Blog Archives

17th December 2023

17/12/2023

Wanderings of a
standard tank 80064
David Tozer

The 80064 Loco owning group have gifted the loco o the West Somerset Railway Association who plan to restore it. It moved away in 1984 to the Bluebell Railway. Some photos of mine exist in the Exmouth Junction to Honiton section of the website and can be found below. 80064 was moved to Exmouth Junction from the Kent area in 1962. This was one of several of this type to be allocated here. Dave

80064formally from Exmouth Junction shed was moved by rail from Buckfastleith to Poltimor Siding for onward movement by road to the Bluebell Railway in 1984. Copyright David Tozer

80064 On route to Poltimor Sidings near Pinhoe with a Class 31 hauling the train. Copyright David Tozer

80064 in Poltimor Siding near Pinhoe which has a trailing connection with the up main line. Copyright David Tozer

Thanks David

Sunday Wanderings
David Tozer

Crediton A rather grubby Class 66 66728 'Institution of Railway Operators' stops at Crediton Signal box to hand the single line token to the signalman. The train was the 0837 Eggesford to Westbury Down T.C. On the rear was 66719 'Metro-Land. The engineers train appears to have been dropping CWR rails between Eggesford and Barnstaple. Copyright David Tozer

Rewe. The same engineers train now heading along the main line this time with 66719 leading. Copyright David Tozer

Many Thanks David

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO
PART 59
Michael L. Roach

The Life of Small Prairie 5532
Small prairie 5532 was completed in June 1928 one of a hundred of the class of 2-6-2s built between February 1927 and February 1929. 5532 was one of the lucky ones as it escaped the cutters torch and entered the preservation world after a spell in Barry Scrapyard. 5532 went new to Stourbridge Shed, was at Pontypool Road at Nationalisation and ended its days at Laira where it was shedded from December 1959 until withdrawn from service on 10 July 1962 and sold to Woodham Brothers at Barry on on 4 September 1962. The recorded mileage was 705,111 which was a lot less than 5521 seen in Part 55. The last time I saw 5532 working was on 3 March 1962 when it was hauling the return Launceston goods through Shaugh Bridge Halt.
5532 left the scrapyard at Barry in 1981 after more than 18 years there and went to the Dean Forest Railway to be a source of spares for other small prairies there, but later went to the Llangollen Railway where restoration is still proceeding 40 years after leaving Barry. Although much has been done to overhaul 5532, the engine has yet to run under its own power. The engine's own website, 5532.co.uk, indicates that restoration will take at least another three years to accomplish.
The engine came to prominence when it was one of the engines rostered to work between Bristol and Frome on the last day of passenger services which was Saturday 31 October 1959. It was then no longer needed at Westbury Shed where it had been based for the previous six months and was sent west to Laira Shed in November 1959 where it worked passenger and freight trains on the Tavistock and Launceston Branch and other local trains. 5532 may not have got a lot of use during its last few months at Laira as I only saw it working four times in the 12 months between April 1961 and March 1962.

MLR / 14 December 2023

7588 5532 heads out of Plymouth with the 2.10pm to Tavistock South on 26 April 1961 past the disused East Box. It will be noted that the train cannot be propelled back from Tavistock because the auto coaches are the wrong way round. Copyright Michael L. Roach

5941 5532 hurtles through Shaugh Bridge Platform with nine wagons on the 2.20pm Launceston to Tavistock Junction freight on 3 March 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5724 On Saturday 22 September 1962 we see a line of withdrawn engines at Laira awaiting their fate which turned out to be surprisingly good. Three of the four engines were saved for preservation. The engines are – front to back 1363 (P); 4658; 5532 (P) and 4588 (P). copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks indeed Michael.

Santa by Steam at Bodmin yesterday
Roger Winnen

231216a 5552 Departs Bodmin Parkway with a Santa in Steam service. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216b 5552 at Bodmin General alongside is Judy a 1937 Bagnell. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216d 47306 Heads the next Santa in Steam service to Bodmin Parkway being tailed by 5552. In the background is the CDAs moved recently to Bodmin for preservation. Copyright Roger Winnnen

231216e What happen was. 5552 emerged from under the road bridge with plenty of steam. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216f Judy together with the victorian saloon. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216g The Beattie well tank recently arrived from the NRM at York. It is believed that this engine is not in ticket. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216h 5553 and Alfred of 1953 vintage inside Bodmin Engine Shed. Many Thanks to Jimmy James for a conducted tour of the shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216i A view looking out of the engine shed. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216j Arriving back into Bodmin General is 5552. Copyright Roger Winnen

231216k The crew of 5552 having a welcome rest after climbing up from Bodmin Parkway. Copyright Roger Winnen

16th Decenber 2923

16/12/2023

Saturday Freight
Jon Hird

For we enthusiasts, one of (perhaps the only?) upside to the CDA's finishing earlier this year has been the return of a regular Saturday morning freight train into the county. The empty JIA's return from Exeter Riverside on a Saturday morning nowadays, ready to be taken up to Goonbarrow early on Monday morning for loading and onwards tripping to Fowey Carne Point. I headed to Lostwithiel this morning in some pretty poor light to get a shot, then popped in at St. Blazey on the way home to see the shunting.

After I left, the final 10 scrap CDA's were shunted from the siding nearest the road to the Henry Orchards disposal siding, so they don't appear to have long left in this world.

(All drone shots were taken in compliance with current CAA regulations for the class of device used. A flight plan was filed in advance to relay my intentions to any third parties with a responsibility for assets on the ground beneath).

A panoramic view of Lostwithiel as the driver of 66165 applies power to climb the bank out of the town. 16.12.2023, Copyright Jon Hird.

Turning around to look the other way, 66165 gets stuck into the bank. The Fowey branch line hugs the bank of the river to the left. 16.12.2023, copyright Jon Hird.

66165 busy in the yard at St. Blazey, making up the train of JIA's ready for the weeks traffic. Some wagons were extracted from the workshop, and others were split from the train and put into the workshops. 16.12.2023, copyright Jon Hird.

JIA's being deposited in the wagon repair shops, St. Blazey. 16.12.2023, copyright Jon Hird.

The final 10 CDA's. After I left, these were shunted into the Henry Orchards siding ready to be cut and taken away by road for scrap. 16.12.2023, copyright Jon Hird.

The N M Train
December 2023
Visit to Cornwall

Photographs by Mark Lynam Andrew Triggs Jon Hird & Roger Winnen

43013 Carn Brea on the NMT on route from Reading Triangle to Penzance. Copyright Mark Lynam

43272 Carn Brea A quick dash to the overbridge to photograph the rear of the train. Copyright Mark Lynam

Arrival at Penzance of the National Measurement Train. Copyright Roger Winnen

After a morning coffee stop the train awaits departure. Copyright Roger Winnen

The new Catering Establishment at Penzance run by the Bodmin Railway.Copyright Roger Winnen

The NMT arrives at Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

The NMT departs Penzance. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Drone footage of a Castle Class HST passing Burngulllow just before the returning NMT. Copyright Jon Hird

The National Measurement Train passes what remains of Burngullow. Copyright Jon Hird

Going away towards St Austell. Copyright John Hird

Many thanks to you all

Long Rock
Andrew Triggs

57605 'Totnes Castle' propelling the Night Riviera stock into A Road at Longrock T&RSMD Copyright Andrew Triggs

08645 shunting a Night Riviera Day coach at Longrock T&RSMD. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

December 15th, 2023

15/12/2023

Treviscoe China Clay
Jon Hird

.I had a quick trip up to Little Treviscoe with the drone today to capture some images of the JIA’s being loaded. 66165 was in one linhay when I arrived, then during my flight pulled forwards and reversed into a second linhay (the one with the grass on the roof - well timed!). The weather was typical for clay country, but visibility and precipitation levels were suitable to allow a short flight.

Hopefully the pictures are of interest, lots of people seem to build models of this location/locations like this, maybe they’ll be helpful.

Worth mentioning - all images were captured during a flight made in full compliance of current CAA guidelines for the class of device used, and any parties with an interest in the area were notified of my flight plan in advance.

All the best, Jon

Many Thanks Jon
Wonderful views of Treviscoe from above

Nights and Early Mornings at St Blazey
Craig Munday

With 3/5 of the day now in darkness, the photography tends to be limited. I captured some night shots during the week of shifts.

The day of the CDA's to Par Harbour (6th Dec) saw a stunning sunrise. The wagons and sister bogie clay types JIA, JGAs are all pictured spread across the yard as the sun makes a majestic appearance.

66150 and 66150, (the HVO loco powered by Hydro treated vegetable oil) were thoughtfully positioned at St Blazey on a bright, mild, clear evening.

Overnight GBRf locos 66748 and 66732 visited Falmouth Docks from Westbury with an Autoballaster train. They are pictured during a crew change on the return at Par. Our own Mr Clemes taking the train forward to Westbury.

Overnight GBRf locos 66748 and 66732 visited Falmouth Docks from Westbury with an Autoballaster train. They are pictured during a crew change on the return at Par. Our own Mr Clemes taking the train forward to Westbury. Copyright Craig Munday

20231206-6th CDA sunrise St Blazey (5) Copyright Craig Munday

20231210-10th 66150 66165 St Blazey dark (6) Copyright Craig Munday

20231213-13th 66150 66113 St Blazey 6C53 (15) Copyright Craig Munday

20231213-13th 66150 66113 St Blazey 6C53 (23) Copyright Craig Munday

Many Thanks Craig Brilliant Photographs

Penzance
Roger Winnen

810222a Three HSTs in a row at Penzance. It will soon will be a memory Copyright Roger Winnen

810417a A DMU departs from Platform 4 at Penzance. Today Lloyds Bank with the dome is once again surrounded in scaffolding. Copyright Roger Winnen

811206h 811213h Many hands make light work as the reorganisation of trackwork takes place on 6th December 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen

14th Decdember 2023

14/12/2023

New station
for Truro

Off the back of those plans, Truro's former mayor and a previous head of transport at Cornwall Council, Bert Biscoe, has suggested reopening a railway halt in the heart of the city. He has written to Truro's current mayor Carol Swain asking for the city council to support such a move.
The station could be on the site of former Cattle Pen sidings

Just a suggestion!! I note that a new station is proposed, set between the viaducts. The new gold-plated footbridge at Lostwithiel is costing 8 million,so awhole new station at Truro will be in the region of 40 million. Many communities around the country would like to get their closed stations back.

A new station 400 yards from an existing one? They must be barmy.
comment from Roy Hart.

A local news article regarding this topic can be read by clicking here (external link - Cornwall Live.)

Burngullow Re-dualling memories, 2004
Jon Hird

The re-dualling of the Burngullow section of the Cornish Mainline in 2004 brought many interesting trains to the county. As a young enthusiast at the time, I had barely laid eyes on a class 60 at this point. They had pretty much finished on the silver bullet traffic and when they did turn up, I wasn't clued up enough to get to anywhere to see them. Yet one Saturday in February saw 3 of them turn up on engineers trains! We also had various pairs of class 37's visiting to work Meldon ballast trains (as class 66's weren't cleared on the branch at that point), and of course many 66's here, there and everywhere. An exciting and interesting time to be out and about taking in all the sights and sounds of the Cornish railways.

A class 66 on an engineers train at Burngullow junction. 07.02.2004, Copyright Jon Hird.

Another view of the engineering site on 07.02.2004, Copyright Jon Hird.

A 'Mainline' liveried class 60 with a ballast train passing Carylon Bay in connection with the re-dualling. 18.01.2004, copyright Jon Hird.

EWS liveried class 60018 standing at Truro in connection with the Burngullow redualling. 18.01.2004, Copyright Jon Hird.

The winter sun sets on EWS 66184 with a train of autoballasters in Par Down Goods Loop, January 2004. Copyright Jon Hird.

On the 6th March 2004 at almost midnight, I somehow managed to convince my poor father to drive me to Truro (we lived in Padstow!!) to watch 37669 and 37674 run around a ballast train. Not a great photo, but a nice memory. Copyright Jon Hird.

37669 backing onto its train after running around at Truro. 06.03.2004, Copyright Jon Hird.

T9 30120
Swanage Railway
Michael Forward

Hello Roger, A couple more shots of T9 30120 this time at Swanage on a damp 5 October 1991. First backing down onto it’s train . Thanks, Michael. Copyright Michael Forward

and now heading away with Midland 0-6-0 tank 41708. In those earlier days I recall that trains went up to Herston Halt and ran around. No signal box at Swanage then. Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks Michael

13th December 2023

13/12/2023

St Agnes & Treamble
15th July 1978
Roger Winnen

780715a The CRS at St Agnes Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

780715aa The CRS at St Agnes Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

780715b The terminus at Treamble. Copyright Roger Winnen

Many thanks Roger.

Brian & Peter
Par Docks
Matt Weston

I've recently been speaking to Jon Hird who contributes to your website, I've got to know him via his Instagram page.
I work at Par Docks and try and keep an eye on train movements although I'm not directly involved with loading them.
On last tonight's shift I went to see if the shunters were still there and they've not moved - apologies for the poor quality of the attached photo, I had to illuminate the scene with my loading shovel but you're welcome to use it if you wish.
They appear to be named Brian and Peter, I guess they have come from Bodmin but I don't know where they're bound for!

Regards, Matt.

Shunters at Par. Quite a dramatic picture. . 12th December 2023. Copyright Matt Weston

Many thanks Matt - we look forward to further reports as and when things happen.

HST Memories
Paul Barlow

A couple of shots at Bristol a few weeks ago. There are no scheduled HST turns to Bristol anymore. They have been a daily sight in Bristol since 1976.

43198 43154 on 1250 Penzance to Cardiff 2U24 24th November 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow

43153 43097 Bristol Temple Meads with the 1700 from Cardiff 2C85 24 November 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow..

Sad, but True. Thanks Paul.

12th December 2023

12/12/2023

47620 at Totnes
Michael Adams

Michael Adams sends this lovely picture of 47620 passing through Totnes on 18 June 1987 with the previous days 23.45 Edinburgh to Plymouth. (Looks like a Dart Valley Railway service in the platform ) Best wishes, Michael. Copyright Michael Adams

Roger, Another class 47 in the striking Inter-City livery, this time 47609 Fire Fly. Michael Adams captures 47609 Fire Fly at Southampton with the 14.10 Portsmouth to Cardiff on 9 June 1987. Thanks for these. Copyright Michael Adans

Many Thanks Michael

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO
PART 58
Michael L. Roach

More Photos of Small Prairie 5572
In the last part of this series (Part 57) were five photographs of small prairie 5572, then based at Laira Shed, Plymouth, and all taken between 18 January and 10 March 1962. The engine was condemned at Laira on 3 April 1962. In Part 57 most of the five photos were taken with the engine nearest the camera, but in this part we will mostly see the engine propelling its one coach load towards the camera with the engine driver sat in the driving cab of the rail motor or auto train, and the driver nominally controlling the regulator. The attached photos were again all taken during the first three months of 1962, and include the last time I saw 5572 working.

MLR / 10 December 2023

5929 A single autocoach propelled by 5572 hurtles through Clearbrook at 2.17pm non-stop on 13 January 1962 in driving rain. The train is the 2.00pm ECS from Tavistock South to Plymouth Millbay. I was standing in the waiting shelter. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5934 5572 leaves Plymouth Station under Houndiscombe Road Bridge (see News Item 19 September 2023) with the 2.10pm to Tavistock on 17 January 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5939 A single empty autocoach is propelled back to Plymouth by 5572 on 27 January 1962 seen between Lee Moor Crossing and Marsh Mills Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5996 5572 is seen resting between trains at Tavistock South Station. It was scheduled to arrive at 2.57 and depart at 4.30pm; and sometimes rested on the centre track because the 2.20pm SO goods from Launceston was due to stop here from 3.45 to 3.56pm. The 3.05pm from Plymouth to Launceston was due to call from 3.54 to 4.00pm, meaning three trains at Tavistock South. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

6948 A single autocoach again ECS is seen just south of Clearbrook on 17 March 1962 with 5572 propelling its train. This was the last time I saw 5572 working as it was condemned on 3 April 1962. The coach was a conversion from a third/brake suburban coach. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Michael.

Additional Info on 5572
Roy Hart

I was intrigued by Neil Phillips' piece about 5572, as I launched the appeal to save the loco. I saw her at Woodhams, Barry and she was far and away the best of the bunch - she even had her rods, stacked in the bunker. At the time, the embryonic Dart Valley Railway were also looking for a small prairie and had their eye on 5572, but the late Bob Saunders kindly gave way and took 4588 instead.
I approached Ian Allan with an ad for the appeal and they rather snootily said that "as a member of the class has already been preserved, we are not able to assist",
The Great Western Society thought differently and they adopted my appeal. I fought to have her come to Bodmin, which was well established as a GWS base at the time, but Didcot prevailed.
The engine spent most of her life based at Bristol, but in the early fifties was auto fitted and sent to the Welsh valleys to work the Senghennyd and Coryton lines among others. These lines got DMUs in 1957 and the prairies were dispersed. 5572 came to Laira. She appeared on the Fowey line in 1959 because the regular engine (1419) was away under overhaul, As Cornwall had no other auto fitted engine, Laira obliged wifh 5572.

She has been at Didcot 'out of ticket' for about 25 years now.

Cheers, Roy.

Many thanks Roy

Passing traffic at
Swindon
Colin Pidgeon

59101 on 6C48 Appleford to Whatley - 59101 was recentley repainted at Eastleigh 11th December 2023. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66850 t&t 66848 on 3S59 Hereford to Swindon Transfer. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

DR79102-105 on 6Q01 Carmarthen to Reading Triangle Sidings. 11th December 2023. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin - a very colourful collection.

11th December 2023

11/12/2023

CDA 375102
Tim Hughes

Hi.

For information, CDA 375102 remains at St Blazey as it has been aquired for preservation by MPower Kernow.

Photo attached of it being delivered.

Two shunters and a wagon expected to arrive from Bodmin imminently, loader sharing with the CDA moves to Bodmin.

Kind regards

Tim Hughes

66165 delivering CDA 375102 to St. Blazey turntable. 06.12.2023, Copyright Tim Hughes.

Many thanks Tim, for the update on 375102's new lease of life. It's lovely that one of these iconic wagons will remain 'at home' for the future.

Preserved CDA movements
Neil Phillips

Hi Keith,

I walked down to Par Docks early Friday afternoon (8th December 2023) to check on progress with moving the CDAs to the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. Three had departed (one of which we know went to the Plym Valley Railway) and six remained, but during the hour or so I was there before a phone call sent me home nothing moved. It would have helped to know which route they were taking to reach Bodmin - later that evening my son reported seeing one on the Bodmin A30 'long roundabout' on his way home, around 5.15pm. Jon's photo of 375113 on Par Moor Road on Saturday provided both a clue to the route and confirmation that the wagons were being moved over the weekend, something I had assumed wouldn't happen (so we could finally get the Christmas decorations up!)

I went out for a long walk this afternoon and reached Par Moor Road at the Commercial Vehicle Testing Station at 3.05pm, just as the lorry carrying 375090 passed in front of me, giving me no time to get the phone camera out - it seems that I can see a wagon movement by accident but not on purpose! Since it's highly unlikely that these movements can negotiate the bridge under the railway outside Par Docks main entrance I am now convinced that they are moving through the docks' now little used western end to reach Par Moor Road via the gate at that end, which neatly avoids the bridge. From there they are using the A391 to reach the A30 presumably via Bugle (?) then on to Bodmin. Much as I would like to photograph a wagon passing under the steel footbridge which carries the South West Coast Path across that end of the Par Docks site, at 4pm this afternoon only one CDA remained to be collected and bad flooding of the footpath under the low bridge at the Spit Beach car park and also the road and pavement outside Par Docks makes reaching the footbridge on foot or by car very difficult, unless I repeat today's 'long way round' walk - I arrived home with wet feet! Since I have no idea when it will depart I admit defeat on that final CDA.

However it is clear that some of the runs haven't returned empty, as Ruston & Hornsby 48DS 'Brian' and a Fowler 0-4-0 diesel shunter, as well as a WR ventilated van, have now arrived at Par Docks. 'Brian' was expected but the Fowler is a mystery. Please find attached the best photo I could obtain over the fence, and through another fence!

Best regards, Neil Phillips.

Seen at Par Docks, arrivals. 9th December 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks Neil, can anybody tell us by which route the CDA's escaped Par Docks. Examining the options on Google Earth all routes look pretty complicated.

From Jon Hird, in answer to the above:

Hello all,

The route taken by the Bodmin CDA's was as follows:

Out of Par docks main entrance, left under the railway bridge (Yes, they did fit, just!), along Par Moor Road and then around the roundabout and back through St. Blazey on the A390.

Past the church and over the crossing, up Penpillick Hill (slowly!), then left onto the B3269 through Sweetshouse.

At the Lanhydrock mini roundabout they went right, then joined the A38 briefly before cutting through Walker Lines industrial estate to avoid the low 13 foot rail bridge which crosses the road near Bodmin College.

A screenshot of the route from Google Maps is shown below.

I believe all the CDA's have now been removed from the docks.

All the best, Jon

Footplate Experience
Michael Roach

Hi Keith

Thanks for passing on Paul N's email. I am sure he would have enjoyed my one and only return trip on the footplate, although I never particularly craved a footplate trip before or after when one was offered I had to grab it.

I was stood alone on a station platform with little footfall photographing an engine with 2C that had more than 3 hours between trains - due to the cuts of June 1958 perhaps. The driver offered a return trip and I said yes please; and so I travelled 17 miles each way between Pontsticill Junction and Brecon and back on the evening of 8 September 1962. The engine was pannier 4690 and the return was in the dark.

We had just over half an hour at Brecon, and when we arrived there I discovered why my presence was necessary. I was left to guard the engine while the driver and fireman went off to the nearest pub a couple of minutes away ! Unbelievable really, but they were based at Merthyr Shed and the Welsh did like their beer then.

Regards, Mike.

Quite amazing what went on in the good old days - they'd most certainly be sacked for that nowadays.

5572
Neil Phillips

Further to Michael L. Roach's article on '4575 class' 5572, the Hawksworth auto-train stock from the South Wales Valleys was also dispersed following dieselisation in 1958 and at least one two-car set ended up on the Lostwithiel - Fowey branch. The colour album 'Steam in Cornwall' by Peter W. Gray includes a photo of 5572 propelling this set, comprised of a maroon driving vehicle and crimson trailer, into Lostwithiel in August 1959. The loco was still in BR unlined black at that time, but Michael's photos show it in lined green with the small version of the BR emblem instead of the more usual large emblem applied to these locos with their larger tanks. Another book in my possession shows branch regular '14xx' 1419 in charge of the driving vehicle alone, instead of the usual autocoach.

I recall seeing preserved 5572 several times from the train while passing through Taunton station around 1970 (I can't find the actual date in my records at the moment) - either this one or 0-6-0ST 1363 was the first standard gauge preserved steam loco I ever saw. I was somewhat bemused by it carrying the same number as the ubiquitous Tri-ang OO gauge A1A-A1A diesel!

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

Very many thanks Neil for your memories and observations - fascinating stuff.

SW Rail - Trains
David Tozer

A chance to use my cameras.

Today Sunday SWR ran their first trains for nearly a week from Exeter, possibly to check the state of the track. Given the length of running time I assume that the units ran at a very much reduced speed.

159103 and 159010 worked the 0953 5Z50 Exeter New Yard to Axminster.

On the return working 159010 and 159103 worked the 1120 5Z51 Axminster to Exeter New Yard.

My photo shows them approaching Exhibition Way Bridge on the outskirts of Exeter on the return trip.

Dave Tozer

159010 and 159103 seen at Exhibition Way Bridge on the return trip - this is on the outskirts of Exeter. 10th December 2023. Copyright David Tozer.

Many thanks David.

Colourful scenes at
Teignmouth.
Paul Barlow

67006 leads 67022 working the 12.25 Truro to Victoria Belmond Pullman seen at Teignmouth 7 M...y 2017

67006 and 67022 working the 12.25 Truro to Victoria Belmond Pullman head east as 43136 approaches. 7th May 2017. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Nice memories, many thanks Paul.

10th December 2023

10/12/2023

NINETEEN SIXTY TWO
PART 57
Michael L. Roach

The Life of Small Prairie 5572
5572 was one of a batch of five small prairies completed in February 1929. They were the last prairies of the 4575-class to be built, and the last small prairies. However the larger prairies of the 5101 class went on being built for another twenty years until 1949; i.e the last ones were built after nationalisation. 5572 went new to Exeter Shed; was at Bristol Bath Road at Nationalisation and ended its days at Laira, being condemned on 3 April 1962. It had been at Laira for 12 months after arriving from St. Blazey on 22 April 1961. I photographed it in use many times during its stay at Laira, all between Plymouth Station and Launceston apart from one occasion on the approach spans of the Royal Albert Bridge just after leaving Saltash Station – the photo can be found on the website in the relevant section.
5572 was one of a number of the class fitted with the necessary equipment in 1953 for working rail motors in South Wales. 5572 was at Treherbert and Cathays Sheds for more than four years from October 1953 to February 1958 working auto trains up and down some of the Valleys until displaced by the first generation of diesel multiple units. On 22 Feb 1958 it was reallocated to Laira for the first time (before going to St. Blazey on 8 October 1960), along with some of the other auto fitted examples; and they did indeed work auto trains between Plymouth and Tavistock South when one of the 6400-class was not available. Eleven members of the 4575 class have survived into preservation but 5572 is the only example fitted with autogear. It is currently out of use at Didcot awaiting an overhaul.
In the last three months of its working life, Jan/Feb/March 1962, I photographed 5572 many times, but mostly on Saturdays. It worked the same trains almost every Saturday from 13 January onwards: i.e
2.10pm Plymouth to Tavistock South and 4.30pm Tavistock South to Plymouth which were both rail motors
There were just two occasions when 5572 worked the trains below instead:
10.53am Plymouth Millbay to Tavistock South SO ECS and 12.40pm Tavistock South to Plymouth rail motor
There was also another SO empty rail motor in the opposite direction at 2.00pm from Tavistock South to Millbay. These empty rail motors were a result of the fifteen percent cuts to passenger services in June 1958 which left the Tavistock to Launceston section with three passenger trains Monday to Friday but five on Saturdays only with the 10.25am Plymouth to Tavistock South extended to Launceston SO and therefore unable to return from Tavistock at 12.40pm. Rail motors were normally hauled from Plymouth to Tavistock South and then propelled back to Plymouth but for a short period in February 1962 it was the other way round using 5572. I have seen no explanation for this but think it may have been something to do with releasing the engine at the end of the working day after parking the auto coaches in a different siding at Millbay perhaps.

MLR / 8 December 2023

5937 5572 leaves Plymouth Station with the 2.10pm Plymouth to Tavistock on 18 January 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5993 5572 propels its auto coaches out of Tavistock South Station before returning to the other platform. on 28 February 1962. The engine is at the opposite end to normal.

5995 5572 is seen ready to leave Tavistock South Station . It had arrived on the 2.10pm from Plymouth and would depart on the 4.30pm back to Plymouth, but I travelled home from Tavistock North for a change. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

5905 5572 approaches Shaugh Bridge Platform with the 2.10pm Plymouth to Tavistock on 3 March 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

6946 5572 crosses Cann Viaduct with the 4.30pm Tavistock South to Plymouth auto on 10 March 1962. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks Michael - another excellent piece - now we are looking forward to part 58.

Another CDA on the move
Jon Hird

Another CDA made its way to the Bodmin Railway today, this time it was 375113’s turn.

Attached are a couple of photos of it passing Par Moor, then one last glimpse of Lostwithiel down the valley as it travelled towards Sweetshouse on the Par to Bodmin road. Finally a shot of it waiting for the carpark to clear out at Bodmin, parked up in Walker Lines industrial estate.

All the best, Jon

Near Sweetshouse, with a view down the valley to the Lostwithiel area to the left of the image. 9th December 2023. Copyright Jon Hird.

Parked up in Walker Lines industrial estate waiting for the Bodmin Railway carpark to clear out. 9th December 2023. Copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks indeed Jon. A special thanks is due to Jon who has obviously travelled a number of miles in persuit this CDA. I thought it would never happen. K.J.

9th December 2023

9/12/2023

CDA on the move
(Goes Cross Country!)
Jon Hird

I only managed to catch one CDA on the move today unfortunately, this is 375030 en route to the Plym Valley - It stopped off at Trendale Heavy Haulage’s yard which is right next door to my work, so I got a lucky close-up viewing!

A shot of it coming down through clay country one last time into Higher Trezaise, one turning in the yard and then a phone shot of it about to rejoin the road attached.

First CDA to Roche? Or did they ever make it to the sidings at St. Dennis Junction?

Cheers, Jon Hird.

CDA on the move. 375030 en route to the Plym Valley - It stopped off at Trendale Heavy Haulage’s yard. 8th December 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.

CDA on the move. 375030 at Trendale Heavy Haulage’s yard. 8th December 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.

CDA on the move. 375030 en route to the Plym Valley - It stopped off at Heavy load at Trendale Heavy Haulage’s yard. 8th December 2023 Copyright Jon Hird.

Marvellous pictures Jon, What a catch!

Our Chairman is on the way
Pilning
Dennis Flood

Roger/Keith, Good morning to you both. I’m currently travelling on the last 2 plus 4 HST between South Wales and Penzance which called at Pilning prior to the introduction of the winter timetable tomorrow. Saturday 9th December 2023. Power Car 43187 ‘Cardiff Castle’ was leading the formation. The end of yet another railway era… I am going to sit back and enjoy the journey to Penzance - on a proper train.! Regards, Dennis.

Hi Dennis - your pictures are going on the web right now - have a good journey. Thanks for the pictures looks a dull day.
N.B. It appears that this service will be running next week and subsequent Saturdays but with what stock?

Teignmouth
Paul Barlow

Continuing the theme of FGW blue, some more at Teignmouth.

Kind regards, Paul Barlow.

43156 43153 on the 13.45 Plymouth to Paddington at Teignmouth 7th May 2017. Copyright Paul Barlow..

43172 'Harry Patch' 43170 heads the 11.33 Paddington to Paignton 1C80 Teignmouth, 7th May 2017. Copyright Paul Barlow.

43136 43133 on rear of the 11.57 Paddington to Penzance leaves te sea wall at Teignmouth 7th May 2017. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks indeed Paul.

8th December 2023

8/12/2023

T9 30120 on
The Mid Hants Railway
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

Hello Roger, Interesting pictures today around St. Blazey and Par harbour . Andrew and Diane Jones posted some information on the T9 and have prompted us to dig out some pics. of the loco. at The Waterdcress Line in Hampshire. Firstly Michael Adams records the loco. at Ropley shed on 15 September 1984. Copyright Michael Adams

Now my own picture ,possibly on the same day, of 30120 coming into Medstead & Four Marks ,having come ‘over the Alps’ in fine style. Thanks, best wishes Copyright Michael Forward

Many Thanks to you both

One missing
Neil Phillips

Hello Roger and Keith,

I saw the excellent coverage of the JIAs out of and CDAs into Par Docks yesterday (when was the last time the docks branch saw two trains on a single day I wonder?!), I missed the event but made my own record of the unusual sight of CDAs at that location 'over the fence' during the afternoon. Since ten wagons are destined for preservation, from ground level I had assumed that there must have been two wagons parked on the right (not so, as Jon's wonderful aerial views clearly show - we are fortunate that it was good drone-flying weather on the day!) so I was surprised to find 375102 parked by itself next to St Blazey's turntable as I made my way home. The reason for its separation from the rest is unknown. Developments awaited with interest.

I also diverted to Middleway to check progress on the dismantling of the remaining CDAs. Of the 28 former operational wagons withdrawn in August, 19 currently remain intact in two rows of nine and ten, with no dismembered parts or activity visible.

Best regards,
Neil Phillips

1. - The lucky CDA's in Par Docks from the rail entrance. 6th December 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.

2 - The wagons seen through the trees, road sign signs and barrier poles! 6th December 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.

3- Lonely 375102 left behin beside St Blazey's turntable. 6th December 2023. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Many many thanks Neil. One wonders what is to become of CDA 375102, is it to become 'Gate guardian' at St Blazey?

Teignmouth report
Paul Barlow

166207 leaves Teignmouth station on a Paignton to Exmouth service 12th August 2023. This unit is now in GWR green livery. Copyright Paul Barlow.

FGW Blue liveried 150219 arrives at Teignmouth on the 09.25 from Exmouth to Paignton. 12th August 2023. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks Paul.

Swindon
A few from Ken Mumford

Ken spent a little while at his home station Swindon on the 6th December 2023, here are a few of the images he took.

Whilst at this station yesterday, there were several interesting train 'movements.' Trains were delayed, re-routed because of flooding at Castle Cary, too many trains under repair, staff delayed because of disruption to trains - what other apologies did I hear?

The not so clean RHTT at Swindon.

RHTT loco 67027 in need of a little cleaning.

67023 also needs a wash and brush up + a polish. 6th December 2023. Copyright Ken Mumford.

Meanwhile back at the station, talking of cleaning - here we are at Swindon station - the cleaning lady, busy as a bee. 6th December 2023.

Many thanks Ken.

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Jon Hird

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