Blog Archives

September 30th 2025

30/9/2025

Royal Duchy and Goonbarrow dawn
Craig Munday

The Royal Duchy is pictured running into Par on 28th Sept behind 33025 and 33207. The station was busy with the branch in plat 3, and a down GWR service. Copyright Craig Munday.

A morning at Goonbarrow with the Tokens still in use saw a lovely sunrise. 29.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

The rising sun and morning mist creates a "sepia" effect surrounding 66054 dormant in the sorting sidings at Goonbarrow. 29.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

08752 and the famous telephone box at Goonbarrow during sunrise. 29.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks, Craig - an excellent selection of images.

The Cornwall Railway Society visits
The Lynton & Barnstaple Gala
Roger Winnen

On Saturday 27th September, a party from the Cornwall Railway Society travelled to the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway for their gala. A small selection of images are below, with a full set in our features section - click here.

Peter Pan on the goods. 27.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

The Queen and ladies in waiting. 27.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Pilton loco at Woody Bay. 27.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Double Headers arriving from Killington Lane. 27.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Faith from the Gartell Railway runs into Woody Bay. 27.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

For the full set of images, please click here.

The Bodmin Railway
Diesel Gala
Mark Lynam

Ex-Chiltern 'Bubble Car' 121020 works the first train of the day from Boscarne back up to Bodmin General. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Sentinel 'Denise' juggles the CDA's at Bodmin General. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

47306 arrives back with the service set, passing 'Denise' at Bodmin General. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Recently ex-works 08444 rounds 'Check Rail Curve', returning from Boscarne Junction with the GWR autocoach and 121020 in tow. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

37142 is under overhaul at Bodmin General and is seen to the left of this image, as 47306 and 50042 arrive back with a double headed service from Bodmin Parkway. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The great sight of two 'big diesels' side by side in Cornwall as 47306 runs round 50042 and the Mk1's at Bodmin General. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

An unusual sight and one of the gala highlights was the use of the lines autocoach and bubble car as a second set of coaching stock. 50042 leads the unlikely train down past Charlie's Gate en route to Bodmin Parkway. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Having run round at Parkway, 50042 leads the Autocoach and Bubble Car back up the gradient to Bodmin General. 28.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark - great shots.

New IET decals and Swindon variety
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Colin's photo of GWRs tribute to the England Women's Rugby Union World Cup winning team applied to 800316. This is the unit that also carries a tribute to The England Women's Football European Cup winning side on the other end. 28.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Waiting to leave from platform 2 was unit 166210 [2O14 Salsbury via Westbury] - a 3-car unit with all cars powered. 28.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Units 387151 and 387155 catch the sun as they enter platform 3 with 1L76 from Cardiff. 28.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

The second Llanelli to Hinksey siding train running as 6W04. Some interesting RTT - Bristol Parkway 53 LATE, Badminton at 53 LATE, Hullavington 14 LATE [thus I assume it did not stop in the loop there],and passed me at speed 14 LATE! 28.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken and Colin.

The West of England Steam Engine Society Rally
Alan Peters

Amongst the traction engines at the West of England Steam Engine society rally at Stithians showground over 15th, 16th and 17th of August was a miniature railway, unfortunately I have no idea of the details of the railway that was laid for train rides at the show. Maybe someone can help with the locomotive details. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan - a railway line we've never seen before! Can anybody help with an ID for the loco/home railway?

Out in the countryside
Jon Hird

43093 leads the midday Exeter St. Davids - Penzance service past Trenowth, Grampound. 29.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Suffering from mechanical problems and running late as a consequence, 800014 heads for Plymouth, passing Trenowth. 29.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Sea Wall HST
Paul Barlow

With driver giving a wave and a toot on the horn 43093 and 43092 pass Shaldon bridge on the late running 1527 Exeter to Penzance 28 September 2025. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43093 and 43092 pass Shaldon on the late running 1527 Exeter to Penzance 28 September 2025. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Great shots Paul - many thanks.

September 29th 2025

29/9/2025

Cornish Cromptons
Bill Elston, Martin Scane, Paul Barlow, Roger Winnen, Jon Hird & Clive Smith

On Sunday 28th September, with West Coast Railway Company still suffering from a lack of mainline, air-braked steam locos, the decision was made to replace the booked steam loco for the Railway Touring Company's 'Royal Duchy' railtour with a pair of Class 33's. 33025 and 'Slim Jim' 33207 did the honours, with assistance from 47812 on the rear.

The below text from Neil Phillips:

The unusual sight of Class 33s at Par on today's (Sunday's) 'Royal Duchy' railtour was not to be missed - I'd never previously seen the type in Cornwall at all so this was a first for me. There was even a little variety in the locomotives' body widths!

33025 was introduced as D6543 in February 1961 and has had an interesting career, acquiring the name 'Sultan' in August 1981 which it carried until January 1989. In the late 1990s 33025 and 33030 - the only '33' to receive EWS red/gold livery - found themselves briefly moving wagons around the Aberdeen area - a considerable distance from the Southern Region they were built to serve! Once acquired by WCRC 33025 gained the name 'Glen Falloch' in October 2006, which it no longer carries.

33207 (D6592) was one on the last 12 Class 33s constructed, to a narrower body profile to work the Tonbridge - Hastings line. It has been claimed that the amount of difficulty BRCW encountered in reducing the overall width from 9' 3" (2.81m) to 8' 8" (2.64m) for this final batch of Type 3s contributed to the company's financial woes and eventual collapse. In September 1989 and presumably due to the numerical similarity, 33207 received the 'Earl Mountbatten of Burma' nameplates and crests from 33027, which it carried for 7 years. In WCRC ownership it was named 'Jim Martin' in January 2006.

Passing through Bathpool today was the 1Z33, Bristol TM to Par, hauled by 33025 and 33207 (vice steam), and tailed by 47812. 28.09.2025, copyright Bill Elston.

47812 on the rear of the tour. 28.09.2025, copyright Bill Elston.

33035 and 33207 head past Langstone Rock (having just omitted their scheduled stop at Dawlish Warren) on 0848 Bristol to Par 47812 trailing on rear 28 September 2025. Copyright Paul Barlow.

1Z33 between Dawlish Warren and Dawlish today running some 12 minutes early. A group of people stood right in my way at the last moment necessitating a very rushed shot. 28.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

Interesting that the previous Exmouth to Paignton service was routed along the up line from Dawlish Warren to Teignmouth to allow the early running special to pass. This photo shows 2T11 running “wrong line”. 28.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

The 08.48 Bristol to Par arives at Plymouth. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

47812 tails the train into Plymouth. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Plymouth departure at 12.19 for Par. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

47812 tailing the train to Par as it departs Plymouth. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

33025 and 33207 cross Moorswater Viaduct. In exchange for the promise of some drone photos of his land, the farmer very kindly fetched and posed his vintage tractor for us! 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Taken just a few seconds after the previous photograph, the tour crosses Moorswater Viaduct. 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

33025 and 33207 run round the train at Par. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

33025 and 33207 waiting in the Up Goods Loop at Par station with the 'Royal Duchy', seen from the station footbridge. 28th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

With 33207 now leading and both engines fired up in preparation for the return working, an attempt to defeat the sun using vegetation! 28th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

The empty coaching stock movement from Par Up Goods Loop to platform 2. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

A reversal into platform 2 instead of 3 allowed the 'sunny side' to be photographed. 28th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

1Z34 waits for its 1710 departure from Par for Bristol. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

The 33's get underway and depart Par making a racket. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

47812 lends a hand on the rear of the train as it prepares to get stuck in to Treverrin bank. 28.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Tony Shore, Oli M and myself headed to Largin for the return. After a short wait chatting in the lovely sunshine, we were all rewarded with this scene. Having been slowed through the Glynn Valley due to a down GWR service being routed through the single line section ahead of it, the 33's are powering hard against the gradient, working to bring the train back up to line speed. 47812 on the rear was doing its fair share too. The hazy smoke can be seen all the way back to the start of the single line. 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A glorious evening and a half hour lay over at Plymouth station gave me the opportunity for two photos of the 1Z34 17.10 Par - Bristol Temple Meads return 'The Royal Duchy'. The first is at Keyham station. 28.09.2025, copyright Clive Smith.

The second shot was at Blatchford Viaduct near Ivybridge. The viaduct shot was taken a minute before the sun dipped below the horzon. 28.09.2025, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks all for the great photos - a pity that there was no steam, but the 33's were a good substitute. Hopefully 2026 is a better year for steam tours in Cornwall.

33025 - in a past life
Neil Phillips

33025 'Sultan' at Bristol Temple Meads. 3rd September 1984, copyright Neil Phillips.

Nameplate and crest attached to 33025 at Bristol Temple Meads. 3rd September 1984, copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks Neil - a smarter livery than the WCRC colours.

Re: S&D 200 - The 1975 Cavalcade
Paul Negus

Hi Jon and Roger

Michael's recent postings (click here) gave an interesting look at the variety of engines on display in 1975. Herewith my photos of some of those same locos attending The Great Gathering in this 200th Anniversary Year.

Firstly, Sir Nigel Gresley looking splendid as 60007 with commemorative speed plaque affixed to the cabside.

Then a classic Midland locomotive, No 1000, with compound expansive steam working and a shot of its magnificent Midland Railway Coat Of Arms. The loco is commemorated locally in Derby on the sign of The Brunswick Inn.

Finally, although Hardwicke did not appear, another of Webb's designs did. The splendid Coal Tank is one of my favourites as it displays the beauty of Victorian locomotives with its classic proportions topped by that tall chimney! I last saw her decades ago in Penrhyn Castle where the National Trust had given her a home after the Bangor Shed Master had succeeded in saving her from scrapping.

This is the only LNWR locomotive currently operational, thanks to new owners The Bahamas Locomotive Society. (The National Trust has donated the Coal Tank to the Society). It was in steam and used to demonstrate operation of the Litchurch Lane turntable - probably because it was the only loco in steam that was under the 50 Ton weight limit of the turntable!

The Coal Tank at 'The Greatest Gathering', Derby, 2025. Copyright Paul Negus.

The Coal Tank on the turntable at Derby. Copyright Paul Negus.

The Midland Compound at 'The Greatest Gathering'. Copyright Paul Negus.

LNER A4 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' at The Greatest Gathering, Derby, 2025. Copyright Paul Negus.

The Brunswick Inn. Copyright Paul Negus.

Many thanks, Paul. Interesting to see all these locos 50 years on from Mikes article. Thank goodness that people had the foresight to save them when they had the chance.

A couple more from
The Bodmin Railway Diesel Gala
Jon Hird

Sunday at the Bodmin diesel gala, for me, started with the hiss of air, the clank of buffers and the smooth purr of a Rolls Royce engine, as 'Denise' pulled into platform 2 with a rake of CDA wagons from Refuge Siding. 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

We can't reinvent history - but we can pretend! Railfreight Distribution liveried 47306 rolls into Bodmin General alongside 'Denise' and the CDA rake. Wenford - what could have been? 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

50042 heads down the Boscarne branch with the 1115 Bodmin General - Boscarne Junction. 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Adorned with headboards, 47306 slows to a stop as it arrives back at Bodmin General from Boscarne Junction. 28.09.2025. copyright Jon Hird.

Later in the day, the sun has come out. 50042 heads to Boscarne again, this time with the 1605 demonstration freight. 28.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

September 28th 2025

28/9/2025

Diesel Day at Bodmin
Plus some thoughts on the 200th Anniversary of rail
Andrew & Diane Jones

Unquestionably the class 47 is the face of archetypal 1960's diesel electric design, bringing together a standardised layout combined with the simplicity of electric transmission.

In terms of affection amongst the railway fraternity other designs such as the class 52's are more prominent, although they posed reliability problems from the start and as with most mechanical transmission systems there were more moving parts to go wrong!

Incidently talking about reliability, i cant help thinking that the class 175 dmu's are history repeating itself and I sometimes wonder that accepting hand me down infrastructure is sensible, especially as these units do not have the capacity of the hst's they are replacing and are already 25 years old and have a history of unreliability, possibly why Wales finally replaced them, only time will tell.

So it's fair to say that out of the many early diesel designs, diesel electric was always going to win in the race to replace steam.

512 class 47's were built making them the most numerous class of British main line diesel locomotives.

(To put this in context the Stanier Black Five totalled 842 and BR was responsible for the manufacture of almost 1000 steam locomotives to its own design between 1948 and 1960.)

Class 47 production spanned the mid 60's from 1962 to 1968. With a power output of 2,750, later derated to 2,580 bhp to improve reliability and a route availability of 6 or 7 the class was versatile both in its capability for freight and passenger duties.

From Wikipedia as of July 2024, 76 locomotives still exist as class 47s, 32 of which have been preserved including six maintained with mainline running certificates. A further 33 were converted to class 57s between 1998 and 2004. These statistics might well have changed recently so they are only a guide and there are many enthusiasts out there that probably have updates.

Progress has not been kind, with diminished freight traffic, especially coal, we will not see their like again and unfortunately time is not on their side, reliability is becoming an issue as we have seen with the 57s on the sleeper.

Over the years there has been much discussion about the 1955 modernisation plan with criticism of the huge waste of resources and the early scrapping of many modern steam designs and non standard diesels, some with service lives of less than 5 years, however the 47s have given sterling service and still have the potential to head turn in our rather bland and sterile railway environment.

Moving on, this being the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington railway (although wooden plateways existed in the 1600's), it is interesting to see how far technology has improved our transport options.

Michael Portillo, a champion of railways as a whole, gives a good potted history in a recent BBC documentary on the 200th anniversary and is well worth watching.

Generally in engineering terms prime movers such as steam and the internal combustion engine have not moved on since their invention, yes they have become more efficient but in reality until the intervention of electronics and new materials Stephenson and Nikolaus Otto would easily recognise many aspects of current products.

Even in the world of electric transmission, London had a fully working underground system in 1890 with the majority of services electrified by 1905 and how many of us remember the battery powered milk float!

So what of the future for our rail system?

Without freight there are many uncertainties.

HS2, even amongst die-hard railway enthusiasts, seems a colossal mistake given a fraction of the costs could improve rail connectivity throughout the UK.

Diane and I have been driving an electric car for 6 years now, and in that period even friends that thought we were raving mad are now considering embracing the new technology.

Recently I took our car for its annual service. The technician said it's embarrassing to charge a customer £200 when there is so little required to check; no oil change, regenerative breaking reducing brake wear to a minimum, no clutch, no gearbox, led lights, no coolant as we know it! Is anyone listening in the railway fraternity?

Railways certainly put Britain on the map, we led the world, but regulation and design is now impacting on its very survival.

Embracing pure electric traction has always been constrained by cost in the uk, unlike the rest of Europe, battery technology is as rare as the Bodmin beast especially as its relatively simple to retrofit in the average locomotive or powercar.

We are now seeing the next level electric road vehicles reminicent of 1920's challenging the very existence of our extensive rail network with the price of a rail ticket amounting up to six times the cost per mile of an EV.

Without a drastic reappraisal it's conceivable that we could even face another Beeching.

Railways were built to move large quantities of commodities and people from A to B cheaply at relatively slow speeds, but their vulnerability lies in the size of the UK.

It is still economic in countries like Australia and the USA to move freight over vast distances but try and transfer that concept to say moving Imeries waste sand to the south east and unbelievable as it may seem, there is no appetite to explore the options.

We desperately need victorian entrepreneurs and invention....

Returning to my original coverage of the class 47, to some extent it illustrates our love of the past, but until our railways catch up with the 21st century the vulnerability of running the sleeper with life expired locomotives poses the question - in reality is there really a future? And, will we be celebrating the 300th anniversary of our railways - or will it be the 100th anniversary of the EV!

47306 runs round its train at Bodmin General during the Bodmin Railway diesel gala. 27.09.2025, copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

The last train of the day is led up the hill by 50042 'Triumph' with 47306 adding some weight on the rear at Charlies Gate. 27.09.2025, copyright Andrew & Diane Jones.

Many thanks Andrew & Diane - some interesting thoughts and valid points, and some nice photos too.

A trip to Torbay
Guy Vincent

One of our occasional visits to Dartmouth this week was blessed with plenty of sunshine and plenty of railway interest.

Paignton Queen's Park. GWR 2-8-0 4247 stabled next to the car parking area with a modern classic Royal Enfield Himalayan E5 motorcycle close by for company. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

7827 Lydham Manor which was working trains to and from Kingswear. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

Shunter 03371 in Paignton yard. 'Built Swindon 1958' so as good a pedigree as any of the steam locos on the line! 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

37703 receiving fitter's attention inside the maintenance shed with 37275 behind. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

D3014 Samson with coaching stock. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy - looks like you picked a good day for a visit!

'Triumph' in action
Jon Hird

With this weekends diesel gala reportedly marking the end of 50042's time in traffic at Bodmin for the foreseeable future, it seemed important to capture some photographs of 'The Beast of Bodmin' before she is stopped for an overhaul.

Super power on the Wenford goods! 50042 leads the 1420 Bodmin General - Boscarne Junction demonstration freight away from Bodmin General on 27.09.2025. This section of line has recently been cleared by the railway and offers the passengers aboard a great view of the landscape. 27.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The goods arrive back at Bodmin General at 1457. 27.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

With the light starting to fade, 50042 rounds Quarry Curve with the 1620 Bodmin Parkway - Bodmin General. 27.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The same service from 'on high' as the train passes Walker Lines industrial estate. The Boscarne branch, namely the recently cleared spot where the first photograph in this article was taken, can be seen in the background. 27.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The driver applies full power as 50042 lifts the final train of the day away from Charlies Gate, the 1725 Bodmin Parkway - Bodmin General. On the lane, Andrew Jones is taking his photograph of 47306 and I am stood alongside keeping out of his shot! 27.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The Bodmin Railway diesel gala continues today, Sunday 28th September.

If you'd like to hear the hills of Mid Cornwall reverberating with the sound of a 2700bhp English Electric 16CVST this is likely your last chance for a while.

For more details, click here.

Swindon Sulzers & Freight
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

33025 and 33207 lead an empty coaching stock move through Swindon en route to Bristol to be used in tomorrows 'Royal Duchy' railtour. Seen passing Highworth Junction near Swindon Station. 27.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

47812 on the rear of the train. 27.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Over at Swindon Station, Colin catches 66021 on 6W04 Hinksey Yard to Llanelli. 27.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66051 t&t 66097 on 6W05 Hinksey Yard to Llanelli. 27.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks once again to 'The Swindon Duo'!

The class 33's in Kens photographs are heading to Cornwall today (28.09) - times etc. available in our Railtour Calendar.

Exeter St. Davids
Guy Vincent

150246 & 150233 on the 1640 Paignton-Exmouth standing where, in years long gone classes 42, 45, 46., 47, 50 and 52 used to wait daily on expresses bound for the south west. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

66054 arrived unexpectedly with china clay tankers bound for the adjacent Exeter Riverside yard. After dropping these off it returned west to Par. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

66054 waits to run into Exeter Riverside Yard to drop off the loaded JIA wagons. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

The contents of the loaded wagons, from Par Harbour. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

An Edinburgh - Plymouth Voyager, ex Avanti West Coast, arriving at P4. 24.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy - you timed it well to catch the freight.

Class 56 at Westbury
Guy Vincent

56051 back at Westbury again, currently stabled next to P3. No idea what it will be used for (yet). 26.09.2025, copyright Guy Vincent.

Thanks again Guy. Always good to see these out and about.

September 27th 2025

27/9/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 67
S & D 200 – The 1975 Cavalcade
Michael L. Roach

In Part 44, published on 22 May 2025, a first look was taken at the 200th anniversary of the modern railway when all the various components came together for the very first time in County Durham with the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway on 27 September 1825. I explained how I was there in 1975 timing my visit to see the cavalcade. In this part I showcase some more views of the engines in the 1975 Cavalcade which took place at Shildon on Sunday 31 August 1975 as the engines passed before me, and hundreds of others, in a cutting between Shildon and Heighington Stations, which was part of the original route.

GWR Manor-class 4-6-0 no. 7808 was built at Swindon in 1938, and was one of the last to be withdrawn from service. On 1 December 1965 there were just two Manors left, both at Gloucester Shed, and both withdrawn that month. The two were 7808 and 7829 with both being withdrawn on 31 December 1965. 7808 was purchased for preservation the following month while 7829 travelled down to Newport to be scrapped at Cashmore's. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

LNER V2-class 2-6-2 no. 4771 was built at Doncaster in June 1936. The class had 3 cylinders and a tractive effort of 33,730 lbs and was rated 6MT by BR. The class had a terrific reputation for haulage capacity, could deputise for the LNER Pacifics, and would regularly take 20 coaches out of Kings Cross during WW2. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

LNER A4-class 4-6-2 no. 4498 was built at Doncaster in November 1937. As 60007 the engine hauled the SLS's fiftieth anniversary tour on 23 May 1959 from Kings Cross to Doncaster and return, reaching the quite amazing speed of 112mph on the descent of Stoke Bank; believed to be the highest speed ever recorded on a railtour. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

GNR C1-class no. 990 “Henry Oakley” was built at Doncaster in 1898. The class were the first 4-4-2s in Great Britain. The engine was withdrawn in October 1937 and spent many years in York Railway Museum. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

LNWR Precedent Class 2-4-0 no. 790 “Hardwicke” was built at Crewe in 1873. With a tractive effort of just 10,918 lbs the class was rated 1P. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Midland Railway Johnson Compound 4-4-0 no. 1000 was built at Derby in 1902. The class was alleged to be the only successful “compound” engines to run in Great Britain. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks for another great article, Mike - much appreciated.

For more of Michaels articles, click here.

Night Freight
Alan Peters

A night time ballast drop between Liskeard and Par took place on 9th September 2025, with Freightliner 66544 running as 6C40 from Westbury and back, operated by Colas Rail as the locomotive is actually on hire for the RHTT season. The train is seen at Liskeard waiting to pick-up Network Rail staff. Copyright Alan Peters.

The train has now arrived into platform 2 at Par and is ready to run round to work back to Liskeard dropping ballast on 09/09/25. Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 6C40 headed by Freightliner 66544 has run round its train of auto-ballast hopper wagons at Par and is waiting to work back to Liskeard on 09/09/25. Copyright Alan Peters

Job done, 6C40 ready to depart Liskeard back to Westbury in the early hours of 09/09/25. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan - great night shots.

Devon 175 Training
Martin Scane & David Tozer

The second run today of the Plymouth to Plymouth via Exeter driver familiarisation services. Here’s 175114, with 175002 on the rear, rounding the curve onto the sea wall at Teignmouth at 14-27 this afternoon. I only just managed the shot before an oncoming service from Paddington arrived which would have blocked my view. 26.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

The second staff training run to Exeter with 175114 and 175002, the 1343 5Z22 Plymouth to Exeter St David's. 26.09.2025, copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks, both.

Southampton Memories
Michael Adams/Michael Forward

Hello all, great pictures on the site, as always, and nice for me to see Michael Nicholas - my spotting friend from Penzance.

Here are two pictures from Southampton from Michael Adams.

Firstly we see electro-diesels 73108 and 73140 with the 14.35 from Poole to Waterloo on 13 June 1988.. The class 442 Wessex units were giving problems at that time and double headed 73s were used to maintain the new timetable schedules. Copyright Michael Adams.

At the other end of the station we see 31419 heading a Portsmouth to Bristol service on 30 March 1981. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks to the two Michaels, two superb images.

Class 175 round-up
Andrew Triggs

Former TfW Class 175s no.175009 with 175114 on the Staff Training run 5Z12 07.51 Plymouth-Plymouth, arriving 35 late at 10.33. 22.9.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175002 with 175009 passing Marazion working 5Z12 06.54 Totnes-Plymouth (via Penzance). 23.9.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175009 with 175002 passing Rospeath working 5Z35 15.25 Plymouth-Plymouth (via Penzance) running 48 early at 16.32. 23.9.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175002 with 175114 departing Penzance working 5Z12 06.25 Plymouth-Plymouth training run. 24.9.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

175114 with 175002 clearing St Erth working 5Z35 15.45 Plymouth-Plymouth training run, heading for Penzance. 25.9.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew - a great record of events.

Cornish 'Castles'
Mark Lynam

43189 heads the 1014 Plymouth - Penzance across the embankment at Crugwallins. 26.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

43098 leading the 1128 Exeter St. Davids - Penzance past Dowgas. 26.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

43042 powering through Dowgas in the opposite direction with the 1315 Penzance - Plymouth. 26.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

And finally, completing the set, 43093 with its great vinyls brings the 1340 Plymouth - Penzance through Grampound with sister 43092 on the rear. 26.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

A great set Mark, many thanks indeed.

Swindon Variety
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

66619 on the UML running under a yellow signal with 6Z42 [Tythyerington - Appleford], passed through the station in the UML at 13 59 [29 EARLY], Highworth Junction passed at 1402, then into Stratton Green Loop for a while before passing South Marston Junction at 1459 [27 LATE]. 25.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

3S59 with slightly dirty locos 66096 and 66176 [Hereford - Swindon Transfer RHTT (Rail Head Treatment Train) via Maindee North & East Junctions, Bristol (Temple Meads), Weston-Super-Mare [reverse]. Bristol (Temple Meads), Bath Spa, Swindon (UML from 1431 - 1436 when it moved a short distance eastwards to Swindon TransferYard.]. 25.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

The RHTT sprays the rails. 25.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

6C03 [northolt - Severnside Sita] leaves Swindon East Loop after sitting there for just under TWO HOURS - its London waste leaving a trail of not-very-nice smells as it passes through. 25.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

A short way away in Oxford, we see 68020 on 5Q72 Leamington to Oxford with DVT 12805. All in the new Chiltern Livery. 25.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Chiltern DVT 12805. 25.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks to the both of you. The 68 and DVT are strange looking beasts!

September 26th 2025

26/9/2025

'Wasson this weekend?'

Another weekend is around the corner and with it there are plenty of railway things going on!

Saturday 27.09

Visit the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway with the CRS - more details in our Outdoor Events Programme.

(Sat & Sun) - The Bodmin Railway Diesel Gala - 50042, 47306, 08444, 121020 and 'Denise' in action on the Bodmin Railway - for details click here.

Sunday 28.09

The North Cornwall Miniature Railway open day - Near St. Kew, the final open day of this private railway of 2025. Click here.

'The Royal Duchy' - WCRC Class 33's 33025 & 33207 visit Par (vice-Steam) with this weekends Railway Touring Companys railtour. Times in our railtour calendar.

(Sat & Sun) - The Bodmin Railway Diesel Gala - 50042, 47306, 08444, 121020 and 'Denise' in action on the Bodmin Railway - for details click here.

Have a great weekend, and if you end up taking any railway pictures please make sure you send them in!

Classic diesels on shed
Keith Gale

In the days during which you could just walk into a railway depot and take photographs - Exeter Stabling Point (shed) on an autumn Sunday morning - 26 September 1971 - full of locomotives. I vaguely remember that there was around 30 locomotives on the shed but it was completely quiet and no one to be seen. Nearest the camera are 7657 862 6333 and 1069. The coal in the foreground was not for steam loco's but for heating the mess rooms! Apologies for the quality - it was the only camera I could afford at the time! Copyright Keith Gale.

What a great photo of a bygone age - many thanks, Keith. So much of interest there, fantastic stuff.

The Southwest Test Train
Mark Lynam

37116 at Penzance in the late afternoon sunshine with a Network Rail test train. 24.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Blue hour arrives and the 37 prepares to depart for Exeter Riverside. 24.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Just before midnight, the train is seen pausing at St. Austell. 24.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks, Mark - dedication to the cause!

50 Years Ago - September 1975
Roger Winnen
Part 6

Remains of the Railway at Princetown. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Horrabridge Station remains. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Whitchurch Down Platform with Peter Moore Keith Jenkin Chris Clark Rusty Steel Michael Nicolas Ian Croft and Peter Butt. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Whitchurch Down Platform. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Tavistock North Signal Box on 21st September 1975. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Tavistock North footbridge. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Tavistock North Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Tavistock Viaduct. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

'175' training continues
Mark Lynam, Roger Salter, Jon Hird, Tony Shore & Joe Birchall

175114 leads 175002 past Brea with Thursdays GWR crew training run. 25.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The units pass Marazion near to journeys end at Penzance. 25.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Heading towards the single line section past Long Rock. 25.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

After a short break in Penzance, 175002 leads the way back to Devon, seen passing Marazion marshes. 25.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

The returning trip passes Brea with 175002 leading the way. 25.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

175002 and 175114 cross Gover Viaduct, St. Austell with the Penzance - Plymouth leg of their journey. 25.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The unit continues on past the former Tremear/Carrancarrow China Clay works towards Trenance Viaduct and St. Austell. A shot which would be almost pointless taking if the train were in GWR's house colour of green! 25.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The 175's pass through Par. 66054 with the JIA's from Treviscoe is stabled in Chapel Siding behind. 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

175114 on the rear passing beneath the road bridge at Par. 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The afternoon working to Penzance skirts the A30 and is about to pass beneath Apex Bridge, Scorrier. 25.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The final working of the day back to Plymouth from Penzance calls at Camborne - luckily it's not a Wednesday! 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

1902 hours and the sun is starting to set as the pair of units pass through Truro heading east. 25.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

Many thanks all. GWR have certainly had the weather for these training runs so far.

Full Fat HST's
Paul Barlow

43186 leading 43078 past Exeter St. Thomas with 1C85, the 1357 Paddington -Plymouth on 29 July 2012. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Again at Exeter St. Thomas, Crosscountry 43378 and 43384 work an unidentified north bound service on 29th July 2012. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Thanks Paul - all but confined to the history books now.

Treviscoe Clay
Tony Shore & Martin Scane

66054 departs Treviscoe at 1047 with 6 loaded JIA's for Cliffe Vale. 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

A while later, after a wait at Burngullow, the train arrives at Par and sets back into Chapel Siding to wait for a second driver to take the train east. 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

At 1235 the train is back in the platform at Par and waits for its path East. 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The clay departs Par bound for the Potteries of the midlands. 25.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

66054 approaching Parsons Tunnel with 6 on forming 6M53 Parkandillick to Cliffe Vale two minutes early at 14-25. 25.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Tony and Martin.

West Cornwall in the sun
Mark Lynam

A GWR IET heads for Paddington passing the historic engine houses and mining landscape of Brea. 25.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

A 4-car Crosscountry Class 220 heads East at Brea. 25.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

What we should all be making an effort to look out for currently - an endangered species - 43093 leads a GWR service towards Penzance through the cutting at Brea. 25.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark - a productive visit to Brea for you.

September 25th 2025

25/9/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 66A
The Lynton and Barnstaple
Michael L. Roach

When I completed Part 66 about the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway I included a log of a typical journey along the line from the Lynton end in the 1930s, but I could not find the details, which turned up soon after the article was submitted. The 9.25am train off Lynton was hauled by Manning Wardle 2-6-2T “Taw” and consisted of two bogie coaches and two empty bogie wagons weighing a total of 25 tons. Taw had hauled the first passenger train on 14 March 1898. The 9.25am was driven by Alfred Nutt of Yeo Vale, Barnstaple (1878 – 1964); in 1921 he was a fireman on the L and B, and he was also a fireman in 1901 and 1911. The log is repeated here:

I also include with this addendum scans of the July 1922 Lynton and Barnstaple timetable which was probably the last summer before the takeover by the Southern Railway which itself was formed in 1923 under the Railways Act of 1921 known as The Grouping. It shows that the L&B exaggerated the length of the line to 19½ miles so that from the Barnstaple end the mileage of most of the stations was a nice whole round number. It would be interesting to see timetables, summer and winter, from the 1930s if anyone has them.

July 1922 up timetable L to B.

July 1922 down timetable B to L.

Many thanks as ever, Mike.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

And please don't forget we have a CRS outing to the L&B this weekend for their gala - click here.

A week of firsts in West Cornwall
Craig Munday

An Indian Summer spell has highlighted the super colours in the trees, and provided an ideal backdrop for the inaugural Class 175 training trips into West Cornwall. I promised Jon I wouldn't overdo the class 175 subject, as they will become the norm after a while. Least to say the ATW livery certainly pops more than the GWR dark green.

I was fortunate to capture 5Z35 heading west a touch late passing 2P21 heading for Plymouth. The Castle set terminated at St Austell with door problems.

Also pictured is another inaugural run! This time GBRf take over the RHTT working in the South West from DB. The train is pictured at Penzance with contrasting liveries on 57303 / 310. The programme starts in earnest 1st Oct, unfortunately under darkness as Taunton Forwater is now the base for the train.

I've included the first visit of the train in 2007 with Rebecca and Demelza in charge in 2007. Recognise the loco design?

The changing face of GWR - a 'Castle Class' HST set heads East at Trenoweth with a Penzance - Plymouth service passing a pair of Class 175's heading west on a training run. 22.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

57310 at Penzance having just arrived with a test run for this years RHTT. 23.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

57310 on the opposite end of the RHTT at Penzance. 23.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

The same - but different! The start of the RHTT back in 2007 utilised Colas Class 47's 47727 and 47747. This years service evokes memories of this era thanks to the use of the class 47 converted 57's. 28.09.2007, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks indeed Craig - a super lucky shot of the 175 and some lovely night shots of the RHTT. More on that below..

The RHTT
Karl Hewlett & Roger Winnen

2025's southwest RHTT is this year being covered by GBRf using Class 57's, rather than the more familiar DB Cargo Class 66's we have become used to.

Sadly, all trips to the west are scheduled to be run after dark with no intermediate stops.

The below information is from Karl Hewlett and we are thankful to him for the schedules:

Sat 24/5/25 to 13/12/25 3S13 Westbury to Fairwater Yard via Salisbury

Sun 18/5/25 to 07/12/25 3S11 Fairwater Yard to Penzance

Sun 18/05/2025 to 07/12/2025 3S12 Penzance to Westbury via Paignton and Okehampton

Mon to Fri 19/05/2025 to 08/12/2025 3S13 Westbury to Fairwater Yard via Salisbury

Mon to Fri 19/05/2025 to 12/12/2025 3S11 Fairwater Yard to Penzance

Mon, Wed 19/05/2025 to 08/12/2025 3S12 Penzance to Westbury via Paignton, Crediton and Whatley Quarry

ThuO 22/05/2025 to 11/12/2025 3S12 Penzance to Westbury via Paignton and Okehampton

Tue and Fri 22/05/2025 to 11/12/2025 3S12 Penzance to Westbury via Paignton, Exmouth and Crediton

And now for some pictures from Roger:

Still wearing its DRS blue with GBRf stickers overlaid, 57303 arrives at Penzance with the RHTT at 2200 hours on 23.09.2025. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The RHTT wagons and water tanks at Penzance. 23.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

57310 in full GBRf livery at the opposite end of the train. 23.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks to Roger and Karl.

Colas '67s' go West
Alan Peters

Colas Rail class 67's made a rare visit to the West Country on 21st September. 67023 'Stella' and 67027 ran as 0Z67 from Westbury to Newton Abbot and return for a Driver handling course, the colourful duo will be used on the Gloucester RHTT circuit and are seen on the obligatory photo stop at Exeter St Davids. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks indeed Alan - it only feels like a short while ago that the 67's were still a regular sight in the South West.

Historic England - new railway listings
Simon Hickman

Hi there

As part of the Rail 200 celebrations, Historic England have listed a number of preserved railway buildings, including several in our area. It's quite surprising that some of these were not listed before. I thought you might be interested in an article for the website - if you click on the links, there's detailed info about each building and its history:

Havenstreet Station, Isle of Wight Steam Railway:
https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1494608

Swanage Engine Shed, Swanage Railway:
https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1493991

...and the adjacent Northbrook Street overbridge:
https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1493992

Woody Bay Station, Lynton and Barnstaple Railway:
https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1494278

Outside our area, there's a few more:

Sheringham Station, North Norfolk Railway: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1493608

Weybourne Station, North Norfolk Railway:
https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1493615

...Plus the first known railway hotel in the world, the Cleveland Bay at Eaglescliffe:
Cleveland Bay public house and proto-railway station, Egglescliffe - 1491983 | Historic England

All the best,
Simon Hickman

Many thanks for bringing this to our attention, Simon - great to see some local buildings get the recognition they deserve, and having their futures secured. Well done.

Mainline Steam Memories
Paul Barlow

5029 'Nunney Castle' passes Marsh Bartin with the 0915 Bristol - Kingswear 1Z27 on 21st September 2014. Copyright Paul Barlow.

34067 departs Exeter St. Davids with the 0848 Bristol - Par 1Z37 on the 21st September 2014. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks, Paul. No steam to Cornwall this weekend sadly - 'The Royal Duchy' is to be hauled by a pair of WCRC class 33's.

Swindon Scenes
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Locos 66096 and 66176 with 0Z67 [Westbury Down to Swindon Transfer] just leaving [note colour signal + indicator] from UML to the Transfer Yard. 23.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

66096 and 66176 leaving Transfer Yrd coming into the station to reverse then heading [as 3J41] to Swindon Transfer via Didcot, Reading, Hungerford, Westbury [where it reverses], then back to Swindon Transfer via the same route as outward. Went beyond the station to stop opposite the transfer yard where it is supposed to go. First time it has done this in a long while. The 'leaves on the line' season is about to begin!! clean locos NOW, but at the end of the season? 23.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Meanwhile Ken has motored to a foot crossing just south of Purton Common Foot Crossing and about 150 yards north of the site of Purton Station just in time to hear a distant warning hooter of 1Q15 [Derby to Landore, Swansea via the world] consisting of 43013 and 43062 - see RHTT for times and route] and got this photo. 23.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Ken has now moved to about 200 yards south of the site of Purton station and got this shot with the front of IET unit 800033 - 1L76 [Cheltenham Spa to Paddington]. 23.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

67027 & 67023 on 0Z67 Westbury Down TC to Swindon Transfer. 24.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

37884 on 5Q76 Wimbledon Park Depot Sidings to Newport Docks with 455910 & 455920. 24.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66619 on 6Z42 Tytherington Quarry to Appleford Sidings. 24.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks as always to 'The Swindon Duo'!

September 24th 2025

24/9/2025

Avon Valley Railway 200 Celebration
Paul Negus

On Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September, the Avon Valley Railway will be holding it's Railway 200 event to celebrate 200 years of the modern railway. There will be up to 4 locos operating, model railway layouts, screenings of 1950s/60s British Railway short films, various local history groups, yard tours and more. For full details, please see avonvalleyrailway.org.

To whet the appetite, herewith a shot of the new Midland style car park fencing erected by volunteers.

A tidy up at the Avon Valley Railway - midland style fencing in the carpark. Copyright Paul Negus.

Many thanks Paul - hope the event is a success!

Farewell to Pathfinder Railtours

A statement from Pathfinder Railtours - please click for an enlargement.

A sad day in the railway world today as Pathfinder Railtours have announced that they are winding up their business from the end of this year. Pathfinders have of course organised many, many excellent railtours taking passengers all over the UK behind almost every imaginable type of locomotive. They will be sorely missed.

Another day of Class 175 training
Tony Shore, Roger Winnen, Roger Salter, Mark Lynam, Jon Hird & Joe Birchall

GWR crew training on the class 175 DMU's continued on 22.09, this time with 175002 and 175009 in a 2-car formation. Further training is planned for the rest of this week.

175009 leads 175002 over Hayle Viaduct with a crew training run from Plymouth to Penzance. Note the lorry below in a matching livery! 23.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Taken a few seconds after Rogers photo above, the train further along Hayle Viaduct. 23.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

175002 on the rear of the first training run of the day to Penzance crossing Marazion Marshes shortly before 1030. 23.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

A telephoto shot of the units approaching Marazion. 23.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Just around the corner from Roger Salter, Mark Lynam captures the working passing Marazion. 23.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The unit heads back to Plymouth after a break at Penzance, again passing Marazion. 23.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The returning trip crossing Hayle Viaduct bound for Plymouth. 23.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Again, a few seconds after Rogers shot the units are about to enter Hayle station. 23.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

175002 leads 175009 over Largin Viaduct with 5Z12, the 0626 Plymouth - Plymouth via Penzance. 23.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

175002 and 009 at Penzance having arrived 48 minutes early with 5Z35, the 1525 Plymouth - Plymouth via Penzance. 23.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The two units at Penzance. 23.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The units await departure for Plymouth at 1736 hours. 23.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

175 009 and 175 002 on their way back up on the second trip, having made light work of the gradient as they neared the summit. 23.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

Many thanks again everyone for the 175 photos. Hopefully even if you're bored of the DMU's, the colourful Cornish locations are of interest.

Take a walk on the wild side!
Colin Pidgeon/Ken Mumford

My good friend, Colin Pidgeon, took these photos down at Swindon station. It looks as though the fox was bored with what he saw.

Well, won't many trainspotters - 'Flying Cucumber' after 'Flying Cucumber'??

A lovely fox doing a spot of linesiding at Swindon. 23.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

The fox takes a rest, presumably bored of the endless cascade of IET's! 23.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks indeed Colin and Ken.

Steam Specials
Paul Barlow

An unusual combination 5029 Nunney Castle and 60019 Bittern work The Mayflower past Rewe on 17 September 2011 The A4 was running as 4492 Domonion of New Zealand. Copyright Paul Barlow.

6024 King Edward 1 and 70000 Britannia approach Exeter St Thomas on the 0618 Poole to Plymouth 1Z72 22 October 2011. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - a couple of unusual combinations there, nice to look back on them.

Colourful skies and golden rails
Jon Hird

We are entering the time of year when the days grow shorter and the county becomes awash with colour - the green tones of summer turn to browns and oranges, and the skies hold dramatic firey shows in the mornings and evenings. A few photographs below trying to make the most of the precious few weeks when there is still some useable light in the early evenings.

A GWR 'Castle Class' HST set with 43098 at the head rounds the corner towards Burngullow on 20.09.2025 with the 1715 Penzance - Plymouth. Copyright Jon Hird.

Crosscountry's 221114 approaches Trethellan with the 1813 Penzance - Birmingham New Street on 22.09.2025. The trees framing the shot are already going nice and gold. 22.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The same train, but viewed from Trethellan Bridge. 22.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

5 minutes after the sun had set behind me, the sky was still full of colour. The silos of Burngullow are visible on the distant horizon as 800036 heads on towards Dowgas and Coombe with the delayed 1746 Plymouth - Penzance on 22.09.2025. Copyright Jon Hird.

A 300mm lens at Molinnis Crossing, Bugle bagged me this long distance shot of 66054 swinging left at Goonbarrow Junction with the empty JIA's from Fowey. 23.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

West Cornwall Selection
Mark Lynam

220116 passes Marazion with the 1115 Penzance - Edinburgh. 23.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

43198 heads for Penzance with the 1014 Plymouth - Penzance. 23.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The same set returns with 43042 leading as the 1315 Penzance - Plymouth. 23.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

08836 shunts the 'Night Riviera' sleeper stock at Long Rock. 23.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

A great mixture - many thanks, Mark.

Teignmouth Trains
Martin Scane

166215 with 2T20 Exmouth to Paignton at 14-22. 23.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

802114 with 1A87 Paignton tomLondon Paddington at 14-23. 23.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

800314 working 1C80 Paddington to Penzance at 14-34 some 8 minutes late. 23.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

166217 with 2F22 Paignton to Exmouth at 14-45. 23.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

158769 with 2T21 Exmouth to Paignton at 14-47. 23.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

Finally, breaking the GWR domination is 221113 with 1V52 an Edinburgh to Penzance long distance service running pretty much to time at 15-03. Good to see the lineside pampus grass adding a bit of colour to the scene. 23.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

Smashing photos Martin - many thanks.

September 23rd 2025

23/9/2025

Weekend Belmond & Goonbarrow Gloom!
Craig Munday

A week of contrasting light in Cornwall. A mixed forecast with a promise of a bright Sunday morning to coincide with the Belmond Britannic Explorer on its second revenue operating trip. 66748 wasn't provided this trip, 66701 was which made a colourful sight with 66744 in the latter GBRf livery. The train was pictured at St Austell in wet conditions. 20.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

The Penzance - Fowey leg of the journey seen at Treverrin in the evening, catching the very last sharp sun of the day. 20.09.205, copyright Craig Munday.

St Winnow the following morning, the remarkable fortune in the river mist evaporating in front of my eyes is a marvel I never tire of. 21.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

66701 leads the Britannic Explorer towards Lostwithiel passing St. Winnows Church. 21.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

66744 on the rear of the train passing St. Winnows Church. 21.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

A great atmospheric shot from earlier in the week of a class 150 pausing in the mist at Goonbarrow. 18.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks as always Craig - a superb selection.

The first Class 175's to Penzance
Tony Shore, Joe Birchall, Roger Winnen, Roger Salter, Mark Lynam & Jon Hird

Monday 22.09 saw the first trip west of Liskeard for GWR's new (to them!) class 175 units. Units 175009 and 175114 ran as 5Z12, the 0751 Plymouth - Plymouth via Penzance. The unit later did a second run through Cornwall. We're advised that the purpose for these trips is for guard and driver training, and two units have been used so that they can use the selective door unlocking on platforms where the full length of the train would not fit.

More trips are planned for the rest of the week - times on RTT for those interested (for example, today - run 1, today - run 2).

The first 175 into Lostwithiel - 175009 leads 5Z12 into the station on 22.09.2025. Copyright Tony Shore.

Above images © Tony Shore - click for enlargements & captions.

Today I managed to see one the 175’s test run, headed by 175 009 and 175 114 on the rear, as seen easing their way down the 1 in 78 to Truro. 22.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

The first 175 to arrive at Penzance. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

The above images © Roger Winnen - click for enlargements/captions

'Penzance welcomes you' - the 175's on the blocks at Penzance. 22.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The units as seen from the sea wall at Penzance. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Departure from Penzance with the return journey to Plymouth. 22.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

175114 leads the way past Long Rock en route to Plymouth. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

The return train is seen arriving at St Erth at 11.19 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

3-car 175114 leads the return leg of 5Z12 past Dowgas, Coombe. 22.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

175 pulls into Lostwithiel on the way back to Plymouth. 22.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

The classic Cornish shot, perfectly lit. 175009 leads 5Z35, the 1525 Plymouth - Plymouth via Penzance past Wheal Busy crossing, Scorrier. 22.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Arriving at Penzance on the second trip from Plymouth at 17.43 this evening. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen

Just after sunset - 1916 - the pair of 175's head towards Crugwallins on the return to Plymouth Laira for the night. 22.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A drone shot at Crugwallins with the sun just below the horizon as 175114 and 175009 head back to Laira. 22.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Thanks all - a bumper crop of images of this 'first'. Doesn't that livery look so much better than the GWR green - let's hope a few stay wearing it.

Saltash Scenes
Simon Smith

My farewell to the HSTs, got the one on the left (43098 tailing 43187) from Plymouth to Saltash and got the one on the right (43042 leading 43198) back. The one on the left had made extra stops as the Gunnislake branch was suspended for a track inspection, so it was a bit tight, but meant that I got this unforgettable shot. I grew up on the ECML, I'm unlikely to make it to Scotland, so this will I think be it. Fittingly last built 198 was on the back of my last trip. Hadn't completely planned Saltash but it worked well, tagged into a free 1st class return to Plymouth, paid by GWR Rewards points! 20.09.2025, copyright Simon Smith.

Also accidentally caught 66054 on the Bridge earlier on that afternoon, had been booked to pause at Plymouth but went straight through. 20.09.2025, copyright Simon Smith.

Many thanks Simon, a very lucky catch with the passing HST's - well done.

The Isle of Wight
Michael Forward

I spent a very enjoyable week on the Island last week and was lucky enough to see the five class 484 emus,ex London Transport D78 trains.

Here is 484001 arriving at Ryde St.Johns Road on 19 September with the 15.55 for Ryde Pier. Copyright Michael Forward.

At Brading the signal box survives ,this controlled the 'main' line and the branch to Bembridge. The levers can be seen, I am not sure if it is open to the public. Copyright Michael Forward.

The station at Brading has been beautifully restored and maintained and there is a small heritage centre,also serving refreshments,on the up platform. The station comes to life when the two services pass here about every 40 minutes.Only Mrs. Michael visible at 5pm on 16 September 2025. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks Michael - interesting photographs of an interesting railway system! Glad you had a good trip.

The Southwest RHTT arrives
Bill Elston

The RHTT season is upon us again, and this autumn it is being operated by GBRf out of Fairwater Yard.

Today, 22.09, a fresh RHTT worked from Eastleigh to Taunton as 6Z58, double-headed by 57305 and 57303, with 57310 bringing up the rear, seen passing Creech in brilliant sunlight.

57305, 303 and 310 pass Creech St. Michael with wagons for this years Southwest RHTT. 22.09.2025, copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill - they won't stay that clean for long!

GWR 57 light loco movement
Roger Winnen, Mark Lynam, Roger Salter & Tony Shore

On 22.09.2025, GWR's 57602 was sent light loco from Long Rock to Laira in preparation for driver training runs later in the week.

57602 awaits departure from Penzance. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

With its engine running, 57602 stands in the sidings at Penzance awaiting its path to Laira. 22.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

As the 175's pull into platform 4, 57602 slips away from Penzance for Laira. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

57301 at the head of the GWR sleeper stock at Long Rock. 57602 had travelled down dead on the rear overnight from Reading. 22.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

57602 rolls into Lostwithiel with 0Z57. 22.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks all

50 Years Ago - September 1975
Roger Winnen
Part 5

After a break over the weekend, Roger is back with more images of yesteryear - click any below image for an enlargement.

Staverton Signal Box. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Staverton Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Walking around Buckfastleigh Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

1450 plus another 14xx in the shed at Buckfastleigh. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

A 64xx in bits at Buckfastleigh. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Building work at Buckfastleigh. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

The silent whistle at Ashburton. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Ashburton Engine Shed. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

September 22nd 2025

22/9/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 66
The Lynton and Barnstaple Railway
Michael L. Roach

What is the most sorely missed railway line in Devon and Cornwall? Near the top of some enthusiast's list would be a line that probably no living enthusiast has ever travelled on from end-to-end, because it closed 90 years ago this month. That railway line is the narrow-gauge Lynton and Barnstaple where the last trains ran on 29 September 1935. The L and B Association's Autumn Gala and Annual Meeting are held each year on the last weekend in September and this year will take place on Sat/Sun 27/28 September 2025. The line was more than 19 miles long and was originally 597 mm gauge but is now 600 mm gauge. Unfortunately the last owners the Southern Railway could not make it pay and closed it completely in 1935. This was a great shame as if the line had survived four more years to September 1939 it might have survived the Second World War and with continuing fuel shortages after the war to the early 1950s when the preservationists might have stepped in much earlier taking their cue from the very similar lines in Wales that were saved.

As I was writing this article I had also been bringing along a story about the Cambrian Coast and a trip on the equally wonderful and dramatic Vale of Rheidol narrow-gauge line, and that also made me think about the Festiniog Railway. All three railways were approximately the same gauge. How did the V of R come to survive and the L & B not survive and be closed 90 years ago. There is no obvious reason at first glance. All three lines started at a locally important coastal town. All three made their way up into the hills on steep gradients. Two terminated in relatively isolated small towns, Blaenau Festiniog and Lynton, but the third (the V of R) terminated in a remote hamlet (Devils Bridge) with a small fraction of the population of the two towns. All three railways lost their original purpose long ago and yet it was the V of R that survived the easiest. Why was that and could the L & B have survived had it had different owners in the 1930s. The L & B was the longest at 19¼ miles with a journey time of 1½ hours and the V of R was 11¾ miles with a journey time of 1 hour. The V of R has been a summer-only operation for a very long time operating between one and four trains a day in the 1930s according to the day of the week. Perhaps the Southern Railway should have operated the L & B as a summer-only operation and tried to develop somewhere in the middle as a tourist hot-spot, for connecting motor bus tours of Exmoor. If Blackmore Gate had been selected for this role the excursionists would have had nearly an hour and 11¾ miles of narrow gauge travel from the Barnstaple end and 7½ miles from the Lynton end. The railway could have operated a round-robin for car owners parking at Blackmore Gate; by train to Lynton; bus or walk to top of the cliff railway to Lynmouth; and then bus across Exmoor from Lynmouth back to Blackmore Gate.

In this short piece I have said little about the history or operation of the line because there is plenty available in books and online. On 29 September I hope that we will remember the Lynton and Barnstaple and pray that one day in the future conditions will be right for the line to be resurrected in its entirety. I finish with a log of a typical journey along the line in the 1930s in which the train left Lynton one minute late and arrived Barnstaple two minutes early.

Many thanks as always Mike - and don't forget that we have a CRS outing to the L&B this coming Saturday - more details in the outdoor events section.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Class 153 test train
David Tozer

Network Rail Class 153 153379 passes Exhibition Way, Exeter with the 1244 2Q14 Yeovil Junction to Exeter Riverside and return to Yeovil Junction. Crazy we will have had three Network Rail trains in eight days. Last Thursday we had the NMT, today the above working and next Thursday the overnight 3Q07 with a Class 37. 21.09.2025, copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks Dave, good to see the 153's getting some use.

The Britannic Explorer Returns
Jon Hird, Tony Shore & Steve Clark

Viewed from St. Winnow's Church, GBRF 66701 leads 'The Britannic Explorer' to Lostwithiel after its overnight stay at Fowey Docks. 21.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

66744 on the rear of the train as its skirts the bottom of Lantyan Woods. 21.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A lovely reflection shot as 66701 prepares to lead the train off the branch and into Lostwithiel where passengers could alight for various excursions to the Mid-Cornwall attractions. The train would then reverse once again to come back onto the branch. 21.09.2025, copyright Steve Clark.

A support van containing a large water bowser waits at Pill Farm level crossing for the train to return from Lostwithiel, so that it can refill the coaches water supply tanks. 21.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

66744 idles at the rear of the train at Coulsons Park. The gentleman walking towards the camera is none other than renowned railway photographer and author John Vaughan. 21.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

66744 pulls the stock forward as the ground crew add water to the coaches. 21.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

With just one more coach requiring water the train has pulled towards the token exchange at Coulsons Park. Eddie Holden is deep in conversation with two interested (and colourful) cyclists. 21.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

At around 1330 the train emerges onto the mainline once again to collect the passengers who had chosen to alight at Lostwithiel earlier in the day. 21.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

66744 on the rear as the train departs for its next overnight stop at Cranmore, East Somerset Railway. 21.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks all for your photographs.

The Britannic Explorer is next due to visit Cornwall on October 4th - Details in the Railtour Calendar.

Par for the evening
Steve Clark

43098 heads a Penzance - Plymouth service through Par. A 150 sits in platform 3 ready for another trip to Newquay. 20.09.2025, copyright Steve Clark.

150207, the days Newquay mule. 20.09.2025, copyright Steve Clark.

66701 passes through heading for Lostwithiel and Fowey. 20.09.2025, copyright Steve Clark.

An IET in a spotlight of warm evening sunshine arrives at Par with a service for Penzance. 20.09.2025, copyright Steve Clark.

Many thanks Steve - great lighting.

September 21st 2025

21/9/2025

Saturday 27th September 2025
CRS Visit the Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Gala

The Lynton & Barnstaple steam gala promises to be a great closure to the 2025 heritage railway calendar. An intensive timetable and a wide selection of steam locomotives will keep everybody entertained.

Purchase a Cheap Day Return to Barnstaple.
Penzance 07.10 St Erth 07.18 Camborne 07.31 Redruth 07.39 Truro 07.51 St Austell 08.08 Par 08.15 Bodmin Parkway 08.27 Liskeard 08.40 Plymouth 09.14 Exeter St David's 10.13/10.19 Barnstaple 11.26 Stagecoach bus 310 connects with the train at Barnstaple Jun depart 11.40 arrive Woody Bay 12.31.

The return journey.
Woody Bay 15.33 Barnstaple 16.15
Train departs 16.31, arrive Exeter St David's 17.43. Depart Exeter St David's 18.20 Plymouth 19.22 Bodmin Parkway 20.14 Par 20.28 St Austell 20.33 Truro 20.49 Redruth 21.01 Camborne 21.07 Penzance 21.28

Pictorial Special
'The Britannic Explorer' visits Cornwall
20.09.2025

The second run to Cornwall of Belmonds new luxury train, 'The Britannic Explorer' occured yesterday, 20.09.2025. The train ran from Bishops Lydeard to Penzance double headed by 66701 and 66744. Later in the evening, the train ran top and tailed Penzance - Fowey via lostwithiel.

This morning, 21.09, the train will leave Fowey and head east for an overnight stop on the East Somerset Railway. Times and details in our Railtour Calendar.

Our thanks to all who have contributed photographs for this article - each photo below individually credited.

Click on any photo below to obtain an enlargement. All photographs are copyright to their author.

A wet start to the day at Bishops Lydeard where the train had spent the night having arrived from London Victoria. 20.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

66701 leads The Britannic Explorer away from Bishops Lydeard. 20.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Now double headed, the train is seen at Hemerdon. 20.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

66701 leads the train towards Truro. 20.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

66744 tucked inside 66701 near Truro. 20.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

At the opposite side of truro, a brief sunny spell turned into a rain shower as the train passes by the cathedral and city. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The double headed train passes Marazion near to its journeys end. 20.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

The pair of locos beneath the station roof at Penzance. 20.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

66701 with 66744 propelling to Slopers working 5Z62 14.26 Penzance-Longrock T&RSMD, with 66701 later detatching and running light to the Depot. 20.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

The double headed locos in Slopers Siding, Penzance. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

66701 heading to Longrock Depot viewed from Ponsandane Footbridge. 20.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Reforming the train into top and tail formation at Slopers Siding. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

66744 reversing onto the train. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The reformed train ready to run back into Penzance. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The train back in Penzance ready to head to Fowey. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

66744 Heart of Wales. 20.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

66701 viewed from Platform 3 at Penzance. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

43098 departs with a GWR service to Plymouth whilst the Britannic Explorer prepares to depart for Lostwithiel. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

250920b 66701 heads the Britannic Explorer 17.30 Penzance to Fowey. 20.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

A superbly lit photograph as the train approaches Marazion. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Heading up Marazion marshes with 66744 at the rear of 1Z64 17.30 Penzance-Fowey Docks Carne point with 66701 leading. 20.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Passing Apex Bridge, Scorrier en route to Lostwithiel/Fowey. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The train running alongside the A30 at Scorrier. 20.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The tour heading for Fowey passing Truro with 66701 at its head. 20.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

The Britannic Explorer arriving at Truro Station this evening. 20.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

66744 on the rear of the train near Truro. 20.09.2025, copyright Joe Birchall.

The Penzance - Fowey leg of the journey passes Crugwallins, near Burngullow. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The train crosses the River Fowey as it arrives at Lostwithiel. 20.09.202, copyright Tony Shore.

Collecting the token for the Fowey branch at Coulsons Park. 20.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

66744 leads the train through Golant. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

To our surprise, the train came to a stand at Golant which allowed a few more shots of the train. Speaking to a friendly member of the crew, he explained that they were stopping there for a few hours. 66701 waits to head back to Lostwithiel, wearing the Britannic Explorer headboard. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

66701 stands on the causeway at Golant. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Darkness fell quickly and the conditions were too perfect to resist an attempt at a few long exposures with the drone. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The guests onboard the train enjoy their dinner and entertainment at Golant. The train would later run to Lostwithiel, then back again to Fowey Docks where it will spend the night. 20.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks to all who have contributed photographs for this article.

There are a few more chances to see 'The Britannic Explorer' this year - check out our Railtour Calendar for details.

A visit to the Plym Valley Railway
Tony Shore

Friendly crew onboard the army diesel at the Plym Valley Railway. 20.09.2025, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks Tony - an interesting selection.

NMT and Northern Belle
Andrew Triggs

43062 leading 1Q18 approaching Marazion running 3 late at 11.24. 19.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

43013 now leading 1Q18 passing Marazion running 20 late at 12.05. 19.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

WCR 57315 top and tailing 57313 'Scarborough Castle' passing Respryn with 1Z10 10.30 Cardiff Central-Par 'Northern Belle' running 33 late at 15.40. 19.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

57313 leading the return 'Northern Belle' (with 57315 on the rear) passing Lostwithiel running 27 late at 16.13. 19.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew, great photos.

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