Blog Archives

September 20th 2025

20/9/2025

Re: Trinity House Depot, Penzance
Michael Hitchins & Mick House

From Michael Hitchins:

A recent submission to the website (click here, scroll down) mentioned rails leading into the former Trinity House building at Penzance. The trolley used here to transport the buoys is displayed at the Moseley Heritage Museum, Redruth. TR15 3TA.

With that in mind, we contacted Mick House who assists at the Moseley Museum and asked for some pictures:

As requested photos of the Buoy Carrier at Moseley. Also we have the Heritage weekend this Saturday, Sunday and Monday in conjunction with the Pasty Festival in Redruth and a free bus on the Saturday (only) from Redruth to Moseley Heritage Museum.

Please click any of the below images for an enlargement - all images are © Mick House.

Many thanks Michael and Mick for adding to this interesting little story.

As Mick writes, Moseley is well worth a visit this weekend, perhaps after seeing the Britannic Explorer head west! (More details on that one in our railtour calendar)

The monthly visit of the NMT
Martin Scane & Roger Winnen

The Network Rail Measurement Train arrives at Penzance behind 43062. 43013 was on the opposite end. 19.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Broadside of the Measurement Train at Penzance. 19.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Stabled Penzance Platform 4. 19.09.2025, copyright Roger Winnen.

Network Rail’s NMT working 1Z18 Paignton to Taunton 4 minutes early at 15-59 between Teignmouth station and Sprey Point this afternoon. 19.09.2025, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks both - good to see 'The flying banana' back as a full-yellow formation.

'Cornish Lunch via Dawlish'
The Northern Belle visits Par
Jon Hird, Mark Lynam & Neil Phillips

57315 leads Northern Belle's 'Cornish Lunch via Dawlish' down from Treverrin tunnel and towards Par where it would reverse. 1Z10 1030 Cardiff Central to Par. 19.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Just a few miles west, 57315 pulls into Par platform 3. 19.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The tour pulls into Par platform 3. 19.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The below text from Neil Phillips:

Thanks to the CRS 'Upcoming Railtours' page - and 48hr reminder! - I intercepted WCRC's 'Cornish Lunch via Dawlish' special using the 'Northern Belle' stock at journey's end, Par station. The tour had left Cardiff Central 11 minutes late at 10.41 but had recovered 10 upon passing Laira Junction, so all looked good......

Arrival at Par's Platform 3 was due at 15.17 with departure for Cardiff at 15.40. My plan was to record the train arriving at Par, then drive to Lostwithiel to catch the return service passing through - but as usual for me it was not to be! I had checked the train's arrival at Plymouth before setting off but it was then held there for over half an hour, eventually departing 33 minutes down leading to a 35 late arrival at Par, at 15.52 - 12 minutes after it should have departed! Clearly Platform 3 had to be vacated before the 15.21 (2N17) from Newquay arrived on the scene at 16.09, so the necessary fast turnaround meant the Lostwithiel dash was out of the question! Hence all photos taken at Par.

Meanwhile further chaos ensued on the main line with the down 'Royal Duchy' (according the station announcer) 1C80 12.05 Paddington - Penzance departing the capital 39 down due to a "delayed train crew", which got progressively later with 800302 arriving at Par a whopping 64 down at 17.09 and causing less serious delays to other down services in the process. A widely missed connection with the 16.16 (2N20) to Newquay resulted in taxis being laid on for travellers to the seaside town. An expensive episode for GWR I would imagine!

The Northern Belle (1Z10) 10.30 Cardiff Central - Par arriving at Par 35 minutes late at 15.52, with 57315 leading. 19th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

57313 'Scarborough Castle' brings up the rear of 1Z10 at Par. 19th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

Framed by Par's still relatively new and not particularly attractive signalling hardware 57313 prepares to lead the return tour following a hasty turnaround - note that, unlike 57315, this '57' has had most of its Dellner coupling equipment removed from both ends......I don't think that has improved its appearance! 19th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

The train waits for a GWR service to pass at Par. 19.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

GWR's 158798 passes with a Penzance - Plymouth service. 19.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

With 57315 visible at the far end of the 11-coach rake, 57313 'Scarborough Castle' gets underway with the return 'Northern Belle' (1Z11) 15.40 Par - Cardiff Central 24 down at 16.04; this angle possible today due to the lack of sunshine! 19th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

57315 now the 'tail' loco propelling the return 1Z11 special back to Cardiff. 19th September 2025, copyright Neil Phillips.

Mark and Neil must have been virtually shoulder to shoulder, as here is Marks 'going away shot' from the same location. 19.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

After a short 12 minute break and reversal via Par Platform 3, it is now 57313s turn to lead the way as it climbs away from Par through Treesmill with 1Z11, the 1540 Par to Cardiff Central. 19.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A smart 57315 on the rear as the train heads on towards Stoneybridge. 19.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks, Neil - glad to hear the railtour calendar/reminder were of use to you!

Trains of interest at Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

66601 in Freightliner 60 livery passes Swindon with a Merehead Quarry - Wooton Bassett working. 18.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66619 on 6Z42 Tytherington Quarry to Appleford Sidings. 18.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon

66797 in Beacon Rail livery on 0G97 Bicester MOD to Westbury Downside TC. 18.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon

175003 on 5V84 Wolverton Centre Siding to Laira. 18.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon

67027 & 67023 on 0Z67 Westbury to Swindon Transfer. Both Locos later returned to Westbury as 0Z68. 19.09.2025, copyright Colin Pidgeon

Many thanks, Colin - a colourful selection.

About those Swindon '67's..
Alan Peters

Preparations for the forthcoming RHTT season (rail head treatment train) Colas Rail 67023 'Stella' and 67027 made a visit to Swindon Transfer Sidings to shunt the sets in place on 19th September 2025. Copyright Alan Peters.

RHTT sets in place ready for the leaf fall season, note the water tanker and water storage 'pillow' at Swindon Transfer Sidings. 19.09.2025, copyright Alan Peters.

Passing Swindon Transfer Sidings GWR 802 114 with 1C11 London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads on 19/09/25. 19.09.2025, copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks for the great behind the scenes photos, Alan. Particularly interesting is the water storage pillow - I had no idea such things existed - a novel solution to a problem.

A visit to
The Helston Railway
Dennis Clarke

I visited the Helston Railway on Thursday and have enclosed a few pictures from the day. The first train at 10:30 was cancelled due to the locomotive having flat batteries, but all was resolved in time for the 11:30 departure.

It’s always nice to have a day there and all of the staff and volunteers are so friendly.

Dennis with the running in board from Gwinear Road, now at the Helston Railway. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

A plinthed industrial diesel at the terminus of The Helston Railway. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

A DMU driving car, now in use as a cafe. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

The cab of the DMU. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

Journeys end at Truthall Halt. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

The diesel shunter propelling the DMU driving car and a coach at Truthall Halt. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

Traction engines in storage in the barns at Trevarno. 18.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks Dennis - we wish all the best to team Helston in their bid to rebuild the line over the viaduct.

50 Years Ago - September 1975
Roger Winnen
Part 4

Avonwick Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

The junction at Brent for the Kingsbridge Branch. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Brent Station with the John Bryant Mini Bus of Lanner. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Brent Signal Box. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Gordon Dobbs and Chris Clark looks over the fence as a Class 50 heads east with the 13.15 express from Plymouth. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

September 19th 2025

19/9/2025

Autumn on the horizon
Craig Munday

My goodness the balmy days of 20 degrees plus have been rudely replaced with bands of rain and cooler temperature. The landscape has returned to green, albeit a tinge of Autumn now firmly in the air.

When the sun does appear, it punches a fantastic image, lower then the sun's hgh Summer trajectory. It is one of my favourite times of year.

Get ready for the onslaught of Cornish class 175 training trips too, I've heard they're in the near future!

Here's some recent pictures for you.

A last look around Lostwithiel near the end of my shift caught 66054 in sumptuous evening light. The barriers came down to reveal 43156 working 2C57 Castle set too. 13.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

57301 passes Roskear box just as the weak sunshine majestically rose over Pengegon. 15.09.2025, copyright Craig Munday.

A pair of wonderful photos Craig, many thanks for sharing them with us.

All eyes on RTT for the 175's..

Another '175' for GWR
David Tozer & Mark Lynam

A brief visit to Stoke Canon to see the 1014 5V84 Wolverton Centre Sidings to Plymouth Laira with Class 175 175003 which had been at Wolverton Works for overhaul following being dispensed with by TFW a few years ago. Needles to say I was rather surprised with the livery. Not even any GWR markings. 18.09.2025, copyright David Tozer.

175003 arrives into the up platform at a rather chaotic Newton Abbot. A points failure along with a medical emergency onboard a GWR service resulted in some unusual routing. 18.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

A closer look at 175003 as it waits for a path on to its new home, Laira. 18.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

With a solution found to the point problem, the IET departs for the west. 18.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Followed shortly after by 175003. 18.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

The going-away shot at Newton Abbot as the unit continues on to Laira. 18.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Dave and Mark - I'm sure we'll see plenty more photographs of this one and its classmates over the coming years.

Deltic on the move
Steve Widdowson

An odd convoy today seen passing Abbotswood Jct, Worcs. 43484 + 43468 & 55009 working 0Q55, the 1114 Lydney Junction - Barrow Hill LIP. 55009 had been on the Dean Forest Rly for diesel gala last weekend, & was going home to Barrow Hill. 18.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

A super looking 55009 heading back to Barrow Hill. 18.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Many thanks Steve, super photos.

50 Years Ago - September 1975
Roger Winnen
Part 3

Brixon Road Station visited by the Societies Mini Bus. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Brixton Road Station with a copy of a book on the Yealmpton Branch. This tour ran in the place of a Special to the Severn Valley Railway. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

The remains of Kingsbridge Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Kingsbridge Station and Bus Depot. on 21st September 1975. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Lodeswell Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Gara Bridge Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Avonwick Station. 21.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Mid Cornwall Castles
Jon Hird

I've never declared myself a big fan of the HST's - I don't dislike them, but coming from an era when they were everywhere in every possible colour scheme and engine configuration going, they just don't fill me with excitement like other traction does. That said though, there is a certain type of 'excitement' to be had, when in the middle of nowhere waiting for one on a still day - the beat of the MTU powerplant winding up can be heard from some way away, and is very distinctive to the class. Identifying other modern traction by sound alone isn't so easy - IET's, DMU's, Voyagers and other underfloor engined vehicles sound much alike. The anticipation grows as the sound becomes louder, a check of the sky to see what the clouds are doing, a double check of the camera settings to ensure you won't make the front 'soft' (does anybody else find it's more difficult to keep the front of a HST sharp in a photo compared to other blunt-ended trains?! Perhaps there's some science behind it somewhere). Finally the train bursts into view, you take your photo, and hear the two powercars rumble off into the distance. 43156 heads the midday Exeter - Penzance through Dowgas. 43189 on the rear. 18.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A 10 minute drive by car to the next location, a journey which would probably take less than a minute to do by train, 43092 leads the 1315 Penzance - Plymouth towards Trethellan. 43186 rear gunner. 18.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

September 18th 2025

18/9/2025

The new XC livery
Steve Widdowson

170103 in its new XC colours + a bit of 'Pride' mixed in seen at Worcester Parkway whilst working 1M99 1245 Cardiff Central to Nottingham. 17.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Thanks Steve - quite a 'busy' colour scheme. Should make for some good photos though!

50 Years Ago - September 1975
Roger Winnen
Part 2

The 08.45 Newquay to Manchester approaching St. Blazey Bridge Crossing. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Two Three Car Cross Country sets working the Newquay Branch about to pass behind the works at Ponts Mill. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

The units head for Newquay, crossing Ponts Mill viaduct. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

Wagons at Ponts Mill. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1036 Western Emperor at Redruth. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1056 Western Sultan in the sea sidings together with a pair of Class 25s in the long siding at Penzance. 14.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

The Northern Belle
'Cornish Lunch via Dawlish'

A reminder to readers that tomorrow (19.09) sees the annual Cornish trip for 'The Northern Belle', visiting Par from Cardiff. Times and details available in our Railtour Calendar. Don't forget to send in your photos!

57313 leads the returning 'Northern Belle' over Pendalake Viaduct on 14.08.2024. The set is down again (to Par) tomorrow, Friday 19.09.2025. Copyright Jon Hird.

September 17th 2025

17/9/2025

New footbridge for Bodmin?

Council commits funding to accessible footbridge at Bodmin Parkway railway station

Cornwall Council will contribute £200,000 towards an accessible footbridge at Bodmin Parkway railway station should the project be given the go ahead.

The government has confirmed funding for a feasibility study into improving access at the station where currently there is no suitable crossing between platforms for people with mobility issues, wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Read more on the Cornwall Council website - click here.

Colas Class 67's
Alan Peters

Colas Rail Class 67's are now ready for the RHTT, 67023 'Stella' and 67027 sit in the sunshine at Westbury on 12/09/25. Copyright Alan Peters.

Many thanks, Alan. Great to see the 67's finding employment - their story is rather sad following the loss of the Royal Mail trains all those years ago.

50 Years Ago - September 1975
Roger Winnen
Part 1

D1013 Western Ranger at Par Station. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1071 Western Renown and 25095 on a Newquay Train at Middleway. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1023 Western Fusilier working the 10.05 from Newquay passing St Blazey Football Field. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

The 08.45 Newquay to Manchester passing Ponts Mill and approaching Par/St. Blazey Bridge. 07.09.1975, copyright Roger Winnen.

More from this series tomorrow - stay tuned!

Terry Baker visits the seaside
Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66847 'Terry Baker' made a visit the Looe line for a ballast drop with hired Freightliner 66544 top and tailed with 5 Autoballasters seen illuminated at the terminus in the early hours of 10th September 2025 working 6C41 from Westbury and return. 16.09.2025, copyright Alan Peters.

An unusual hour to visit the seaside! Many thanks, Alan.

Midday in Mid-Cornwall
Mark Lynam

150221 at Middleway in a brief patch of sun working 2N09 1120 Newquay to Par. 16.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

No sun for the return working - 2N12 1216 Par to Newquay. 16.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Once the 150 had cleared Goonbarrow the clay was then let out. 66054 seen at Middleway working 6G09 1236 Goonbarrow Junction Dbc to Fowey Dock Carne Point. 16.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

As I was driving over the bridge at Par station I could hear the 66, so parked up in the road road past the bridge and managed to get a shot of the clay pulling away. 16.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

66054 at Golant during high tide in a patch of sun. 16.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Crossing the little bridge at Golant which allows boats to access the small tidal inlet. 16.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark - glad the sun came out for you.

September 16th 2025

16/9/2025

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 65
Laira Open Days
Michael L. Roach

It is often forgotten or overlooked that the Pilgrim Fathers originally set out for the New World not from Plymouth but from Boston in Lincolnshire fleeing religious persecution. They set out in two hired ships with one carrying the pilgrims and the other carrying all the stores they would need for the trip across the Atlantic and the early days in America. One of the ships was giving problems so there were calls into Dartmouth and Plymouth for repairs, but it became clear that the smaller ship, the Speedwell, was in no fit state to cross the Atlantic. The pilgrims transferred to the larger ship carrying the stores which was called the Mayflower finally leaving Plymouth in just one ship on 6 September 1620, and first sighting land on the other side on 9 November 1620.

The 400th anniversary of this heroic voyage in 2020 was celebrated on both sides of the Atlantic but the years of detailed planning in Plymouth were severely disrupted by the Covid Pandemic which meant that many events were postponed until 2021 and then cancelled completely. Fifty years earlier the 350th anniversary was celebrated during the summer of 1970 and one of the events planned was to open the British Railways diesel depot at Plymouth to the public for one day on 26 September 1970. The depot was then only about eight years old and I think that this was the first open day. Both it and the year's celebrations were a great success with crowds taking advantage of a chance to see inside the diesel depot.

The second that I attended took place on Saturday 7 September 1985 as part of the GWR 150 Celebrations. We travelled up from Cornwall by train and then took advantage of the dmu shuttle from Plymouth Station to a temporary scaffold platform at the depot. There were three standard gauge steam engines on display including small prairie 4555 again. There was also an interesting selection of freight wagons on display many of which have disappeared from regular use. Most of my photos of the 1985 Open Day will appear in a later part of the series. I am not sure just how many open days there have been at Laira but the only other one that we attended was on 15 September 1991 when there were examples of the following diesel and electric classes on display: class 37, 42, 47, 50, 52, 55, 58, 59, 60, 86 and 90.

On 21 August 2025 Alstom and GWR announced a £75M contract to maintain the 26 strong fleet of Class 175 dmus at Laira. The units were built by Alstom between 1999 and 2001 and previously operated in Wales and The Borders. The class 175s will now travel between Barnstaple, Exeter and Penzance from later in 2025.

Please click on any of the below images to obtain an enlargement

Small prairie no. 4555 was only 46 years old when it was displayed at the Laira Open Day in 1970 and had only been in preservation for some 6 years. Those figures are now 101 and 61 years. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The cover of the souvenir programme for the 1985 Laira Open Day.

The programme's diagrammatic track layout of the Laira Depot.

The list of exhibits in 1985.

(Terry Nicholls photo of steam engines in the roundhouse)

(History of Railways in Plymouth)

(Laira's 1985 allocation of diesels and dmus)

The first engine we saw as we entered the 1985 open day was the broad gauge 4-2-2 replica “Iron Duke”. The original was designed by Daniel Gooch and was the first engine built at Swindon Works being turned out in 1846. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always Michael, another superb article.

For more of Michaels work, please click here.

Cornish 'Castle' Capers
Jon Hird

43198 leads the 1315 Penzance - Plymouth into St. Austell, with 43189 on the other end. 43198 is still looking tidy after last months visit to Derby for 'The Greatest Gathering'. 15.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Poor 43188 has had a coming together with a tree near Bodmin Parkway and is seen running into Par (where it would terminate) with a heavily delayed 1340 Plymouth - Penzance. 43186 was on the opposite end. 15.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The crew assess the damage at Par and make plans to get the damaged train back to Laira, with the Newquay branch class 150 in Platform 3. 15.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Seaside Steam
Roger Salter

Passing Cockwood Harbour is 1Z49 0544 High Wycombe-Kingswear behind 5029 Nunney Castle. 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Shortly afterwards came 1Z43 0604 Birmingham New St-Plymouth behind 7029 Clun Castle and 45596 Bahamas. 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

The support act for 7029 and 45596 - OZ45 0937 Bristol East Depot- Plymouth class 37, 37418 Ann Comunn Gaidhgalach & 37240. 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

The returning 'Mayflower' excursion approaches Cockwood - 1Z48 16 38 Plymouth-Birmingham New St. 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

7026 'Clun Castle'. 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Followed closely by 5029 Nunney Castle with 'The English Riviera Express' - 1Z52 1635 Kingswear-High Wycombe (held at Eastdon signal with coach brake problem, caused delays to following services). 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

5029 'Nunney Castle'. 06.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Some nice sunny shots, many thanks Roger.

The Midland Pullman
Roger Salter

After the sunny weather for the charter steam on Saturday 6/9/2, 5 Wednesday 10/9/25 turned wet to see the Blue Pullman at Cockwood. However, on her return at Eastdon the sun came out until she approached the Warren and a cloud thought it would spoil the fun!!

The Midland Pullman passing Cockwood Harbour. 1Z32 0609 Norwich-Paignton, 10.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

The return working between Dawlish Warren and Cockwood, just missing the sun due to a stray cloud. 10.09.2025, copyright Roger Salter.

Thanks again Roger - you can't win them all with the sun!

Swindon Variety
Ken Mumford

Vandalism on a GWR IET at Swindon. 15.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

37800 approaches platform 4 with 5Q76 [Wimbledon Park Depot Sidings to Newport Docks [Sims Group] 5 minutes early. 15.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Having run around its train 59101 leaves Swindon East Loop for the final few miles to Wootton Bassett. 15.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Dr75017 passing through Swindon. 15.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

6Z04 [Coleham - Swindon Transfer] - with loco 97302 hauling RHTT [Rail Head Treatment Train] wagons 613106 and 613108. 15.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken - a great mix.

September 15th 2025

15/9/2025

The Bodmin Railway Diesel Gala
27th & 28th September

Join us for a weekend of diesel-powered delight at the Bodmin Railway Diesel Gala, taking place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just looking for a fun family day out, this event is packed with heritage, horsepower, and hospitality.

For more info, click here.

A tale of Clay & Castles
Mark Lynam & Jon Hird

43188 at Marazion working 2P18 1150 Penzance to Plymouth. 13.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Up in East Cornwall, 43188 is again seen working the same service, passing Coldrennick Viaduct, Menheniot and meeting 66054 with the empty Westbury - St. Blazey JIA's heading in the opposite direction. 13.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Heading West again, 66054 is seen at Respryn working 6V76 1035 Westbury Down T.C. to Lostwithiel Down Gds Loop. 13.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

66054 in Lostwithiel down goods loop, where it stays the weekend due to engineering work on the Newquay branch. 13.09.2025, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks, Mark

Rails around Plymouth (Part 2)

Please click the above image for an enlargement.

I would be grateful if you could advertise Bernard's latest film evening for the Plymouth Valley Railway. Last October Bernard kindly did a evening on the west and central areas of Plymouth. He had so much material that he's coming back to do the east side. This will include Laira Depot, The Turnchapel and Launceston Branches, Friary Station and the mainline. Knowing Bernard, he will have one or two gems up his sleeve. Admission is £5 a ticket, either in advance or on the door, and includes complimentary tea, coffee etc. There will be a bookstall and draw.

11th October 2025, at the 1st Plympton Scout Group Hut, Cottles Lodge, Station Road, Plympton, Plymouth - PL7 2AU. What 3 words - ///atom.chats.oath

Please pop along to Bernards show if you are able to, his photographs are always a delight.

Re: Where's that Western?

From Michael Forward:

Hello All, Well done to the gentlemen who knew D1048 was then at Horwich works near Bolton. The loco was taken to The Midland Railway Centre, Ripley, Derby and then on to The Severn Valley Railway in Sept. 2023 where she still resides, but not in running condition. Now in BR blue livery.

And from Andrew Thompson:

I would say that's Horwich Works. Stored there for a period after exit from Southport Railway Museum. Evidently moved from NYMR to Horwich in 1980 and then to Southport Railway in 1983.

And from Roger Vinten:

The photo of D1048 at Horwich brought back some great memories for me.

Does anyone have information dates etc regarding the Western diesel hydraulics that were stored in the ‘factory’ at Newton Abbot?

As a nipper I fondly remember 1041 (?) and 1048 (?) being there.

One afternoon, Dad (working a late turn) arrived back home in Totnes , bundled me into the car and raced back to N.A to witness 1013 and 1062 arriving from the Paignton and Kingswear line.

Under their own power from the daily shed and by way of the traverser, they rejoined their sisters inside the former workshops.

Did any other CRS readers witness the spectacle back in the 1970s?

Many thanks all, especially to Michael Forward whos email prompted this discussion.

If anybody can help with Roger Vinten's query, please drop us an email - [email protected]

The Dean Forest Railway Diesel Gala
Steve Widdowson

The Dean Forest Railway held their annual diesel gala over the weekend of 13/14th September, featuring visiting locos 50021 and Deltic 55009.

09106 Parkend { 1310 Lydney Jct ~ Parkend } 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

50021 Lydney Jct { 1435 Lydney Jc ~ Parkend } 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

50021 Nochard { 1150 Lydney Jct ~ Nochard High lever } 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

50021 Parkend. 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

55009 Nochard { 1130 Lydney Jct ~ Parkend } 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

55009 tnt 50021 Lydney Jct { 1000 Lydney Jct ~ Parkend } 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

55009 tnt 50021 Parkend { 1000 Lydmey Jct ~ Parkend } 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

55009 tnt 50021 Parkend { 1345 Parkend ~ Lydney Jct }. 13.09.2025, copyright Steve Widdowson.

Many thanks Steve - a nice selection, looks like it was a good event.

September 14th 2025

14/9/2025

Re: Where's that Western?
Martin Duff & Roger Vinten

Thanks and well done to Martin and Roger who both answered Michael Forwards brain teaser yesterday. As Roger put it:

'The photo of D1048 WESTERN LADY (In non authentic green livery) was taken at B.R.E.L Horwich Works'

And Martin provides a link to another photograph of the locomotive at this location - click here.

The South Devon Railway
'Heritage Open Days'
Jon Hird

The South Devon Railway are holding a 'Heritage Open Day' on both Saturday and Sunday 13/14th September. There are demonstration freight services, vintage busses and the opportunity to visit the workshops at Buckfastleigh.

GWR Small Prarie 5526 approaches Hood Bridge with the 1415 Buckfastleigh - Totnes Riverside. 13.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Having passed the previous service at Staverton, 1369 heads for Buckfastleigh at Hood Bridge with the 1415 Totnes Riverside - Buckfastleigh.

Next up was 33002 with the 1447 Buckfastleigh - Buckfastleigh demonstration freight, via Staverton loop. 13.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A view from the bridge as 33002 approaches Staverton. 13.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

One final shot as I headed home, of 5526 arriving back at Buckfastleigh with the final train of the day. A few minutes earlier it was raining heavily, but the sun popped out for a minute or two just as the train arrived. 13.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Bristol Brush
Phil 'Shattered' Smith

47511 departs Bristol Temple Meads with a parcels/van train. No date for this one. Copyright Phil Smith.

Many thanks, Phil - a rainy day by the look of it.

September 13th 2025

13/9/2025

A CRS Appeal
Your stories wanted for our magazine!

Many casual readers of this website may not realise that the Cornwall Railway Society is an organisation of which anybody can become a member.

We produce our own in-house printed magazine, which is distributed to our members around the world.

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The Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Ken Mumford

As part of our ISLE OF WIGHT holiday, Tricia and I visited the ISLE OF
WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY.

Starting at Smallbrook Junction behind 24 'Calbourne' and 4-wheeled
carriages [which gave an interesting and noisy ride] we went the whole
length of the line to Wootton and back to Haven Street, then I visited
the workshop.

Travelling on the Isle of Wight steam railway. 09.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Calbourne with the lines vintage wooden carriages. 09.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Various traction on display inside the museum at Havenstreet. 09.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Ex-underground stock, recently retired from the main island network. 09.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Running round at Smallbrook Junction - the national network the other side of the metal fence with a small exchange platform. 09.09.2025, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks, Ken. An excellent railway and what a lovely place the island is.

Where's that Western?
Michael Forward & Michael Adams

Michael Adams sends these pictures of D1048 'Western Lady' in an unfamiliar setting, and yes - way outside the site's area, but we thought it would be of interest as she would have been seen in Cornwall etc.

The pictures were taken on 10 December 1982.

See if anyone can get the location, answer next week!

D1048 'Western Lady' in an undisclosed location on 10.12.1982. Copyright Michael Adams.

Many thanks to Michael Adams for supplying the pics and to Michael Forward to sending them in - a bit of a brain teaser there - if you know where 'Lady' is, drop us an email - [email protected]

Pentewan Railway Clay Cellars
Jon Hird

Behind the Co-Op supermarket in Gover, St. Austell, lies an interesting railway relic. This small building is the sole remaining structure of what was once the terminus of the narrow gauge Pentewan Railway. It's a former Clay Cellar, sadly greatly reduced in length from what it once was, but it's still fantastic to see it along with the platform/wharf.

The former clay cellars at the Pentewan Railway Terminus, St. Austell. The railways track bed is now the tarmaced lane in front of the building. 10.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

A look inside the building, the wooden shuttering a modern addition. 10.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

September 12th 2025

12/9/2025

Views of Lelant
Dennis Clarke

I had a walk around Carnsew Pool in Hayle today in a bit of glorious sunshine. Please find attached a couple of photos looking over to Lelant station with the St Ives branch line train passing,

2x class 150's head to St. Ives, viewed passing Lelant from Hayle. 11.09.2025, copyright Dennis Clarke.

What a great scene - many thanks, Dennis.

Re: What's that Duff?
Guy Vincent & Graham Mann

The below messages have been received in response to Phil Smiths picture of a mystery class 47 which we published yesterday.

From Guy Vincent:

Here is some more info regarding 47599 at Exeter St Davids.

Loco 47177 was fitted with ETH at Crewe works and released to traffic renumbered 47599 at the end of October 1983.

Exeter St Davids station was re-modelled and re-signalled in April 1985. Looking at the trees in the distance and at the condition of the loco's paintwork I would guess the photo was taken in the autumn of 1984.

47599 later received Railfreight triple grey livery and in 1994 was further converted for use on Royal Mail push-pull trains and became 47743. It also gained the name "The Bobby", being named at Bristol Temple Meads on 30th March 1995. Less than 4 months later the loco met its end when, on 24th July it derailed and fell down a 30 - foot embankment at Skelton bridge, York. Recovery was deemed too difficult and costly and resulted in 47743 being broken up on site. The name was later re-used on sister loco 47746.

And from Graham Mann:

Apologies for being a bit pedantic but the article mentions a 47 leaving St.Davids in 1986, however I wouldn’t know the exact year but it wasn’t 1986 as ESD was commissioned to electric signalling in 1985 for which I was the Project Manager.

Many thanks Graham and Guy - we seem to have gotten the date wrong, thanks for the expert advice and correction.

More Southern Route Learning
Bill Elston

A change of loco for the route-learner down the 'Southern' to Honiton.

59003 is seen passing Crewkerne station on its way back to Eastleigh, as 0Z86.

The blue sky in the background is somewhat deceptive as I was stood under a raincloud!

59003 is seen passing Crewkerne station on its way back to Eastleigh, as 0Z86. 11.09.2025, copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill, nice to see the Southern Route.

September 11th 2025

11/9/2025

Devon Belle Observation Car
Paul Negus

Seeing the Devon Belle observation car in the Swanage snaps posted by Andrew and Diane Jones yesterday made me search out our images of its "sister" carriage on the Paington and Kingswear Railway in June of this year.

We joined our train at Kingswear after a panoramic trip across the Dart on one of the railway's ferries and arrived in time to see the earlier departure behind Lydham Manor. We saw the impressive Devon Belle carriage was in the train and asked the guard if our (standard) tickets would be valid, as our return from Paignton would be behind Lydham Manor. He replied that you can ride in this carriage for the princely supplement of three pounds. What a bargain! (I remember charging passengers £1 to travel in the Observation Car on the Ffestiniog Railway back in the 1960s - about £23 in today's money). Needless to say, we enjoyed the best view right at the back of the train and I can thoroughly recommend the trip to all readers.

7827 is ready to depart Kingswear running tender-first, coupled to the Devon Belle observation car. 18.05.2025, copyright Paul Negus.

7827 'Lydham Manor' with The Devon Belle at Paignton. 18.05.2025, copyright Paul Negus.

Many thanks, Paul - I'm sure these are a valuable asset to their owners, they allow a great view when on the rear of a service.

Burngullow Interlude
Jon Hird

66054 stands in the loop at Burngullow having arrived with a mixture of loaded and empty JIA wagons from Par Harbour. It's quite unusual to see a train here this late in the day nowadays, with most Treviscoe traffic arriving early in the morning. 10.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

43042 rushes past with 2C20 from Exeter St. Davids. 10.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

Later in the day, whilst on the way to town, I made another quick visit to Burngullow. A drone shot in the warm evening light showing the sad state of Burngullow yard and the rest of the huge site which has sat silently decaying for a number of years. 10.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

GWR's 800002 passes by in some lovely evening light with the 1715 Penzance - Plymouth. 10.09.2025, copyright Jon Hird.

The Torbay Riviera Pullman
Andrew Triggs

In between the showers I caught up with the Return 1Z33 17.29 Paignton-Norwich 'Torbay Riviera Pullman' with LSL 43047 and 43055 passing Norton Fitzwarren heading towards Taunton. 3 shots for CRS in somewhat challenging conditions.

Shortly after passing Norton Fitzwarren, as the rain briefly stops. 10.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Passing Fairwater Yard heading towards Taunton. 10.09.2025, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew, well done for braving the weather!

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