Blog Archives

20th November 2021

20/11/2021

The very first public service to
Okehampton
Paul Barlow

I traveled on the first train (0632) to Okehampton this morning, quite busy but not full. The 1046 to Okehampton however was full and standing leaving Exeter.
A brass band met the first train at Okehampton and several TV crews were recording the event.
Hope the pictures are of use.
All the best, Paul

150233 and 150221 on arrival Okehampton returning at 0730. First regular service in 49 years. 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

Brass band at Okehampton station. 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

Free chocolate at Okehampton today! 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

Busy Okehampton station 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

TV crews recording the event Okehampton station 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

150221 and 150233 at Okehampton ready to depart at 0730 to Exeter. First regular service in 49 years. 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

150233 and 150221 await the first depature to Okehampton at 0632. First regular service in 49 years. 20th November 2021 Copyright Paul Barlow

It was great that our very regular contributor Paul Barlow rode on and captured scenes on the very first train on the very first day of regular operation. Congratulations and many thanks to Paul.

Try this link https://youtu.be/b8BFlKuIkfI to obtain a the video of the event as recorded expertly by Pauls wife.

The first train to Okehampton on the 20th Nov. 2021
Okehampton
Driver Alan Peters

Although we share the honour of seeing pictures of the first public service today provided by Paul Barlow. The way was cleared before the very first public train by Driver Alan Peters with the RHTT. Here is Alans pictue showing the arrivals board at Okehampton with the very first rain displayed.

Before the first public train - Driver Peters was there with the RHTT. 20th November 2021. Copyright Driver Al Peters.

Many thanks Alan. And the first shall come last - but then it was a very special day. Paul Barlows train is clearly on the board.

I hope that you will understand that at the risk of duplicating views I have to restrict pictures at present to Paul Barlow - who was first in with his selection and to Alan Peters who was the driver of many of the trains used during the reconstruction of this line. I think that at the Okehampton end we have cover the first day very well. However if viewers took any pictures at intermediate points during the 20th November 2021 I think we can try to fit them in. Thanks to Paul and Alan.

The Dartmoor Line
Alan Peters

The first passnger train from Exeter to Okehampton the 06.29 waits to depart from Exeter St Davids. 20th November 2021. Copyright Alan Peters.

The firsr passenger train to arrives at Okehampton. 20th November 2021. Copyright Alan Peters.

The brass band at Okehamton makes a fine sight and sound. 20th November 2021. Copyright Alan Peters

Crowds wave away the first train from Okehampton the 07.30 to Exeter St Davids. on the 20th November 2021 Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Very many thanks indeed to you Alan - some very fine pictures taken at the start and completion of the run to Okehampton. 20th November 2021

Peaks & Class 37s Newton Abbot
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, here is the last of my selection of pictures taken at Aller Junction on Saturday 28 July 1984 and it shows 45130 heading the 12.30 service from Newquay to Leed Copyright Michael Forward

Returning from Aller junction on 28 July 1984 I was lucky to see 37273 and 37181 pass through against the backdrop of the lovely box and signals,Thanks, Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

The very interesting life of
37884
Neil Phillips

Ken Mumford’s report on activity around Swindon included another visit by 37884 leading another withdrawn EMU to its doom this week. This English Electric Type 3 started life as D6883 in November 1963, and was one of the batch of steam-heat locos briefly trialled in pairs on some Western Region expresses in the mid 1960s, but like all WR Class 37s its main occupation was shifting coal and steel products in South Wales. It was overhauled and repainted blue at Crewe Works in April 1970, one of a pair (the other being 6882) which inexplicably gained BR arrow logos on the cabsides and numbers on the bodysides. Renumbered 37183 in March 1974, ten years later it had been reallocated to the Scottish Region, which had taken to repainting its Class 37s into Large Logo blue livery. For what I believe was the first and only time, this livery was applied to 37183 at Swindon Works – my photo shows it on Swindon Stabling Point on 8th April 1984, shortly before departure for the north. Unusually it retained glass headcode panels, bufferbeam valances and radiator frost shields.
In October 1988 it finally lost these features during refurbishment to ‘heavyweight’ 37884. After a further decade hauling British freight, latterly in Loadhaul black/orange colours, and having been made redundant by the influx of EWS Class 66s, it was one of 14 Class 37s selected for export to Spain to work infrastructure trains during construction of a new high-speed rail line from the French border to Madrid via Barcelona. It departed the UK on 21st August 2001 and once in Spain gained GIF (Continental Rail) light blue livery with broad dark blue stripe, numbered L34 in large black numbers on the former headcode panels but retaining its UK identity on the driver’s cabsides. I’m not sure when it came home (3 of the 14 never did, being scrapped in Spain) but it was still at work there in July 2007. It is great to see it still in action on home turf over 58 years after construction, even if its duties have a somewhat sombre note.....!

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

37 884 at Swindon Stabling point 8th April 1984 Copyright Neil Phillips

Very many thanks Neil for putting on paper the results of your research and considerable knowledge. It is and will be much appreciated by all.

Dirty old job.
RHTT at Purton Collins Lane
Ken Mumford.

The reason that the locos used on the RHTT get so dirty is very well illustrated in these views take at a crossing near his home town of Swindon

PURTON (Collins Lane) Crossing 66023 Leads the RHTT at 19th November 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.

66023 brings up the rear (Collins Lane) Crossing 19th November 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford

Having its 'mud bath' 66023 brings up the rear (Collins Lane) Crossing 19th November 2021 Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken for these revealing phonographs - did you need to return to 'your shed' for washing down afterwards!!!

Last two in blue
App. Polsloe Bridge
Keith Turley

On 19th November 2021 the final two GWR Blue liveried class 150/2 DMUs
were paired together on Paignton to Exmouth diagrams,
No.150238 leads classmate No.150219 approaching Polsloe Bridge station
with the lovely Autumn colours cheering up the day,
working the 2T19 12:57 Exmouth to Paignton service.
Regards Keith Turley.

The last two 150's approach Polsloe Bridge.near Last two blue 150's 238 and 219 paired together 19th November 2021. Copyright Keith Turley.

Many thanks Keith for your observations off the main lines.

19th November 2021

19/11/2021

Okehampton Test train
David Ellis

The NR Test Train which ran after the RHTT and before the official reopening train. at Okehampton 17th November 2021. Copyright David Ellis.

Many thanks to David Ellis and also to Tony Hill who sent this further information.
The Network Rail Test train ran after the RHTT and before the VIP reopening special on the 17th November 2021.
A Message from Tony Hill with a further note :- Excellent Dave ...a very rare pic, and only witnessed and recorded by you . In the future such trains will run in the dark /at night.

The crew reported the track quality ( between Coleford and Oketon) the best they have ever found ...not surprising really seeing most of it is new !
This was the 0655 Exeter Riverside yd to Derby via Okehampton ( 0745-0808) Network Rail Track Testing Train with ex LNER HST Power cars 43251 and 43272.

Cheers
Tony Hill.

Exeter
Paul Barlow

Deltic 55016 'Gordon Highlander' on the 08.30 Finsbury Park to Exeter at Exeter. 23rd November 1981

A rare visitor well caught. Many thanks.

Todays run of the Multi Coloured NMT to Penzance
Andrew Triggs

Hi Keith/Roger,
4 shots of todays multi coloured NMT run at Penzance and Marazion, shame it was rather dull down our way today
All the Best
Andrew

Former EMR liveried Colas 43274 leading 1Q18 06.11 Reading Triangle Sidings-Paignton 4 weekly NMT run on final approach at Penzance, arriving 3 late at 11.26. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Former EMR liveried Colas 43274 leading 1Q18 06.11 Reading Triangle Sidings-Paignton 4 weekly NMT run on final approach at Penzance, arriving 3 late at 11.26 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Weather beaten former VTEC liveried 43290 with the return for Paignton passing Marazion at 12.04. Copyright Andrew Triggs

43274 now at the rear of 1Q18 heading up Marzion marsh, with 43290 leading. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Thanks Andrew

Contrast with the RHTT at Penzance
Roger Winnen

211118a 66009 Has taken over on the RHTT seen at Penzance on Thursday evening 18th November 2021. The flare of the station lights add to the photograph. Copyright Roger Winnen

211118b An unrecognisable Class 66 possibly 66116 on the rear covered in grim. Copyright Roger Winnen

The NMT on circuit
Andrew Hickson, Brian Pibworth, and Bill Elston

Honiton

Hi Keith
The NMT is looking less like a "flying banana" as can be seen by photos taken today (18th November).
A grubby ex Virgin livered 43290 leads ex East Midlands 43274 back to Reading. Andrew Hickson

Honiton 43290 18th November 2021. Copyright Andrew Hickson

A nice elevated view of 43274 leaving Honiton. 18th November 2021. Copyright Andrew Hickson

Chard Junction - Brian Pibworth

Attached herewith pics of the NMT arriving and departing Chard Junction this morning.

Amazingly the train was only a few minutes late, as the LSWR line had been in chaos earlier in the morning due to a track circuit fault between Crewkerne and Yeovil Junction leading to cancellation and delays of up to 90 min.

Keep safe. With kind regards, Brian

43290 with NMT arr Chard Jnc 18th November 2021 Copyright Brian Pibworth

43274 at rear of NMT dep Chard Jnc. 18th November 2021 Copyright Brian Pibworth

Pendomer - 5 miles east of Crewkerne Bill Elston

Network Rail's NMT passed our way again on its monthly visit,,Reading to Salisbury via Exeter, and is seen here passing
Pendomer heading East. Power cars were LNER liveried 43290 with Network Rail branding, and 43274, East Midlands Railway livery
with Colas branding

Network Rail measuring train. 43290, 18th November 2021 Copyright Bill Elston

Network Rail measuring train 43274, 18th November 2021 .Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks to all three of you - that is Colin, Brian and Bill.

Public service to Okehampton

Tomorrow - 20th November 2021 will see the first day of the public service from Exeter to newly reopened Okehampton. We understand that interest is high and trains will be full and we look forward to your pictures. HOWEVER we may have to be very selective in our editing. Pictures of the trains en route will be most welcome but please no trespassing.

Thank you in advance

18th November 2021

18/11/2021

Tavistock next?
Michael L. Roach

Mike delves into hs collection of cuttings concerning the closure of the Okehampton to Bere Alston section of the kine on to Plymouth

Mike Roach Collection.

Mike Roach Collection

Mike Roach Collection.

Mike now looks back at Trains in the 60's.
This is the first part of an article in the current edition of the CRS Magazine reprinted of course with Mikes permission. Our 32 page magazine is bursting with articles including many colour photographs.

Travels in the 60s Part 1A Michael L. Roach.

Travels in the 60s Part 1B Michael L. Roach

Travels in the 60s Part 1C Michael L. Roach

Travels in the 60s Part 1D Michael L. Roach

Many thanks for your time and trouble Mike - I am sure that John Ball, our secretary and the author of the article on the Isle of Man Railways copied in with your article won't mind.
So many thanks to John as well.

Marston Footbridge
Swindon
Ken Mumford

I went to this 'newish' footbridge last in May 2021 because of major roadworks at the closed White Hart Roundabout near me for a very long time,

An IET heads for Paddington - seen from Marston footbridge on the 17th November 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Seen from Marston footbridge. Heading west. 37884 hauling a scrap train from Ilford to Newport. on the 17th November 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Paddington bound IET from Marston footbridge. bearing the names Alan Leonard Lewis and Harold Day. 17th November 2021. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken.

South Moreton
Ron Kosys

47489 seen at South Moreton on the 16.02 Paddington to Swansea.21st August 1991. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron - the last of the current batch. Hope you are well.

Exeter '81
Paul Barlow

Peak number 46009 on the 06.37 Leeds to Paignton the 1V67 arrives at Exeter. 1st December 1981. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul

17th Novmber 2021

17/11/2021

First train on the opening day
Dartmoor Line
Driver Alan Peters

It is very fitting that the driver of the first train on the official opening day, this was an RHTT - should be driven by Alan Peters who of course has the route knowledge. Alan has already driven many trains during the reconstruction and given us many unrepeatable pictures of the work in progress.

The Okehampton Token. Copyright Driver Alan Peters. Picture Received at 15.19 17th November 2021

The Crediton end of the RHTT at Okehampton on the 17th November 2021 opening day. Copyright Driver Alan Peters. The time being 06.16

The 'Plymouth' end of the RHTT at Okehampton on the 17th November 2021 opening day. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Many thanks indeed to you Alan for your coverage of the reconstruction work and especially of this RHTT on the very first day.

Today at Crediton
David Tozer

Colas Class 43's 43251/272 with the 0655 Exeter (Riverside) to Westbury via Okehampton. Copyright David Tozer

You just know someone important is around. The former concrete fencing made at Exmouth Junction was painted white on both sides!!!!! Copyright David Tozer

150233 with the 1037 2Z50 'Dartmoor Line' Exeter (St David's to Okehampton. Today was the first official train conveying VIP's. Grant Shrapps - Transport Secretary. Sir Peter Hendy - Head of Network Rail and Mark Hopwood MD of GWR. From the newscast is was pleasing to note that the reopening costa were under budget. Copyright David Tozer

To see our collection of many pictures concerned with the Crediton - Coleford Jct and Meldon line please click here and scroll towards the end.

Many Thanks David

Route Learner
Penzance & Hayle
Leslie Curnow & Andrew Triggs
Roger Salter Roger Winnen

Leslie Curnow photographs 66591 passing through Hayle Station on Tuesday 16th November 2021. Copyright Leslie Curnow

66516 Stands under the roof at Penzance with the route leaner from Fairwater Yard, Taunton on Tuesday 16th November 2021. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Class 66591 is seen crossing Hayle Viaduct running late on Wednesday morning 17th November 2021. Copyright Roger Winnen

Again captured at Platform 3, 66591 following arrival from Fairwater Yard at Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The return run passing Marazion Copyright Andrew Triggs

On the return working from Penzance 66591 is seen passing Hayle Station at 11.48 this morning on route to Fairwater Yard, Taunton. Copyright Roger Winnen

66591 Heading for the curve around to Dawlish Warren on its return trip from Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

Dawlish Warren Station in sight. Copyright Roger Salter

Cowley Bridge
Keith Turley

Now operated by Colas Rail Freight, Ex. LNER class 43 power car No.43251 with classmate No.43272 on the rear pass Cowley Bridge Junc. on 16th November 2021, working the 1Z01 09:38 Derby RTC to Exeter Riverside New Yard, Network Rail Test train Copyright Keith Turley.

Many thanks Keith

Exeter Central
Paul Barlow

33010 on the 14.28 Exeter to Waterloo leaves Exeter Central. 2nd April 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul

South Moreton
Ron Kosys

47423 at South Moreton on the 16th August 1991 with the 1F46 17.37 Paddington to Didcot. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron

90 minutes at
Swindon
Ken Mumford

[1] 66021 heading east non-stop through the station.
[2] emu 357154 into platform 1
[3] A general scene
[4] RHTT headed by 67027 passed platform 3 after coming off the Gloucester branch.
[5] Going off to the Transfer Yard

Picture (1) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021

Picture (2) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021

Picture (3) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021

Picture (4) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021

Picture (5) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021

Picture (6) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021 Remembering Rick Rescorla, a hero from Hayle, Cornwall, who lost his life going back into New York's World Trade Centre to save others.. The additional wording in Cornish means 'Cornwall forever'.

Picture (7) Copyright Ken Mumford 16th November 2021. Remembering others who give their time to us.

This concludes our election from Ken taken during his 9o minutes at Swindon Station - many thanks to you Ken.

16th November 2021

16/11/2021

66516 On the route learner at Penzance
Andrew Triggs

Evening Roger/Keith
4 shots for CRS of Freightliner 66516 on another route refresher trip today from Fairwater Yard (Running as 0P50 07.15 Fairwater Yard Penzance and 0P52 11.30 Penzance-Fairwater Yard)
All the Best
Andre

Arriving at 10.46 at platform 3 with 0P50. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Arriving at 10.46 at platform 3 with 0P50 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Passing Slopers in the Cornish 'Mizzle' with 0P52 return Copyright Andrew Triggs

Passing Slopers in the Cornish 'Mizzle' with 0P52 return. Copyright Andrew Triggs

'Kingswood' at Scorrier today
Neville King

Good morning
An unexpected tip-off early this morning found 1959-built Barclay No.446 0-4-0 diesel mechanical locomotive 'Kingswood' on a low loader at Smokey Joes near Scorrier. A quick visit meant I was able to take these photographs before the locomotive headed off to the Helston Railway.

This privately-owned locomotive was at the Avon Valley Railway, but is now surplus to their requirements and the owner has taken the decision to move it to Helston for the time being.

This locomotive originally worked for the Central Electricity Generating Board (CEGB) at Rogerstone power station.

Both photos copyright Neville King 2021

Many Thanks Neville

CRS Meeting report
AGM and photo competition

Last Saturday 13th November saw the third indoor meeting of the Cornwall Railway Society of the new session. Unfortunately our Chairman Dennis Flood was laid low by a bad cold and couldn’t attend. However a previous Chairman, Tony Wright, took up the reigns and conducted the meeting, many thanks to him. The business section of the meeting proceeded in an orderly fashion with all committee members being re-elected and, subject to his agreement, our Chairman Dennis continues in post. We hope Dennis will soon be back to good health.
Business complete we were delighted to welcome Ian and Rosemary MacKey. Ian conducted the remainder of the evening in a very professional manner with a faultless presentation – firstly the many entries to our 2020 photographic competition were shown in their respective categories, then the winners, as selected by a remote RCTS team were displayed. Details of the winners will be given at a later date.
Ian then continued as a very special bonus to give us a very detailed look at the railways of North and South New Zealand taken during a holiday which he and Rosemary had enjoyed pre covid. Ian’s use of maps was very much appreciated these made it all the more interesting.
We hope to see Ian and Rosemary again next year when maybe we will be given a ‘special treat’ once again.

Covid 19

With regard to Covid – 19 attendances, at meetings have not been at their pre Covid levels. As detailed in an article by Nick Kiszczuk in our magazine repeated below every precaution in the guidelines is being followed – the room is ventilated so be prepared for a 'cool', but 'warm' welcome and wear additional clothing.
We are still providing refreshments at the mid evening break – we hope to see you all return. Visitors are welcome – at a small charge.

Article and photographs from the current CRS Magazine Autumn 2021. Copyright Nicholas Kiszczuk.

Sandy Crossing
Stoke Canon
Paul Barlow

The sun glints off 47829 on the 08.40 Glasgow-Penzance 1V50 Sandy crossing Stoke Canon 28th February 2002. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Exminster
Ron Kosys

47535 passing the site of Exminster station closed to passengers 30th March 1964 and to goods 4th December 1967.. This picture dated 28.th July 1988 Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron, a nice view of the signalbox standing in solitude.

15th November 2021

15/11/2021

Answers to recent queries on the
Okehampton line
Tony Hill

We are most grateful to Tony Hill who answers various points raised in the news Column as follows.

Okehampton line ( being marketed as the Dartmoor line )

Here are some updates with regards to some recent queries raised on the CRS website.

There are currently no plans to reintroduce services at Sampford Courtenay despite the platform having had t its surface retarmaced, and the coping slabs checked for clearances and the platform edge re-whitened.
Okehampton Parkway station ( current total costs £12m with a hoped for opening in early 2023) is planned to be on the eastern side of Okehampton next to Hameldown Road and the ever increasing new housing and the station car park ( which has been partly prepared and used as the main Network Rail and associated Contractors site offices and depot etc for the Infrastructure works on the line), is planned to be on the other side of the line and approached via Higher Stockley Mead, which is not far from the A30 dual carriageway.
There are no plans to reopen Bow or North Tawton Stations which are not well placed for these communities and are on a main bus route and only, at most, 8 miles from Copplestone station on the North Devon (Tarka) line, with an hourly service each way and a recently built large car park for Rail users.
It is not planned for Okehampton trains to call at Yeoford which would involve considerable works for the benefit of only a few passengers who can instead interchange at Crediton.

As for Heritage type trains between Okehampton and Meldon ...who knows ...it will likely be very challenging under ORR/National Rail/gBR regulations and requirements etc and with the future prospects of stone/ freight trains again and not helped by the removal of the Okehampton Ground Frame and plain lining of the associated connection to the former Down platform & Bude Bay, whose disconnected track currently remains in situ on mainly aesthetic grounds.
The immaculately maintained Downside platform and its building (which includes an excellent local railway museum) is still owned by Devon County Council (along with the station footbridge) and is let to the Dartmoor Railway Association.
The success of the Okehampton line will very much depend on its use by, besides Okehamton folk, those from and to the large rail desert of West Devon and North Cornwall and crucially the provision of a reliable and punctual train service, something that is currently seriously lacking on the Exeter-Salisbury part of this former Southern main line.

150234 stands at Okehampton station - picture taken on the 8th November 2021. Copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks Tony for this very comprehensive answer to the queries raised. We wish the Okehampton line every success.

Near
Cowley Bridge Jct.
Paul Barlow

47854 XP64 livery on the 06.00 Preston to Paignton. (he loco bears the Brush type 4 fund headboard). approaches Cowley Junction on the 13th July 2002. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Approaching
Oxford
Ron Kosys

47427 approaches Oxford on the 9th August 1987. Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks to you Ron.

14th November 2021

14/11/2021

50 years of TOPS
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger and Keith,
Although not directly connected to the railways of Cornwall, I thought it worth mentioning that the renumbering of the BR locomotive fleet into the TOPS series, where the first two digits display the class number with which we are now all so familiar, commenced 50 years ago today – 14th November 1971 - when electric loco E26050 emerged from Crewe Works as 76050.
Initially only electric locomotives were renumbered – the first diesel, Peak 45101 (formerly D96) didn’t appear until March 1973, and throughout that summer only Derby was outshopping Peak Class 45s with new numbers. Renumbering of the other classes during works overhauls commenced in September, but mass renumbering at depot level occurred between February and April 1974, with some Peak Class 45s lingering on into 1975 as they awaited works overhauls. The entire renumbering process was completed in December 1975 when a collision-damaged D125 was released from repair at Derby as 45071. So Class 45 claimed both the first and the last renumbered diesel!

I hope this is of interest.

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

Most certainly of interest - another milestone in the history of British Railways - many thanks Neil.

Weekend Engineering Moves
Roger Salter

Yesterdays multi purpose stone blowe DR 80301 Stephen Cornish all the way from Colchester Reception Sidings to Par Liner sidings. This was photographed at Eastdon. Copyright Roger Salter

211114a Todays empty rail freight 6900 10.30 Liskeard to Westbury at Shaldon Bridge. Copyright Roger Salter

Thanks Roger

Ponsandane Footbridge
Bridget Crowley

Subject: Footbridge at Long Rock
Dear Fr Gilbert and/or Mr Kiszczuk
For some time I have wondered about the building of the footbridge that crosses the railway from just opposite Sainsbury’s to the beach and coast path at Penzance. I can find no information after some searching on the web, just two solitary photos - one of the bridge itself and another, a view from it. Neither of these is on your website. I want to know the date of its construction for a start and don’t know where to go from here, since there is no view of it in any of the photos in the Marazion to Penzance section of your site to give me clues.

To my mind, it must be one of the most photogenic footbridges out there - and I have amassed a fair number of photos of it and from it. I’d like to write an article on it if I can find the information and would be happy to share it with your members at some point.
Please could you help by pointing me in the direction of further research that I can do on this fascinating and immensely evocative construction.

Best wishes
Bridget Crowley

The above letter was sent to our Magazine Editors who kindly passed it on to us - in turn the request has been answered by Roger using pictures from his amazing collection.

Ponsandane Footbridge 1 Foundations for the new Ponsandane Footbridge 14th October 1984. Copyright Roger Winnen

An action shot from Ponsandane Footbridge 2 The new footbridge is open. Photograph taken 21st December 1984. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Ponsandane Footbridge 3 The bridge photographed from the Eastern Green, Penzance on 21st December 1984. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Ponsandane Footbridge 4 The station pilot engine passes under the bridge on 21st December 1984. Copyright Roger Winnen

Ponsandane Footbridge 5 British Rail men at Work on the former foot crossing at track level on 21st December 1984. Copyright Roger Winnen

Trust a Penzance man to get these pictures - many thanks Roger.

Goodrington Yard
Paul Barlow

47826 off the 06.00 Preston to Paignton shunts at Goodrington yard. 26th June 2002. Davids. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Thank heavens you recorded ever detail Paul - many thanks.

Oxford
Ron Kosys

Large logo'd 47526 runs into Oxford 19th August 1991 with a Paddington -. Oxford ecs Copyright Ron Kosys

Many Thanks Ron.

13th November 2021

13/11/2021

Recent Activities
Craig Munday

It's been another busy spell with covering Boxes and MOM turns in the South West. Some cross cover recently allowed me to venture Eastbound, and I took the opportunity to look at a new bit of the Western Route as the line from the former Coleford Jn to Okehampton passes into our care! A crew training unit 150234 was out and about, and I followed the route of the railway along the B3215 calling in at Sampford Courtney, North Tawton and various bridges along the way. The work to restore the railway is outstanding. Brand new track and huge improvements to the route including drainage and structures.

The station at Okehampton although on the Western Route and served by GWR services has tastefully retained some of its Southern heritage with malachite green paint and signage very much in evidence. 150234 was covering the crew training.

Also in the news was the visit of some Freightliner class 66s to the Duchy. The Taunton crews including Jason Prole brought down a pair of 66s 66591/516 as far as Par on 10th, and just 6656 through to Penzance on 11th. The trips are seen at Par and Bodmin Parkway. The crews were refreshing the area for this weekend's engineering work which sees multiple trains working in the Dobwalls Sperrit Tunnel relaying site. Rail replacement is in action between Par & Liskeard.

Some other pictures in the area are included. Sadly we've lacked sunlight to catch the wonderful canopies in the trees still bedecked with leaves. With little frost or gales to loosen them, There's a lot to fall just yet.

Kind regards, Craig Munday

66591 66516 Par 10th November 2021. Copyright Craig Munday

66561 Bodmin Parkway 11th November 2021. Copyright Craig Munday.

Many thanks indeed Craig for your comprehensive report.

Does anybody in the know know of future plans and dates for the 'New' line to Okehampton. Are there any plans for Sampford Courtney which is a complete station to return to the timetables, maybe also services to Bow and Yeoford where there could be a useful connection once more for trains to Barnstaple. Is there any possibility of services to Meldon Hlt from Okehampton? Where will the suggested Okehampton Parkway station be located - presumably adjacent to the A30? Comment would be appreciated.

The Railhead Treatment Train in Devon
Roger Salter & Roger Winnen

211110a No sign of life as the RHTT passes throuth Dawlish Warren. Copyright Roger Salter

211110a The RHTT skirts the Exe Estuary on November 10th 2021 Copyright Roger Salter

211112a Yesterday at Dawlish Warrwn with the RHTT. Copright Roger Salter

211111a 66116 full of grime arrives on the through line of Plymouth Station on its return working to St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

21111b 66116 full of grime arrives on the through line of Plymouth Station on its return working to St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen

Just north of
Cowley Bridge Jct.
Paul Barlow

47828 Severn Valley Railway 10.02 Paignton to Newcastle 1E33 just north of Cowley Bridge on the 13th June 2002. Copyright Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul for your picture of exactly nineteen and a half years ago.

East of
Taunton
Ron Kosys

In the days of four tracks east of Taunton as far as Cogload - one wonders if as in other locations there will be need to put back the metals once more.

47409 east of Taunton 19th June 1984 Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron.

12th November 2021

12/11/2021

Memories of the Helston branch.
Nancegollan '61
Michael L. Roach

A few days ago we saw Roger's photos of Namcegollan in 1975. Here are two photos of Nancegollan taken on 24th October 1961 showing Penzance loco 4570 entering past the Methodist Church and standing in the station with its B-set. Note the wooden bodied wagon waited to be loaded.
Regards, Mike.

4570 entering the station with the Methodist Church in the background. 28th October 1961. Copyright Michael L. Roach

A couple of minutes later 4570 ready to depart for Helston standing in the station with its B Set. Note the wooden bodied truck waiting to be loaded. 28th October 1961, Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks indeed Mike for your these pictures from your treasure trove. One wonders just how close to this location, now an industrial site, the growing Helston Railway will reach. Prospidnick is not far away.

It is understood that the Helston Railway will not be running any services over the Christmas perod.

Oath
Bill Elston

66751, 10.03 6Z91 Fairwater Yrd to Willesden Reception, 10th November 2021 Copyright Bill Elston

Many thanks Bill, a very busy day for me and the website yesterday sorry to have missed your entry.

Exeter St David's
Paul Barlow

47805 0900 Paignton to Edinburgh 1S66 leaves Exeter St Davids. 13th June 2002. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

Filton Bank
Ron Kosys

47557 climbs Filton Bank with a Portsmouth to Cardiff train. 8th April 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

St Blazey Turntable
& Lostwithiel
Andrew Thompson

The excellent news that St Blazey turntable is to be brought back into use has prompted Andrew Thompson to send in a couple of pictures plus one of a 37 at Lostwithiel. Any help with the dates of these photographs would be appreciated.

One at a time please - 37's queue to get on the turntable.. St Blazey turntable 37 670 Copyright Andrew Thompson

St Blazey turntable 37 670 Copyright Andrew Thompson

An undated photo of an unknown class 37 on the down loop at Lostwithiel. Copyright Andrew Thompson.

If anyone can date these photographs it would be appreciated. Thanks to Andrew

11th November 2021

11/11/2021

Chapel Siding visitor
Neil Phillips

It’s unusual for me to report on ‘current affairs’ but I happened to be out and about this morning and found 66061 waiting quietly in Chapel Siding at Par with a rake of JIAs. I believe this is a regular sight on a Thursday. It helps to be tall when shooting over the top of the security fence!

Best regards,
Neil

Chapel siding 66061 waiting patiently on the 11th November 2021, Copyright Neil Phillips

Chapel siding 66061 waiting patiently 11th November 2021, Copyright Neil Phillips.

As you say Neil - the advantages of elevation!! Many thanks - keep up the morning strolls - good for your and good for us.

RHTT's passing through
Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

Many thanks to Colin and also to Ken Mumford who forwarded the pictures below of two RHTT Circuits remote from Cornwall.

66846 t&t 66848 on 3S59 Swindon Transfer to Swindon Transfer. 9th November 2021. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

67023 t&t 67027 on 3S33 Cheltenham Lansdown Loop to Swindon Transfer. 9th November 2021. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks to Colin - and also to Ken.

The freightliner 66 on tour to and from Penzance today
Andrew Triggs Roger Salter
Roger Winnen

66516 Passing through Truro Station this morning on route to Penzance at 10.16. Copyright Roger Winnen

Heading away and passing the Truro Semaphores. The lineside vegetation has been cut back around Truro in recent months. Copyright Roger Winnen

.66516 Passing Ponsandane at 10.46 on route to Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Following arrival at platform 2, with 43160 for company on platform 3 Copyright Andrew Triggs

Platform level view on platform 2, before departing with the return run to Fairwater Yard at 11.28, Copyright Andrew Triggs

We are now in Devon, more clearance of vegetation can be seen as the Class 66 comes off the Royal Albert Bridge. Copyright Roger Winnen

66516 Returning from Penzance passes through Dawlish Warren Station. Copyright Roger Salter

Thanks to all involved.

Eastdon nr Dawlish Warren
Roger Salter

Yesterdays Civil Engineers being the 660Q 08.53 Newton Abbot Hackney Yard to Bristol Kingsland Road photgraphed at Eastdon. Copyright Roger Salter

Tiverton Junction
Ron Kosys

47525 Tiverton Jn 8th September 1989. Note The Redland Roof Tiles wagon in the fenced off area on the right awaiting loading. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

West Somerset Gala
2007
Paul Barlow

Paul looks back to those days in 2007 long before Global Warming or Covid was even thought of. He says -
Hi Keith
A few shots from a 2007 West Somerset railway diesel gala, including a through train from Paddington.
Kind regards. Paul.

West Somerset Gala D832 D1010 1340 Bishops Lyderard to Minehead approaches Leigh woods crossing. 16th June 2007 Copyright Paul Barlow.

West Somerset Gala D1010 amid lush countryside on the 09.15 Bishops Lyderard to Minehead passes Nethercott 16th June 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow

West Somerset Gala D1010 1055 Minehead to Bishops Lydeard approaches Leigh woods crossing16th June 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

West Somerset Gala. D1015 0837 Paddington to Minehead passes Roebuck Farm. 16th June 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow.

West Somerset Gala. D1015 on the 13.40 Minehead to Bishops Lydeard approaches site of Leigh loop. 16th June 2007. Copyright Paul Barlow. Note the 'nice puff of smoke' - it really makes the action shots doesn't it?

Many thanks Paul for those memories of the good olde days.

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