Blog Archives

December 20th 2024

20/12/2024

Crosscountry & Castles
Joe Birchall

As the 06:28 Cross Country service is currently in the dark, I seized the opportunity to see one of Cross Country’s new Voyagers on the 08:40 Penzance to Edinburgh. Ex-Avanti 'Super Voyager' 221116 speeds through the outskirts of Truro on 19.12.2024. Copyright Joe Birchall.

After travelling to Camborne on the 10:42 Plymouth to Penzance, I took the chance to take a picture of the HST, formed by 43098 + 43042, from Camborne station’s foot bridge. 19.12.2024, copyright Joe Birchall.

Many thanks indeed, Joe!

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

37884 on 5Q76 Wolverton Centre Sidings to Newport Docks with 321303 & 321304. 18.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

321304 on the rear of 5Q76 Wolverton Centre Sidings to Newport Docks. 18.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

43274 t&t 43303 on 1Q22 Derby RTC to Bristol Kingsland Road. 18.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66610 on 6Z42 Tytherington Quarry to Appleford Sidings. 18.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

Many thanks Colin, and thanks also to Ken for sending the pictures in.

A visit to the Bicton Gardens Railway & Museum
By Roger Winnen
Part 2

22.05.1977 - Bicton House and gardens. Copyright Roger Winnen.

'Carnegie' skirts the pond at Bicton. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Hunslet 'Carnegie' at Bicton. The coaches are built from ex-MOD wagons. Due to arsenal regulations, the rolling stock had to be burnt before resale, as they had carried gunpowder in their past life. So Bicton received the burnt frames only, and had to rebuild the bodies. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Pine Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Hunslet Diesel 'Carnegie'. Copyright Roger Winnen.

The railways two locomotives between duties. Copyright Roger Winnen.

'Carnegie' runs round. Copyright Roger Winnen.

More tomorrow..

December 19th 2024

19/12/2024

Thames Valley Class 50s
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, A couple pf photos from Michael Adams of class 50s,firstly another shot of ‘Benbow’ this time at Oxford with the 11.35 service to Paddington. Thanks, Michael F.orward

Roger, I should have recorded that the pic. Of 50012 was taken on 5 June 1985. Now we see 50011 ‘Centurion’ calling at Reading on 29 November 1986 with the up ‘Torbay Express’. These will be our last submissions for 2024 and so it’s cheerio from me and cheerio from Him! Thank you dealing with all our pictures and wishing yourself ,all the team and all viewers and contributors a Happy Christmas,

Many thanks to you both, have a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2025
from the Cornwall Railway Society

Teignmouth Trains
Martin Scane

A few photographs from a very grey and murky Teignmouth this morning (18.12.2024).

Happy Christmas to everyone.

First is 802016 with 2U12 Penzance to Cardiff at 9-39 between Sprey Point and Parsons Tunnel. 18.12.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Second is 150232 and 150247 forming 2F12 Paignton to Exmouth at 9-43 between Sprey Point and Teignmouth station. 18.12.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Finally 800028 with 1C72 Paddington to Penzance running 18 late at 10-43 on the approach to Teignmouth station. 18.12.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks, Martin - Happy Christmas to you too, and thanks for all the pics over the last year.

A visit to the Bicton Gardens Railway & Museum
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

The Bicton Woodland Railway is an 18" gauge railway within the grounds of Bicton House, Budleigh Salterton (Devon).

First opened in 1962, it originally boasted two locomotives, 'Carnegie' and 'Woolwich', which were obtained from the Royal Arsenal Railway in Woolwich. These locomotives were later sold to the Waltham Abbey museum, and the railway is currently worked by a steam-outline, diesel-powered locomotive.

The harsh gradients of over 1 in 30 meant that a larger than normal gauge was required, which led to the rather unusual choice of 18" gauge being used.

Rogers photographs below feature a visit to the line on 22.05.1977

22.05.1977 - 'Woolwich' at Bicton Garden Railway and Museum. Copyright Roger Winnen

Riding behind 'Carnegie'. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A view across the gardens towards Bicton House. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Hunslet locomotive 'Carnegie'. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Although a miniature railway, the locomotives were very large. Copyright Roger Winnen.

'Woolwich' between duties. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A steam roller within the museum at Bicton. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A traction engine on display. Copyright Roger Winnen.

More tomorrow..

December 18th 2024

18/12/2024

37057 Barbara Arbon works the 22.32 Penzance to Exeter Riverside
Roger Winnen

241218a 37057 Barbara Arbon stabled in Penzance this morning. Copyright Roger Winnen

241218b 37057 To work the 22.32 Penzance to Exeter Riverside via Parkandillack & Fowey. Copyright Roger Winnen P.S. It is also reported that the train went to St Ives last evening.

241218c 47057 To work the 22.32 Penzance to Exeter Riverside via Parkandillack & Fowey. Copyright Roger Winnen

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 20
The Traditional Railway
Michael L. Roach

In the summer of 2015, we went to the Welsh Marches for a holiday staying in a small village between Leominster and Ludlow, and just 3 miles from the site of the former Woofferton Station closed on and from 31 July 1961. Woofferton was on the Welsh Marches line – an important north to south route from Manchester, Crewe and Shrewsbury to Newport, Cardiff and Bristol along the Welsh border. The line is important for freight as well as passengers and in steam days carried passenger trains from Liverpool and Manchester to Paignton, Plymouth and Penzance; meaning it was then known as the north-and-west route. Woofferton was the junction for a single line heading east through Tenbury Wells and Bewdley to Kidderminster. Woofferton is located in the extreme south of Shropshire almost on the boundary with Herefordshire and not far from Worcestershire. Although the station, and most of its buildings, are long gone Woofferton has an up goods loop and retains a mechanical signal box dating back to 1875 and semaphore signals, one of a number of mechanical boxes working ABS along the line. The line was built by the Shrewsbury and Hereford Railway in 1853 and was taken over jointly by the GWR and the LNWR, confirmed by an Act of Parliament in 1871. Much more of the complicated early history to be found on Wikipedia.

The Welsh Marches railway line retains one of the longest lengths of absolute block signalling in the whole of England and Wales. Branch trains left Woofferton heading nearly north but immediately turned through sixty degrees and headed east, but many trains only travelled five miles to Tenbury Wells where they terminated and returned to Woofferton. There were often, but not always, connections at Tenbury into trains which went on to Kidderminster (24 miles), or Hartlebury and Worcester. Woofferton box is just one of many signal boxes along the line worth photographing. The box is unusually square and much wider than a GWR box would be.

We had been to the Welsh Marches before and what I liked about the area was the very pleasant countryside and the proximity to Wales. The railway line was a bonus because it reminded me of how many railways were in the 1950s and 1960s before they were improved and lost so much of their character. The Welsh Marches line retains a bygone atmosphere with its historic signal boxes, semaphore signals and some original Victorian station buildings of brick and stone. The other things that enhance the whole experience are the freight trains, loco-hauled passenger trains and some manually operated level crossing gates; and no overhead electric wiring. Since I was there in 2015 most of the semaphore distant signals have been replaced by colour lights but what remains is a traditional railway from an era that disappeared from most of the railway network decades ago. There are very few lines in England Wales where all these features come together over many miles to give a traditional railway looking much as it would have done sixty years ago. Catch the traditional railway while you can.

There are many views of the semaphore signals at Woofferton, and many other locations, on the website: roscalen.com/signals. On the way home from Shropshire we stopped at Tintern Railway Station and Taunton Deane Service Area and saw at least one GWR railway coach at both locations!

Looking north along the up goods loop which is just north of Woofferton Box. The bridge carries the A49 road across the railway. Until 1961 there was a down goods loop on the right hand side, when it became a siding which lasted until 1985. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The log train from Baglan Bay passes the loop. This is very useful for looping such 60mph freight trains to allow the 90mph passenger trains to overtake. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The outside of Leominster Station built by the Shrewsbury & Hereford Railway in 1853. The station has one train per hour in each direction and sees around 240,000 passengers per annum boarding or alighting. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

A pair of 175s (175 104 and 111) head north through Leominster Station. These are the dmus that are coming to Devon and Cornwall next year. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

60085 approaches Woofferton with the 15.24 Baglan Bay to Chirk log train on 23 July 2015. It is only in summer that the train can be photographed here in daylight. The train now runs an hour later. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

The log train passes Woofferton Signal Box. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Woofferton Signal Box built circa 1875. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

66616 is just south of Woofferton with the 13.30 Tunstead to Westbury loaded cement train on the evening of Sunday 26 July 2015. The train still runs on an as required basis. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

These 4-wheel cement wagons are all now out-of-use? Copyright Michael L. Roach.

At Taunton Deane on Saturday 25 July 2015 is HST first-class coach 41169 which seated 47 passengers. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Alley's 15-litre MAN had the registration T900AHH and is currently taxed. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Many thanks as always, Michael.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

Tackling Treverrin
Jon Hird

With the finishing line of the tortuous climb from Par in sight, 66131 is about to be swallowed up by the Western Portal of Treverrin Tunnel whilst working 6G09 (Goonbarrow - Fowey). I was stood at the gate to the field, and could hear the train for a good few minutes before it appeared. By the time it got to me it was travelling at walking pace, with the 2-stroke GM diesel engine screaming away. A real spectacle - if only it had been a '37'!. 17.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

'Castles' at Laira
Roger Winnen

16.12.2024 - Laira Depot rather empty in the afternoons, apart from these two power cars. Copyright Roger Winnen

16.12.2024 - 43092 Cromwells Castle. Copyright Roger Winnen

16.12.2024 - 43198 'Driver Stan Martin' on the depot. Copyright Roger Winnen

More on Looe
Richard Doney

Our thanks to Richard who has sent the following link to an O/S map of the Looe area as of 1881, showing the route the railway took to the quay:

https://maps.nls.uk/view/101438996

Many thanks, Richard.

December 17th 2024

17/12/2024

Diesels in '81
Paul Barlow

13.07.1981 - Carlisle (KD) based 25218 arrives at Crediton 32 minutes late with the evening 1914 Barnstaple to Basingstoke (2096) service. 25's were quite rare in the Southwest since Laira lost their allocation in October 1980. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Now over to Kingswear for a day out on D1023 Western Fusilier on the Paignton and Dartmouth railway..

05.09.1981 - NRM Owned D1023 Kingswear. Copyright Paul Barlow.

05.09.1981 - D1023 at Churston. Copyright Paul Barlow.

05.09.1981 - D1023 back at Kingswear. Copyright Paul Barlow.

05.09.1981 - Western Fusilier runs round its train at Kingswear. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks as always Paul - great photos

Info on Looe
Roy Hart

Yesterday, we published a question from a reader, which read:

I wonder if you could help me please.

I am a volunteer on the Mid-Hants Watercress line. Like a lot of heritage railways our terminus at one end was a through station so we have ended up with sidings beyond the station.

There are very few examples of stations that were like that in steam days, but I know that Looe was one. Essentially a single platform with a run round loop beyond and a small yard. And then beyond the multi-arch road bridge there were fish sidings on the quay south of the bridge.

My query is how did the track get beyond the bridge? The arches above the river would not have cleared a loco and vans.
I’m guessing there was something between the ‘T’ junction off the main road into East Looe and the road to West Looe over the bridge. I can’t find any evidence for this; no photo or map.

The (cropped) photo below hasn’t the detail to show me the answer.

We were delighted to receive the below answer from Roy Hart:

The quay line at Looe began where a goods guard's van can be seen in the picture. There was a gate.

The line did not pass under the bridge, but ran along the roadway to the immediate east of it. The rails were set into the cobbles.

Beyond the bridge was a loop siding on the seaward side, with a short spur at either end. Beyond this and close to the end of the line, was another short siding which ran under a sheerlegs crane (used for loading granite blocks from wagons on to ships).

The line had been unused for some years when the harbour commissioners had it tarmacced over in the early 1950s. The stub of the line (at the gate) remained as a shunting neck until the yard was taken out of use in 1963.

Many thanks for your quick and detailed response, Roy - very much appreciated.

All change in the west
New platforms and new units
Roger Winnen

16.12.2024 - After engineering works in the Luxulyan Valley the Newquay Branch has reopened. Copyright Roger Winnen

I rode the 10.05 train to Newquay. It gave me 5 minutes before returning to Par. Copyright Roger Winnen

5 minutes to photogragh the work at Newquay. Copyright Roger Winnen

Most of the work on the new platform has been completed. Copyright Roger Winnen

However, the passing loop on Goss Moor will be installed in February, and controlled from Goonbarrow Box. Copyright Roger Winnen

Concrete sections of the old platform can be seen in this photograph. Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking at the Class 150 awaiting departure. Copyright Roger Winnen

Now up to Plymouth Laira, to try to find the two recently-arrived Class 175 units..

16.12.2024 - The latest arrivals at Plymouth Class 175s out of storage intended for working services on GWR. Copyright Roger Winnen

An IET unit held at Lipson Juction awaiting a path into Plymouth Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Through the brambles overlooking the depot at Laira. Copyright Roger Winnen

No way to get a clear view of the units - but I'm sure we'll see them out and about soon. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A selection of photographs featuring HST's at Laira will follow tomorrow - stay tuned!

Re: Train of lights
Jonathan Harbage

Good to see the drone pictures (click here) as we took our grandchildren on the train on Saturday evening. A great experience. 75014 is pictured following arrival at Kingswear. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

Many thanks Jonathan - glad you had a nice time

Goonbarrow Arrival
Jon Hird

Running in an unusual afternoon path, 6G05 arrives at Goonbarrow from St. Blazey with a rake of empty JIA's. The train is using Wheal Henry Siding, formerly the 'Goonbarrow Branch' (which ran to Carbean Wharf) in order to access the yard. To the left is the line to Newquay, and the truncated former Carbis Branch, with a sleeper chained to the rails. 16.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The train has gone almost as far as possible down Wheal Henry siding so that it clears the pointwork allowing it to reverse into Goonbarrow yard, where the JIA's will be loaded with clay for transport to Fowey. 16.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The train reverses into the yard. Behind, the landscape bares the scars of hundreds of years of mining. The large pit is Goonbarrow Pit, now disused and has been allowed to flood. 16.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 6

20.11.2014 - Compressing the ballast on the viaduct, the only thing moving is the roller. Copyright Roger Winnen

20.11.2014 - Laying track on Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

23.11.2014 - The tamper machine at work. Copyright Roger Winnen

23.11.2014 - Tidying up the loose ends before the viaduct reopens to traffic in 14 hrs time. Copyright Roger Winnen

24.11.2014 - The 08.28 Penzance to Glasgow Central slows to cross the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

24.11.2014 - Hauled by 57604 Pendennis Castle and 57603 Tintagel Castle, the 'Night Riviera' leaves Hayle. On the same day, ASDA opened its branch at Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen

24.11.2014 - First Great Western 08.44 Penzance-Paddington slows for the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

24.11.2014 - Seen from the traffic congestion of Hayle Foundry Square, the 05.24 Bristol T.M. - Penzance crosses the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen.

December 16th 2024

16/12/2024

The Train Of Lights
Jon Hird

D3014 'Samson' shunts the Train Of Lights stock at Paignton, whilst an IET awaits departure for Paddington. 14.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

5239 'Goliath' lit up at Paignton and awaiting departure for Kingswear. The station clock says it's 16:15, and it's already getting dark. 14.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

75014 'Braveheart' stands at Kingswear having arrived with the 17:00 'Train of lights' service from Paignton. 14.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Another view of Kingswear - the town clock seems to be stuck at 12! 5239 'Goliath' is on the opposite end of the train. 14.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

For best effect, the train of lights needs to be seen on-the-move. Here's a drone video of it climbing Goodrington and departing Kingswear - click the red play button above to view. Copyright Jon Hird.

Inter Regionals
Michael Adams

Hello Roger, very interesting pictures from Hayle Viaduct,thank you. Here is the first of three pictures from Michael of inter-regional workings. Firstly we see 45130 at Bristol Temple Meads with the 09.23 Newcastle to Penzance on 14 June 1985. Best wishes, Michael F.orward

Now we see 47418 at Reading forty years ago with the 11.40 Poole to Newcastle.. Copyright Michael Adams

Roger, lastly we see 47353 arriving at Exeter 0n 25 June 1983 with the 15.05 Paignton to Wolverhampton. Copyright Michael Adams

Many Thanks Michael

A query about Looe
Can you help?

A letter from a reader:

I wonder if you could help me please.

I am a volunteer on the Mid-Hants Watercress line. Like a lot of heritage railways our terminus at one end was a through station so we have ended up with sidings beyond the station.

There are very few examples of stations that were like that in steam days, but I know that Looe was one. Essentially a single platform with a run round loop beyond and a small yard. And then beyond the multi-arch road bridge there were fish sidings on the quay south of the bridge.

My query is how did the track get beyond the bridge? The arches above the river would not have cleared a loco and vans.
I’m guessing there was something between the ‘T’ junction off the main road into East Looe and the road to West Looe over the bridge. I can’t find any evidence for this; no photo or map.

The (cropped) photo below hasn’t the detail to show me the answer.

Amongst us, we have some readers/contributors who are very knowledgeable with regards to the Looe branch, so I am hopeful we can answer this question!

Please drop us an email at [email protected] if you can help.

Dusk at Purton
Ken Mumford

1G19 [Paddington to Cheltenham Spa] with IET 800007 running 16 LATE. 14.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

2B90 [Cheltenham Spa to Swindon] with IET 802017 ON TIME. 14.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

NORTHERN BELLE - 1Z26 [Oxford to Cheltenham Spa via Swindon, Bristol and Gloucester] running 9 LATE. 14.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken - looks a nice spot

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 5

15.11.2014 - Looking at the viaduct from Foundry Square, Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen

15.11.2014 - New track panels being moved from the construction site near Guilford, Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen

15.11.2014 - Laying the membrane before ballasting the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

15.11.2014 - Hayle with the machinery at work. Copyright Roger Winnen

18.11.2014 - Many hands make light work. Copyright Roger Winnen

18.11.2014 - Ballasting the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

20.11.2014 - The arrival of the first track panels for Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

20.11.2014 - Running neck and neck as the tracks panals arrive at Hayle Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

20.11.2014 - Building a new Great Western Railway as the advert goes. Copyright Roger Winnen

20.11.2014 - Lifting the track panels at Hayle Station, with the formation of the wharves branch on the right. Copyright Roger Winnen

December 15th 2024

15/12/2024

Sulzer Sunday
Paul Barlow

10.10.1981 - 46001 at Bristol Temple Meads with the 0110 Bristol to Leeds 1E61. Copyright Paul Barlow.

31.10.1981 - 46023 at Bristol on a Newcastle to Bristol service, 1V91. Copyright Paul Barlow

09.10.1981 - 45147 at Bristol whilst working the 1935 Exeter to Cardiff 1C74. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Super as always, many thanks to you, Paul

The Northern Belle
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Top and tailed by a pair of class 57's, the Northern Belle travels through Swindon on 13.12.2024. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

57601 flanked by an IET at Swindon. 13.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

The Northern Belle passes through Kemble. 13.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

57601 on the rear at Kemble. 13.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks Ken & Colin

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 4

14.11.2014 - Dealing with the leaning pier of the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - Hayle Station marooned. Not a train in sight except for the holiday coach tucked away behind the scenes. Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - The construction of the viaduct seen high up. Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - Laying the decking, this photograph shows the sunken pier. Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - Looking towards Hayle Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more tomorrow

December 14th 2024

14/12/2024

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
- Tonight! -
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
Commencing at 18.30hrs

For more info, click here.

The Measurement train in West Cornwall
Andrew Triggs

Hi Roger
3 shots of the NMT with Colas 43274 and 43303 for CRS with the usual dull weather when it appears down this way yet again, running bang on time
All the Best
Andrew

43274 with 43303 passing Ponsandane Footbridge at 11.22. Copyright Andrew Triggs

Approaching Harvey's Farm Road overbridge, Hayle on the return from Penzance Copyright Andrew Triggs

Many Thanks Andrew

Sulzer Saturday
Paul Barlow

10.07.1981 - 45004 Royal Irish Fusilier has just arrived at Gloucester on 1E70. 45048 took the frain forward to Leeds. Copyright Paul Barlow.

07.07.1981 - 45116 with the 1935 Exeter to Cardiff 1C74 at Exeter Riverside. Copyright Paul Barlow.

07.07.1981 - Bristol Temple Meads sees 45144 Royal Signals on the 0736 Plymouth to Edinburgh 1S27 and 33006 on the 1014 Bristol to Portsmouth. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Great stuff - many thanks indeed, Paul

Gover HST's
Jon Hird

43097 and 43188 head west over Gover viaduct with 2C68, the 11:42 Plymouth - Penzance. In the background is a conical 'sky tip' - a mound of waste from quarrying activities in years gone by. 13.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

I barely had time to 'change ends' before Colas 43303 and 43274 rolled onto the viaduct heading for Paignton with the Plain Line Pattern Recognition (PLPR) train - going very slowly as they were following a GWR service through Cornwall. 13.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Esso Oil Tankers at Cattewater
Paul Negus

Hi Jon and Roger

Re 1964 Part 19 by Michael L Roach (click here), the first image of Oil Tanker Valley at Cattewater on 6 August 1959 shows a rake of Esso oil tankers. Quite coincidentally, I had just taken delivery of a model in Gauge 1 (10mm to the foot scale) of one of these tankers. My previous search on the internet looking for one of these in service had drawn a blank so this was welcome confirmation of their provenance, especially the livery!

For those interested, the model is by Accucraft and measures about 7" over headstocks. The level of detail is excellent in this scale.

Kind regards
Paul

Oil tanker Vally and Esso rail tankers at Cattewater on 6 August 1959. Copyright Michael L. Roach.

Pauls Gauge 1 Accucraft model of an Esso Oil Tanker. Copyright Paul Negus.

Thanks for your message, Paul - very glad Mikes photograph has given you a little inspiration for your modelling project.

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 3

12.11.2014 - Hayle Viaduct installation of new timber decking. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.11.2014 - Hayle Viaduct 12th November 2014 Copyright Roger Winnen

13.11.2014 - Work carries on also underneath the wooden decking seen from the B3301. Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - Visiting the viaduct on Friday 14th November, 2014 Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - Looking back at the Plantation Bridge with deck timbers in the foreground, Copyright Roger Winnen

14.11.2014 - Cranes move the bulks of timber. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more tomorrow

December 13th 2024

13/12/2024

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
- Tomorrow! -
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
Commencing at 18.30hrs

From my travels
David Tozer

Gents,
Apologies for the late submission. A couple of photos from my recent travels on Wednesday last.
Exeter Central and no weeds!!!!!!

SWR's 159019 arrives with the 0738 Salisbury to Exeter. On this day the train was short formed due to maintenance issues at Salisbury. For some SWR customers it must have been an awful trip as it was like a travelling sardine can - absolutely rammed with passengers - or is it long suffering customers.

On the opposite platform was GWR Class 158 158951. This had arrived on the 0835 from Barnstaple. Yes, like the SWR service another train that arrived with standing passengers. The unit would then form the 0950 Central to Exmouth Junction and return to Central.

Regards David

Mant thanks David

Creech St Michael
Bill Elston

Hi Roger,

Another redundant GWR stock move passed through Creech today.
This was 5Q44 0705 Laira to Mid Norfolk Railway comprising power cars 43160, 43162, sleeping cars 10551 and 10553
top and tailed by Railadventure pcs 43468 and 43480, pictyred in poor light.

Many Thanks Bill

The last few days at Swindon
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

37884 on 5Q76 Wolverton to Newport Docks 11.12.2024. Copyright Colin Pidgeon.

321310 on the rear of 5Q76 Wolverton to Newport Docks. 11.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

59204 on 6C31 Theale to Whatley. 11.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

66162 on 6C03 Northolt to Severnside. 11.12.2024, copyright Colin Pidgeon.

6Z52 [Tytherington to Quainton Road] passes on the UML (though RTT indicated that it was going to pass via platform 1!) some 19 LATE. The second photo was taken in a hurry as the driver opened 60 055 [Thomas Bonardo] as the red signal went to a single yellow - I managed to catch the start of the exhaust! 12.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

5Q44 [Plymouth (Laira depot) to Mid-Norfolk Railway Siding] consisting of RailAdventure Power car 43468 + ex-GWR power car 43160 + ex-GWR power car 43162 + ex-Caledonian Sleeper Mk3 SLEPs 10551 / 10553 + RailAdventure power car 43480. 12.12.2024, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks to Ken and Colin for these interesting images.

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 2

09.11.2014 - Much activity on the viaduct. A lot of the decking has been removed. Shot Blasting of the steelwork is the next action. Copyright Roger Winnen.

09.11.2014 Watch you don't trip off the viaduct! Copyright Roger Winnen

09.11.2014 - Working under arc lights on the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

09.11.2014 - Foundry Square, Hayle illuminated. Copyright Roger Winnen

12.11.2014 - Sections to support the viaduct railings are being placed into position as the work progress along this structure. Copyright Roger Winnen.

12.11.2014 - Hayle Viaduct new decking. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more tomorrow

JIA's Galore!
Jon Hird

An aerial view of St. Blazey taken during the recent line block. A lot of JIA wagons are visible - 23 in fact, out of a total fleet (when built) of only 26. The JGA's are also visible, along with 66131 (on the fuel point) and 66152 (parked outside the shed). Copyright Jon Hird.

December 12th 2024

12/12/2024

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
18.30hrs

50012 Benbow
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

Hello Roger, Michael Adams sends this shot of 50012 ‘Benbow’ heading away from Exeter on 25 June 1983 with a Manchester to Newquay service. Best wishes Michael Adams

Roger, my own picture now of 50012 at Plymouth on 13 June 1986,heading for Laira depot. This loco. was not to enter preservation, being scrapped in July 1989 at Leicester. Thansk and best wishes, Michael Forward.

Many thanks to the Two Michaels

Early days at the WSR
Paul Barlow

21.08.1981 - 56169 50414 and class 07 D2994 plus a Park Royal DMU and a pullman coach at Minehead. Copyright Paul Barlow.

21.08.1981 - 56169 50414 Bishops Lydeard, copyright Paul Barlow.

21.08.1981 - Class 14 D9526 under restoration at Williton. Copyright Paul Barlow.

21.08.1981 - 2994 Victor Watchet working the 1455 Minehead to Williton. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Many thanks, Paul - great pics

Treesmill Clay
Jon Hird

Working the first Cornish China Clay train for a couple of weeks (due to line blocks and the current problems on the Newquay branch), 66131 powers up the bank past Treesmill on its way to Exeter with 9 JIA's, ex-Par harbour. The blanket of cloud gave the lighting an odd tint. 11.12.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

10 years ago already..
Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 1

03.11.2014 - Hayle with a Class 150 on the viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

07.11.2014 - Looking up at Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

07.11.2014 - Not a car in sight at Hayle. Copyright Roger Winnen

08.11.2014 - Work has commenced. Copyright Roger Winnen

08.11.2014 - The rails are lifted crossing the Hayle Viaduct. Copyright Roger Winnen

08.11.2014 - Removing the ballast. Copyright Roger Winnen

Thanks Roger - more tomorrow

December 11th 2024

11/12/2024

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
18.30 hrs

Railadventure at Teignmouth
Martin Scane

Here are 43480 and 43468 with 0Z43 the 0505 Kidderminster to Laira which ran via Oxford, Swindon and Bristol. The train is passing Teignmouth Rugby Club taken from Shaldon Bridge. 10.12.2024, copyright Martin Scane.

Many thanks, Martin - a 'ghostly' colour scheme

By Tre Pol and Pen,
shall ye know all Cornishmen!
Roger Winnen

06.09.1985 - 37196 'Tre Pol and Pen' at Par with the Cornish Railways headboard. Copyright Roger Winen

Christmas at Bodmin
Jon Hird

The Bodmin Railway held their first Christmas Market on the evening of Tuesday 10th December. Various stalls lined the platforms, and almost all items of coaching stock were brought into the station to provide warm and dry seating and space for activities. 5552 and ex-Port of Par Bagnall 'Judy' sit against the buffer stops at Bodmin General. Copyright Jon Hird.

Little and large at Bodmin General. For anyone interested in photography - this was 1.3" at iso200, by drone - I think the tech which allows the camera body to remain steady enough for all that time to produce a sharp image is remarkable! Copyright Jon Hird.

<<Previous

Forward>>

Crosscountry & CastlesJoe Birchall

Swindon ScenesColin Pidgeon

A visit to the Bicton Gardens Railway & MuseumBy Roger WinnenPart 2

Teignmouth TrainsMartin Scane

A visit to the Bicton Gardens Railway & MuseumBy Roger WinnenPart 1

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 20The Traditional RailwayMichael L. Roach

Tackling TreverrinJon Hird

'Castles' at LairaRoger Winnen

More on LooeRichard Doney

Diesels in '81Paul Barlow

Info on LooeRoy Hart

All change in the westNew platforms and new unitsRoger Winnen

Re: Train of lightsJonathan Harbage

Goonbarrow ArrivalJon Hird

Replacing Hayle Viaduct DeckingRoger WinnenPart 6

The Train Of LightsJon Hird

A query about LooeCan you help?

Dusk at PurtonKen Mumford

Replacing Hayle Viaduct DeckingRoger WinnenPart 5

Sulzer SundayPaul Barlow

The Northern BelleKen Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Replacing Hayle Viaduct DeckingRoger WinnenPart 4

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!- Tonight! -December 14th 2024Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled'The Railways around Plymouth'** Not to be missed! **Commencing at 18.30hrs​For more info, click here.

Sulzer SaturdayPaul Barlow

Gover HST'sJon Hird

Esso Oil Tankers at CattewaterPaul Negus

Replacing Hayle Viaduct DeckingRoger WinnenPart 3

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!- Tomorrow! -December 14th 2024Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled'The Railways around Plymouth'** Not to be missed! **Commencing at 18.30hrs

The last few days at SwindonKen Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Replacing Hayle Viaduct DeckingRoger WinnenPart 2

JIA's Galore!Jon Hird

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!December 14th 2024Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled'The Railways around Plymouth'** Not to be missed! **18.30hrs

Early days at the WSRPaul Barlow

Treesmill ClayJon Hird

10 years ago already..Replacing Hayle Viaduct DeckingRoger WinnenPart 1

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!December 14th 2024Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled'The Railways around Plymouth'** Not to be missed! **18.30 hrs

Railadventure at TeignmouthMartin Scane

By Tre Pol and Pen,shall ye know all Cornishmen!Roger Winnen

Christmas at BodminJon Hird

Archives

Crosscountry & Castles
Joe Birchall

Swindon Scenes
Colin Pidgeon

A visit to the Bicton Gardens Railway & Museum
By Roger Winnen
Part 2

Teignmouth Trains
Martin Scane

A visit to the Bicton Gardens Railway & Museum
By Roger Winnen
Part 1

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 20
The Traditional Railway
Michael L. Roach

Tackling Treverrin
Jon Hird

'Castles' at Laira
Roger Winnen

More on Looe
Richard Doney

Diesels in '81
Paul Barlow

Info on Looe
Roy Hart

All change in the west
New platforms and new units
Roger Winnen

Re: Train of lights
Jonathan Harbage

Goonbarrow Arrival
Jon Hird

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 6

The Train Of Lights
Jon Hird

A query about Looe
Can you help?

Dusk at Purton
Ken Mumford

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 5

Sulzer Sunday
Paul Barlow

The Northern Belle
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 4

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
- Tonight! -
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
Commencing at 18.30hrs

For more info, click here.

Sulzer Saturday
Paul Barlow

Gover HST's
Jon Hird

Esso Oil Tankers at Cattewater
Paul Negus

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 3

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
- Tomorrow! -
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
Commencing at 18.30hrs

The last few days at Swindon
Ken Mumford & Colin Pidgeon

Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 2

JIA's Galore!
Jon Hird

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
18.30hrs

Early days at the WSR
Paul Barlow

Treesmill Clay
Jon Hird

10 years ago already..
Replacing Hayle Viaduct Decking
Roger Winnen
Part 1

Don't miss our next indoor meeting!
December 14th 2024
Amyas Crump presents a fascinating show entitled
'The Railways around Plymouth'
Not to be missed!
18.30 hrs

Railadventure at Teignmouth
Martin Scane

By Tre Pol and Pen,
shall ye know all Cornishmen!
Roger Winnen

Christmas at Bodmin
Jon Hird