Blog Archives

21st December 2021

21/12/2021

Santa Specials
Bodmin & Wenford

Many thanks for your many pictures of Santa Specials on the Bodmin an Wenford - these have been collected together as Feature 2126. Please click here and scroll as necessary.

Winter Blues
Craig Munday

As 2021 comes to an end, the final weeks saw the south west shrouded in cloud most days. At a time of minimal daylight anyway, the street lights hardly went out as slate gray skies dominated the forecast day after day.

On the 15th Dec the empty JIAs arrived later than normal at St Blazey from Exeter Riverside and is seen at Middleway whilst contractors put the final stones in place on the substantial St Austell bay resilient regeneration project (StARR). 66119 the locomotive.

It was a relief therefore when 18th Dec saw almost unbroken sunshine across Mid and East Cornwall. The Santa specials were in full flow on the Bodmin & Wenford railway with pannier tank and 47306 doing the orders top and tailed on a busy service between General and Parkway. The train is seen with the class 47 leading at Charlies Gate. A wander up to St Pinnock viaduct saw bright low light beautifully filter through the trees, providing a nice effect across the forest floor. The low sun bouncing nicely off the dark green GWR livery against a leafless backdrop.

Here's wishing everyone a safe and merry christmas

Craig Munday

Middleway 6C53 15th December 2021 Copyright Craig Munday

St Pinnock 18th December 2021 Copyright Craig Munday

Santa Special 47306 Chariles gate 18th December 2021 Copyright Craig Munday

St Pinnock 18th December 2021 Copyright Craig Munday

Many thanks to you Craig For your valiant efforts over the past year - keep safe, keep well.

Trans Wilts Tranquility
Melksham
Guy Vincent

A peaceful scene at Melksham on the Trans-Wilts line with 2 car class 165 set 165131 providing suitable accommodation on the 1407 Westbury-Swindon and 1505 Swindon-Westbury services on Saturday 18th December.

Regards, Guy Vincent

165131 forms the 14.07 Westbury to Swindon 18th December .2021. Copyright Guy Vincent

The return journey. 165131 15.05 Swindon to Westbury 18th December 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent

Many thanks Guy. Nice to see Melksham in business once again.

Didcot North
Ron Kosys

A rather clean looking 47549 accelerates away from a signal check at Didcot North junction with a late morning Oxford to Paddington service. 30th August 1987. Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron.

Bodmin Road
Paul Barlow

An impressive view as 50044 Exeter on a Penzance to Paddington train approaches Bodmin Road. 6th July 1985. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

20th December 2021

20/12/2021

Around Bodmin area
Hugh Austen & Roger Winnen

180616a Its the 16th June 2018 57604 With the 17.50 Exeter-Penzance passing Restormal. Copyright Hugh Austen

180622a Its 22nd June 2018 HST 43156 Leading with a Paddington Penzance service at Respryn. Note the family waving at the train which in my opinion makes the photo. Copyright Hugh Austen

211218a 18th December 2021 47306 The Sapper works the Sulzar Santa 11.15 Bodmin General to Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

211218b 18th December 2021 4612 Heads the return Santa by Steam working at 11.42 from Bodmin General. Copyright Roger Winnen

211218c 18th December 2021 Seen approaching Bodmin General 4612 together with the 08 shunter etc in the adjacent siding. Copyright Roger Winnen

211218d 18th December 2021 Diesels on Shed 50042 Triumph 37142. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bodmin Road
Paul Barlow

Taken from a lovely spot for photographing trains just east of the station.. 50018 Resolution 0955 Penzance to Leeds leaves Bodmin Road on the 6th July 1986. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

Culham
Ron Kosys

47566 approaches Culham with the Sundays Paddington to Wolverhampton on the 18th June 1989. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

Pinhoe
Keith Turley

With the LSWR route closed between Axminster and Templecombe, SWR ran
a shuttle service between Axminster and Exeter Central on 19th December 2021 using SWT liveried class 158 No.158885,the unit is seen approaching Pinhoe station working the 14:09 Exeter Central to Axminster service.
Regards Keith Turley.

Pinhoe SW Trains liveried 158 885 approaches Pinhoe with the 14.09 Exeter Central - Axminter service. 19th December 2021 Copyright Keith Turley

Many thanks Keith. It's only a personal preference but the SW trains livery does make for a refreshing picture.

Christmas - almost at
Cardiff
Guy Vincent

Hello Keith,

Three long distance passenger services at Cardiff Central station late morning on the last Saturday before Christmas.

Guy Vincent

1) 'Castle' HST set with 43162 and 43098 'Walton Castle' in charge about to depart with the 2C73 1100 semi-fast stopping service to Penzance. Plenty of seats available inside the high-density refurbished HST carriages.. 18th December 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.

2) Passengers flock to board the 1W93 1018 Maesteg-Holyhead formed of two class 153 units, 153327 and 153982, the latter being an ex East Midlands example. Transport for Wales operate a fairly large fleet of class 153s and those that have not received 'PRM' modifications (persons of reduced mobility) have had 600 added to their numbers so 153982 was previously 153382, Copyright Guy Vincent. 18th December 2021.

3) Next in was the 1130 Portsmouth Harbour departure formed of 2 car class 165 set 165134. Again customers rush to join, many with large items of luggage in tow. 18th December 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent.

Many thanks to you Guy for your detailed review of traffic at Cardiff Central two days ago. It seems few are wearing masks - sadly for train crew and others - are we dropping our guard.

19th December 2021

19/12/2021

New Station for the Bristol area.
Ashley Down
Guy Vincent

Hello Keith / Roger

The attached photos taken from the rear of a 'Turbo' show the remains of the former GWR station at Ashley Hill, Bristol. Located just north of Narroways Hill Junction at 2 miles 42 chains from Bristol Temple Meads the station originally opened on 13th August 1864 and closed just over 100 years later on 23rd November 1964. Only the former Cardiff-bound platform remains but the station is now due to be rebuilt and re-opened (as Ashley Down) as part of the Bristol Metro project which includes reinstating passenger services over the freight-only Filton Jcn-Avonmouth (via Henbury) route. Due to the location the station will be accessible only by foot or cycle with no car parking facilities. Lifts and a footbridge are to be included. See Wikipedia or the MetroWest website for further details of this scheme.

Regards
Guy Vincent

Ashley Hill Station Site looking towards Filton (from Down Filton Main Line) 18th December 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent

Ashley Hill Station Site looking towards Stapleton Road(from Cardiff-bound 'Down Filton Relief') 18.th December 2021. Copyright Guy Vincent

Exciting happenings in the Bristol area - looking into the suggested websites given by Guy will prove very rewarding. Also try looking at Google Earth for 'Ashley Down Station Road' - and it is still called that - one wonders if with no parking provided or able to be provided that this will cause problems on the local roads?

Many thanks Guy well done - keeping your finger on the pulse.

Top and bottom of the bank
Exeter SD to Central
Paul Barlow

Paul is at Exeter Central, 45070 has banked 47244 up the bank from St Davids on 18.30 Meldon to Salisbury stone train. 7th December 1982. Copyright Paul Barlow

45003 Exeter banking the 1830 Meldon to Salisbury Ballast train as far as Exeter Central 27th October 1982. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul I am sure Ken Mumford will be delighted to see these.

South Moreton
Ron Kosys

47508 with train of matching coaches makes a nice picture seen at South Moreton on the 19th August 1991 with the 1V96 1218 Mamchester to Paddington. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

Buses to
Coverack & The Lizard
Michael L. Roach

As a follow-up to my article on Coverack Road Motor Halts here are two scans of buses from the same era both with bodies by long gone coach builders. Perhaps one of our readers will be able to identify the builder of the chassis in each case.

Best wishes, Mike

From the Michael L, Roach Collection.

From the Michael L. Roach Collection.

Many thanks Mike.

18th December 2021

18/12/2021

Coverack Halt
Michael L. Roach

COVERACK ROAD MOTOR HALT Michael L. Roach
Sometime around 1927 the Great Western Railway commenced a new bus service from Helston Railway Station the 12 miles to Coverack Harbour on the east side of The Lizard peninsula. In the wording of the day it was called a “road motor service.” At first Coverack passengers waited in the open for the bus to arrive. The GWR announced that a shelter was to be provided and a Mr. Francis Roxburgh stepped forward to donate a suitable building for the purpose. Mr. Roxburgh was a retired judge and a frequent visitor to Coverack from his home in London near Paddington Station. The attached photograph of the opening ceremony appeared in the GWR Magazine for March 1928.
SCAN 5289
MLR / 01 December 2021

Ever heard of it? I hadn't. Many thanks to Mike for the results of his continuing research into railway subjects - the picture a real 'Gem':- Note very smartly attired assembly -handkerchiefs in pockets - everybody wearing hats!

Westerns in Cornwall, Devon & Wiltshire
Hugh Austen

740628a D1015 Western Champion slowly crossing the Royal Albert Bridge into Saltash with a Paddington-Penzance train. Copyright Hugh Austen

740622a D1033 Western Trooper passing the site of South Brent Station with a Paddington-Penzance service. The branch to Kingsbridge left the mainline here. Copyright Hugh Austen

740629a D1028 Western Hussar slows for the stop at Totnes with a Paddington -Penzance service. Copyright Hugh Austen

750119a D1040 Western Queen oassing West Lavington Signal Box with the 10.30 Paddington=Penzance train. Copyright Hugh Austen

Many Thanks Hugh

37888 at Reading
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, I send a picture of another tanker train ,this one coming into Reading on 14 October 1992 behind 37888 ‘Petrolia’.I think the train was from Lindsey to Langley..Class 08 still in use as station pilot Copyright Michael Forward

Michael sends best wishes to One and All for A Happy Christmas

Banking to
Exeter Central
Keith Gale

Yesterday news contained a query by Ken Mumford concerning the banking of freight trains from Exeter St Davids to Exeter Central - it is a great pleasure to publish an almost instant reply received from Keih Gale,

Ken was looking fo information regarding the use of diesel locomotives after steam had disappeared to bank trains between Exeter St Davids and Central. Well during the late 1970's and during the 1980's it was almost a daily occurrance. The most regular uses were cement trains to Exeter Central, infrastructure trains along the 'old Southern Railway' and coal trains to Exmouth Junction if the load required it. It was always an exciting event for a young enthusiast - the trains would arrive into the down centre road (since lifted) and wait at the West end of St Davids, whilst the banking loco (which had recessed in the short siding adjacent to Red Cow crossing) joined the back of the train. Usually (but not always) coupled up, and once given the clear road there was a series of 'toots' between the drivers to say everything is ready and off the consignment went! As many know, the 1 in 37 gradient starts almost at the platform end and so it was full power as soon as the locomotives could take it. The skill of the enginemen was always in awe to us.

It was a mixture of traction - larger hydraulics in the early days (Western's, Warship's) and of course the Western's excelled at this with their high tractive effort. In latter days it was Class 50's, class 47's and Peaks etc. I do recall on one occassion that the banking engines were a pair of class 37's for some reason. I always imagined that there was a bit of competition going on between the train loco and the banker - you could tell by the slack or tense couplings which was doing the most work. A perfect balance would of course be half way along the train. In the case of the 37's (as we all know they are spirited engines) and encouraged by the enthusiastic crowd, I suspect they were not only pushing the train but also the leading loco!

Anyway - camera's and film were expensive and by the time I had both, it was a less common event. I did however capture 47535 and 47226 arriving at Exeter Central on 27 May 1986, no doubt taking a breather after their hard efforts!

kind regards, Keith Gale

47353 and 47226 at Exeter Central 27th May 1986. Copyright Keith Gale

Many thanks indeed for your very full reply Keith.

Banker leaves
Exeter St Davids
David Tozer

1682 banks 156 3.1973. Copyright David Tozer

47205 assists engineers train. Copyright David Tozer

Many thanks David.

South Moreton
Ron Kosys

47489 passes one of the number of photting locations at South Moreton with 1A71 1343 Bristol to Paddington vans. 19th August 1991. Copyright. Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron

A very Good Read
The Aeronian X

The Editor of the Aeroian Ken Mumford sends us the latest copy of the Aronian X - PACKED full of varied Transport Interest. Please click below to have a good read. Many thanks to Ken - have a rest over Christmas. (I doubt if he will!!)

aeronian_dec_21.pdf
File Size:	9707 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

17th December 2021

17/12/2021

Last train to
Wadebridge
Ian Cavill & Roger Winnen

Poster for last train 17th December 1978. - from the Ian Cavill archives.

A few weeks ago looking through his old books that Ian made the chance discovery of a poster advertising the last ever public trains to travel down to Wadebridge. Many thanks for sending this in Ian.

Roger Winnen travelled on the first the two specials run by the Bodmin Lions. later in the day he was able to capture few views of this significant event in the life of the line,

Making a Christmas Card scene the two Bristol based units B804 (leading) & B803 roll in. Note the frost or is it driven light snow on the telegraph poles. The connecting point of the Bodmin Branch with the up main line awaits its final trains. 17th December 1978.Copyright Roger Winnen.

The special stand at the down main platform at Bodin Parkway. 17th Decemeber 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Bodmin General B803 now prepares to lead the way to Wadebridge. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Passing Grogley Halt at good speed there are at least six spectators to witness the occasion. The car is parked more or less on the alignment of the Ruthern bridge Branch. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Lower down the Camel Valley. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The special stands at Wadebridge. 17th December 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A people picture - these are Left to Right. The late Gordon Dobbs Chairman, the late Alan Millburn, and Mike Nicholas. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen.

The sun is getting low on a winters day as the rails get their last polish by a passenger train. 17th December 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

This is the last ever passenger train to leave Wadebridge for the National Network - One wonder how many people witnessed it from the windows of the properties alongside, 17th December 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks to Ian and Roger for this record. Onecan only hope that one days trains will return to Wadebridge though never of course to the original station.

Today at Exminster and Silverton
David Tozer

Gents,
A rare excursion out these days with my camera.

Photo No 1 DR79273 & DR 79263 . These belong to Harso Track Technologies appears that they are track grinding machines. Yout track machine expert may have further information.
Photo No 2. Yes, the Royal Train passing Silverton heading where I do not know.

Enjoy Christmas Gents.

Dave

Many Thanks David. Have a Happy Christmas

Treesmill
Ron Kosys

47515 is seen at Treesmill on the 12th April 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys

Many thanks Ron

Cullompton
Keith Turley

Colas Rail Freight class 66/8 No.66849 'Wylam Dilly' passes Cullompton on 16th December 2021, working the 6Z32 11:38 Newton Abbot Hackney Yard to Baglan Bay (Colas) hauling ten log carrier wagons from long term storage at Hackney Yard.
Wishing you and your families a very happy xmas and 2022.
Regards Keith Turley.

66849 Wylam Dilly passes Cullompton with Hackney Yard to Baglan Bay 16th December 2021 Copyrght Keith Turley

Many thanks Keith - best regards to you and yours as well.

Scrap train at
Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

37884 heads unit 365508 on its way to the scrapyard at Newport - seen here at Swindon. Copyright Colin Pidgeon. 16th December 2021

7884 with unit 365508 at Swindon. on route to Newort for scrapping. Copyright Colin Pidgeon. 16th December 2021

I was of a mind not to publish the following views of the 'work' of mindless idiots.

Graffiti at Swindon on 387160 Copyright Colin Pidgeon, 16th December 2021

Many thanks to you Colin.

Shrivenham
Andrew Jenkins

Another example of vandalism is of a class 387 EMU was 387 150 seen her at Shrivenham. The work of idiots. . Copyright Andrew Jenkins

Ashby Crosiing Shrivenham - the rear EMU was 387163 Copyright ndrew Jenkins

Many thanks Andrew.

An appeal - banking at Exeter
Ken Mumford

Hello Keith,
i wonder if anyone inthe CRS can give me details [and possibly photos] for what happened to banking trains between these two stations after steam was not used for banking. I'm sure I've seen a main line diesel [A Paek?} banking a train up that incline.
I'd like to use any details in my DEVON BELLE PowerPoint presentation - naturally I'd gratefully acknowledge [in the presentation] any help.
Many thanks of appreciation,
Kind regards, keep safe, keep warm both of you,
Joyeux Noel,
Ken

Can anybody help please.

16th December 2021

16/12/2021

Christmas Greetings
from Craig

Many thanks to you Craig, we all wish you the compliments of the Festive Season.

Jethro
Sadly missed

Just a quick note to say that I was sorry to hear tonight of the passing of Jethro, my favourite comedian.

Trust the media to mess things up. The Evening Standard stated that he was born in "St. Bunyan"! I can only imagine what Jethro would have had to say about that.

https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/comedian-jethro-dies-covid-family-tribute-b972065.html?itm_source=Internal&itm_channel=section_banner&itm_campaign=breaking-news-ticker&itm_content=6

A nice tribute from Great Western too about trains now stopping at Camborne on Wednesdays.
Hoping you and the CRS folks are well.

Trevor Tremethick

Many thanks to you Trevor for sending us this link and also a reminder that the deadly virus is around.
Take great care all of you.

Jethro in action

You must all have heard Jethro's ; 'Trains don't stop Camborne Wednesdays' joke but here it is - sorry about the strong language, but forgive him - it's Hilarious.
Heres a link - smashing shots of Camborne too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_axHV2wx8RA

This train does stop
Camborne
Clive Smith

45131 does stop at Camborne with the 13.45 Penzance - Bristol TM and it's a Saturday 5th March 1983. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks to you Clive for your very swift action. Clive posted this picture to us within minutes . The up platform - the subject of Jethro's joke has been lengthened. -

A letter from re the
Newham branch
Neil Phillips

Dear Roger and Keith,

I was pleased to see Andrew Vines’ photos of D1054 Western Governor on the Newham branch available to all on the CRS website (Andrew shared these with me a while back but I was sworn to secrecy pending release of his splendid new book!) The other Type 4 Newham visitors Andrew refers to were Warship D814 Dragon and D1052 Western Viceroy, although this was hearsay at the time and no confirmation has ever been forthcoming. However I did once see Class 08 D4009 crossing Arch Hill Bridge over the A390 so Truro Yard’s pilot loco occasionally escaped down the branch.
D1054 sported maroon livery with full yellow ends from 10th March 1970 to 9th December 1970, just 9 months and as such was the shortest-lived Western in this livery. Its still clean condition and state of the trees in the Penwithers Junction view suggest a date in late March 1970. The photographer did well to make it to his vantage point there in time to capture ‘The Guv’nor’ coming off the branch. I well remember sitting on a grassy mound here myself to watch the trains go by on 1st September 1972 and discovering the hard way that I’d perched on a nest of red ants (ouch!)
Running across the scene from left of the locomotive are the earthworks which would appear to suggest a direct link from Highertown Tunnel onto the Newham branch avoiding the reversal, however I cannot discover when this construction occurred and to the best of my knowledge no rails were ever laid on it.
(As an aside there are similarly abandoned earthworks nearby, about two miles along the A390 road towards Falmouth, just below Kea County Primary School (as it was called when I attended 1958-64), where a short embankment was built to ‘straighten’ a sharp bend following a fatal accident there in the 1960s – after infilling and landscaping it was left to ‘settle’........and no further work was ever done. Trees grew on it and I’m sure it still lurks under the vegetation!)

Best regards,
Neil

Many thanks Neil.

15th December 2021

15/12/2021

Redruth Possession
Mick House

Day three (15-12-2021).

Photo 1) Wrong line working, heading for Apex Bridge is Class 66 849 top and tailed with 66 847 on a rake of 8 auto ballesters.
Photo 2) Wrong line working Class 66 847 on the rear of the 8 auto ballesters with 66 849 at the front about to cross Wheal Busy foot crossing.
Photos 3 & 4) DR 73907 stands on the up line at Treleigh Bridge (A3047

1) Class 66 849 & 66 847

2) Class 66847 & 66 849

3) DR 73907

4) DR 73907

All photographs are the Copyright of Mick House

Many Thanks Mick

Trackwork
Roger Aston

When parking at Truro on Tuesday evening to join Sleeper to London I photographed Tamper DR 73907 obviously awaiting the track gangs to clear before tamping the worked areas.
The sleeper itself was interesting in that starting from Truro the stock came from Laira behind DRS 57306 with Pendennis Castle on the tail to be train engine for Paddington with 57306 on the tail all the way so as to move train back from Paddington to Reading..
Being a train with passengers on departing East from platform 2 the normally trailing points, now facing points to cross to the up line had to be clipped whereas the train before from platform 2 being ECS did not have to have them clipped.

Best regards from London
Roger

Many Thanks Roger

Replacing common crossings & trackwork Penzance Station
Roger Salter

With the ongoing track replacement at Treleigh, Redruth additional work was underway replacing the frogs leading to the see siding at Penzance. Copyright Roger Salter

A close up of the activities at Penzance Station. Copyright Roger Salter

The orange army watches the proceedings. Copyright Roger Winnen

Not a train in sight at the terminus. Copyright Roger Salter

Thanks Roger

Cockwood
Ron Kosys

47523 passes Cockwood at low tide 23rd June 1989 1E03 1347 Penzance to Leeds letter mail.

Many thanks Ron - taken from a much favoured spot, unfortunately fairly recently fencing along the lineside has rather spoiled the shot.

Newham Branch
Andrew Vines

I hope the attached pictures from my collection are of interest. They show a rare event: a visit by D1054 Western Governor to the Newham branch, and are thought to have been taken in March 1970. In the first picture the loco is being watched carefully by BR staff as it traverses to the end of one of the sidings, with tail light on. In the second, it is returning to Penwithers Junction, with a rather stark looking County Hall in the background. A further picture of this event appears in my recent book on the diesel hydraulics, and Neil Phillips tells me that a couple of other type 4s are rumoured to have visited the branch around the same time. It appears from the picture taken at Newham that the loco may be undertaking clearance tests. Perhaps the operating authorities were looking for greater flexibility in the motive power employed on the branch at the time.
I would be interested to hear if any members know more about this event. The pictures were apparently taken by a Michael Parsonage who lived in West Cornwall. Does any member know of him, or was he perhaps a Society member?

Best wishes
Andrew

Newham branch 1 D1054 Western Governer March 1970 Thought to have been taken by Mike Parsonage - supplied by Andrew Vines.

Newham branch 2 D1054 Western Governor leaves the Newham branch at Penwithers Junction - March 1970. This photograph thought to have been taken by Mike Parsonage.

With regard to Mike Parsonage - He certainly did come to meetings at the Ambulance Hall Redruth, but that was a very long time ago, we hope he is still with us, but we think not.

In the letter above Andrew mentions his book, a very well illustrated and fine reference work. This recently published books is on sale - please refer to our News Column item dated 1st December 2021 for purchase details.

Newham Branch Video
Phil Hadley

By clicking on the link below you will find a most interesting video on the Newham branch.
Newham Branch Line Pt 1

Many thanks Phil.

Penwithers Junction
The late Cyril Hitchens

A goods train coming up from Newham. A picture taken by our very good friend - the late Sid Sponheimer. Copyright.

The above photograph by the late Sid Sponheimer clearly shows the trackwork at Penwithers and brings about the question as to how this train coming from Newham eventually got to Truro. You'll find the answers in the fascinating article written by one time member the late Cyril Hitchens.

Penwithers Junction Signal Box was situated in the triangle between the Falmouth Branch which follows a straight course and the main line to Penzance, which curves sharply away to the right. It also controlled the Newham goods line. Readers will be aware of the development of railways in the Truro area which accounts for the rather odd appearance of the junctions.
       The box was brick built with the usual large sliding windows two of which were at the back overlooking the Falmouth line. Inside was a coal stove and oven, an oil stove and oil lamps for lighting. It was fitted with a 36 lever frame and had the usual block instruments for working with Chacewater and Truro West. There was also an electric token instrument for the single line section between Penwithers and Perranwell and a wooden train staff for the Newham branch which was worked "one engine in steam". Penwithers also controlled the IBS on the down main after the closure of Baldhu box. When I was learning different boxes it was my practice to sketch the layout, note the lever numbers etc.... A copy of my original sketch (probably done in about 1958) accompanies this article and can be compared with photographs of the layout as it existed at the time.
       The steps to the upper floor were outside and there was a wooden walkway across the branch line loop to hand the token to the drivers of the down branch trains and to collect it from the up. There was a chemical toilet in a separate building a short distance from the steps. It was a busy box with main line traffic, Falmouth branch trains and awkward access to the Newham line. A lot of walking was involved to hand over and collect tokens. Certain branch drivers tried to do this at some speed especially when dmus were introduced!
       The goods for Newham, mainly coal for the gasworks, would come out from Truro West hauled by a pannier tank, a 45xx, 55xx or, latterly, a D63xx. It would collect the staff, draw clear of the point and then propel down to Newham. On return it would draw in on the down Falmouth line and stop to allow the engine to run round. This was done by sending the loco down clear of the up branch points, back on the up branch, across the down and up mains, back through the crossover to the down main, onto its train on the down branch, couple up, back through the crossover to the up main and thence through Highertown Tunnel and back to Truro. Timing this operation was important so as not to delay any other traffic.
       Penwithers Box was very difficult to access (this was obviously well before the days of Health and Safety). By this time I had a car (a Reliant 2x1) so I would drive from Camborne to the outskirts of Truro, turn down Penwithers Lane and then turn into another lane by a Falmouth branch bridge where there was a pull in with room for a couple of cars. Then I had to climb a 5ft. wall, scramble up a 20ft. embankment and finally walk to the box on the Falmouth branch track. Try this at 4.30 on a wet morning in pitch darkness!
       One evening, on leaving work at 11pm., I locked up and began the journey back to my car. From the top of the embankment I could see there was another car parked beside mine. I slid down the bank, climbed over the wall and jumped down with a THUMP, landing right beside the other car, scaring the occupants, a courting couple, out of their wits. I never saw them there again.
       During lulls in traffic signal boxes could be good places to be. There were unrivalled views from Penzance and St. Ives and the peace and quiet of isolated Baldhu and Shepherds. Penwithers was no exception. One summer Sunday I was relieving there-the weather was beautiful-no trains about-so I settled down to read the paper which had been dropped off by one of the Falmouth bound drivers earlier in the day. Suddenly I heard a noise which I ignored at first, then it happened again so I looked out if the back window. I could see two young boys playing on the bank near the up branch home. The became more adventurous and started playing with the weights. They realised that by lifting them they could place the signal in the off position. As their confidence grew the began to climb the signal and play with the arm pulling it on on and off. They were too far away for me to shout to them so, as there were no trains about, I gently pulled the lever to place the lever in the off position. For the next 15 minutes I watched as the boys tried to replace the signal to danger, climbing up and down, pushing the signal arm, on the ground lifting the weights, one up the post and one on the ground pulling at the wires etc. etc......all to no avail. Eventually they scampered off, convinced they had broken the signal and would be responsible for a train crash later that afternoon.
        From 7th. November 1971 the junction was rationalised, the Newham line was taken out of use, the signal box was closed and 2-way working was introduced for the Falmouth branch from Truro.
                                                                           C. H.

Many thanks to Cyril and his son Mike Hitchens for this very interesting and amusing report.

14th December 2021

14/12/2021

Day 2 of the track renewal works at Redruth
Roger Winnen

211214a A Class 70 sits upon the bridge at Scorrier awaits a movement out of the block section to Truro. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214b 66849 Wylam Dilly heads the Train at Scorrier Station. Photograph taken by kind permission of site engineers. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214c 70811 Heads a rake of auto ballasters seen approaching the Apex Bridge wrong line working on route to Treleigh. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214d The same train is seen tailed by 70815. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214e 66849 Wylam Dilly heads a train of empties past the famous Engine House at Wheal Busy. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214f Tails the train wrong line working towards Chacewater. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214g We see 70811 at Treleigh awaiting to drop ballast. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214h Auto Ballaster wagons ready to drop the load. Copyright Roger Winnen

211214ii Roger Salter captures the ballasting at Treleigh. Copyright Roger Salter

211214i Dropping the ballast at Treleigh, Redruth today. Copyright Roger Winnen

Greetings from
Derek Buttivant

It is a delight to include the following Christmas Message from Derek Buttivnt. Derek was a former long serving member of our team being first and foremost our Indoor events secretary and for a short time as Chairman. We were sorry to lose you Derek but are very pleased to see how well you and Ann have settled in.

Many thanks for your 'news letter' Derek - all the very best to you both from us all.

A rare event at
Oxford
Ron Kosys

Ron writes :- The ONLY time I ever saw a train on these running lines.

Sunday 28th January 1990
47530 crawls at it crosses from the up through line onto the by now very rarely used 2nd Loop line, with a train of empty ballast wagons.
Both traincrew keep a close eye on proceedings.

The area to the right used to be a rail served scrap yard that rarely saw any wagons by 1990.
Not really surprising the whole area has been radically cleaned in the years that followed....

A rare shot as 47530 moves across onto the rarely used second loop at Oxford 28th January 1990. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron for your pictures from far and wide.

Redruth Engineering
Mick House

Redruth Possession
Day one (13-12-2021).
Track relaying is taking place between Treleigh Bridge (A3047) and Drump road on the up line
Photo 1) Colas Class 70 811 with a load of track panels was at Treleigh Bridge (A3047), wrong line working on the down line.
Photo 2) Freightliner Class 66 594 NYK Spirit of Kyoto with empty ballast wagons was at between Drump road and Redruth station, wrong line working on the down line.
Photos 3) Colas Class 66 849 Wylam Dilly with new sleepers in numerous wagons, one of them OBA 11002 (photo 4), was at Redruth station, wrong line working on the down line, with Colas class 70 801 on the rear (photo 5).
Unfortunately I was unable to photograph one of the trains, it was just east of Wheal Bois crossing and I could only see the tail end. Report by Mick House

1) class 70 811 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

2) Class 66 594 NYK Spirit of Kyoto 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

3) class 66 849 'Wylam Dilly' standsv at the entrance to Redruth tunnel. 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

4) Sleeper wagon OBA 110023 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

5) 70801 slumbers at the Penzance end of Redruth station. 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

Mick goes further east towards Wheal Bois (Shallow Adit) crossing.

6) Track machine 1029 viewed from Treleigh overbridge. 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

7) 1187 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

8) Viewed from Treleigh overbridge. Behind 1258 the up main has already been cut and lifted. 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

9) 1258 again - work continues with the clearing of ballast. 13th December 2021. Copyright Mick House.

Many thanks to you Mick. We look forward to further reports as the work continues.

13th December 2021

13/12/2021

Engineering Train at
Redruth
Anonymous

Our anonymous spectator was passing through Redruth on a T2 bus when he spotted an engineering train stationary at the down platform. Time to investigate!!

Stationary train at down platform - time to de-bus and investigate. 13th December 2021.

A view from the footbridge at about midday. 13th December 2021.

70 801 at the Penzance end of the train close by the site of the second signalbox at Redruth. Copyright.

Looking towards Scorrier the class 66 at that end of the train can be seen just about clear of the tunnel. 13th December 2021. Copyright.

A last view of the train from above the tunnel mouth.

Many thanks to our anonymous contributor.

A selection from
Roger Winnen

Gunnislake Station sign. This picture dates from before the station was re-sited. . Copyright Roger Winnen. 28th December 1977.

Another view at Gunislake on the same day. The low bridge was a major problem for road traffic. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The old station at Gunnislake . This was taken on the occasion of the CRS boat trip down the Tamar. 23rd July 1994

The closure notice - a minibus was provided from Calstock to Gunnislake station.

Moving now to Liskeard - an old sign.

750201c Looe Branch Platform at Liskeard. Ongoing works in the background on the Liskeard Bypass . This view dated 21st February 1976. Is this sign still in position at the end of the Looe branch platform at Liskeard.. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Many thanks Roger.

Day trip to Barrow Hill
Paul Barlow

Many thanks Paul.

Bradford on Avon
Ron Kosys

47543 passes the foot crossing to the north of Bradford on Avon station with a Cardiff to Portsmouth service on 11th May 1988. Copyright Ron Kosys.

Many thanks Ron.

12th December 2021

12/12/2021

Santa by Steam & Diesel Bodmin today
Roger Winnen

211212a Santa by Sulzar departs Bodmin Parkway with 47306 tailing and 4612 heading the train.

211212b 4612 Arriving at Bodmin General lunchtime. Copyright Roger Winnen

211212b Courtney Berriman and colleague aboard 4612 on arrival at Bodmin Gereral.. Copyright Roger Winnen

211212c Side by side panniers at Bodmin General decorated for the festive season. Copyright Roger Winnen

211212d The WD Locomotive 75178 attached to coaches including the victorian coach. Copyright Roger Winnen

211212e The Victorian Coach with Father Christmas on board gives presents to the children. Copyright Roger Winnen

Taken by kind permission we see Santa by Sulzer waiting to depart Bodmin General Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

211212f Viewed from the Signal Box by kind permission as 4612 tails the train back to Bodmin Parkway Station Copyright Roger Winnen

Swindon Steam 1
John Scragg

Firstly a cautionary note from Ken Mumford :- In view of the Covid figures given on the 10 o'clock news and the rate at which this new variant is spreading and the increase in new cases!, I've decided that I'm not going to go to see 7029 on its way west via Swindon.
IF any of you decide to photograph it I'd be happy to receive your photos and, with your permission, pass them on.
I've taken this decision as I feel it is my responsibility to do my best [bit?] to stop this variant from spreading further.
I'm going, for the first time, to watch an online church service on my computer.
Can I encourage you to take any necessary precautions to avoid passing on this nasty variant, please - thank you.
I trust that you will understand,
Kind regards, Ken.

A smashing picture and an interesting comparison as 7029 Clun Castle waits for an IET to depart from Swindon 11th December 2021. Copyright John Scragg

Clun Castle gets underway from Swindon. 11th December 2021. Copyrght John Scragg

Many thanks to Ken and to John Scragg ? I hope we have your surname correct John, it was obtained from your e-mail. Happy Christmas to you both.

Swindon Steam 2
Colin Pidgeon

Colin was on the opposite side to John Scragg at Swindon - an interesting comparison.

7029 Swindon 11th December 2021 Copyright Colin Pidgeon

Exeter
Paul Barlow

25150 arrives at Exeter on the1025 from Barnstaple 2B84. Laira had lost their allocation of 25s the previous October. 5th August 1981. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul

Hoods at
Liskeard
Clive Smith

Liskeard Clay Hoods 37 207 William Cookworthy 26th August 1983. Copyright Clive Smith

Many thanks Clive.

A visit Marchwood on the Fawley Branch
Marchwood
Mick House

Marchwood Signalbox. By Mick House.
Marchwood Signalbox is situated in the station building that sits on the old Marchwood station platform (photos 1 & 2). I was lucky enough on the 8th September 2021 to be give a privileged look inside. I was visiting the site to photograph the NetworkRail Measurement train that was traversing the Fawley branch, top and tailed with two class 73 locos and 4 couches, with 73 963 Janice, 72612, 977868, 5981, 6264 & 73 965 Des O`Brien (photos 3 & 4) also note the semaphore signals in these two shots. The Signalbox frame has 23 leavers and the usual assortment of switches, dials, gauges and buttons mounted above and above that is the track diagram, then to the left are modern day computer monitors, one also with a track diagram (photos 5, 6, 7 & 8), then to the right of the frame is the token machine (photo 9). The final shot (photo10) is of the driver of the train returning the branch token to the signalman before departing back towards Totton and then rejoining the main line.

All photographs are the copyright of Mick House.
Photographs numbered
1 - 2
3 - 4 ect

Many thanks Mick.

Bodmin General
Chris Bellett

Bodmin General 6435 in Christmas Garb. 8th December 2021, Copyright Chris Bellett,

Sincere apologies to Chris Bellett who kindly sent in the above picture to remind us of the Santa Weekends on the B & W. It arrived in good time for posting today but due to other pressing matters was overlooked. Still there are more weekends and opportunities to come. My apologies and thanks to Chris. KJ

Wessex News
Chris Bellett

Hi Keith,

I know its on the edge of our area of coverage but here is the latest WESSEX alteration.

Take care,
Chris Bellett, Retired S&T Engineer, CRS Member

From the Wessex Route Weekly Operating Notice No.38/21

SW115 WORTING JUNCTION TO EXETER ST.DAVIDS
ANDOVER UP YARD SIDNGS AND LUDGERSHALL BRANCH

In connection with the Stage 2 Andover Sidings Project the following works and alterations have taken place.

The current siding adjacent to the Ludgershall branch has been converted into a run-round loop to be known as the Ludgershall
Loop Siding. The portion of the existing branch line between the two ends of the new loop has been re-named as the Ludgershall
Branch Siding.

The Ludgershall Branch denomination has moved to beyond the trailing/facing hand point connection at the country end
(Ludgershall) of the new run round loop sidings.

The One Train Working (OT – Annetts Key) section towards Ludgershall will now start and end from BE471/BE466 Stop Boards
(back-to-back) at 67m 14ch

Andover Ground Frame has been abolished and No.1 Points have become Hand Points. The Shunter’s Acceptance Switch has
been retained. The Annetts Key is no longer be required to operate the points to access the Ludgershall Branch, however it will
be retained in the Acceptance Swich Cabinet and act as the Physical Authority to enter the Ludgershall branch when authorised.

Existing Up-Direction Stop Board BE464 at the London (Andover) end of Ludgershall Branch Siding has been renumbered
BE460, and a new Up-Direction stop board BE464 has been provided on the Ludgershall Branch on the approach to the new run
round loop sidings.

Existing down-direction Stop Board BE463 on the Ludgershall Branch Siding has been replaced with a new board displaying
updated instructions to reflect the new layout.

A New down-direction Stop Board (BE465) has been provided at the country end of
the Ludgershall Loop Siding, adjacent to BE463.

A new down-direction stop board (BE467) has been provided on the Down Ludgershall Branch approximately 60 metres beyond
the country end (Ludgershall) of the new run round loop sidings.

A new down-direction stop board (BE471) has been provided on the Ludgershall Branch at 67m14ch, marking the entrance to the
OT Annetts Key Section of the Ludgershall Branch.

A new up-direction Stop Board (BE466) has also been provided at 67m14ch marking the end of the OT Annetts Key Section.
Fixed Distant Board BE466R has been provided 456 metres on the approach to BE466.

The existing 25mph PSI located at 66m 51ch has been recovered and a new 25mph PSI has been installed at 66m 70ch (on the
approach to BE467 Stop Board) so that the Permissible Speed throughout the sidings is 15mph.

The existing sidings at the London End of Andover Yard have been rationalised and re-laid. There are two sidings, known as Up
Siding 1 and Up Siding 2. Up Siding 1 is on the site of the former Bay Platform. In addition, a new OTM siding, and Road-Rail
Access Point (RRAP) has been provided and connected to Up Siding 2.

Movements in and out of Up Siding 1 are controlled by BE5204 and BE5203 signals.

A new Down-Direction stop board (BE457) to control movements exiting to the Ludgershall Loop Siding has been provided on the
single lead portion of line Up Siding 2 and OTM Siding

Authority to pass all stop boards within the sidings and authority to enter the Ludgershall Branch will be given by the Shunter or
Nominated Person in Charge.

The former Out of Use (OOU) new OTM Siding has been brought into operational use.

A new Buffer Stop is in place on the new OTM Siding.

Many thanks Chris - some of it i in our patch and all is interesting.

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