle station 28 August 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

33111 on the 1700 Swanage to Norden leaves Corfe Castle station 28th August 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow

Looks like you had a good visit Paul - many thanks to you.

Laira View
Trevor Tremethick

Hi Keith and Roger

Just a quick shot at just after 5pm (3rd September 2023) from my usual vantage point, following Guy’s usual excellent update. See below.

Tide coming in on the Plym, RFA Tidespring on C Buoy in the Sound. Laira Yard looking a bit sparse after the recent industrial action; at least one spare power car on the sidings. It looks like 43091 in the faded blue is still under the hoist. I think that’s a Castle set in the middle of the Yard, but what is the short one on the fifth track from Embankment Road? Looks like a spare power car but seems to have been showing tail lights for days!

Regards to all, Trevor Tremethick.

Many thanks Trevor, an excellent view but rather sad in a way.

Guy Vincents update repeated.  Castle class update Saturday 2nd September 2023

The Castle class fleet reduction continues with the following power cars recently removed from service:

43040 & 43097 last day in traffic 29th August.

43172 last reported workings took place on 14th August.

43192 and 43194 last reported workings took place on 24th August.

43097 and 43194 are believed to be having their power units exchanged, 43192 is believed to be surrendering its power equipment to 43186.

I have recently learned that 43010 and 43016 are due for storage during September and 43042 and 43094 are to be placed on restricted duties to save mileage. 43093 has been in similar status since June although repairs are underway. 43004, stored for some time now, is also understood to be under repair. This is the oldest PC at Laira (built in late 1975) and was originally part of HST set 253002 when it entered service at Bristol St Philips Marsh in September 1976.
The big question now hanging over the 'Castle' fleet is: How many more will be making the trip to Mexico? Obviously those that go need to be in good mechanical order so once stopped at Laira it remains to be seen if any will return to use in the west country or be sent for export.

Guy Vincent.

Rewe
David Tozer

Spotted at Rewe. 66740 and 66750 top and tail the 0740 Exeter (Riverside) to Eastleigh via Bristol, Westbury, Salisbury and Woking.

Dave Tozer

The early bird catches the worm. Thanks David.

Query answered - it is
Basingstoke
Edward Conroy

33104 & 33112 Oil - Fuel Tankers Query 13th March1981 Michael Forward

Good morning, The mystery photo in today’s post was taken at Basingstoke. The train is on the goods line which formerly ran on the north side of the station, avoiding the platform lines, connecting into the Reading line at the east end of the station. Regards Edward Conroy

Many thanks Edward.

Statistics
- over the period June to August 2023 we had 1,286 entries to our In box - more of course went to Roger and added of this some were his own.
Keep up the good work, keep them coming, many thanks to all.

3rd September 2023

3/9/2023

Saturday at
Exeter St Thomas
David Tozer

A few from Exeter St Thomas this morning: (2nd September 2023)

Photo (1) 800307 with the 0903 Paddington to Plymouth.
Photo (2) 800023 with the 0955 Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth.
Photo (3) 46100 ‘Royal Scot’ with the 0539 Bedford to Kingswear with 47593 on the rear. 46100 was standing in for 60007 ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’ which had encountered issues earlier in the week at Shrewsbury.
Dave Tozer

Photo (1) Copyright David Tozer

Photo (2) Copyright David Tozer

Photo (3) Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David, keep up the good work.

Castle Class Update
Guy Vincent

Castle class update Saturday 2nd September 2023

The Castle class fleet reduction continues with the following power cars recently removed from service:

43040 & 43097 last day in traffic 29th August.

43172 last reported workings took place on 14th August.

43192 and 43194 last reported workings took place on 24th August.

43097 and 43194 are believed to be having their power units exchanged, 43192 is believed to be surrendering its power equipment to 43186.

I have recently learned that 43010 and 43016 are due for storage during September and 43042 and 43094 are to be placed on restricted duties to save mileage. 43093 has been in similar status since June although repairs are underway. 43004, stored for some time now, is also understood to be under repair. This is the oldest PC at Laira (built in late 1975) and was originally part of HST set 253002 when it entered service at Bristol St Philips Marsh in September 1976.
The big question now hanging over the 'Castle' fleet is: How many more will be making the trip to Mexico? Obviously those that go need to be in good mechanical order so once stopped at Laira it remains to be seen if any will return to use in the west country or be sent for export.

Guy Vincent.

1) 43010 Lydford Castle at Bristol TM on Tuesday 29th August bringing up the rear of the 2U32 1650 Penzance - Cardiff Central headed by 43042 Tregenna Castle. Copyright Guy Vincent.

2 & 3) 43040 Berry Pomeroy Castle with Falklands 40th anniversary decals about to leave Bristol TM on Sunday 27th August heading the 2U20 1050 Penzance - Cardiff with 43097 Castle Drogo at the rear. Two days later both these PCs were taken out of service. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy - sadly the numbers decrease.

Mystery picture
Guy Vincent

Hello Keith / Roger
The photo by Michael Forward of the two class 33s published yesterday is a mystery as the station is definitely not Westbury although there are minor similarities. Notice the dead-end line to the left of the train with buffer stop at the other end and the sharp left-hand bend at the far end. There is no third rail present so this rules out most of the old Southern Region. The Bournemouth-Weymouth electrification was completed in 1988 with the South Hants (Eastleigh & St Denys - Portcreek & Farlington Jcns) scheme following in 1990 but I cannot place this location. Fareham can be ruled out as the bay platform is on the opposite side of the island. Can anyone help please?

Regards Guy Vincent.

33104 & 33112 Oil - Fuel Tankers Where is the Query 13th March1981. Copyright Michael Forward

Many thanks Guy we'll see what our viewers think.

Many thanks indeed for the mystery photo spotted by E Conroy

Good morning The mystery photo in today’s post was taken at Basingstoke. The train is on the goods line which formerly ran on the north side of the station, avoiding the platform lines, connecting into the Reading line at the east end of the station. Regards E Conroy

Saturday 2nd September 2023

2/9/2023

Meeth
then and now
Colin Burges

I forgot to say that at Meeth I took a shot from the lineside roughly where Mike Roach was standing when he took his "mystery" photo of a train at the platform, which was one of your items recently. I wondered whether you might do a "then and now" comparison.

Cheers, Colin.

Meeth June 1962. Copyright Michael L, Roach.

Meeth from an almost identical spot - how things change (For the worse!!) 2023 Colin Burges.

A zoomed in version from the above view shows Colin's bike propped against the platform.

Oh dear - many thanks Colin.

The 'New Order' at
Golant
Jon Hird

Please find attached a photo of 66190 nearing journeys end at Golant this afternoon. It was running very early due to the rail strike, which meant the sun was very head-on, this let me venture to the opposite side of the harbour for a bit of a change.

16 JIA’s today, still a little short of the tonnage a full rake of 38 CDA’s would have carried, perhaps when the previously stored JIA’s and JGA’s make it out we’ll see even longer rakes making the journey up and down the branches..?

All the best, Jon

Thanks Jon, unusual these days to see the view from the river side.

Cheesewring
Dale Chadwick

A nice day today so we decided to have a look around Minions and visit the Cheesewring.
I noted before leaving that the CRS had a trip there in 2003 and there were still some vestiges of rail in place.
Well it has become a little more overgrown since then (!) but still some metals in place - thought you might be amused by a photo of our dog Lulu about to cross the tracks near the entrance to the quarry. Hope there are no trains running today!

Thanks - glad you had a good day Dale - no no trains at Cheesewring - strike day!!!!

The CRS party on the 20th September 2003 - maybe you are in this group Dale. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Looking back.

Going back even further in time. Working at the Cheesewring Quarry. From the Alan Harris collection.

Thanks to Roger and Alan.

Friday 1st September 2023

1/9/2023

Super moons and sunsets
Craig Munday

Hi Keith

I've always found the allure of night photography exhilarating! Scenes looking one way during daylight can have a whole new dimension at night. This is particularly so when the moon plays ball. Today's modern DSLR cameras are wonderful at harnessing any light available. With a tripod and time exposure this can be exploited further. Taking the images in RAW format, it is then fascinating to spend time on your editing software to tinker and bring the image to life. Any errors you made on the night can be easily rectified, and certain areas enhanced or toned down with a bit of doctoring. A hand torch can be useful too giving the subject item a "wash" of light during the time exposure.

The recent bright moon prior to the "Blue Moon" event saw me grab some moonlit images around Par and St Blazey.

Also included are studies of the Shunting locos placed near the inspection pit at Goonbarrow whilst Wheal Henry siding was relaid. A couple of pictures of 66190 from last evening 30th are included with a startling sky to the west! The track renewal at Wheal Henry siding can be seen to good effect.

It was super to bump into Penzance Driver Derek Winn driving the up Night Riviera too last evening. He is seen aboard the loco prior to departure from Penzance.

Best wishes, Craig Munday

Many unusual and superb images frm Craig, please click on individual images to obtain a framed enlagement.

Many thanks Craig, you certainly get around, at all hours. Your report is very much appreciated.

A festival of Pictures
and detailed reports
Colin Burges

On 28/08/2023 00:46, Colin Burges wrote opening up his E-Mail provided links to Colin's amazing records of his railway oreiented visits - these ar highly recommended to all.

Dear Keith,

A couple of my recent rides may interest some of your readers.
Barnstaple Junction to Okehampton
https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/87-barnstaple-junction-to-okehampton/

Not knowing what "stemming the tide" meant proves that I'm a landlubber. I let opinion creep into this piece when I question the value of cycle paths and insist that they should not be obstacles to railway reconstruction.

Visit to Ilfracombe
https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/88-ilfracombe/
Look out for the L. & B. buffer stop. Why is there an oddly-sited bus stop on Belmont Road in Ilfracombe?

My coverage of the Lyme Regis Branch is incomplete because of a flat battery in the camera https://www.teignrail.co.uk/scouting/89-lyme-regis/

Who has tried "The Ale Way" at Axminster?

Best wishes, Colin Burges.

Iam sure that you will all enjoy Colin's Jaunts as he leaves very few stones unturned in his explorations. Don't miss these - highly recommended. KJ

Speeding through Eastleigh
Michael Forward

Hello Roger,Thank you for dealing with the last pictures, here are two more, some more next week. Firstly we see 47060 speeding through Eastleigh with the 09.,40 Poole to Nottingham on 4th July 1981.

Passing through Basingstoke
Michael Forward

Roger, Here we see 33104 and 33112 with fuel tankers, possibly returning to Fawley passing through Westbury on 13th March 1981. This should read Basingstoke as identified by E Conroy Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

Plymouth & S Devon
Mark Lynam

On Monday 28th I had a trip into Devon to catch the Crosscountry celebrity powercars, 43007 + 43008 which were out that day. I then managed to get to Totnes for a quick visit on the South Devon Railway behind 33002 which was out on the final day of their Rails and Ales festival.

XC 43008 at Plymouth working 1V44 0612 Leeds to Plymouth. Copyright Mark Lynam.

43007 on the other end with the old Intercity house behind. Recently refurbished by Plymouth University for the training of medical students, now known as Intercity Place. 30th August 2023. Copyright Mark Lynam.

33002 seen at Buckfastleigh about to recouple to it's stock after running around to then form 1505 Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside. Copyright Mark Lynam.

33002 at Totnes Riverside departing on the 15.55 Totnes Riverside to Buckfastleigh. 30th August 2023. Mark Lynam/

1. XC 43008 arriving at Totnes working 1V44 0612 Leeds to Plymouth.

2. 43008 at Plymouth after arrival.

3. 43008 from platform 5.

4. 43007 on the other end with the old Intercity house behind. Recently refurbished by Plymouth University for the training of medical students, now known as Intercity Place.

5. I then got on the next London bound IET to get ahead of the XC set, getting off for a shot of it at Newton Abbot.

6. 33002 seen at Buckfastleigh about to recouple to it's stock after running around to then form 1505 Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside.

7. 33002 at Totnes Riverside departing on the 1555 Totnes Riverside to Buckfastleigh.

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