Blog Archives

30th November 2020

30/11/2020

The Chalford Auto
Michael L.Roach

Chalford Station was 16 miles from Gloucester Central and 21 Miles from Swindon on the line through the Golden Valley. Up until 1964 when the station closed it had a good service of trains. Many of the trains were auto trains running every hour or so between Chalford and Gloucester Central – the Chalford Auto. The service was one of the last auto trains in Southern England and was steam-operated until the end. There were no intermediate stations in the first 9 miles out of Gloucester but then there were 10 in the next 7 miles, averaging one every three quarters of a mile, due to an early experiment by the GWR in trying to provide more of a bus-stop style service. It worked and the auto trains were well-used right up until the last day of service on Saturday 31 October 1964 along with the closure of eight other stations and halts. Trains took 35 to 45 minutes from end to end depending whether they were going uphill or downhill and how many stops had been omitted from that particular trip.
For the last few years Gloucester Shed had members of the 14xx-class 0-4-2 tanks flowing in from sheds where their work had disappeared and flowing out to the scrapyard with the last one being withdrawn in December 1964. They worked the Chalford Auto and the Berkeley Road to Sharpness service. When no 0-4-2T was available almost any class of locomotive could turn up on the Chalford Auto. For me it was Hawkesworth Pannier tank number 8471 of Gloucester Shed which turned up on the morning of Monday 12 October 1964. The Railway Observer was good at recording the rostering of strange locos on the Chalford Auto in its last summer. It recorded 1474, 4100 and 9493 working the trains on 13.08.1964. Nine days later it was 1444, 1458 and auto fitted pannier 6412 (now preserved) on 22.08.1964. On 29 August the Chalford Auto was seen arriving at Gloucester Central with super-power in the form of 4-6-0 Hall class 6993 hauling two auto trailers. On the 18 April there were three 0-4-2 tanks taking turns on the workings, 1444, 1451 and 1472. Yet even on a normal day like this there could be surprises with the RO recording that the 5.15pm off Gloucester was double headed by 1472 and Peak class diesel D39 piloting. 135 tons of diesel locomotive with the rest of the train only weighing around 105 to 110 tons. Based on this pairing modellers can feel free to put together almost any combination of locos.
My only trip on the Chalford Auto was on Saturday 31 October 1964, the last day of passenger services, when I went out from Gloucester on the 18.22 and returned on the 19.10 from Chalford with 0-4-2T number 1458 propelling two auto coaches (nos. 242 and 237) downhill back to Gloucester. The sun had set around 16.45 so my trip was in the dark which probably added to the atmosphere in the steam heated coaches. The RO tells us that locos in use on the last day were 1458, 1472 and 6412. The withdrawal of Gloucester – Chalford and Berkeley Road – Sharpness services marked the end of auto working on former GWR railway lines. However this was not the end of auto trains on the Western Region as the former Southern Railway branch from Yeovil Junction to Yeovil Town was still being worked by ex-GWR locomotives in the 14xx and 64xx series.

MLR/ 6 November 2020

Hawkesworth Pannier Tank 8471 of Gloucester Shed approaches Chalford Station with the 10.20am from Gloucester Central on 12 October 1964. Because the loco was not fitted for auto working it will run around its train at Chalford. Copyright Michael L Roach.

8471 waits at Chalford to take out the 11.30am to Gloucester for which it was allowed 40 minutes for the 16 mile journey stopping at every intermediate station and halt; 11 in number. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

0-4-2T number 1458 pauses at Brimscombe with the 11.20am Gloucester Central to Chalford auto-train on 12 October 1964 just 3 weeks before withdrawal of the service. In the background is Hall number 6955 of Severn Tunnel Junction Shed waiting in the loop for a clear run up the bank to the summit at the far end of Sapperton Tunnel 4 miles away.

Many thanks Mike, you were so lucky to have had the chance of a ride on the 'Chalford Auto; allbeit on the last day. This article of Mike's forms a very good introduction to our coverage of the Swindon to Gloucester line which traversed 'Golden Valley' en route. To go straight to this section please click here.

The 'Royal Train' at
Cowley Bridge Jct.
Phil Smith

47628 heads the Royal Train at Cowley Bridge in 1986 Copyright Phil Smith

This is the Royal train seen here at Cowley bridge, I swear the coach curtain opened and somebody waved a royal wave in my direction, HONEST!!! - Phil.

It always amuses Roger and myself when Phil's e-mails arrive - his e-mail address is philsshattered@ ----- Well done Phil. I believe his only shattering experiences now are home decoration!

St Ives Branch
Mark Lynam

Porthkidney Sands (1) The 14.48 Sr Erth to St Ives formed by a very smart 150244 29th November 2020 Copyright Mark lynam,

Porthkidney Sands (2) 14.37 SI to SE Notice the tide has come in considerably. High tide was at 16.37. Copyright Mark Lynam.

Always a lovely spot, I think both pictures are excellent, however for my money the top one with the boat chugging up the narrow channel takes the prize - more like a painting - very artistic. Many thanks Mark.

29th November 2020

29/11/2020

Contrasting motive power at
Reading
Roger Geach

1041 Western Prince on the 1b55 the 12.30 Paddington to Paignton at Reading on Friday 28th September 1973 Copyright Roger Geach

50001 Dreadnought on the 14.00 Oxford to Paddington at Reading on the 23rd September 1988 Copyright Roger Geach

Ron White who travelled down to give us some fascinating evenings at the St John Ambulance Hall at Redruth often referred to the livery as NOTwork South East!

Many thanks Roger two types of motive power 15 years apart.

A reply to Michael Manning, scrapping operations in the
Wadebridge area.
Andrew Jones

The following is a copy of really a detailed reply to queries raised by Michael Manning who is writing a book on the subject of scrapping operations in the South West. Any further help for Mr. Manning I am sure would be much appreciated.

Dear Mr Manning,
Keith has kindly passed on your enquiry concerning the recovery of redundant materials post closure of much of the southern railway in North Cornwall.
Unfortunately I was really too young when much of the ‘withered arm’ was dismantled and not being a ‘rivet counter,’ much to my regret, did not take many notes.
However when the Bodmin to Wadebridge section finally closed a decade after passenger services ceased I was in a position to participate in a positive way and managed to at least convince the local authority to preserve the track bed from Wadebridge to Boscarne.
I do have extensive records of this section including the exact dates of track sections and geographical positions of all infrastructure.
To answer your specific questions it is important to understand the political situation at the time of initial closure in the late 60’s and subsequent closure of all services in 1978.
The Wadebridge to Padstow section was a profitable line summer and winter, but due to government policy post Beeching it was trying to off load a general responsibility to the public purse.
The railway was a big employer in Wadebridge and when closure was announced a number of employees took redundancy, some transferred to other regions and some were employed for a limited period recovering redundant materials and this is why the Padstow section was lifted in what some called indecent haste.
Obviously in the late 60’s there was a massive amount of scrap metal stockpiled and thoughts of re use elsewhere on the network couldn’t be further from the minds of BR management.
Anyone who bought a mk1 Ford Escort at the time will testify that the high levels of scrap metal used by the steel manufacturers in the production of this vehicle caused premature catastrophic corrosion with panels and chassis rusting through in less that 5 years!
I was lucky to have spoken to Arthur Ferret in the mid 80’s who was a driver at Wadebridge for many years and he did explain that some of the track from the Padstow section was recovered by BR for future use and much of the track was removed using rail vehicles.
From 1968 until the early 80’s, first the wharf sidings were removed back to the town centre level crossing, which always caused a bottleneck on the busy main road.
On final closure there were some hopes of retaining the railway and I know Rusty Eplett was keen to retain a railway presence in Wadebridge but unfortunately BR was under pressure to maximise its assets so eventually track lifting commenced in 1980.
Irons Brothers of Wadebridge scrapped the station area and although pointwork is the most expensive part of rail infrastructure it is also the most difficult to remove. Most of the station rail layout was cut up into short metre lengths for use at the local foundry. Photographs of the Helston track lifting especially around the station met a similar fate.
However from Wadebridge to Boscarne most of the rails were returned to Par by road.
A small team of operators worked from Wadebridge using a trolley and gas bottles cutting all the fishplates and extracting the keys. The rails were placed either side of the trackbed and the sleepers were recovered with a mobile crane and lorry. Eventually the rails were collected and returned to BR.
By the 1980’s chaired rail was becoming difficult to obtain so the value had increased and for a short while much was re used elsewhere on the secondary network.

I hope this answers some of your questions

best wishes Andrew

Copy to Keith and Roger Cornwall Railway Society.

Demolition under way at Wadebridge, Copyright Andrew Jones.

Polbrock dismantling track. Copyright Andrew Jones

Contacting lifting track at Nanstallon Copyright Andrew Jones.

Thank you very much Andrew for your memories and very detailed reply. I hope that neither Andrew or Micheal will mind us putting on the website what was a really well thought out reply.

28th November 2020

28/11/2020

28th November 1980
The Royal Train 40 Years ago at Penzance
Roger Winnen

801128a Her Majesty the Queen visits West Cornwall on Friday 28th November 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

801128b 47500 Great Western on the Royal Train approaching the former Marazion Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

47500 Caught fire at Salford Lancashire in January 2013, it never ran again. Being stripped of its components at the West Coast Depot Carnforth it was scrapped during November 2020

801128c Penzance Station decorated for the Queens arrival. Copyright Roger Winnen

801128d The Queen unvailed the commemorative plaque at Penzance Station.before travelling to Newlyn Harbour to open the new Mary Williams Pier. Copyright Roger Winnen

801128e 08644 Hauls the Royal Train to Long Rock Sidings. Copyright Roger Winnen

801128f Royal Saloon 45000 built in 1920 with quite a chequred history. Copyright Roger Winnen

From the website of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust of from which we are very grateful
Saloon 45000
This unique vehicle forms a direct link back to that early 1930’s period of L.M.S. history when Lord Stamp, who regularly used it for personal travel over the railway’s system, exerted great influence as both the President and Chief Executive of the company and Sir William Stanier had just arrived as its new Chief Mechanical Engineer to revolutionise the types of motive power then available and produce new designs, including engines capable of working the heaviest express passenger trains. This resulted in the appearance of the ‘Princess Royal’ and ‘Princess Coronation’ class locomotives, one of each of which are the part of the trust’s collection.Since Saloon 45000 moved to the West Shed in 2005, the interior has been gradually restored by volunteers 'room by room' including replacement and repainting of rotten wooden panels, re-wiring of original light fittings and cleaning of carpets and furniture.

In 2012, Saloon 45000 featured as a special invited guest at the ‘Goodwood Festival of Speed’. During this event the Saloon was part of a display of Royal vehicles to mark the celebrations of HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year. Volunteers accompanied the Saloon and welcomed thousands of visitors inside. Following this, in July 2013 the PRCLT won the ‘Work with Collections’ category award at the ‘Derbyshire Heritage Awards’ for the restoration work carried out on Saloon 45000 and its display at Goodwood. This award reflects the high standard of work that has been carried out by volunteers on the Saloon over the past few years, for which the PRCLT is grateful.

The Royal Train stabled at Long Rock prior to its departure later in the afternoon. Copyright Roger Winnen

The white ghost at
Penzance '96
Martin Baker

Hi Keith, A couple more photos you may be interested in, during the first half of 1996 47846 Thor was running in white undercoat and earned the nickname "the white ghost".

It was eventually painted in the GWR Merlin livery and can be seen prior to that on the 12th August 1996 on the sleeper service at Penzance, at which time ran to and from Waterloo rather than Paddington.
Kind Regards, Martin Baker

Ready to work the night sleeper to Waterloo 47846 makes a most unusual sight at Penzance on the 12th October 1996. Copyright Martin Baker.

Another view of 'The White Ghost' 47846 'Thor' seen here standing at Penzance. 12th August 1996. Copyright Martin Baker.

Many thanks Martin for your 'Ghostly Images'

Near Gypsy Patch Bridge
Phil Smith

Prompted by the Gypsy Patch Bridge article Phil Smith sends this on in of 45145 near that location. In the original picture nearly twice as wide it was nearly impossible to see the train let alone the '45' so you'll have to believe that it really is 45145. 1986 Copyright Phil Smith.

Phil wrote to tell us that he found that article on Gypsy Lane bridge especially interesting as he travelled to work at Roll Royce that way for 34 years - good times and bad times.

Many thanks Phil but a bit closer next time please.

27th November 2020

27/11/2020

43186 Taunton Castle at Long Rock
Leslie Curnow

43186. Taunton Castle stands lonely at Long Rock this morning probably awaiting any of its classmates having technical problems and having to substitute. Copyright Leslie Curnow

Many Thanks Leslie

Berkley Marsh
Guy Vincent

Berkley Marsh 66849 leads 70813 with the 6C98 Crediton-Westbury LWR Empties 26th November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

The empty 6C98 Crediton-Westbury LWR train seen at Berkley Marsh on the 26th November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Here are a couple of still frames from a video taken at a foggy Berkley Marsh this morning of the returning empty LWR drop train from Crediton to Westbury. ''The L&SWR Resurrection Special'' There is a story attached to this working:

The 25th's outward 6C98 1412 Eastleigh East Yard - Crediton departed behind 70813 with 66849 'Wylam Dilly' at the back. En-route the class 70 reportedly suffered from loss of power so the train was sent via the Laverstock loop to Laverstock North where it reversed, 66849 then continuing to Westbury and on to Heywood Road Junction where a further reversal was made. 70813 then led via the Hawkeridge loop line to Bradford Junction and onto the Melksham single line where a further reversal was made, 66849 taking the train on from here via Westbury, Athelney and Taunton to Exeter Riverside yard. With the rails successfully offloaded overnight the empty train returned to Westbury this morning with the class 66 heading the formation as seen. I believe the empty LWR set returned to Eastleigh this evening on the 6O31 1730 Westbury-Eastleigh departmental behind GBRF's 66763.

Regards, Guy Vincent.

Many thanks Guy.

Dawlish
Clive Smith

Two from Dawlish. The last cement & the woks at the station.
Regards, Clive Smith

(1) 70810 works what could possibly be the last 07.17 Moorswater - Aberthaw cements at Rockstone Flats Dawlish. Copyright Clive Smith.

(2) A quite amazing scene at Dawlish. It was now 14.00 and the glorious sun is very low in the winter sky and just above Lea Mount on top of Kennaway Tunnel casting a longer shadow along Marine Parade.The 2+7 Cross Country HST set is on the 06.06 Edinburgh - Plymouth. 26th November 2020. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks to you Clive.

Taunton area
Bill Elston

Hi Keith,
I went over to Taunton today, 26th November, taking advantage of the sunny weather.
At Cogload was seen 66849 with 70813 working back to Westbury from Crediton after dropping more new rail on the Okehampton branch.
At Bathpool was seen 70810 on one of the final empty cement workings from Moorswater to Aberthaw.
Also seen was tamper no. 73924 working from Taunton to Swindon.

Best regards, Bill.

66849, 70813 returing from a rail drop for the Okehampton branch. Seen here at Cogload. 26th November 2020 Copyright Bill Eslston

70810, Possibly the last cement empties. Bathpool. 26th November 2020 Cp[yright Bill Elston.

73924 at Bathpool. 26th November 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill for your shots at Cogload & Bathpool.

The Okehampton line
The Moorlander
David Tozer

The Moorlander has published more news on th Okehampton line.

https://themoorlander.co.uk/breaking-news/

I see the second train with CWR for the Okehampton route departed Crediton at 0400 after dropping rails.

Dave Tozer

Thank you David nice to read about the revival.

Blackboy Tunnel
David Tozer

In this age of political correctness there is a move in Exeter to re-name Blackboy Road, and one assumes, if this happens then the tunnel of that name will also be renamed. I must admit in the last couple of years I have wondered whether we should be using that name. Mount Pleasant tunnel is a name often used, perhaps this would be more acceptable? KJ

Try looking it up on Google - there is quite a row going on in Exeter about it.

26th November 2020

26/11/2020

Is this the last revenue earning freight to Moorswater?
Coombe Junction
Peter Murnaghan

Hi Keith and Roger, I hope you're both keeping well. Here's my picture of today's cement train, possibly the last one, I don't know. I wonder whether we will establish which is to be the very last revenue earning freight train on this short section of the Looe branch line. Whenever it is, it will be a sad, and historic, occasion.
Best wishes to you both, Peter.

70810 on the 05.22 Aberthaw - Moorswater approaching Coombe Junction, 25th November 2020, Copyright Peter Murnaghan

Will there be one more? Thanks Peter.

Black Boy or mount Pleasant tunnel
Exeter
Paul Barlow

33035 heading the 1422 Exeter to Waterloo emerges from Blackboy Tunnel and heads for Exmouth junction. It's the 26th April 1992. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul - a nice shot from a difficult location

Newbury
Doug Nicholls

Newbury West signalbox taken from the train in February 1969 Copyright Doug Nicholls

Many thanks Doug.

25th November 2020

25/11/2020

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge
Re-instated
Michael Manning

Gypsy Patch Len bridge is situated about a quarter of a mile east of Patchway station and barely 100 yards from the north junction at Filton where the main line from Wales divides to go either towards Bristol or to Bristol Parkway. Thus it can be seen that the removal of the railway here had very serious repercussions on any traffic to or from Wales via the Severn tunnel. The old bridge was also very restrictive to road traffic.

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 1 Copyright Michael Manning

This was the accommodation bridge that was built in 1864 by the Bristol & South Wales Junction Railway for the GWR (with some slight alterations over time). Picture taken in January 2020 when it was closed to traffic prior to demolition. The estimated cost was £35 million.

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 2 Copyright Michael Manning

Between the Wars industrial giants like the Bristol Aeroplane Company and Rolls Royce had set up large factories just beyond this bridge. Other industries followed with huge housing estates growing up to satisfy the workers. This Gipsy Patch Lane bridge was now on a commuter route. NetworkRail started to electrify the Paddington to Bristol route as far as the Bristol Parkway station. Then in 2019 they extended it to Cardiff. The decision to demolish this bridge was made in 2015 but nothing happened. It would have been better before the electrification work. The above picture shows pilling at work to safeguard all the embankments. The South Wales traffic was re-routed around Gloucester. For many months during 2019 the new bridge was being built on spare land close by and would be moved into place on wheels. Yes all 4,280 tonnes. I believe nothing this heavy had been attempted before.

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 3 Copyright Michael Manning

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 4 Copyright Struart Beere

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 5 Copyright Stuart Beere

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 6 Copyright Stuart Beere

The move was scheduled for 24th October weekend to get the main line reopened by the 7th November. The move was going well despite the pouring rain. Then with 30 metres to go it got stuck when the ground gave way. They brought in TV’s ‘Train Truckers’ with their expertise in moving giant objects. For those members that haven’t seen them on the Yesterday channel they are Allelys Group Transport of Studley, Warwicks. Six of their heaviest tractor units assisted in pulling the bridge onto safe ground. Now the road way had to be strengthened. More delays.
The projected cost was £65 million before the delays.

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 7 Copyright Michael Manning

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 8 Copyright Michael Manning

Pictured today 24th November with the railway back in place but no road. About 2 metres of earth will have to excavated under the bridge to allow double deck buses through. That could take months and months. Meanwhile Allelys can take their Tonka Toys back home!

Gypsy Patch Lane Bridge replacement. 9 Copyright Michael Manning

With a very sincere thank you to Michael Manning for the above detailed report = this was received yesterday evening.

Blue Pullman for scrapping!
Swindon 1973
Trevor Tremethick

When you mentioned you had put my Didcot pic in the main section, I had a look and found it (as expected) in the Swindon to Reading section. I noticed some good views of Swindon Works and wondered if the attached would be of interest (especially given the latest HST / Blue Pullman incarnation). We were doing about 75mph past the works on November 18, 1973, and my little Konica C35 camera did its best (as did I with one of my first rolls of colour film, Agfa CT18, which is why the shadow areas have gone blue!). Presumably the Pullman was awaiting disposal.

Incidentally, November 18, 1973 was the date of our trip to Didcot Railway Centre as the West Cornwall Group of the PRC.

Best wishes, Trevor.

Swindon Works 'Blue Pullman’ at Swindon – from passing train – 75 mph, 18th November 1973. Copyright Trevor Tremethick

Many thanks Trevor - memories of 47 years ago.

Exeter Central '92
Paul Barlow

DMU 876 11.45 from Exmouth arriving at Exeter Central It's the 18th April 1992. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul - it reminds one of the good old days, a nice run up alongside the exe estuary with a marvelous front view.

Ken at Kemble yesterday
Kemble
Ken Mumford

Ken took a drive in his new car from his home in Swindon to Kemble yesterday and sends us a few pictures.

His first shot features two IET's the nearest going in the Gloucester direction and the furthest inbpund on the up line. The listed water tower as usual dominates the scene. 24th November 2020

It's 1405 as the up service prepares to head for the tunnel. 24th November 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford.

A splendid splash of colour as the up test train heads away. 14.41 24th July 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford.

The days travels for the tDerby - Burton-on-Trent - Tamworth - Hartlebury - Worcester - Hereford - Hereford - Ledbury - Gloucester - Swindon - Gloucester - Chepstow - Newport - Cardiff - Bridgend - Neath - Swansea Loop West - Llanelli - Swansea Loop East - Swansea.est train. Information from Ken.

Ken returns to his car which he had difficultly in finding a space for only for find it stuck in the mud - his thanks to the two helpers who helped him out of his predicament, 24th November 2020.

15.48 as the !Q15 returns from Swindon. 24th November 2020 Copyright Ken Mumford ( 1Q15, having reversed in Swindon, then passed Oaksey Road bridge some 80 mins LATE)

Many thanks Ken - you really got stuck into it!!!!

24th November 2020

24/11/2020

Climbing to
Exeter Central
Paul Barlow

33035 climbs the last few yards of the bank to Exeter Central with the 12.26 Exeter to Waterloo. 18th April 1992. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

Thanks for the tanks
Tilehurst and Didcot
Roger Geach

60064 6E69 Langley to Lindsey tanks seen here at Tilehurst 27th February 1979 Copyright Roger Geach

60033 passes Didcot with the returning Theale to Robeston oil tanks 8th February 1992 Copyright Roger Geach (Roger comments on how very different things look now!)

Many thanks Roger

Comparisons at
Didcot
Trevor Tremethick

Within minutes of posting Rogers Geach'es picture on the site Trevor comes up with this very nostalgic view and comment :- Very interesting to see Roger Geach's picture of 60033 passing Didcot in '92. I'm afraid I don't have a 'today' picture, but I found this one of Western Thunderer quite close to Roger's location and taken on September 21, 1974. I suppose, with a bit of research, 1C37 could be identified but I thought you might like to see all those short wheelbase wagons of long ago!

Best wishes to all, Trevor Tremethick.

D1011 Western Thunderer passing Didcot with down 1C37 21st May 1974. Copyright T Tremethick

Very many thanks for your rapid reply Trevor. All the best to you and Barbara. Roger will appreciate your choice of motive power!!

Highworth Jct.
Ken Mumford

Highworth Junction Scrap train 57203 hauls 315805 and 315808 to their doom at SIMS Newport. 22nd November 2020.

Ken included this picture of the remaining stub of Highworth branch taken from what looks like a rather a dodgy path which looks like it is being literally 'ambushed' from the state of the railings and looks like a possible spot for Ken to get 'ambushed' as well. Take care. 22nd November 2020. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken, take care.

23rd November 2020

23/11/2020

Introducing the
Moorlander
Andrew & Diane Jones

Dear Keith and Valerie, please find a very interesting update on the Okehampton Railway
Best wishes Andrew and Diane Thank you both

https://themoorlander.co.uk/oke-rail-update-light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel

No rest for the weary!
Westbury
Guy Vincent

Loco 66850 wasted no time in returning to leaf busting duties following its jaunt to deepest Devon. Exactly 24 hours after arriving to work the LWR train it was pulling into Westbury again on the 3S59 1452 Bristol Kingsland Road-Westbury-Bristol-Gloucester-Cardiff-Various Welsh Valleys and-back-to-Bristol RHTT. The entire job can be found on RTT but it doesn't finish until 1107 tomorrow morning after a flip around the Avonmouth loop!

Guy Vincent.

LWR Train ex 6C97 rests in Westbury yard after its overnight trip to Bow. 22nd November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

66846 at one end of the RHTT 3S59 22nd November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

66850 back to its daytime job on the RHTT 3S59 22nd November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy;

GREAT NEWS
Crediton
Alan Peters

At the other end of the Devon and Cornwall line, as day breaks the first ballast train on the Okehampton line for many years stands at Crediton CN3 signal awaiting to exit the possession on 22/11/20. Colas Rail 66850 'David Maidment' and 70805 worked 6C97 as far as Bow dropping rail in preparation of the upgrade of the Okehampton line, this was also the first class 70 to visit the line. Once the rails were unloaded the train worked back to Westbury via Exeter Riverside. It is understood that the line is in the process of being purchased by Network Rail as far as Meldon Quarry and the upgrade will see many more trains visiting the line to bring materials over the coming months by various freight operators, it is planned the line will be reopened for regular passenger services and ballast trains from Meldon quarry in connection with HS2 - Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks Alan.

St Budeaux
Driver Alan Peters

It is rare to see a ballast train on the Gunnislake branch and even rarer to see a ballast train on the Gunnislake branch in daylight, Colas Rail 66849 'Wylam Dilly' is seen at St Budeaux Victoria Road top and tailed with 66847 'Terry Baker' with 15 auto hoppers waiting to leave the possession as 6C41 to Westbury on a rainy 18th November 2020 - Driver Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66849 'Wylam Dilly' is seen at St Budeaux on the 18th November 2020. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan.

Nr Tamerton Foliot
Driver Alan Peters

A rare opportunity to work an engineering train either end of the Devon and Cornwall line, whilst the focus of attention was on the GBRf British Rail liveried 66789, Colas Rail also visited the Gunnislake branch with 15 loaded auto hoppers with top and tailed class 66's. The train worked as far as Tamerton Foliot old station dropping ballast on the worksite at 'Kawasaki' 66849 is seen waiting to return to St Budeaux near Tamerton viaduct on miserable 18th November 2020 - Driver Alan Peters

Near Tamerton Foliot 'Kawasaki' 66849 on an enineering train. 18th November 2020. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks to Driver Alan Peters

A 'Bumper bundle of pictures from much travelled Driver Alan Peters for which we are most grateful.

22nd November 2020

22/11/2020

Latest picture of Okehampton line, empty Long Rail Carriers
Berkley Marsh
Guy Vincent

70805 heading the empty 6C97 0900 Crediton-Westbury empty LWR set tailed by 66850, passing Berkley Marsh near Frome. 1141am on Sunday 22nd November 2020.

I look forward to further deliveries taking place and, in the fullness of time, to the complete reopening of the old L&SWR main line through to Plymouth! (And so say all of us)

Best regards, Guy Vincent.

Berkley Marsh 70805 & 66850 6C97 0900 Crediton-Westbury 11.41 22nd November 2020 Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy, especially from Tony.

Hopeful movements on the
Okehampton Line
Tony Hill

The 1724 Westbury to Okehampton line train headed by a Colas class 70 with a class 66 dead on rear of the LWR wagons with 32 new long welded rails, made at Scunthorpe Steelworks, creeps along to site near Horwell Barton just west of Coleford Jn at 2245 21/11/20 to unload during the night before returning to Westbury for the Eastleigh rail welding depot.
This was the first train to cross the Network Rail boundary at Coleford with the Dartmoor Railway since the Okehampton to Weymouth and return HST Charter Excursion train on 14/9/19.

Regards. Tony

It's 22.45 near Horwell Barton on the 21st November 2020 as new rails are delivered. Copyright Tony Hill

Many thanks Tony - these are hopeful signs indeed?

Okehampton bound?
Guy Vincent

Good evening Keith,
With apologies to Tony Hill I went to Westbury this afternoon to seek out the Okehampton-bound LWR train he was asking after but regrettably found it to be well hidden in the middle of the 'up' yard between a rake of coalfish wagons one side and some ballast hoppers the other. I went to the yard exit gate for a look but it is all but impossible to see anything in the yard due to Colas plant stabled and blocking any view. I've attached a couple of truly awful 'snaps' of loco 66850 in RHTT 'muck' livery that arrived at 1545 as 0C97 1449 ex Bristol Kingsland Road to work the train. Hopefully somebody may be able to see the return working tomorrow morning. However, I hope the line does eventually reopen all the way through to Bere Alston.

Best wishes, Guy V (Please see Tony Hill's up date above on the 'dropping zone' )

Never to miss out on a good picture behind a story here is Guy Vincent's picture. 20th November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Seen at Westbury 66850 for 6C97 to Okehampton. It doesn't look too bad. 20th November 2020. Copyright Guy Vincent.

A4 at Buckfastleigh
Mike Bramwich & Roger Winnen

The A4 at Buckfastleigh Works. Copyright Mike Bramwich

This photo shows 60009 Union of South Africa in the workshops at Buckfastleigh following an axle or bearing problem whilst running a special to the South West in August 2015. It spent a week there utilising the company’s excellent wheeling services. The loco ran light engine from the main line and was tested on the branch prior to departing on a north bound train the week after completion of the repairs.
Regards Mike Bramwich.

The appearance yesterday of the picture above of the A4 in the workshops at Buckfastleigh prompted Roger Winnen to look in his past folders which produced the fascinating display you see below of the A4 leaving the SDR.

60009 At Totnes Riverside waiting departure from the SDR. 3rd September 2015. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Movement at Totnes as 60009 comes into the up platform for reversal to gain the down main through line to Plymouth. 3rd September 2015. Copyright Roger Winnen.

What a sight as the A4 with her support coach heads to Plymouth for turning. 3rd September 2015. Copyright Roger Winnen

Union of South Africa at Plymouth Station prior to turning. Copyright Roger Winnen. 3rd September 2015

Many thanks to Roger and Mike for brightening our day.

Exeter Central
Paul Barlow

33035 departs on the 12.26 Exeter to Waterloo. Exeter Central 18 April 1992. Copyright Paul Barlow

Paul brightens our day with the smart rake of Network South East coaches leaving Exeter Central. Many thanks Paul.

21st November 2020

21/11/2020

That was the week, that was!!
Busy Times
Craig Munday

Having just done 6 six night shifts and feeling like a zombie, I'll be glad to get back to the day shifts next week!

There was time to venture out though. The fine afternoon of 19th, and retiming of the Moorswater empties on Thursday after lunch allowed a "freight fest" at Lostwithiel. The cement and CDAs were juggled expertly by Ryan in the box, whilst hosting the busy GWR services too. There was a time Lostwithiel was regularly stacking freights in both loops, and the sidings. This was mainly clay trains from all over the district bound for Carne Point. The once busy complex at Carne Point now only sees one jumbo train on weekdays. Both freights are pictured - not one, but two revenue earning freights still using four-wheeled vehicles in 2020!

I'm sorry to have to report the imminent end of the cement traffic to Moorswater. Tarmac have pulled the plug on the Aberthaw to Cornwall flow in December, so it's vital to grab the final Wednesday and Thursday trips, weather permitting of course. Ironic as the Colas workings started in December of 2016.

On a particularly grim 20th November, the NMT had special guests top and tailing it in the shape of two standard class 37s. Remarkable that these as built trojans are still in service providing a vital service, still carrying the numbers they were bestowed by BR in 1973. On the return working 37099 led 37254 through St Austell. The sidings have been included on the former Motor rail side, as they are being removed in March 2021. This will leave just the crossover in place for any turnbacks required in the future.

Cheers for now , Craig

66093 on CDA's and 70807 on one of the few remaining cement workings. captured just east of Lostwithiel station. 19th November 2020 Copyright Craig Munday

70806 powers the 6C36 seen at Lostwithiel on the 19th November 2020. Copyright Craig Munday

1Q18 37099 leads the test train with 37254 bring up the rear at St Austell. 20th November 2021 Copyright Craig Munday. Apart from the test train this view is particularly interesting as the points leading to the former motorail terminal are clearly in view are scheduled to be removed in March 2021.

Many thanks for your colourful presentation Craig - you were burning the candle at both ends!!! Now take a well earned rest.

No Heat 47's
Clive Smith

A feature of summers in the days of British Rail was the appearance on passenger trains of class 47/3s which were not fitted with any train heating. Generally known as 'NBs' (no boilers) they were usually to be found throughout the year on freights but would find themselves diagrammed on occasional passenger work during the summer timetable which tended to be from early May until late September even early October. This was fine in sweltering high summer but could be quite chilly on board at the start and finish of the season and indeed on overnight trains.

The three pictures here all show Crewe Diesel depot allocated examples at the time the photos were taken. Because Crewe and Bescot allocated 47s used to travel far and wide across the BR network they were the ones that tended to show up down west along with the small Cardiff allocation. The ones that would bring a frisson of excitement amongst platform spottters and haulage bashers were the 47/s from depots like Toton, Tinsley and in particular Immingham, Thornaby and the exceptionally rare Knottingley depot in the 1970s.The 47/3s from these three depots were tightly operated by their shed rostering clerks in order to work very specific freight flows local to the area and were generally kept on a tight leash and on out-and-back freights. However once in a while they would escape and go wandering to the Devon and Cornwall seaside away from their usual chemical plants, steel works, coal mines and power stations.

A particular favourite in the 1970s was the overnight train from Bradford & Hull returning in the morning from Paignton with the occasional filthy coal dust covered Knottingley example which were spare having the weekend off from MGR duties. That said I recall being at the east end of platform 7 at Plymouth station on the 9th August 1975 and seeing a mucky 47 roll in from Penzance of all places on a London bound train. Following uncoupling it chugged up to the signal on platform 8 revealing itself as uber-rare 47375 much to the delight of the ecstatic spotters there, myself included. I was only fifteen but this was a phenomenal 'cop' and my first one from that depot. Incredibly that 47 still exists having been bought by the freight operator Floyd and exported to Hungary where it still works to this day.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/grarobi/42781742871/

Regards
Clive Smith

(1) 47309 sits at platform 6 at Exeter St Davids with the 11.28 Paignton - Manchester Piccadilly on the 19th May 1984. This was the first summer Saturday of the timetable and no-boilered locos were already out working. The National Carriers (NCL) depot by the station was such a fixture of photos here for so many years until it burned down. Now this is the site of the new rolling stock depot. Copyright Clive Smith

(2) 47367 stands at Plymouth working throughout with the Saturday 10.55 Paddington - Newquay on the 6th June 1981. 47367 had its bodyside numbers slightly lower than was normal and was also the last 47 to lose its green-banded livery as late as December 1977. 47367 has been preserved since 2003 and is currently at the Mid Norfolk Railway and owned by the Stratford 47 Group. Copyright Clive Smith.

(3) 47339 approaches Mutley Tunnel with the 09.05 Plymouth - York relief on the 21st June 1982. Copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive for another detailed and informative article.

The Street Tramway demolition continues
Weymouth
John Smerdon

Despite the lockdown John Smerdon was able to get to Weymouth and bring us pictures of the 'Progress' in the demolition of the towns unique feature. the street tramway. John reports :-
Following on from Guy Vincent’s informative article and photos taken on the 5th November, I have attached several more photos taken yesterday in the sunshine. Work is now taking place between the Ship Inn and the Customs House and involves the destruction and removal of both tracks, so that is slowing progress. The track nearest the water has been hidden from view for many years although a hint of rail could just be seen in a few places where the layer of tarmac had worn thin. No work has taken place from just inside the entrance to Cosens car park, near Debenham’s and along the road as far as the junction with St Mary Street, beside the Royal Oak pub. The section of track under the bridge has not been removed yet, due to high tides creating some flooding. There is some good news!! I was told by one of the workers that the track within Cosens car park is to remain untouched. I suspect that as the track is surrounded by block paving it does not warrant the expense of reinstatement of the surface.

Kind regards, John Smerdon

Looking south from Cosens car park. Track still in situ 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon. It looks like this is the paved section to be retained.

Looking through the bridge, note flood warning signs. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

With 'Global Warming' and sea levels rising this could be a big problem for this road and adjacent properties.

Looking north from town bridge, towards the main line. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

Looking south from town bridge. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon. Note that the track beyond here has already been lifted and tarmaced over.

Beside George pub one track became two. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

Track nearest to quayside revealed for first time in many years. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

Apparently a mix of concrete and rotten wooden sleepers. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

Looking north from beside the Customs House. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

The machine poker had been struggling to penetrate concrete to loosen chair. 20th November 2020 Copyright John Smerdon

And finally for this session - Sorting the scrap track and sleepers at the terminus contractors enclosure. 20th November 2020. Copyright John Smerdon.

Many thanks John - for an excellent report. A unique and most interesting feature of Weymouth destroyed.

Big things at
Buckfastleigh
Mike Bramich

Many thanks Mike.

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