Blog Archives

October 11th 2024

11/10/2024

Dennis Clarke presents:
'My life on the railways'
From Willesden and Wembley, to North Pole and Temple Mills
- Tomorrow, 12th October 2024 -

Please come along to Dennis' presentation tomorrow.

Starting at 18:30, at the Memorial Hall, Redruth Methodist Church.

Redruth Methodist Church is easy to find - it is alongside the railway adjacent to the tunnel.
Exiting the station from the up-side, turn right.

The Seaton Tramway
Michael Forward

Roger, We spent a very enjoyable week at Sidmouth last week and on the first day travelled on the Seaton Tramway,for the first time.
I was very impressed with the whole set up and can praise the restoration of Colyton station in particular.An excellent café and I can recommend the breakfast baps.!
Here is the station with a tram at the end of the platform waiting to return to Seaton.
All the best, Michael Forward.

Many Thanks Michael

Memories of the Southern Route
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 8

02.04.1977 - Brentor Station. Copyright Roger Winnen.

02.04.1977 - Near Brentor. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Mary Tavy and Blackdowne Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Tavistock North (note the impressive TV aerial!) Copyright Roger Winnen. See caption below

02.04.1977 - Tavistock North. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Roger Winnen's "Memories of the Southern Route - March 1977 part 8" - the impressive TV aerial is, in fact an amateur (ham) radio aerial - a 3-element beam for the 20/15/10 metre bands . . .

Dale Chadwick (holder of Class A Amateur Radio Licence since 1966, callsign G3VMK)
Sent from Dale's iPad

Many Thanks Dale

02.04.1977 - Tavistock North Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Gunnislake Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

BR Blue in 1975
Paul Barlow
+ additional notes from Guy Vincent

We were very happy to receive some additional notes to accompany this set of images from Guy Vincent - Guy's notes are shown below each image. Thank you very much, Guy.

21.06.1975 - D1069 awaits departure from Plymouth. Copyright Paul Barlow (Original photographer unknown).

Guy Vincent writes: Sat. 21 06 1975 - D1069 on 1A79 1435 Penzance - Paddington at Plymouth (due 1631-1640).

13.07.1975 - D1011 Western Thunderer at Dawlish Warren. Copyright Paul Barlow (Original photographer unknown).

Guy Vincent writes: Sun. 13 07 1975 - D1011 on 1B15 1030 Paddington - Penzance at Dawlish Warren (due Exeter St Davids 1336, first stop, pick up only, 'Cornish Riviera Limited').

19.07.1975 - D1028 Western Hussar at Exeter St Davids. Copyright Paul Barlow (Original photographer unknown).

Guy Vincent writes: Sat. 19 07 1975 - D1028 on 1A69 0840 Penzance - Paddington at Exeter St Davids (due approx 1145am, shown as non-stop in public timetable from Plymouth dep 1045 to Reading arr 1402).

12.08.1975 - 50003 Leaves Exeter St. Davids on a Penzance to Liverpool train. Copyright Paul Barlow (Original photographer unknown).

Guy Vincent writes: Mon. 12 08 1975 - 50003 on 1M85 0755 Penzance - Liverpool at Exeter St Davids (due 1125).

13.08.1975 - D1013 Western Ranger on The Kensington Olympia to St Austell Motorail seen from the Dawlish sea wall. Copyright Paul Barlow (Original photographer unknown).

Guy Vincent writes: Tue. 13 08 1975 - D1013 on 1V34 0745 Kensington Olympia - St Austell Motorail at Dawlish (due past approx 1105).

One last note from Guy:

D1011 and D1069 were both withdrawn on 6th October 1975 along with D1025, D1026, D1034 D1052 and D1059. These seven withdrawals were planned and took place at the end of the summer timetable period.

Many thanks Paul - a wonderful batch of images, thanks for sharing them. And a big thanks to Guy Vincent too, for once again helping fill-in the gaps.

Derrycombe RHTT
Jon Hird

I've been trying to capture a photograph of the RHTT on all of the viaducts in the Glynn Valley, and this is the one I have been dreading. The train only just fits on the bridge, and as anybody who has tried their hand at drone photography will know, the varying shutter lag on the devices means that freezing a moving subject precisely is something of pot luck. Thankfully I managed to frame the train pretty centrally. 66179 and 66154 head for St. Blazey with the railhead treatment train over Derrycombe viaduct on 10.10.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

Checking open train times revealed that another 66 was heading to my position from the West, so I stopped just around the corner to take this shot of 66244 hauling 10 loaded JIA's up the valley running as 6C10. The wagons had been loaded at Par Harbour. 10.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A question about Liskeard
Can you help?

From a reader:

Hi,

I lived in Liskeard during the mid 70s, and as a lad spent many hours at the station ( sometimes in the signal box ) watching the coming and goings, and the shunting of van trains into the Cornwall and West Devon farmers store between the main line and Looe branch. I have a question about the old goods shed sited west of the platforms.

It is a two road shed that appears to have only one loading bank, and as I cannot find a picture that shows any doors across the two tracks, appears to be unable to be secured ?

Can anyone cast any light on the reason for this design or indeed its use.

Thankyou in anticipation,

Adrian

Liskeard on 17.07.1971 with D804 rolling in with the 08:15 Paddington - Penzance. Adrian is curious as to the design and use of the black goods shed to the right of the image. Photo copyright Ron Kosys.

Thanks for your question, Adrian. If you can help with the answer, please do drop us an email -
[email protected]

St. Erth Footbridge Progress
Dennis Clarke

Hi Keith, Roger, Jon,

Here are a few pictures of the new St Erth footbridge that I took today. (10.10.2024)

It is certainly taking shape !

Regards,
Dennis

The new St. Erth footbridge nears completion. 10.10.2024, copyright Dennis Clarke.

New and old footbridges at St. Erth. 10.10.2024, copyright Dennis Clarke.

The two structures at St. Erth. 10.10.2024, copyright Dennis Clarke.

The accessible lifts of the new footbridge. 10.10.2024, copyright Dennis Clarke.

Many thanks, Dennis - good to see the progress.

October 10th 2024

10/10/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 10
Milk Trains (3)
Michael L. Roach

In Part 9 (click here), I posed a question as to the location of the last photograph in that part and the answer was Carmarthen Station looking north in October 1964. A similar view is included with this part. Carmarthen was the hub of railways serving the two great dairying counties of Carmarthenshire and Cardiganshire, where at that time there were several dairies and milk depots served by rail sending liquid milk to London daily. There was always great excitement at Plymouth Station on Summer Saturdays in the 1950s when a Carmarthen engine turned up occasionally; but things might not bes quite what they seemed, as if it had come all the way from Carmarthen or Swansea on a Summer Saturday it might well have run out of coal after all the traffic delays en-route so could have been serviced at Bristol and sent further west due to a shortage of tender engines at Bristol.

The line that headed north from Carmarthen in West Wales went through very pleasant, but sparely populated, countryside with distant views of the Cambrian Mountains before turning and heading down to the coast at Aberystwyth on the coast of Cardigan Bay. This is a land of small towns, villages and dairy farms. Passenger trains took two and a half hours to cover the 56 miles from Carmarthen to Aber. Because the line served no large towns there were never more than 5 trains each way, even on a summer Saturday in the 1930s (when the line was at its peak of popularity, after the GWR publicity machine had been busy promoting the line). In the last few years there were just 3 passenger trains each way Monday to Friday, with more on Summer Saturdays. However, there was a substantial freight traffic originating on the line with hundreds of live cattle and thousands of gallons of liquid milk making their way eastwards towards London every day until the 1950s.

My first trip over the line was on the 6.10am off Carmarthen on 22 July 1963. After travelling overnight from Plymouth diesel-hauled all the way, it was great to see 7810 Draycott Manor of Oswestry Shed at the head of four coaches and one truck – a true mixed train. The return from Aber at 11.55am was behind 7826 Longworth Manor of Carmarthen Shed with three coaches. During a five minute stop at Pont Llanio Station, one loaded milk truck was attached to the rear of the train from the milk depot alongside the station.

My second trip over the line was 15 months later on 10 October 1964. I was staying at Gloucester for the weekend and left there very early to motor to Cardiff to meet a friend and catch the 7.35am dmu to Carmarthen. We arrived to find two coaches up against the buffers in the north-facing bay platform with 7826 Longworth Manor doing some shunting of empty milk tanks. 7826 was now based at Llanelly Shed, involving a 20-mile light engine movement at the beginning and end of the working day, because Carmarthen Shed had closed between my two visits. 7826 proceeded to add no less than eight empty milk tanks in front of the passenger coaches in the bay platform to form the 10.35am Carmarthen to Aberystwyth - the second train of the day. The engine was way off the end of the bay platform and the train consisted of 7826 plus 8 milk tanks and 2 coaches – quite a load, but no problem for the Manor. Four tanks were detached at Lampeter Station and would later be tripped down to Green Grove Siding and milk depot on the Aberayron Branch. The remaining four tanks were dropped off at Pont Llanio where there was a Creamery and milk depot alongside the station set in a tiny hamlet beside the River Teifi. More about Lampeter and Pont Llanio in a later part of the series.

In September 2024 I purchased the latest book about the line by Geraint Roberts (Lightmoor Press ISBN 9781 915069 405) and it's very good – it brought back a lot of memories. The book has 300 pages and perhaps 400-500 photographs but there are only a handful of photos showing milk tanks attached to a passenger train. Of those handful, the largest number of milk tanks in a passenger train is four, and there is not a single photo showing a passenger train with eight milk tanks, so I was very lucky that day to have such a number. I thought it was a regular occurrence that would have been captured by other photographers, but obviously that was not the case. My friend and travelling companion in October 1964 worked for BR in the Divisional Office at Cardiff at the time and perhaps used his position to ensure we had a worthwhile load. No matter how it came about, it made a most memorable trip, complete with steam haulage, at a time when the diesels were taking over all trains in West Wales. Within a few months of my trip, on 10.10.1964, the Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line would close to passengers and dieselisation would be completed west of Swansea.

Finally, in Part 9, I ended by posing the question was our train a passenger or a mixed train. The answer is that it was a passenger train also conveying milk tanks, and not a mixed train of passenger coaches and freight wagons. The reason is that milk and milk tanks are passenger-rated traffic. A wholly milk train, like the 12.20pm Penzance to Kensington, appeared in the Plymouth District Working Time Table of Passenger Trains but not in the Plymouth District WTT of Freight Trains.

The 10.35am Carmarthen to Aberystwyth on 10 October 1964 looking north from the end of the platform. On the left, out of picture, are three further milk tanks and two passenger coaches up against the buffers. Time did not permit me to walk up on to the road bridge. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

My first view out the window from the front of the first coach. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

We are now 9 miles into the journey and half a mile south of the station at Llanpumpsaint. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

I have now moved to the rear of the last coach for this view out of the window. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

7826 heads the train out of Llanybyther 22½ miles into the 56 mile journey at 11.47 (8L) one hour after leaving Carmarthen 11 late. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Also leaving Llanybyther which had one of several crossing loops on the route. Llanybyther is a small town with a major livestock market which survives to this day and which is famous for its monthly horse sales attracting buyers from all over Britain and Ireland. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Michael - and well done to those of you who emailed in with the answer to the question posed in Part 9.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 7

02.04.1977 - Bridestowe Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Remains of Lydford Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

SVR Autumn Diesel Gala 2024
Andrew Triggs

Although out of our area, Andrew has provided a number of photographs of former western-region locomotives taking part in last weeks Severn Valley Railway diesel gala, which I'm sure will be enjoyed.

D1062 'Western Courier' departing Kidderminster working 16.15 Kidderminster-Bridgnorth 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

50033 'Glorious' running round at Bridgnorth prior to working 10.50 Bridgnorth-Kidderminster 4.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

46045 passing Kidderminster TMD working 15.15 Kidderminster-ridgnorth 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

'Blue is the Colour' with 20048 and 20189, and 50007 'Hercules' stabled at Kidderminster 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

40106 awaiting departure from Kidderminster working 19.03 Kidderminster-Highley 4.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Star of the show 58023 'Leicester Depot' on display at Kidderminster Yard 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Visiting Class 25s D7628 'Sybilla' and South Devon Railway based 25262 with 50007 at Kidderminster 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Recently repainted 50007 'Hercules' on display at Kidderminster 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

D1015 'Western Champion' on Kidderminster Turntable 3.10.2024. Copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew - looks like it was a great event, and the sun came out for you too!

Newquay Palm Trees
Re-homed!

From Lappa Valley:

A set of palm trees which have been welcoming thousands of railway passengers to one of Cornwall’s top resorts, are enjoying a new home.

The palm trees, which stood proudly next to the station were removed as part of the works to reinstate a second platform at Newquay Railway Station. They have now been transferred to Lappa Valley, a tourist attraction near St Newlyn East where they adorn the railway of the Newlyn Downs Branchline.

“We’re really pleased to be in a position to give these palm trees a new home.” said Ben Harding, Lappa Valley’s Operations Director.
“From our research, we believe the trees have been welcoming visitors to Newquay for over 30 years. Their new home is very fitting, as our railway runs along the trackbed of the former Chacewater branchline, which ended at Newquay station.”

Lappa Valley is one of Cornwall’s most popular family attractions, offering three railways and activities in the heart of the Cornish Countryside.

Ben continued: “We are based around the workings of the old East Wheal Rose Mine, and in a small way these trees continue our celebration of the area’s heritage. Thank you to Network Rail, and their contactors Colas for their help in transporting the trees to their new home”.

The famous palm trees of Newquay station re-homed at The Lappa Valley Railway. Photo copyright Lappa Valley.

Visit the Lappa Valley website - click here.

Re: Laira Scrap 'Westerns'
Guy Vincent

Photo published 09.10.2024 - 10.08.1975 - The Laira scrap line - 2 Westerns (ID'd by Guy Vincent below) keep Hymek D7089 company. Copyright Paul Barlow (original photographer unknown).

From Guy Vincent:

The two withdrawn Westerns with D7089 at Laira are D1006 Western Stalwart and D1050 Western Ruler. By coincidence, exactly one year ago on 9th October 2023 a feature on these three locos was published on CRS. (click here)

Many thanks Guy - I was waiting for your email when I posed the question!

'Sharpshooter' Fire
Simon Howard

Just having a massive clear out and found this clipping… Copyright Simon Howard.

Many thanks for sending this in, Simon - it's very interesting. A bad day for poor 'sharpshooter'.

The Railhead Treatment Train at Exminster
David Tozer

66179 and 66154 top and tailing the 0846 3S13 Westbury to St Blazey L.I.P. 66179 was exported to France and returned to England some while ago and you should notice it has on the front a red/silver rectangle. 09.10.2024, copyright David Tozer.

Thank you very much, Dave

'Mayflower' heads West
Martin Scane, John Simons & Clive Smith

61306 Mayflower on the Golden Hind to Plymouth passing Dawlish Station. 09.10.2024, copyright John Simons.

61306 Mayflower on the Golden Hind heads on to Plymouth at Dawlish sea wall. 09.10.2024, copyright John Simons.

Mayflower on the sea wall for the last time this year (apart from the return trip later today) heading 1Z61 from Worcester SH to Plymouth this morning. 09.10.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Autumn colours are just starting so I thought I'd go with some landscape shots for the second visit of 61306 'Mayflower' on the 'Golden Hind from Worcester to Plymouth, the last steam special of the season down our way. Sadly the sun didn't play ball. It was still bright as the down train passed through Bittaford. Copyright Clive Smith.

Shortly before the up was due the sun was shining and I was hoping for a backlit shot passing through the site of the old Ivybridge station and crossing Ivybridge Viaduct but a slab of grey cloud moved in and dulled the scene. Copyright Clive Smith.

61306 crosses Ivybridge Viaduct. This and the previous photo were taken from the Redlake Tramway on Dartmoor, which closed in the 1930s but the trackbed is still there. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Martin, John and Clive for your excellent images. 'Mayflower' has done her owners proud this year down here in the westcountry.

5 Minutes at Largin
Jon Hird

66179 and 66154 top and tail the railhead treatment train (as pictured by David Tozer at Exminster, above) over Largin Viaduct. Not the shot I wanted - I could hear the train approaching as I was faffing around with the drone and didn't have time to position as I'd hoped to. One to try again another day. 09.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Just three minutes after taking the RHTT photo, a GWR Castle headed by 43189 (43093 on the rear) appeared heading in the opposite direction, with 2P16 - the 13:15 Penzance to Plymouth. 09.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Re: HST Crew Training in Cornwall
Kevin Daniel

HST set 253005 with a crew training run passing Crugwallins on 04.11.1978. Copyright Roger Geach.

We published the above photograph from Roger Geach in yesterdays 'news'. Roger wrote and asked;

I would be interested to know the first time one worked on crew training runs down in the far west, does anyone know please?

We were delighted to receive the comprehensive reply from Kevin Daniel below.

Dear CRS,

Following on from Roger Geach's photo of HST set 253 005 at Crugwallins on 4/11/78 and his query about the HST crew training programme in the far west, I can add the following.

Roger's photo is quite historic as it is one of the earliest photos of a production HST set in Cornwall. Crew training from Penzance to Plymouth commenced W/C 3/11/78. I can't locate the relevant internal BR notice at the moment but the set was diagrammed for 2 round trips, Mondays-Fridays. The set was serviced at Penzance but on Friday evenings returned to St Philips Marsh for an A Exam and returned to Penzance in the early hours of the following Monday.

The set allocated to the crew training programme was the one next due works overhaul from St Philips Marsh's allocation. At the start of Cornwall crew training 253 005 with power cars 43010/11 was the designated set. This had in fact made its way to Cornwall on Thursday 27th October 1978, and stabled at Penzance over the following weekend. Interestingly, power car 43011 had acquired the nose end cover of 253 001 in August 1978, so it is very possible that there are other photographs of the set bearing the incorrect unit number during the period it was in Cornwall.

As the crew training programme progressed into 1979 it became more usual for shortened rake to be provided, consisting of 2 power cars and 2 or 3 trailers, however, they were usually from a set earmarked for overhaul.

Hope this helps. If I can find the BR document I mentioned I will send more precise details of the crew training paths.

I would be very interested to receive other sightings of crew training sets in Cornwall (and Devon) prior to the service introduction from Paddington in August 1979. Perhaps anyone with observations could send them to the web page editors for forwarding.

Best Wishes

Kevin

Many thanks for taking the time to answer Kevin, and in great depth. If anybody can shed any further light on the question, please do get in touch - our email address is: [email protected]

October 9th 2024

9/10/2024

Dennis Clarke presents:
'My life on the railways'
From Willesden and Wembley, to North Pole and Temple Mills
- 12th October 2024 -

Please come along to Dennis' presentation this Saturday.

Starting at 18:30, at the Memorial Hall, Redruth Methodist Church.

Redruth Methodist Church is easy to find - it is alongside the railway adjacent to the tunnel.
Exiting the station from the up-side, turn right.

50008 at Bristol
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, Very interesting pictures of the North Cornwall line, thank you.
The visit of 50008 to Bodmin recently has prompted Michael Adams to send his picture of the loco. at work on 23 December 1980 and is seen at Bristol with the 11.14 Paignton to Manchester.

Thanks Michael

The Railhead Treatment Train and the Night Riviera at Penzance
Tuesday Evening 8th October 2024
Roger Winnen

57603 Heads the Night Riviera to London Paddington. Copyright Roger Winnen

66154 tails the RHTT into Penzance. Copyright Roger Winnen

The French 66179 at Penzance prior to its departure back to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 6

02.04.1977 - Ashbury Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - The site of Maddaford Moor Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Views across Dartmoor. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Meldon Quarry to the left. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more tomorrow.

Re: Cornish HST's
Roger Geach

I noted the recent pictures of HST in Cornwall.

I first saw them in Cornwall on crew training runs in late 1978.

Below is 253005 on 04.11.1978 in the gloom approaching Crugwallins, as I called it, not far from Burngullow.

Not certain what day the first ones appeared, I just became aware they were on training runs at this time.

I'm afraid to say i was not impressed; being a lover of loco-hauled trains, fixed-formation HST workings in Cornwall was the start of the down turn of loco-hauled trains.

I would be interested to know the first time one worked on crew training runs down in the far west, does anyone know please?

HST set 253005 with a crew training run passing Crugwallins on 04.11.1978. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks as always, Roger.

Can you answer the question? Please drop us an email if you know - [email protected]

'Start 'em young'
Jon Hird

No.1 Son has his first encounter with a class 37, as 37142 powers up past Charlies Gate back in 2014. I'm not sure he was a fan of the noise! Copyright Jon Hird.

Laira Hydraulics
Paul Barlow

Hello Jon

A few pictures from Laira 1975. These are from a collection of slides I
recently acquired, photographer unknown.

Hope they are of interest

Kind regards

Paul Barlow

10.08.1975 - Hymek D7089 on the Laira scrap line. Copyright Paul Barlow (original photographer unknown).

10.08.1975 - Western D1053 sandwiched between a class 47 and class 50 at Laira. Copyright Paul Barlow (original photographer unknown).

10.08.1975 - Western D1071 'Western Renown' receiving attention at Laira. Copyright Paul Barlow (original photographer unknown).

10.08.1975 - The Laira scrap line - 2x Westerns keep Hymek D7089 company. I'm sure somebody will be able to ID the Westerns for us? Copyright Paul Barlow (original photographer unknown).

Many thanks indeed, Paul - as with anything 'Western'-related, I am sure these photos will be very much enjoyed.

October 8th 2024

8/10/2024

The Leaf Train at Eastdon, near Dawlish Warren
Roger Salter

08.10.2024 - Leaf train (RHTT) at Easstdon today. Copyright Roger Salter

Many thanks Roger

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 5

02.04.1977 - Under the canopy at Wadebridge. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Grogely Halt. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - The remains of Tower Hill Station on the North Cornwall Line. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Ashwater Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more to follow.

The RHTT clearing the line
Jon Hird

The time of year has come around once again when the RHTT (Railhead Treatment Train) commences its work, travelling the south west spraying high-pressure water onto the railhead to clear the line of any leaves or leaf mulch which could be detrimental to adhesion.

The train, in our region worked by DB Cargo, is based at St. Blazey and is formed this year of 66179 and 66154.

The daily circuit seems to be a nighttime trip from St. Blazey to Penzance, then to Westbury, and then a daytime trip from Westbury back to St. Blazey, via various different lines.

66179 and 66154 top and tail the Railhead Treatment Train as 3S13 over Clinnick Viaduct on 07.10.2024. Heavy rain started shortly after the train had passed. Copyright Jon Hird.

A bonus going-away shot, the train will soon reach Pendalake Viaduct, beyond which lies the site of Onslow Sidings. The A38 road follows the line as far as Bodmin Parkway. 07.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Shunting the CDA's
Jason Snow

We showed the below, excellent, photograph from Jason a few days ago, but inadvertently a low-resolution image was uploaded. Below is the same image but in a larger format - worth reposting as it's a very interesting, and now un-repeatable, image. Thanks, Jason.

08752 shunting a rake of cda's for loadeing at Rocks Dryers (Goonbarrow) prior to departure on 19th June 2023. Copyright Jason Snow. Re-uploaded in better quality.

Reflecting on the HST's
Andrew & Diane Jones

In the year that we are likely to see the premature demise of the groundbreaking intercity 125, I thought it was worth noting some known and not so well known facts about the class 253, 254 and 255.
Produced between 1975 and 1982, its widely held that 95 HST sets existed with the availability of 197 power units (43002 to 43198).

The HST was built as an interim measure, between traditional single locomotive hauled passenger stock and the introduction of the much heralded APT.

Sadly as with many new designs, APT eventually proved too costly to develop at a time when confidence in new railway technology was at an all time low and government interference, as now failed to look at the long term benefits of electrification and broader transport policy. (in my opinion).

However, fortune can sometimes benefit a seemingly hopeless situation and the more basic engineering design of placing power units at either end of a passenger set already utilised in the Midland Blue Pullman concept proved to me a master stroke.

Simplicity is a crucial part of good engineering design and this has been proven time and time again on the railways.

40 years on the HST is still returning reliable service against its rivals and the over sophistication with multiple power units and the overhead electric and diesel electric compromise will prove, in my opinion, ultimately to be a poor choice.

When discussing the merits of the HST, it is often quoted that Sir Kenneth Grange designed the initial locomotive, something that the general non railway media have promoted for years.

So to put the record straight, the design and construction was carried out by BREL at Crewe works with testing at the Railway Technical Centre in Derby.

However due to union disputes over the requirement for a second seat in the driving cab, the original deep prototype front window required widening to increase visibility and it was at this point that the prolific general designer Kenneth Grange came up with the aero dynamic and beautiful front end design.

Originally fitted with Paxman Valenta 12 cylinder High speed diesel engines at each end developing 2,250 hp, the overall axle target weight of 17.5 tonne was considered technically achievable and theoretically helped reduce track damage at high speed.

The characteristic whine from these engines gained many followers, but could be deafening on power up, if standing adjacent the power unit on the platform and I doubt would pass modern noise abatement standards, although the Australian XPT HST variant still runs with Paxman engines and is not due for decommissioning until 2027.

Mirrlees Blackstone MB190 were fitted to four units 43167 to 43170 between 1987 and 1996 but proved unsuccessful.

Today there are no power cars fitted with Paxman engines in the UK, although the 125 preservation group have fitted one to the prototype 41001 and reinstating 43044 for preservation.

Finally it is said that the introduction of the HST hastened the demise of the Westerns.

There was a proposal in the early 1980’s to produce an all electric version of the HST to be known as the HST-E, but this was superseded by the Intercity 225.

The HST holds the world speed record for a passenger carrying train achieving 144 mph north of York on the 27th September 1985.

I am sure other readers have stories to tell and hopefully I have not made too many mistakes.

For those that are interested please see below for a video I took on VHS, at St Austell station one evening in June 2000 capturing a Virgin Trains down service, complete with church bells ringing in the backgound. Please be patient, as the train arrives 3 minutes in and if you turn the sound up you will experience the Paxman Phenomena for yourself, although if you are into to this sort of thing, two class 37’s at full chat on the up 'Silver Bullets' through Bodmin Road took some beating!

Many thanks Andrew & Diane - an interesting and well-researched article and a wonderful video to boot. I hope that one day we can again, via a preservation effort, hear the scream of a Paxman powercar getting away from a station.

October 7th 2024

7/10/2024

The New Footbridge at
St Erth is now taking shape
Roger Winnen

The connecting span was lowered into place yesterday. The old footbridge will be removed in November 2024, according to the workforce

241007a The 09.10 Penzance to London Paddington arrives at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

241007b The cross section of the new bridge was litfed in place yesterday 6th October 2024. Copyright Roger Winnen

241007c Showing both bridges ar St Erth.. The original bridge will be removed in November 2024. Copyright Roger Winnen

241007d The 05.22 Bristo; to Penzance service at St Erth. Copyright Roger Winnen

241007f A Castle Class noted running non stop through. Copyright Roger Winnen

241007h Bridging the gap. Copyright Roger Winnen

241007k A view from the station forecourt. Copyrighr Roger Winnen

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 4

02.04.1977 - Little Petherick Creek Bridge near Padstow. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Little Petherick Creek Bridge near Padstow. Since these photographs, a concrete deck has been added which covers the whole width of the bridge to carry 'The Camel Trail' cyclepath across the creek. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Little Petherick Creek Bridge near Padstow. Copyright Roger Winnen

02.04.1977 - Padstow station stands silently. Copyright Roger Winnen.

02.04.1977 - Wadebridge Station looking towards Padstow. The rails still in place here, but they were on borrowed time. Copyright Roger Winnen.

More tomorrow...

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

50008 with Chiltern Railways DVT 82309 on 5M82 Bristol Barton Hill to Wembley TMD. 05.10.2024, Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66791 t&t 66846 on 3S59 Hereford to Swindon Transfer returning to base. 05.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

47773 (D1755) on 1Z87 Paddington to Kemble & 66610 on 6V28 West Drayton to East Usk Yard approaching the station at the same time. 05.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

47773 (D1755) t&t 20142 on 1Z87 Paddington to Kemble Private Charter This train later returned as 5Z88 Kemble to Tyseley Steam Trust empty stock. It was hired by a multi millionaire for a party in the Gloucestershire area. 05.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

20142 on the rear of the train. 05.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks, Colin - a great selection.

West Cornwall Railway Relics
Peter Flanagan

I took the opportunity of the last bit of fine weather to do some country walking and managed to get some photos which you may want for the CRS website. The first is a 1912 dated GWR boundary marker situated alongside the coast path just south of Hawkes point crossing on the St Erth-St Ives branch. Copyright Peter Flanagan.

The second and third are both at Nancegollan station site, on the former Gwinear Road-Helston branch line. Copyright Peter Flanagan.

Bridges at the disused Nancegollan Station Site. Copyright Peter Flanagan.

Many thanks for the photographs, Peter - it's remarkable how many hidden reminders of our industrious past still remain waiting to be discovered.

Steaming through the showers
Jon Hird

A momentary pause in the otherwise constant rain on Sunday 06.10.2024 co-incided with the departure of 5552 from Bodmin Parkway with the last Bodmin Railway service of the day. Seen passing Charlies Gate at 15:20. Copyright Jon Hird.

Two shots for the price of one, 5553 continues the slog up the hill with the tall evergreen trees which dominate many a photograph forming a backdrop. 06.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

October 6th 2024

6/10/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 9
Milk Trains (2)
Michael L. Roach

In 1962 – Part 70 titled Milk Trains (1) posted on Monday 19 February 2024 (click here) I described my fascination with milk trains. They were quite unlike any other trains on British Railways with their 6-wheel wagons and were never seen on many lines. Even through Plymouth where I lived, right in the middle of two dairying counties, there were just two loaded and two empty trains of milk wagons daily of which there was only one (loaded) train at a time when it was likely to be seen and photographed. That train was the Penzance to Kensington milk train 3A31 which in September 1962 left Penzance at 12.20pm and stopped for traffic purposes at St. Erth, Dolcoath Siding, Lostwithiel, Saltash, Totnes and perhaps other places further east. I saw it many times, but looking back not enough. It was scheduled to pass Hemerdon Summit at 4.30pm where I spent many happy hours on Sparkwell Bridge in the late nineteen fifties watching trains after cycling there from my home in Plymouth, about 7 miles and 35 minutes away.

The first three images were taken in different places in Devon and Cornwall and the last image sets a conundrum for the reader. Where was the photograph taken and what type of train is in the photograph – milk, passenger or mixed ? The answer will be revealed in the next instalment about milk trains due to be posted on 10 October 2024.

0-4-2T 1442 shunts milk tanks at Hemyock in deep snow on the afternoon of 5 January 1963 between passenger turns. We had travelled to Hemyock via Okehampton where the line had only just been cleared of snow drifts (at Sourton) and was soon blocked again by heavy drifting snow a few days later. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Brush Type 4 1643 roars through Totnes with 30 loaded milk tanks ready to attack Rattery Bank at 6.50pm on 17 May 1969 The reason for milk to head west, possibly to be made into milk powder, was a strike of dairy workers at Torrington. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

D834 passes St. Germans with the up milk of 7 loaded tanks at 4.27pm on 7 June 1969. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

More about this train in Part 10 of the series. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Roy Hart replies this picture was taken at Camarthen.
Many Thanks Roy

Many thanks Michael - we eagerly await part 10!

For more of Michaels work, please click here.

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

12.03.1977 - Egloskerry Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks, Roger.. more to come!

Memories of the CDA's
Jason Snow

Hi Roger, Jason here, we met recently at St.Erth station

I said I may pop a few pictures your way from when I have been out working in the south west, once i have permission from the sites visited.

This has been obtained so am sending a picture of 08752 on a rake of cda's being loaded at Rocks Dryers (Goonbarrow) prior to departure on 19th June 2023

A timeless industrial shot i think you’ll agree.
Best regards
Jason Snow

08752 shunts the CDA's at Rocks/Goonbarrow on 19.06.2023. Copyright Jason Snow.

Many thanks indeed, Jason - a wonderful view which we don't get to see very often, thanks for sharing it with us.

Liskeard Shift
Craig Munday

43097/188 approach Liskeard on the down working 2C02, just before daybreak. The change in temperature near sunrise causing the mist laying in the lee of the fields to rise. 03.10.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

The set returned working 2P08 in brilliant Oct sunshine, viewed from Liskeard signalbox. 03.10.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Craig - classic BR designs and semaphores - always the makings of a nice scene.

Flourishing stations
James Bown

I’ve enjoyed Roger’s pictorial record of those closed stations with all the sadness associated with those bleak scenes from yesteryear.

I’m happy to report that my journey today was from Maiden Newton (formerly junction) to that architecturally important train shed at Frome.

Passenger figures at both stations are both on the up, particularly at Frome which really needs that down platform reinstated!

Best wishes
James Bown

Maiden Newton station with a feel of yesteryears about it. 05.10.2024, copyright James Bown.

A sunny scene at Frome with the distinctive wooden train shed still standing over the one remaining pair of rails. 05.10.2024, copyright James Bown.

Frome train shed. Sad to see the redunant second platform, but at least everything still appears to be there, other than the metals. A contendant for reinstatement? 05.10.2024, copyright James Bown.

Inside the train shed at Frome as a GWR 'Turbo' approaches. 05.10.2024, copyright James Bown.

Many thanks for sharing your journey with us, James, and very glad to hear you are enjoying Rogers pictures of the closed NCL stations.

October 5th 2024

5/10/2024

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

12.03.1977 - Camelford Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Otterham Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Tresmeer Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

October 4th 2024

4/10/2024

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

12.03.1977 - Delabole Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Delabole Station nameboard. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Delabole Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Camelford Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks, Roger - more tomorrow..

Sun, Sand and Sprinters
Martin Scane

2 x 150 units (both in GWR green livery) heading for Paignton this afternoon with a service from Exmouth. The location is just approaching Sprey Point with Parson’s tunnel in the background. 03.10.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks Martin - a lovely sunny scene.

Early morning surprises
Joe Birchall

This morning I saw the 07:07 as usual, which has recently been doubled up, intriguingly, and waiting for the sleeper, as usual. Whilst wondering what had happened to the Sleeper, as it was expected to go past Buckshead Tunnel at 07:07, when it started to crawl around the curve at 07:11, whilst the Voyager was approaching on the ‘Up’ line, creating this fortunate crossing, and even more fortunately, with the sleeper being headed by 57 312!

The down 'sleeper', headed by blue 57312, is passed by a pair of Crosscountry 'Voyager' units on the outskirts of Truro. 03.10.2024, copyright Joe Birchall.

57312 passes the pair of Voyagers. 03.10.2024, copyright Joe Birchall.

Many thanks, Joe - great that the railway can still throw in the odd surprise, even in this day and age with not a great deal of variety to be found. Thanks for the pics.

Another day in Clay Country
Jon Hird

66244 departs Treviscoe with 6C10 - Parkandillack (actually Treviscoe) - Cliffe Vale. Quite a difference in weather between this and the previous days Goonbarrow photographs! 03.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

On the other side of the road bridge, a private unsurfaced Imerys road intersects the railway via this quaint crossing. The classic clay-country skyline forms the backdrop. 03.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

43301 t&t 43303 on 1Z23 Bristol Kingsland Road to Derby RTC 03.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

67023 & 67027 on 3S32 Cheltenham to Swindon Transfer running 90 mins early. - a returning RHTT [RailHead Track Train returning from its first time out this season]. 03.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66846 t&t 66791 on 3S59 Hereford to Swindon Transfer - the other RHTT returning to base at Swindon Transfer after its first outing this season. Both RHTT trains are already beginning to get dirty - how dirty will they get?? 03.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

37800 on with 321305 5Q72 Ilford E. M.U. D. To Sims Group Newport Docks. 03.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin (and of course Ken for sending the pics on), great variety as always.

October 3rd 2024

3/10/2024

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

12.03.1977 - A bridge near St Kew Highway. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - St Kew Highway Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Port Isaac Road Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.03.1977 - Trelill Tunnel portal and cutting. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks Roger - more to come tomorrow.

A Grey day at Goonbarrow
Jon Hird

66152 departs Goonbarrow with clay for Fowey beneath a threatening sky. Suprisingly, it did not rain in the end! 02.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A little further along, and with the drone a little higher, we can see the various clay burrows which make up the skyline of mid Cornwall. Near to each of these will be a 'pit' which clay has been extracted from over the last 2 centuries. 02.10.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

October 2nd 2024

2/10/2024

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 8
Moving the Goods in the 1930s
Michael L. Roach

The Rail and Canal Traffic Act of 1854 obliged the railways (and canals at the time) to carry any and all of the goods offered to them, with a few exceptions. This was a complicated law with unforeseen consequences, especially when government control of the rates the railways could charge was introduced. Looking through a newly acquired batch of 1937 GWR Magazines a couple of items attracted my attention. The GWR undertook household, farm and factory removals and were prepared to quote for doing every aspect leaving the householder or factory owner to do very little. In the first photo are examples of GWR lorries carrying cattle, household furniture and items needing to be kept cold.

In the second example the GWR moved the complete contents of two factories from London to Cheltenham. The first factory was owned by Walker, Crosweller and the second by one of the firm's subsidiaries. That firm was called Spirax – a firm that still exists, now with a turnover in excess of £1.6 billion. The firm was called Spirax Sarco for many years but reverted to the simpler Spirax in 2024. One of Spirax's subsidiaries is called Watson-Marlow with a large factory in Falmouth, Cornwall. All the firms are involved in fluid management over a wide range of industries. The GWR also moved the furniture and household effects of some fifty employees of the two companies from London to Cheltenham. In total the GWR used 135 containers for the move. With the war starting two years later I expect the managers and staff were relieved to have moved out of London. The second image describes the factory move in more detail.

When I read the short piece in the third image for the first time I found it almost unbelievable. It described a pair of suitcases handed in at Dulverton Station at 10.00am on Thursday 2 September 1937 destined for Wendover near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire. I tracked their journey using my GWR timetable via Taunton, Paddington and Princes Risborough. The earliest the cases could have arrived at Aylesbury Joint Station was at 6.50pm that evening and that was with some tight connections; but the article says the cases were actually delivered at Wendover at 6.30pm although the recipient may have had to collect them from Wendover Station which was not even on the Great Western. I went back to my timetable and looked at what trains would have been used if the cases left Dulverton slightly earlier. Leaving at 9.39am the cases would have reached Aylesbury Joint Station at 4.13pm which I think is much more likely, giving more time for them to be delivered to Wendover.

The two cases were sent by “Blue Arrow” which I had never heard of although I was familiar with the Red Arrow parcels service which I used, for my employer, in the nineteen sixties between Plymouth and Bristol. This was great service on the part of the Great Western Railway in 1937; but even more amazing the recipient of the suitcases then sat down and wrote a quick note to the stationmaster at Dulverton, and posted it in time to have the letter collected that evening. The letter was delivered to Dulverton Station the very next morning 3 September. There was no first or second class in those days, just the one standard service costing 1½ old pence at the time for a letter. Great service by the then state-owned Royal Mail as well.

Photos of three different lorries and containers from the January 1937 Magazine. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The factory move described in the November 1937 Magazine. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The speedy transit of two suitcases described in the October 1937 Magazine. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks for another interesting article, Michael.

To read more of Michaels work, please click here.

Visit to the Bideford Railway Heritage Centre
Roger Winnen

This should have been a visit to the Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Gala, however, as we arrived at Barnstaple a bus was seen departing from outside of the station, empty with no destination, 15 minutes before ours was scheduled to depart.

We waited for an hour but nothing showed up, and unable to contact the Bus Company by telephone, a decision was made to instead visit the Bideford Railway Heritage Centre.

28.09.2024 - At the Bideford Heritage Centre we see a Mark 1 coach E4489 built at the York Carriage and Wagon Works 1956 and PMV 2142 built Lancing 1956. Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking along the platform at Bideford Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Signal Box at Bideford Copyright Roger Winnen

The Planet 0-4-0 Diesel Loco built 1957 by F Hibbert & Co together with a guards brake van built Darlington 1959 . Copyright Roger Winnen

The Planet of 1957. Copyright Roger Winnen

The trackbed at Bideford. Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking towards Instow with the former Midland Bank buiding on the right. Copyright Roger Winnen

The continuation of the platform can be seen on the left. Copyright Roger Winnen

To the right hand side can be seen the former platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bideford Quay on a glorious autumn day. Copyright Roger Winnen

A stop at Dawlish for Fish & Chips at teatime. Copyright Roger Winnen

The painters are at work on Dawlish Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

67027, 67023, 66846 & 66791 on 0Z59 Westbury Up TC to Swindon Transfer. ***This years starting allocation for the RHTT trains*** 01.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66796 on 4V13 Tonbridge Yard to Avonmouth. 01.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66566 on 6Z22 Tytherington Quarry to Appleford. 01.10.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

70817 on 6Z98 Westbury Down TC to Bradwell Sidings. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks, Colin - a nice colourful variety.

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Latest News & Features

Dennis Clarke presents:'My life on the railways'From Willesden and Wembley, to North Pole and Temple Mills- Tomorrow, 12th October 2024 -

Memories of the Southern RouteMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 8

BR Blue in 1975Paul Barlow+ additional notes from Guy Vincent

Derrycombe RHTTJon Hird

A question about LiskeardCan you help?

St. Erth Footbridge ProgressDennis Clarke

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 10Milk Trains (3)Michael L. Roach

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 7

SVR Autumn Diesel Gala 2024Andrew Triggs

Newquay Palm TreesRe-homed!

Re: Laira Scrap 'Westerns'Guy Vincent

'Sharpshooter' FireSimon Howard

The Railhead Treatment Train at ExminsterDavid Tozer

'Mayflower' heads WestMartin Scane, John Simons & Clive Smith

5 Minutes at LarginJon Hird

Re: HST Crew Training in CornwallKevin Daniel

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 6

Re: Cornish HST'sRoger Geach

'Start 'em young'Jon Hird

Laira HydraulicsPaul Barlow

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 5

The RHTT clearing the lineJon Hird

Shunting the CDA'sJason Snow

Reflecting on the HST'sAndrew & Diane Jones

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 4

Swindon ScenesColin Pidgeon

West Cornwall Railway RelicsPeter Flanagan

Steaming through the showersJon Hird

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 9Milk Trains (2)Michael L. Roach

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 3

Memories of the CDA'sJason Snow

Liskeard ShiftCraig Munday

Flourishing stationsJames Bown

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 3

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 1

Sun, Sand and SprintersMartin Scane

Early morning surprisesJoe Birchall

Another day in Clay CountryJon Hird

Swindon ScenesColin Pidgeon

Memories of the North Cornwall LineMarch 1977By Roger WinnenPart 1

A Grey day at GoonbarrowJon Hird

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 8Moving the Goods in the 1930sMichael L. Roach

Visit to the Bideford Railway Heritage CentreRoger Winnen

Swindon ScenesColin Pidgeon

Archives

Dennis Clarke presents:
'My life on the railways'
From Willesden and Wembley, to North Pole and Temple Mills
- Tomorrow, 12th October 2024 -

Memories of the Southern Route
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 8

BR Blue in 1975
Paul Barlow
+ additional notes from Guy Vincent

Derrycombe RHTT
Jon Hird

A question about Liskeard
Can you help?

St. Erth Footbridge Progress
Dennis Clarke

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 10
Milk Trains (3)
Michael L. Roach

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 7

SVR Autumn Diesel Gala 2024
Andrew Triggs

Newquay Palm Trees
Re-homed!

Re: Laira Scrap 'Westerns'
Guy Vincent

'Sharpshooter' Fire
Simon Howard

The Railhead Treatment Train at Exminster
David Tozer

'Mayflower' heads West
Martin Scane, John Simons & Clive Smith

5 Minutes at Largin
Jon Hird

Re: HST Crew Training in Cornwall
Kevin Daniel

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 6

Re: Cornish HST's
Roger Geach

'Start 'em young'
Jon Hird

Laira Hydraulics
Paul Barlow

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 5

The RHTT clearing the line
Jon Hird

Shunting the CDA's
Jason Snow

Reflecting on the HST's
Andrew & Diane Jones

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 4

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

West Cornwall Railway Relics
Peter Flanagan

Steaming through the showers
Jon Hird

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 9
Milk Trains (2)
Michael L. Roach

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

Memories of the CDA's
Jason Snow

Liskeard Shift
Craig Munday

Flourishing stations
James Bown

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 3

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

Sun, Sand and Sprinters
Martin Scane

Early morning surprises
Joe Birchall

Another day in Clay Country
Jon Hird

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

Memories of the North Cornwall Line
March 1977
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

A Grey day at Goonbarrow
Jon Hird

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 8
Moving the Goods in the 1930s
Michael L. Roach

Visit to the Bideford Railway Heritage Centre
Roger Winnen

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon