GALLERY
This is another gallery with some extra pictures from other area's.
At minehead where I visited recently with my old (note I said old) chumbag Keith, I was amazed to see an old S & D friend, namely No 88. This loco comes from a class of locomotives numbered 53806-810 with a wheel arrangement of 2-8-0. It wieghed 111 tons and could carry a total capacity of 3,500 gallons of water. Coal capacity was 5 tons. These engines were designed by Sir Henry Fowler originally for freight and they gained a classification of 7-F. Historically, these machines were a developement of a previous series 53800-5 which were turned out from Derby in 1914. These were used for passenger turns, on occasions.
Upon closer inspection of the above picture, I was alarmed to find that 88 had been hauling G.W.R stock, the end of one such coach being in this picture. (Pic M.Tuck)
The W.S.R holds Carol trains which stop at stations along the line. I captured this scene during one such stop. Its an atmospheric shot I feel. Also, a jolly good spot of night time photography!!!
Both of the above taken 16th December 09.
The picture below was snapped by Keith H, at Maiden Newton 25th Sept 2009. This station was once an important junction, with a single branch line going off to Bridport. This closed in 1975.
Personally I love the Weymouth to Castle Cary line. It is lucky to have survived the Beeching axe. Although only a shadow of its former self, the line continues to provide a valuable North to South service. Below are some pictures celebrating remaining routes in the South West.
150249 in First Great Western livery awaits to leave Maiden Newton.
Above is a view of Maiden Newton signal box. I am amazed that it still stands. The last time I saw it, it was in an awful state. The box closed May 1st, 1988. Pic by K.H.(25th/09/09)
How far does someone have to go to get a railway picture? Penzance station plays host to 153380/382 on Sat 24th October 2009. The internal structure can clearly be seen here to a wonderful advantage. What a spacious station this is.
Finally, Swanage. Single car W55028 and also W51346 form a Saturday service to Norden. I think this picture really sums the past up for me. How many rural stations in England looked like this after the introduction of diesel units? It was a common scene. Still, luckily this picture was taken not so long ago.
If you are ever in the Brewers Quay area of Weymouth in Dorset, pop into see my mate Andy at oldtrainsntoys.
He sells diecast, railways and lots of other interesting models from the past. He has many collectable books and artifacts, something which will delight and amuse people of all interests. So if you are in Weymouth, pop in and buy something!!!!
You can get him on 01305 750022.
My email address is as follows
bravenet.com