Claverton
By now there was hardly any cloud cover, and it was turning into a fine late afternoon. In the company of Wetbag we decided to camp out here at Claverton as the frequency of trains meant there was no point moving too far, and why would you want to in such fantastic surroundings. In glorious weather Colas Railfreight's 66846 leads the Rail Delivery Train (RDT) with 66848 on the rear in 'top & tail' formation, the train is 6C98 17:23 Westbury Yard - Bargoed.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
There can't be too many First Great Western blue Class 166 units running around, but this was the third or fourth one this afternoon. This is 1F24 15:23 Portsmouth - Cardiff worked by 166209 sweeping round the curves and up towards Bathampton Junction.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
Its like a scene from 'The Railway Children' as Wetbag gets his shot of 66164 from the field gate as it passes by at the business end of 6Z33 15:57 Tytherington - Westbury Yard loaded stone train, made up of blue VTG wagons.
19 May 2021
(PL)
19 May 2021
(PL)
Claverton
Something of an experimental shot, and it was certainly a last minute decision to try this view. In typical fashion the wind picked up, and the camera was swaying about at the top of the 5m pole, but I just about managed to get an acceptable frame, although not quite how I wanted it. In the distance 66164 heads 6Z33 15:57 Tytherington - Westbury Yard loaded stone working, as a fisherman enjoys the peace and tranquillity of the Kennet & Avon canal.
19 May 2021
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19 May 2021
(PL)
Claverton
Great Western Railway green 158798 blends into its surroundings operating 2O80 14:41 Great Malvern - Weymouth past Claverton.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
This certainly stands out in the beautiful surroundings of the Avon Valley, as 60028 passes Claverton working 6Z24 15:43 Bristol FLT - Willesden DCR sidings, loaded with stone from Tarmac's Stancombe Quarry at Flax Bourton. It is refreshing to see this uniform rake of new Cappagh branded wagons free of graffiti, unlike a lot of the wagons in and out of the Mendip quarries, and the DC Rail operated Class 60 as well looks smart in matching livery.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
Like the First Great Western blue 'turbo' units this South West Trains (SWT) livery is now obsolete, the Train Operating Company (TOC) now known as South Western Railway, and of course with it comes a new livery. So, still sporting that old SWT livery is 158880 passing through the valley working 1O60 15:50 Bristol T.M - Salisbury.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
Another First Great Western blue 'turbo' unit, this time 166202, operating 2C22 14:40 Gloucester - Westbury.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
Certainly some dramatic cloud cover, which always helps to improve the shot, and incredibly we were on the edge of this weather front as behind us were clear blue skies. Heading towards Bathampton Junction is this pair of Class 158 units operating 2E70 15:30 Warminster - Worcester Foregate Street, made up of 158762 and 158763.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Claverton
Bathford Hill dominates this scene near Claverton, close to Bath, as DB Cargo's 60019 Port of Immingham & Grimsby heads along the Avon Valley working 6B33 13:35 Theale - Robeston discharged tanks. Previously booked via Swindon during the week, this train is now routed along the quieter Berks & Hants and Avon Valley, except on Saturdays, making it a popular target for railway photographers, and in stunning settings such as this it's easy to understand why.
19 May 2021
19 May 2021
Freshford
It doesn't get much better than this, and a location and shot that's been at the top of my 'to do list' for a rather long time. After several failed attempts over the years to nail a shot here today was finally the day. In stunning weather, and at a stunning location, 60054 passes the large gallery of photographers at Freshford working 6B33 13:35 Theale - Robeston with its discharged oil tanks.
22 April 2021
22 April 2021
Freshford
Oh for something just a bit more colourful. Blending rather well into its surroundings is Great Western service 1F20 13:23 Portsmouth Harbour - Cardiff Central with 165129 leading 166217 through the glorious Avon Valley at Freshford.
22 April 2021
22 April 2021
Freshford
Not quite the desired shot I had in mind, but sometimes you have to work with what you've got. I haven't stood in this spot to photograph a train since 1987, so its been a long time coming to repeat that shot, which back then was of a Class 37 hauled engineers train. Back to the present day, and making its way through Freshford station is 6A83 14:17 Avonmouth - West Drayton worked by 66516.
22 April 2021
22 April 2021
Witham Friary
1A73 06:45 Plymouth - Paddington (via Yeovil Junction) races past Witham Friary formed of 802017 (leading) and 802004.
29 September 2020
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29 September 2020
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Witham Friary
Passing Witham Hall Farm is 158745 leading 158765 with 2O72 07:08 Worcester Shrub Hill - Weymouth .
29 September 2020
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29 September 2020
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Witham Friary
On the approach to East Somerset Junction, near Witham Friary, is the returning HOBC set, now loaded with stone from the virtual quarry at Westbury, and running as 6C73 12:17 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard, and again hauled by 66415 You Are Never Alone.
25 September 2020
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25 September 2020
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Berkley Marsh /Frome
A stunning start to the morning at Berkley Marsh, near Frome, as 66415 You Are Never Alone passes by working 6C72 08:30 Fairwater Yard - Westbury Yard.
25 September 2020
25 September 2020
Berkley Marsh / Frome
Just 20 minutes after the previous Hanson Class 59 had passed, the second one passes in the sun, with 59104 Village of Great Elm hauling 7C64 15:27 Acton - Yard - Merehead on the approach to Clink Road Junction.
22 May 2019
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22 May 2019
(PL)
Berkley Marsh / Frome
The first of four DB workings to pass here in just under half an hour is 7V12 15:38 Woking Yard - Merehead, hauled by 59102 Village of Chantry.
22 May 2019
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22 May 2019
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Wyke Champflower
A South West Trains liveried Class 159 passing Wyke Champflower operating 1O56 14:53 Yeovil Junction - Salisbury (via Frome).
22 May 2019
22 May 2019
Crewkerne
Network Rail's New Measurement Train (NMT) is seen near Crewkerne running as 1Q23 05:41 Reading Triangle Sidings - Honiton - Exeter New Yard - Salisbury - Westbury - Salisbury and lead by 43013 Mark Carne CBE, to the rear of the five-coach HST formation is 43062 John Armitt.
11 April 2019
11 April 2019
Crewkerne
159102 RP 1L21 09:20 Waterloo - Exeter St Davids away from Crewkerne.
11 April 2019
11 April 2019
Crewkerne
Great Western operated Hitachi built 802105 is about to enter the western portal of Crewkerne Tunnel operating 1A85 11:22 Plymouth - Paddington.
7 March 2019
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7 March 2019
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Crewkerne
1L25 10:20 Waterloo -Exeter St Davids with 158881 leading 159006 heads west out of Crewkerne Tunnel.
7 March 2019
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7 March 2019
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Crewkerne
Inter-city liveried HST power-car 43184 Great Western leads 1A81 09:16 Plymouth - Paddington towards Crewkerne, to the rear is 43086.
7 March 2019
7 March 2019
Crewkerne
In a very welcome break in the cloud 159016 makes its way up 'the mule' towards Crewkerne operating 1L40 10:25 Exeter St Davids - Waterloo.
7 March 2019
7 March 2019
Pendomer
With Pen Wood in the distance 'The Golden Hind' 1A77 05:05 Penzance - Paddington passes Kit Hill lead by 43025 The Institution of Railway Operators 2000-2010 Ten Years Promoting Operational Excellence, out of sight at the rear is BR blue celebrity power-car 43002 Sir Kenneth Grange. In an ideal world the sun would have been shining, and 43002 would have been leading.
7 March 2019
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7 March 2019
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Stoford
On the western approach to Yeovil Junction near Stoford is 43153 leading 1A75 06:16 Plymouth - Paddington, to the rear is power-car 43161, as seen from the side of the very busy A37.
7 March 2019
7 March 2019
Oath
Making its way across the Somerset Levels, and about to pass over West Sedge Moor Middle Drain at Oath, is 59004 Paul A Hammond hauling 7C28 13:44 Exeter Riverside Yard - Whatley Quarry stone empties.
9 January 2019
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9 January 2019
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Oath
Great Western's celebrity power-cars are currently paired up with coaching set LA63, so here Inter-City liveried 43185 Great Western (right) leads 1A87 12:55 Plymouth - Paddington, with BR blue 43002 Sir Kenneth Grange (left) to the rear, as they speed across the Somerset Levels.
9 January 2019
(PL)
(RW 26/02/2023)
9 January 2019
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(RW 26/02/2023)
Oath
Viewed along West Sedge Moor Middle Drain as 1C81 12:33 Paddington - Taunton passes by worked by 43088 and 43053.
9 January 2019
(RW 26/02/2023)
9 January 2019
(RW 26/02/2023)
Oath
What had all the promise of a glorious day, weather wise, according to the breakfast TV forecast, was very short-lived. More of a record shot than anything else because it is one of the rapidly dwindling HST sets coming under Black Smock bridge near Oath, lead by power-car 43088, the service being 1C81 12:33 Paddington - Taunton.
9 January 2019
9 January 2019
Allerford
Colas Railfreight Class 56 No.56113 hauls a Loram Railgrinder past Allerford, with London Transport liveried 20142 Sir John Betjeman and BR blue liveried 20189 tagged on the rear, the unusual consist operating as 6Z01 05:29 Derby RTC - Okehampton.
9 January 2019
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9 January 2019
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Allerford
Heading away from Taunton is 1C78 11:03 Paddington - Plymouth formed of 43161 leading 43009.
9 January 2019
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9 January 2019
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Allerford
The new order on Great Western. One of the Hitachi built 9-car Class 800 units No.800316 works 1A83 11:32 Paignton - Paddington towards Taunton.
9 January 2019
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9 January 2019
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Allerford
1A82 09:00 Penzance - Paddington, lead by GWR green liveried 43189, heads past Allerford near Taunton.43086
9 January 2019
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9 January 2019
(PL)
Allerford
Against the backdrop of the Quantock Hills 220016 passes Allerford working 1V48 06:45 Newcastle - Plymouth.
9 January 2019
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9 January 2019
(PL)
Allerford
43180 leads 1A81 07:41 Penzance - Paddington towards Norton Fitzwarren Junction.
9 January 2019
9 January 2019
Allerford
Virgin Voyager unit 220 approaches Victory AHB crossing at Allerford working 1M41 10:07 Paignton - Manchester.
9 January 2019
9 January 2019
Cole
I wasn't expecting this until it was at Somerton, and without time to check assumed it might be something like a Colas Class 70 hauled engineers train...wrong. Here Colas tamper DR75407 Gerry Taylor passes Cole running as 6J84 09:22 Liskeard GF - Westbury Yard. Always nice to get a namer though LOL.
30 November 2018
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30 November 2018
(PL)
Cole
When the sun was out the light was fantastic, although using a five-metre pole with a camera perched on top of it in high winds was something of a challenge. One such challenging shot is this one of 43156 Dartington International Summer School heading west past Cole working 1C78 11:03 Paddington - Plymouth. In the distance to the right of the train can be seen the former Somerset & Dorset Railway embankment, and the remains of the bridge over the GWR line.
30 November 2018
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30 November 2018
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Cole
43022 The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Diamond Anniversary 1956-2016 is seen leading 1A82 09:00 Penzance - Paddington past Cole, between Castle Cary and Bruton.
30 November 2018
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30 November 2018
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Wanstrow
Still outbased at Westbury for now is 60062 Stainless Pioneer which makes its way along the Merehead branch, near Wanstrow, working 7B12 11:30 Merehead Quarry - Wootton Bassett loaded stone train.
30 November 2018
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30 November 2018
(PL)
North Brewham
Any hopes of doing the Freightliner operated trip up from Fairwater Yard to Westbury here were soon squashed as it became apparent it was cancelled. So a poor consolation in the form of 166213 operating 2V88 08:53 Weymouth - Gloucester. What this does illustrate though is the changing scene on the Weymouth line services operated by GWR with the recently displaced Thames-turbo units from the Thames Valley.
10 July 2018
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10 July 2018
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North Brewham
Power-car 43186 leads 1A77 05:41 Penzance - Paddington round the sweeping curve and up towards East Somerset Junction.
10 July 2018
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10 July 2018
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North Brewham
The Belmond Royal Scotsman on its world tour of the country passes through the county of Somerset, close to North Brewham, hauled by GB Railfreight's 66743 and 66746 and running as 1Z81 07:23 Newton Abbot - Bath Spa.
10 July 2018
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10 July 2018
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Blatchbridge Junction
59101 Village of Whatley passes over Blatchbridge Junction working 7V12 15:38 Woking - Merehead Quarry stone empties.
26 June 2018
(PL)
26 June 2018
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Blatchbridge Junction
There's no denying the tatty old white container at the line side is a bit of a photographic distraction, but i decided to include it as it forms part of the general scene. Passing over the public footpath crossing at Blatchbridge Junction is 1C90 17:03 Paddington - Penzance lead by power-car 43063, to the rear is power-car 43193. Within a matter of weeks the new IEP units being introduced by GWR will commence operation on the South West route, and a scene such as this of the HST sets will soon pass into history?
26 June 2018
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26 June 2018
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Blatchbridge Junction
59002 Yeoman Enterprise comes over Blatchbridge Junction with 7C64 15:26 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry running 36 minutes early.
26 June 2018
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26 June 2018
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Claverton
Ever since i first set eyes on Ivo Peter's book Railway Elegance in the 1980's i developed an appreciation for this area. Sadly over the years, since Ivo had taken some iconic shots around here it has become very overgrown, but some locations are returning thanks to recent clearance works by Network Rail. Inspired by that very book this was to be something like my fourth attempt to nail this working here, and finally under clear blue skies a successful outcome. Colas Railfreight operated 6C37 15:24 Westbury Lafarge sidings - Aberthaw cement working passes Claverton meadows hauled by 70806. A shame the cattle had lost interest and wandered off down the opposite end of the field.
26 June 2018
26 June 2018
Claverton
Warleigh Manor can just be seen through the trees above the rear vehicle of 166212 working 2E24 13:10 Weymouth - Gloucester running 24 minutes late.
26 June 2018
26 June 2018
Claverton
Still in First Great Western blue livery, for now, is 166209 passing Claverton meadow with 2D17 14:38 Westbury - Bristol Parkway.
26 June 2018
26 June 2018
Claverton
For scenic summer shots of the new GWR green livery they can almost be lost in the landscape, and here 158961 blends-in quite well to the stunning surroundings near Bath operating 1F18 12:23 Portsmouth Harbour - Bristol Parkway.
16 June 2018
16 June 2018
Flax Bourton
Cross-Country High Speed Train passes Great Western Railway High Speed Train at Flax Bourton. In the distance 1V50 06:06 Edinburgh - Plymouth speeds westwards with power-cars 43304 and 43357, whilst BR blue 43002 Sir Kenneth Grange leads 1A19 13:01 Weston-super-Mare - Paddington, out of sight to the rear is 43053.
26 June 2018
26 June 2018
Flax Bourton
Running some 32 minutes late meant it was just enough to get the sun off the front of 68004 Rapid, which tops 68001 Evolution, as they pass the disused MoD fuel depot at Flax Bourton with a single flask, running as 6M63 11:58 Bridgwater - Crewe.
26 June 2018
26 June 2018
Yatton
The final shot from a brief, but enjoyable visit to Yatton, with 6X04 10:49 Fairwater Yard - Crewe Gresty Lane 'Track Renewal System Train' hauled by 66556, trailing is 66541. A return visit is certainly on the cards.
26 June 2018
26 June 2018
Yatton
Coming fairly thick-and-fast along this section, and next up is 158950 with 2D10 11:10 Weston-super-Mare - Filton Abbey Wood.
26 June 2018
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26 June 2018
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Yatton
With the fine GWR station of Yatton in the distance 150244 gets away from its station stop there working 2C71 10:39 Bristol Parkway - Taunton.
26 June 2018
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26 June 2018
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Yatton
Cross-Country Voyager unit 220031 approaching Yatton working 1S45 09:25 Plymouth - Aberdeen.
26 June 2018
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26 June 2018
(PL)
Yatton
166214 running empty stock as 5Y13 11:01 Weston-super-Mare - Bristol St Phillips Mrash depot on the approach to Yatton.
26 June 2018
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26 June 2018
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Pendomer
Retro-liveried BR blue HST power-car No. 43002 Sir Kenneth Grange passes within a stones throw of the Dorset border at Kit Hill near Pendomer, between Yeovil Junction and Crewkerne, leading 1A97 15:45 Penzance - Paddington, unseen to the rear is power-car 43053 University of Worcester.
14 June 2018
14 June 2018
Pendomer
A SouthWest Trains liveried 6-car Class 159 formation passes Kit Hill near Pendomer on the Somerset / Dorset border, in the distance is Pen Wood
14 June 2018
14 June 2018
Frome
Next up, 7C64 15:26 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry, and again another AI liveried Class 59, this time 59005 Kenneth J Painter making its way towards Blatchbridge Junction
11 June 2018
(PL)
11 June 2018
(PL)
Frome
By the time 7V12 15:38 Woking Down Yard - Merehead Quarry passes the cattle had lost interest, having been concentrated in the foreground area of the field, and wandered further down where the grass was obviously greener, 59001 Yeoman Endeavour being the loco in charge as it heads along the Down Frome Avoiding towards Blatchbridge Junction.
11 June 2018
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11 June 2018
(PL)
Frome
Much needed vegetation management work through here recently by Network Rail's contractor has re-opened this previously overgrown view on the Frome avoiding line at Styles Hill as 59203 approaches working 7A15 17:05 Merehead Quarry - Acton Yard.
11 June 2018
11 June 2018
Frome
With a huge set of auto-hoppers in tow, Colas Railfreight's 70807 passes Styles Hill footbridge in Frome, running as 6C40 17:31 Westbury Yard - Crediton, the ballast train operating in connection with a three-day engineering blockade in Devon.
11 June 2018
11 June 2018
Frome
With Network Rail's contractors hard at work clearing the heavily overgrown lineside at Frome 1C74 08:30 Paddington - Plymouth speeds by heading west worked by power-cars 43150 (leading) and 43024 Great Western Society 1961-2011 Didcot Railway Centre (trailing).
17 May 2018
17 May 2018
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Berkley Marsh
Plenty of freight action along this short section of railway between Westbury and Frome as 59204 passes by with 7C31 08:53 Theale - Whatley Quarry.
14 May 2018
14 May 2018
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Berkley Marsh
Running about two hours late 6M20 09:23 Whatley Quarry - St Pancras hauled by 66004 passes Berkley Marsh.
14 May 2018
14 May 2018
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Berkley / Frome
With cloud cover becoming ever more obvious 1C78 11:03 Paddington - Plymouth heads west with power-cars 43053 University of Worcester (leading) and 43190 (trailing).
17 January 2018
17 January 2018
Berkley / Frome
Next up, 7B12 11:35 Merehead Quarry - Wootton Bassett worked by 59004 Paul A Hammond in some lovely winter light as it accelerates away from Frome.
17 January 2018
17 January 2018
Berkley / Frome
You couldn't wish for better weather conditions, although bitterly cold and very windy, sadly the fine conditions were short-lived. Passing Pot Lane at Berkley, near Frome, on the approach to Clink Road Junction, is 66005 hauling 6V33 07:19 Wembley Yard - Whatley Quarry running about an hour late.
17 January 2018
17 January 2018
Berkley / Frome
Get them whilst you can as the 41 year old Inter-City 125 / High Speed Train won't be around in its present form on Great Western for much longer. Here 1C77 10:35 Paddington - Paignton approaches Frome lead by power-car 43025 The Institution of Railway Operators - 2000-2010 Ten Years Promoting Operational Excellence, power-car 43136 trails to the rear.
17 January 2018
17 January 2018
Berkley / Frome
Retro BR blue liveried HST power-car 43002 Sir Kenneth Grange leads 1A79 06:47 Penzance - Paddington past Berkley, near Frome, in a lucky patch of sunshine, GWR green rear-power 43005 trails to the rear.
17 January 2018
(PL)
17 January 2018
(PL)
Berkley / Frome
Soon to be a thing of the past with the introduction of Class 165 / 166 'Thames Turbo' units which have been cascaded from the Reading area. GWR green 150266 passes Berkley working 2O89 10:42 Gloucester - Weymouth.
17 January 2018
17 January 2018
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Berkley / Frome
7C31 08:40 Theale - Whatley Quarry is next down with 59005 in charge as it passes Berkley, on the approach to Frome and not too far from journey's end.
15 December 2017
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15 December 2017
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Berkley / Frome
Lead by 43136 1C77 10:06 Paddington - Penzance passes Berkley near Frome.
15 December 2017
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15 December 2017
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Berkley / Frome
Just a few days shy of the winter solstice, and the nice low winter sunlight casts a long shadow off 66093 as it heads past Berkley working 6M20 10:37 Whatley Quarry - St Pancras stone train.
15 December 2017
15 December 2017
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Witham Friary
DB red 66118 leads DB red 59206 'John F Yeoman - Rail Pioneer' over East Somerset Junction at Witham Friary working 7C29 07:23 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry, typically the light dipped as they passed and by the middle of the train it was full sun again. Just above the signals to the left can be seen The Church of St Mary which according to internet website's dates from around 1200, and is Grade I listed.
15 December 2017
(PL)
15 December 2017
(PL)
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Claverton
Next up 158959 working 1F14 10:23 Portsmouth Harbour - Cardiff Central, running about 25 late, passes Claverton.
28 November 2017
28 November 2017
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Claverton
No wonder Ivo Peters loved this part of the world? Shame the cattle that were in the field moved off though.
GWR green 158961 passes through the spectacular Avon Valley at Claverton with a late running 1V94 08:59 Brighton - Great Malvern.
28 November 2017
GWR green 158961 passes through the spectacular Avon Valley at Claverton with a late running 1V94 08:59 Brighton - Great Malvern.
28 November 2017
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Witham Friary
150926 passes Witham Hall Farm on the approach to East Somerset Junction working 2O86 08:42 Gloucester - Weymouth.
28 November 2017
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28 November 2017
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Witham Friary
A glorious morning over Somerset as 1A78 06:45 Penzance - Paddington passes Witham friary led by 43023 SQN LDR Harold Starr-One Of The Few (right) with 43003 Isambard Kingdom Brunel trailing (left), the mixed liveries of the set making quite an interesting sight.
28 November 2017
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28 November 2017
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Witham Friary
Bang on time with 7C29 07:25 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry is 59004 Paul A Hammond approaching Witham Friary, and journey's end.
28 November 2017
28 November 2017
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Witham Friary
1C76 09:06 Paddington - Plymouth on the approach to East Somerset Junction formed of power cars 43015 and 43162 about to pass Witham Hall Farm.
28 November 2017
(PL)
28 November 2017
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Witham Friary
I was so keen on this angle last time i was here that i wanted to give it another go. Against a great backdrop, which reminded me more of Scotland than Somerset, 150123 passes Witham Friary working 2V88 08:53 Weymouth - Bristol Temple Meads.
28 November 2017
(PL)
28 November 2017
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Witham Friary
Just seven minutes behind 1C77 and an incredibly filthy 66127 leads the South West RHTT circuit 3J13 08:50 Westbury - Salisbury - Westbury - St Blazey Yard, trailing is 66027 which is equally filthy, in fact the whole formation blends in quite well with its surroundings here near Witham Friary.
23 November 2017
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23 November 2017
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Witham Friary
Against a great backdrop, which reminded me more of Scotland than Somerset, sees 1C77 10:06 Paddington - Penzance speed westwards towards East Somerset Junction led by 43136 (left) with 43086 trailing (right).
23 November 2017
23 November 2017
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Witham Friary
A fine, but blustery morning, as GWR green liveried 150233 approaches East Somerset Junction at Witham Friary working 2O86 08:42 Gloucester - Weymouth.
23 November 2017
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23 November 2017
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Witham Friary
Running some 13 minutes early, and catching me out as i wasn't quite set up ready, 59201 passes complete with the bell-end leading, hauling 7C29 07:25 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry on the approach to East Somerset Junction.
23 November 2017
23 November 2017
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Berkley
Absolutely filthy 66074 leads 3J13 08:50 Westbury - St Blazey (via Salisbury and Westbury) RHTT working, with 66027 trailing, past Berkley just east of Frome heading west.
30 October 2017
(PL)
30 October 2017
(PL)
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Berkley
Just inside the county of Somerset as 1C77 10:06 Paddington - Penzance speeds past Berkley, and down towards Frome, lead by 43029 with 43160 to the rear.
30 October 2017
(PL)
30 October 2017
(PL)
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Bath Spa
43002 Sir Kenneth Grange at Bath Spa station working 1C20 15:30 Paddington - Weston-super-Mare
24 October 2017
24 October 2017
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Cole
Ex-DRS (Direct Rail Services) Class 66 No. 66413, now operating with Freightliner, passes Cole near Bruton working 6C73 12:12 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard consisting of just two ex-Tiphook hoppers.
18 April 2017
(PL)
18 April 2017
(PL)
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Cole
43125 leads 1C79 11:06 Paddington - Plymouth past Cole, 43192 being the tail-end power-car.
18 April 2017
18 April 2017
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Cole
Overhead power lines, and associated wooden poles unfortunately blight this beautiful setting, and photographically restrict many otherwise great angles. Stood next to one of the poles, and from the banks of the River Brue, 150123 passes Cole working 2V90 11:10 Weymouth - Bristol Temple Meads.
18 April 2017
18 April 2017
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Cole
Recent clearance works by Network Rail have opened up some long-lost photographic locations, such as here at Cole. With power-car 43164 bringing up the rear, 1A81 08:44 Penzance - Paddington led by 43127 storms eastwards.
18 April 2017
18 April 2017
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Freshford
Following the previous evenings (Monday 20/3/2017) derailment at East Somerset Junction involving 7Z15 17:05 Merehead - Acton stone train, which not only saw several wagons derail, but also caused significant damage to the infrastructure, west of England services were severely disrupted. Services that would normally run via Castle Cary have been amended, and one such service - 1C81 11:33 Paddington - Exeter St Davids - is seen approaching Freshford led by 43161, to the rear is 43127.
21 March 2017
21 March 2017
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Freshford
Framed through the rustic fence a Great Western Class 158 passes Freshford, in the delightful Avon Valley.
21 March 2017
21 March 2017
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Freshford
A Class 158 unit passing Freshford.
21 March 2017
21 March 2017
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Gants Mill - Bruton
Colas Railfreight's 56078, with Railvac No.7095150048, and running as 6X54 09:03 Plymouth - Westbury Yard, passes Gants Mill.
25 September 2016
(PL)
25 September 2016
(PL)
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Gants Mill - Bruton
Sweeping round past Gants Mill, on the approach to Bruton, 43147 Royal Marines - Celebrating 350 Years leads 1A78 08:40 Plymouth - Paddington. Out of sight to the rear is power car No. 43195.
25 September 2016
(PL)
25 September 2016
(PL)
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Gants Mill - Bruton
With ominous clouds overhead Freightliner's 66951 passes Gants Mill working 6C73 12:12 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard.
23 February 2016
(PL)
23 February 2016
(PL)
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Gants Mill - Bruton
South West Trains driver training trip 5Z18 11:39 Weymouth - Salisbury via Yeovil Pen Mill and Westbury, formed of 159106, passes Gants Mill.
These driver training trips have been running daily for a couple of weeks from Salisbury to Weymouth, and return, in connection with a new South West Trains service along the Westbury / Yeovil Pen Mill to Weymouth route on summer Saturdays from May 2016.
23 February 2016
(PL)
These driver training trips have been running daily for a couple of weeks from Salisbury to Weymouth, and return, in connection with a new South West Trains service along the Westbury / Yeovil Pen Mill to Weymouth route on summer Saturdays from May 2016.
23 February 2016
(PL)
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Gants Mill - Bruton
1A78 06:45 Penzance - Paddington sweeps past Gants Mill with 43163 leading decked out in Visit Plymouth branding. This is one of several Great Western power cars suitably adorned with vinyl's.
23 February 2016
(PL)
23 February 2016
(PL)
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Berkley
Freightliner's 66598 passes Berkley - between Westbury and Frome - hauling a short HOBC set with 6C73 12:12 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard.
20 October 2015
20 October 2015
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Berkley
1C79 11:06 Paddington - Plymouth passes Berkley - between Westbury and Frome - heading westbound (right to left) with power cars 43087 and 43177.
20 October 2015
20 October 2015
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North Brewham
Running about 50 minutes late 66599 passes North Brewham working 6C73 12:12 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard.
7 September 2015
7 September 2015
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North Brewham
With 43053 University of Worcester leading, First Great Western's 1C82 12:06 Paddington - Penzance passes Batt's Farm, near Bruton, a couple of minutes early, with 43033 Driver Brian Cooper 15 June 1947 - 5 October 1999 trailing.
Driver Cooper was one of the drivers who was sadly killed in the Ladbroke Grove accident near Paddington on 5 October 1999. More details can be found here on what must surely be one of the railways darkest days, where a total of 31 people died after two trains collided just outside Paddington.
7 September 2015
Driver Cooper was one of the drivers who was sadly killed in the Ladbroke Grove accident near Paddington on 5 October 1999. More details can be found here on what must surely be one of the railways darkest days, where a total of 31 people died after two trains collided just outside Paddington.
7 September 2015
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North Brewham
After weeks of heavy rain and / or cloud finally a day of sunshine, and an unplanned visit to the idyllic location of Batt's Farm near Bruton.
You can't help but wonder what it was like here "black in the day" when the lineside was clear of vegetation, and neater than it is today, and the passing trains offered far more variety.
That said the iconic HST is always a pleasure to see, and photograph, as 1C81 11:33 Paddington - Exeter St Davids passes by heading west led by 43170, the partially obscured rear power car being 43139 Driver Stan Martin 25 June 1950 - 6 November 2004.
7 September 2015
You can't help but wonder what it was like here "black in the day" when the lineside was clear of vegetation, and neater than it is today, and the passing trains offered far more variety.
That said the iconic HST is always a pleasure to see, and photograph, as 1C81 11:33 Paddington - Exeter St Davids passes by heading west led by 43170, the partially obscured rear power car being 43139 Driver Stan Martin 25 June 1950 - 6 November 2004.
7 September 2015
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North Brewham
It has been four years since my previous visit to this wonderful location, so a return visit was long overdue.
Unfortunately the lineside bushes get bigger, and higher, all the time, making things more challenging year after year. Seen "between the bushes" is 150106 working 2O89 10:42 Gloucester - Weymouth passing North Brewham heading towards Bruton.
7 September 2015
Unfortunately the lineside bushes get bigger, and higher, all the time, making things more challenging year after year. Seen "between the bushes" is 150106 working 2O89 10:42 Gloucester - Weymouth passing North Brewham heading towards Bruton.
7 September 2015
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Berkley Marsh
Colas Railfreight's 70803 powers 6C21 17:47 Westbury Yard - Truro engineers train past Berkley - between Westbury and Frome, whilst 70809 trails to the rear, a Kirow crane is sandwiched in the middle of the consist.
Famous local landmark, the White Horse of Westbury, on the side of Westbury Hill can just be seen above the locomotive some five miles away.
The chimney to the dormant Lafarge cement works can also be seen just above the white barn, again a similar distance away.
16 May 2015
Famous local landmark, the White Horse of Westbury, on the side of Westbury Hill can just be seen above the locomotive some five miles away.
The chimney to the dormant Lafarge cement works can also be seen just above the white barn, again a similar distance away.
16 May 2015
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Oldfield Park
The second steel train, and third and final freight in just over an hour.
This time it's Colas Railfreight's regular Saturday steel out of Tilbury, today though diverted via the B&H and Avon Valley due to engineering works in the Swindon area, and worked by 60076.
With a friendly wave and toot on the horn from the driver 6V62 11:20 Tilbury - Margam passes the gallery at Oldfield Park.
16 May 2015
This time it's Colas Railfreight's regular Saturday steel out of Tilbury, today though diverted via the B&H and Avon Valley due to engineering works in the Swindon area, and worked by 60076.
With a friendly wave and toot on the horn from the driver 6V62 11:20 Tilbury - Margam passes the gallery at Oldfield Park.
16 May 2015
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Oldfield Park
Just 15 minutes later, and with little chance of re-locating, the second freight passes Oldfield Park, this timehauled by 66206 working 6V13 08:12 Dollands Moor - Margam steel train with some 39 wagons in tow.
16 May 2015
16 May 2015
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Oldfield Park
Finally the first of the three freights appears on the horizon, and not without a tense moment as the obligatory "floater" magic's out of nowhere, especially as it was by now a pretty clear blue sky.
Still, 60063 passes with 6B33 11:27 Theale - Margam (via Pewsey and Trowbridge) in some fine weather, much to the relief of the waiting gallery.
It would have looked good from Alexandra Park.
16 May 2015
Still, 60063 passes with 6B33 11:27 Theale - Margam (via Pewsey and Trowbridge) in some fine weather, much to the relief of the waiting gallery.
It would have looked good from Alexandra Park.
16 May 2015
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Oldfield Park
This was something of an unexpected surprise. First Great Western's 2M98 12:27 Southampton - Great Malvern formed of 150129, but strengthened with South West Trains 158882 to the rear. The unusual combination is seen here approaching Oldfield Park station bang on time.
16 May 2015
16 May 2015
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Oldfield Park
Having now re-positioned from Alexandra Park it was time to sit it out on Brougham Hayes bridge for the three westbound freights.
In amonst the procession of HST's and multiple units comes one of First Great Western's "branded" power cars - 43144 - with the 'Building a Greater West' slogan leading 1T19 13:45 Chippenham - Bristol T.M. Due to engineering works east of Chippenham a shuttle service was operating to / from Bristol.
16 May 2015
In amonst the procession of HST's and multiple units comes one of First Great Western's "branded" power cars - 43144 - with the 'Building a Greater West' slogan leading 1T19 13:45 Chippenham - Bristol T.M. Due to engineering works east of Chippenham a shuttle service was operating to / from Bristol.
16 May 2015
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Bath Spa
The view from Alexandra Gardens, high above Bath Spa station, offers superb views over the city as a First Great Western HST arrives at Bath Spa station (lower left).
The original plan was to photograph the Theale to Margam tanks from here, with the planned shot being fairly similar to this, of a red locomotive hauling a red set of oil tanks. However as it was running something like an hour late, and another freight following it, which chances are wouldn't have looked right here, the decision was made to move around to Oldfield Park to "play it safe".
16 May 2015
The original plan was to photograph the Theale to Margam tanks from here, with the planned shot being fairly similar to this, of a red locomotive hauling a red set of oil tanks. However as it was running something like an hour late, and another freight following it, which chances are wouldn't have looked right here, the decision was made to move around to Oldfield Park to "play it safe".
16 May 2015
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Berkley Marsh
Following some six months out of service 59002 has now been returned to traffic.
Still looking extremely spruce after its return from Eastleigh Works 59002 Alan J Day approaches Berkley Marsh - between Westbury and Frome - hauling 7C29 08:50 Acton - Merehead.
24 January 2015
Still looking extremely spruce after its return from Eastleigh Works 59002 Alan J Day approaches Berkley Marsh - between Westbury and Frome - hauling 7C29 08:50 Acton - Merehead.
24 January 2015
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Oborne
Saturday, 10 July, 1993, marked the final day of loco-hauled services
on the Waterloo to Exeter route, the line then being fully worked by
Class 159 units.
Twenty years later and the Class 159s still pound the 173-mile route.
Standing right on the border between Dorset and Somerset 159021 and 159002 are about to cross from Somerset into Dorset, at Oborne, working 1L41 14:20 Waterloo - Exeter St David's.
Take a look back over 20 years ago for a 'now & then' comparison, click here
20 July 2013
on the Waterloo to Exeter route, the line then being fully worked by
Class 159 units.
Twenty years later and the Class 159s still pound the 173-mile route.
Standing right on the border between Dorset and Somerset 159021 and 159002 are about to cross from Somerset into Dorset, at Oborne, working 1L41 14:20 Waterloo - Exeter St David's.
Take a look back over 20 years ago for a 'now & then' comparison, click here
20 July 2013
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Bruton
Passing Bruton is 150120 working 2O89 10:41 Gloucester - Weymouth on Bank Holiday Monday.
27 May 2013
27 May 2013
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Clink Road Junction
Next up at Clink Road Junction 12 minutes later is the regular Freightliner trip of 6C73 12:12 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard at Taunton hauled by 66604.
7 May 2013
7 May 2013
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Clink Road Junction
A nice splash of colour from the white blossom of the blackthorns as an additional Freightliner HeavyHaul works 6Z40 11:47 Westbury Yard - Exeter Riverside Yard and approaches Clink Road Junction with Bardon Blue 66623 Bill Bolsover in charge.
7 May 2013
7 May 2013
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Frome North Junction
Passing Frome North Junction is 66111 working 6M20 10:37 Whatley Quarry - St Pancras loaded stone train.
7 May 2013
7 May 2013
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Bruton
1A81 10:40 Plymouth - Paddington with 43164 leading 43034 past Bruton.
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
Bruton
Looks like Mr Mole has been busy, judging by all the mole-hills in the foreground, as 66067 passes Bruton with 7W31 23:30 Saltash - Westbury Yard.
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
Bruton
With a huge load of 25 auto-ballasters in tow 59002 Alan J Day
passes St Mary's Church at Bruton working 6W41 11:48 Westbury
Yard - Blatchbridge Junction (via Taunton Yard - reverse).
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
passes St Mary's Church at Bruton working 6W41 11:48 Westbury
Yard - Blatchbridge Junction (via Taunton Yard - reverse).
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
Bruton
It might be just a pair of Thames Turbos, but a rare working none-the-less. In connection with gauging trials to Westbury - as part of the altered service due to the Easter 2013 closure of Reading and possible use to Castle Cary during the 2013 Glastonbury Festival - FGW ran this test run, taking the units well away from their normal routes. Here, 165130 leads 166211 past Bruton as 3Z12 12:06 Castle Cary - Reading DMU Depot on the return working.
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
17 February 2013
(RW 24/03/2024)
Wyke Champflower
With Glastonbury Tor in the distance to the left, a First Great Western HST passes through the wonderful Somerset countryside near Wyke Champflower.
25 September 2012
25 September 2012
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Wyke Champflower
In the distance - above the right-hand side power car - stands the village of Evercreech, once synonymous with the Somerset & Dorset Railway.
Speeding through the Somerset countryside is a First Great Western HST.
25 September 2012
Speeding through the Somerset countryside is a First Great Western HST.
25 September 2012
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Witham Hall Farm
A stunning start to the day weather wise as 66622 passes Witham Hall Farm with 6C72 08:20 Fairwater Yard - Westbury Yard.
25 September 2012
25 September 2012
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Witham Hall Farm
The Golden Hind 1A76 05:05 Penzance - Paddington HST passes Witham Hall Farm with 43151 leading and 43139 trailing.
25 September 2012
25 September 2012
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Poole
It was a day of roulette with the clouds but thankfully all but one shot was with a sunny outcome.
Led by 43035, and with 43127 trailing, 1C84 13:06 Paddington - Plymouth sweeps round past Poole.
Time to call it a day and head back to Poole.
19 September 2012
Led by 43035, and with 43127 trailing, 1C84 13:06 Paddington - Plymouth sweeps round past Poole.
Time to call it a day and head back to Poole.
19 September 2012
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Poole
It has been a long time coming but finally making its debut for the class on the Teigngrace log working is Colas Rail's 56094 looking resplendant in the autumn sun.
Hauling the empties down to Devon and running as 6Z52 10:35 Gloucester New Yard - Teigngrace, the train is seen here sweeping round past Poole running an hour and twenty minutes late.
19 September 2012
Hauling the empties down to Devon and running as 6Z52 10:35 Gloucester New Yard - Teigngrace, the train is seen here sweeping round past Poole running an hour and twenty minutes late.
19 September 2012
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Poole
Glasgow to Plymouth on this; delightful!
220020 heads west working 1V52 06:01 Glasgow Central - Plymouth.
19 September 2012
220020 heads west working 1V52 06:01 Glasgow Central - Plymouth.
19 September 2012
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Langport
A slightly late running 1C79 11:06 Paddington - Plymouth with 43017 leading 43022 over Langport Viaduct.
If overhead electrification were to ever reach here, like it will shortly be doing on other parts of the Great Western route, classic scenes like
this - inspired by the late Ivo Peters - will be but a memory.
19 September 2012
If overhead electrification were to ever reach here, like it will shortly be doing on other parts of the Great Western route, classic scenes like
this - inspired by the late Ivo Peters - will be but a memory.
19 September 2012
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Langport
A First Great Western HST passes by almost unnoticed through the Somerset Levels.
19 September 2012
19 September 2012
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Langport
Running an hour early, 6C73 12:12 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard passes over Langport Viaduct with 66615 in charge.
19 September 2012
19 September 2012
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Charlton Mackrell
Until the 10 September 1962, there was a station here at Charlton Mackrell but - in line with other stations between Castle Cary and Cogload Junction - Charlton Mackrell was closed from that date along with Alford, Keinton Mandeville, Somerton, Long Sutton & Pitney, Langport East and Athelney.
Passing the site of the former station and goods yard at Charlton Mackrell is 66613 hauling 6M40 10:34 Exeter Riverside Yard - Stud Farm.
19 September 2012
Passing the site of the former station and goods yard at Charlton Mackrell is 66613 hauling 6M40 10:34 Exeter Riverside Yard - Stud Farm.
19 September 2012
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Berkley Marsh
EWS-liveried 66085 accelerates past Berkley Marsh with the usual rake of orange RMC hoppers - although not a totally uniform rake with a single IIA towards the rear - running as 6A26 10:37 Whatley Quarry - Hayes & Harlington.
06 September 2012
06 September 2012
Frome
'Working of the year' according to one local. Well, who am I to disagree?
Central Trains-liveried but now First Great Western-operated 150101 on the Frome 'cut-off' at Styles Hill working the Fridays-only 2C95 15:20 Westbury - Exeter St Davids; nice.
07 October 2011
Central Trains-liveried but now First Great Western-operated 150101 on the Frome 'cut-off' at Styles Hill working the Fridays-only 2C95 15:20 Westbury - Exeter St Davids; nice.
07 October 2011
Frome
Now over 25 years old and still performing the job for which it was
intended for.
59001 Yeoman Endeavour on the Frome 'cut-off' at Styles Hill hauling
7C77 12:40 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry.
07 October 2011
intended for.
59001 Yeoman Endeavour on the Frome 'cut-off' at Styles Hill hauling
7C77 12:40 Acton Yard - Merehead Quarry.
07 October 2011
Lovington
Having stood in the field in baking sunshine for quite some time with no trains heading east, the minute 66605 appears on the horizon so does a HST going the other way. Thankfully only the tail end of it can be seen by the rear wagon of 6C73 12:15 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard as it passes Lovington.
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Lovington
Bashers don't refer to this bit of line as 'the desert' for nothing with stations and trains few and far between. Passing Lovington, about a mile west of Castle Cary, is 43189 leading 43183 on 1C81 12:06 Paddington - Penzance.
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Lovington
1C79 11:06 Paddington - Plymouth passes Lovington with 43176 leading 43186.
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Gants Mill
An early running 3S13 08:45 Westbury - St Blazey (via Salisbury) passes Gants Mill near Bruton heading west (to the left) with 66199 leading the Rail Head Treatment Train (RHTT) and 66006 bringing up the rear.
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
29 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
North Brewham
The return working of 6C72 from earlier in the morning sees 66620 return an HOBC set, plus auto-ballasters, seen here at Brewham Footpath Crossing running in the booked pathway; 6C73 12:15 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
North Brewham
1C79 11:06 Paddington - Plymouth near North Brewham.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
North Brewham
An idyllic setting in the Somerset countryside and another one of my favourite locations, spoilt only by the occasional passing train like this First Great Western HST heading west.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
North Brewham
Sandite season is upon us again, although the weather is far from autumnal. I made it to the location with literally a minute to spare and captured 66199 leading tail gunner 66006 past North Brewham working 3S13 08:45 Westbury - St Blazey (via Salisbury).
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Witham Hall Farm
59101 Village of Whatley hauls 7V82 05:02 Crawley - Merehead Quarry almost to journey's end at Witham Hall Farm.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Witham Hall Farm
Witham Hall Farm, between Blatchbridge Junction and East Somerset Junction, is the setting for this Centro liveried Class 150 No. 150108 on 2O70 06:49 Worcester Shrub Hill - Weymouth, the unit recently transferred to First Great Western.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Witham Hall Farm
Fifteen minutes behind the early running 6W55 comes 6C72 08:20 Fairwater Yard - Westbury Yard hauled by 66620, again seen passing Witham Hall Farm.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Witham Hall Farm
With early morning mist finally starting to clear 59205 hauls 6W55 06:00 Saltash - Westbury Yard, formed of Network Rail auto-ballasters, past Witham Hall Farm.
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
28 September 2011
(RW 23/03/2024)
Claverton
The penultimate 'Westbury engineers' from Newport due to timetable changes.
66047 passes Claverton hauling 6C41 14:55 Newport AADJ - Westbury which will run to and from Hinksey and Bescot under the timetable change.
19 May 2011
66047 passes Claverton hauling 6C41 14:55 Newport AADJ - Westbury which will run to and from Hinksey and Bescot under the timetable change.
19 May 2011
Claverton
A First Great Western Class 158 sweeps through Claverton on a Portsmouth to Cardiff service.
19 May 2011
19 May 2011
Langport
The third freight in half an hour meant there was little scope for moving elsewhere.
Seen from the trackbed of what was once the line from Curry Rivel Junction to Yeovil Town, 66617 hurries by with the HOBC running as 6C73 12:25 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard just west of Langport.
12 April 2011
Seen from the trackbed of what was once the line from Curry Rivel Junction to Yeovil Town, 66617 hurries by with the HOBC running as 6C73 12:25 Westbury Yard - Fairwater Yard just west of Langport.
12 April 2011
Langport
DB Schenker red 60011 passes the site of Curry Rivel Junction, at Langport, hauling 7C28 11:58 Exeter Riverside to Merehead (via Westbury) stone empties.
12 April 2011
12 April 2011
Langport
One of my favourite locations is around the Langport and Somerton area of Somerset.
This location once upon a time must have offered great views towards Langport Viaduct and the line southwards towards Langport West on the Yeovil line.
Freightliner Heavy Haul's 66619, with five autoballasters, forms 6A87 11:25 Fairwater Yard - Westbury and is seen heading towards Langport
in superb weather.
12 April 2011
This location once upon a time must have offered great views towards Langport Viaduct and the line southwards towards Langport West on the Yeovil line.
Freightliner Heavy Haul's 66619, with five autoballasters, forms 6A87 11:25 Fairwater Yard - Westbury and is seen heading towards Langport
in superb weather.
12 April 2011
Langport
1A81 08:44 Penzance - Paddington First Great Western service speeds along the Somerset Levels towards Langport powered by 43087 and 43145.
The rear of the train is over what was once Curry Rivel Junction, the line to Yeovil Town via Martock losing its passenger service on 6 July 1964 with closure of the line.
The trackbed can just be seen centre left above the edge of the field.
12 April 2011
The rear of the train is over what was once Curry Rivel Junction, the line to Yeovil Town via Martock losing its passenger service on 6 July 1964 with closure of the line.
The trackbed can just be seen centre left above the edge of the field.
12 April 2011
Gants Mill
Sweeping towards Bruton is 66132 hauling five auto-ballasters running as 6W61 06:00 Totnes - Westbury in weather that was not quite as good as forecast.
24 March 2011
24 March 2011
Gants Mill
Class 150 on the approach to Bruton at Gants Mill with a service from Weymouth.
24 March 2011
24 March 2011
Gants Mill
A Weymouth-bound Class 158 sweeps past Gants Mill.
24 March 2011
24 March 2011
Frome
The sole DBS red Class 59 so far, 59206 John F Yeoman hurries along the Frome avoider working 7C31 09:45 Theale - Merehead Quarry.
20 January 2011
(RW 24/03/2024)
20 January 2011
(RW 24/03/2024)
Berkeley Marsh
Catching the early winter light, 66553 passes Berkeley with 6C72 08:20 Fairwater Yard - Westbury Yard formed of auto-ballasters and an HOBC set.
20 January 2011
20 January 2011
Newton St Loe
With Kelson Park in the distance, a First Great Western Class 150 hurries by heading for Bristol.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Newton St Loe
First Great Western HST passing Kelston Hall seen from Newton St Loe.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Flax Bourton
Passing the site of Flax Bourton station, 67028 hammers past on a Cardiff to Paignton service.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Flax Bourton
The Bridgwater flask passing Flax Bourton on its return to Crewe with 37038 leading classmate 37259.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Flax Bourton
A Cross-Country HST passing Flax Bourton heading towards Bristol.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Flax Bourton
67019 passes Flax Bouton with a Paignton to Cardiff service.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Flax Bourton
Another Cross-Country Voyager heads towards Bristol.
02 September 2010
02 September 2010
Milborne Wick
About to cross the border from Somerset into Dorset, 46115 Scots Guardsman with 1Z96 08:25 Kensington Olympia - Weymouth.
The Dorset Coast Express is seen here at Milborne Wick near Sherborne.
09 July 2010
The Dorset Coast Express is seen here at Milborne Wick near Sherborne.
09 July 2010
Crewkerne
A six-car SouthWest Trains 159, led by 159107, is seen here to the east of Crewkerne working a Sunday evening Exeter to Waterloo service in the final light of the day.
22 June 2010
22 June 2010
Lovington
Moody weather as a First Great Western HST heads west away from Castle Cary at Lovington.
19 June 2010
19 June 2010
Langport
D1015 Western Champion crosses the Airfix bridge over the River Parrett at Langport with 1Z27 07:09 Paddington - Minehead Great Western 175.
19 June 2010
19 June 2010
Ansford
The Royal Wessex tour heads towards Castle Cary with 44871 leading 30777 Sir Lamiel on 1Z27 08:06 Paddington - Weymouth.
22 May 2010
22 May 2010
Ansford
With Wyke Champflower in the distance, LMS 5MT No. 44871 leads SR 'King Arthur' class No. 30777 Sir Lamiel towards Castle Cary on The Royal Wessex tour to Weymouth.
22 May 2010
22 May 2010
Berkley Marsh
Surely the working of the year during 2009 was the use of
D1015 Western Champion hired in to move stored 'silver bullet' wagons?
Running as 6Z52 15:55 Quidhampton - Tavistock Junction, the train is seen passing Berkley Marsh near Frome in the final rays of light.
Driven by Robin Gould (aka Robin of Templecombe) this was to be his final run before retiring after a long career on the railway, having started driving in 1955 on the former Somerset & Dorset at Templecombe.
14 October 2009
(RD)
D1015 Western Champion hired in to move stored 'silver bullet' wagons?
Running as 6Z52 15:55 Quidhampton - Tavistock Junction, the train is seen passing Berkley Marsh near Frome in the final rays of light.
Driven by Robin Gould (aka Robin of Templecombe) this was to be his final run before retiring after a long career on the railway, having started driving in 1955 on the former Somerset & Dorset at Templecombe.
14 October 2009
(RD)
Bath
The first Class 37-hauled passenger service (non-railtour) to Weymouth in ten years - and the final loco-hauled service of the summer 2009 timetable - gets away from Bath past Candy's Bridge hauled by 37670 St. Blazey T & R S Depot and 37401 on 2O72 09:09 Bristol T.M - Weymouth.
This early bird is glad he caught the worm because the sun didn't last too long.
05 September 2009
This early bird is glad he caught the worm because the sun didn't last too long.
05 September 2009
Blue Anchor
D1062 'Western Courier' gets away from Blue Anchor, on the West Somerset Railway, working the 16:25 Bishops Lydeard - Minehead.
12 June 2009
12 June 2009
Leigh Wood
D1062 Western Courier passing Leigh Wood AOCL crossing on the West Somerset Railway.
12 June 2009
12 June 2009
Oborne
Literally feet inside the Somerset border, the overbridge marking the boundary between Somerset and Dorset.
31190 in BR green livery passes Oborne, near Sherborne, with 1Q12 07:59 Eastleigh Works - Exeter Riverside which was doing several trips between Salisbury and Yeovil.
11 November 2008
31190 in BR green livery passes Oborne, near Sherborne, with 1Q12 07:59 Eastleigh Works - Exeter Riverside which was doing several trips between Salisbury and Yeovil.
11 November 2008
Bishops Lydeard
34046 Braunton at Bishops Lydeard.
25 October 2008
25 October 2008
Templecombe
The railway lost another well known character on Tuesday, 12 March, 2013, when Robin Gould passed away.
Robin was the last Somerset & Dorset engineman to still drive on the national network before his retirement in 2009. See here for his final driving turn.
A 'This Is Your Life' moment for Robin seen here at a rainy Templecombe just after he had named Colas Rail's 47739 Robin of Templecombe in a surprise (for him) ceremony.
30 September 2008
Robin was the last Somerset & Dorset engineman to still drive on the national network before his retirement in 2009. See here for his final driving turn.
A 'This Is Your Life' moment for Robin seen here at a rainy Templecombe just after he had named Colas Rail's 47739 Robin of Templecombe in a surprise (for him) ceremony.
30 September 2008
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