1313

2048] Advance Fares: Dramatic savings until 13 Oct

t (eg Wrexham - Manchester £6.50 railcard £4.30).

2049] New South Wales? (From document RAIL 258/328 held at National Archives, Kew): In Mar 1920
the GWR General Manager (GM) wrote a memo, with accompanying maps, presumably for the Board,
titled 'New Works in South Wales'. Based on the premise that the density of traffic on the South Wales
main line required quadruple track from Severn Tunnel Jn to Pembrey '… as soon as the financial
position allows'. It proposed a considerable mileage of new lines by-passing, in sequence, the Severn
Tunnel via a new bridge, Newport, Cardiff, Bridgend and Llanelly (contemporary spelling).

Some new connections would be made where these crossed existing lines, anticipating the impending
'grouping' as some were not yet part of the GWR. The aim was primarily to speed freight traffic rather
than passengers. In proposing the new Severn Bridge, with new connections onward to Bristol, the
GM dismissed other options including electrification [sounds familiar!]: The gradients of the Severn
Tunnel (are) 1 in 100 on the English side and 1 in 90 on the Welsh side and these limit the length of
trains which can be safely worked through the tunnel to a maximum of 60 x 12 ton wagons with two
steam locos and two vans … The communication between the two sides of the river could be improved
by the adoption of one of the following courses: [Remember this was in 1920…]

a. Electrification. (It) ... would solve the ventilation problem and so allow of the division of the tunnel
into two block sections, [instead of one] but such a course would entail operating risks which could not
be contemplated. Electrification would also provide for trains to be worked through the tunnel at a
rather higher average speed than now. (But) … the tunnel gradients would necessitate the fitting of
stronger drawgear than is now standard to all railway and privately owned wagons. At best
electrification would only provide temporary and limited relief and this at a very high relative cost.

b. A duplicate tunnel. The unfavourable gradients of the existing tunnel would, in practice, have to be
substantially reproduced in a duplicate one … (and) … the cost would considerably exceed … a bridge.

c. A bridge. The original map above is by permission of National Archives and redrawn, (with thanks to
Dave Cromarty) for BLN and e-BLN, shows this crossing both the Severn and Wye rivers near their
confluence just south of Chepstow and carrying a new line from Portskewett to a junction east of
Coalpit Heath with connecting spurs to Patchway, Stoke Gifford & Stapleton Road. Main advantages:
The gradients involved would be (about) 1 in 240 on both sides. These more favourable gradients
would allow heavy trains … without delays due to alteration of loads to suit working through a tunnel.
A denser occupation of lines.
Lesser cost than a duplicate tunnel. A bridge could be so constructed as to serve road as well as rail
traffic, and would incidentally shorten the road route between Bristol and South Wales by 46 miles.
It is interesting to note that since 1845 eighteen applications have been made to Parliament with the
objective of improving rail facilities between South Wales and the counties south of the Severn estuary.
With four exceptions, all were either rejected or abandoned. Of the 18 schemes, 11 contemplated
crossing the estuary in the neighbourhood of the present Severn Bridge or at some point higher up;
five schemes…..would have crossed the estuary in the neighbourhood of the one now suggested.

Further west, a new central goods depot for Newport was proposed for St Julians, between Caerleon
and Maindee North Jn, also marshalling sidings west of Marshfield on the new avoiding line with a link
from the existing line. The Bridgend by-pass would run: from Peterston through Porthcawl to Margam
Jn, thus avoiding both the Llanharan and Stormy gradients and putting the growing seaside resort of
Porthcawl on the main line. It would also have two connections into the lightly used Aberthaw branch
(Taff Vale); although it is hard to imagine traffic to and from that single line ever justifying the expense.

The final new line would extend the Swansea District Line, opened 1913, around the north of Llanelly
to join the existing route near Pembrey. The report may have foreseen Grouping but not the long term
decline in 'traditional' freight traffic which began soon after; indeed, coal traffic had already peaked in
1913. In the event, only a few elements of the scheme came to fruition - quadrupling between Severn
Tunnel Junction and Newport (in WWII) and a marshalling yard at Margam. However the present
Wentloog intermodal terminal is remarkably close to the site of the proposed Marshfield sidings!

X.140] Now & Then, an Occasional Feature: Our member who treasures his photos, visited the
Helston Railway last week and was surprised to see that the train was steam hauled with a coach
rather than the expected brakevan. He was even more surprised to see that the loco was 'Kilmersdon',
on loan from the Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust at Washford on the West Somerset Railway. The
last time he saw this loco was at Kilmersdon Colliery in July 1971 when he rode on it from the colliery
to the top of the incline. The loco was delivered new to the colliery in 1929 and worked there until
closure in 1973. It was then donated to the S&D trust. The other notable feature of Kilmersdon Colliery
was of course the incline which was one of the last in commercial use in the UK (Corkickle closed later).

ABOVE: 'Kilmersdon' at Truthall Halt in mid-Sep 2018. (All photos by Ian Mortimer)

ABOVE: Even as late as 1971 a working steam loco in daily use on a National Coal Board colliery line
was not an uncommon sight in different parts of the country. Kilmersdon Colliery was a typical
example, although by then was on its last legs.

PREVIOUS PAGE LOWER: The working incline at Kilmersdon Colliery had a triangular arrangement at
the bottom (where the exchange sidings were, just south of Radstock on the former GWR Frome to
Bristol direct line). THIS PAGE ABOVE: 1:25,000 map (1958) about 6" to the mile, showing the colliery
line across the centre and the triangle top right. Frome was off to the bottom right, The Somerset &
Dorset Railway cuts across the top left corner. The two lines crossed at Radstock, just off the map top
middle, the S&D continue to Bath and the GWR line to Bristol.

1313 MINOR RAILWAYS (Peter Scott) [email protected]

MR181] Orchard Farm Lakeside Railway, North Yorkshire (MR p22) (BLN 975.MR174): This 10¼" gauge
railway is a circuit of 600 yards running around the grounds of a small holiday village in Hunmanby.
A phone call here on 9 August revealed the railway was not working, and it was suggested it might not
run again. Further information would be welcome. PREVIOUS PAGE LOWER: Orchard Farm Lakeside
Railway - Father takes a gander at the timetable for the next train. His family was to be disappointed
as no trains were running that day - was the locomotive goosed? (Peter Scott 10 June 2015)

MR182] Avon Valley Railway, Gloucestershire (MR p6): This railway was visited on Thursday 2 August.
The railway centres its operations on the mid-point station of Bitton. Trains operate to the run-round
loops at either end, the normal service thus permitting travel over the whole operational length other
than the necks for loco release. Signalling is minimal. Access to Bitton by public transport is buses
usually hourly from Bath bus station (outside the railway station) and Bristol Parkway station, also
Bristol city centre. The railway's web site mentions a bus from Keynsham, though our reporter who
walked from Keynsham station did not see one. The walk is about 1¼ miles and the road has a foot
and cycle path throughout (not mentioned on the website). Bitton station has a small visitor car park.

Motive power is predominantly industrial steam and one 2-car DMU; there are also two Class 31
diesels. Trains are formed mainly from BR standard design open 'seconds' (ie Second Class) and
compartment 'seconds' mostly in maroon livery. They also have two of the unusual large kitchen
Unclassified Restaurants (RU). The main station building at Bitton is typically Midland style, well
maintained inside and out with a small display of cast and enamel signage. Food in the separate newer
refreshment room is varied and excellent. It is adjacent and permanently accessible to another BR
standard design open second through the former corridor connection. The tables and table cloths are
a bit tired. All staff members are outgoing and greet visitors in a positive and friendly manner.

MR183] Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway (C&PRR), Oxfordshire (MR p7): A visit was made here
on a very damp Bank Holiday Sunday 26 August. Our reporter arrived by train at Princes Risborough in
good time, via Oxford, and was able to purchase Edmondson ticket '2090' (they had apparently started
at '2001') from the small ticket hut, now with a newly added small passenger cover and the only
building on platform 4. Adult tickets at the booking office are £12, children £6, but £1 in some school
holidays. The trains have to be 'top & tailed' until the run round facility (which is not a loop as such) is
completed (hopefully in October) and D8059 was at the head of five coaches - 34671 (locked out of
use), 4584, 35337, 4902 and 1845. GWR 2-6-2T 5526 arrived, coupled to the rear, and hauled the train
back, stopping to pick up the (damp) level crossing attendant at Horsenden Lane crossing. The toilets
are unlocked then too because they have to be locked on Network Rail tracks (leased for 99 years).

At Princes Risborough 08825 was sitting on the run round facility with a short works train and there
was a 'stop' sign on the points at its south end. Five coaches were on the train to establish whether use
of all the available coaches is sensible at busy times (they fit at Princes Risborough but four barely fit at
Chinnor, with the out of use coach being off the platform at the Risborough end). At the end of the
platform is a small (Bay) tree - with a label captioned: 'Many GWR stations were built with a bay at the
end.... Next year we hope to get a lupin' (!).

Trains enter C&PRR tracks at 0m 50ch, just before a run-round loop (0m 57ch) at Thame Junction - a
sign reminds drivers about the token. Enterprisingly, the railway was promoting all sorts of special
events for the rest of the year including a Real Ale and Gin & Cheese (both, as takes your fancy)
evening on 22 September (BLN 1312.1842), Fish & Chip quiz suppers (6 October), Spooks and Ghouls
days in late October, a Carol Singing evening, Santa specials and Mince Pie specials around the New
Year. A trolley goes through the train with hot and cold drinks and light refreshments. There are
envelopes on all tables to collect small change towards re-upholstering the two compartment coaches
(BSKs) at about £1,200 a compartment - the three open coaches have been completed. At Chinnor,
55024 and another bubble car, which our reporter was told was 55023, and a further Class 08 (advised
as being D3016) were just visible in their sidings beyond the platform (well fenced off from the road).

MR184] Canal Central Miniature Railway, Shropshire (MR p22) (BLN 1274.MR26): A phone call to
Canal Central on 30 August brought the reply that the 7¼" gauge railway is not presently running,
while it is being worked on. At the moment they are putting in the foundations for a new loco shed.

MR185] Water Chutes (BLN 1308.MR128): A member comments that he remembers riding on the
Porthcawl Water Chute many times as a child. On one occasion his late grandad lost his brand new flat
cap during the descent! https://goo.gl/C1GT58 is a video 'shoot' (1 minute 11 seconds) of it.

MR186] Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Kent (MR p19) (BLN 1283.MR104): Stagecoach Buses
16 & 102 link this line at Hythe with Folkestone bus station (a 20 minute walk from Folkestone Central
station). On Saturday 14 July our roving reporter graced this historic and well-known 15" gauge railway
with his presence. 4-6-2 No2 'Northern Chief' (DP21500/1925) plus 14 coaches was on the 10.30
ex-Hythe to Dungeness. On return to New Romney it was replaced by 4w-4wDH No12 'J B Snell'
(TMA6143 /1983), as is the usual arrangement so that the steam loco can take water. At Hythe locos
are turned using the turntable, while at Dungeness, the return loop performs the same function.
Our reporter's first visit to the railway was on 12 July 1958 - he has quadrupled in age since then!

BELOW: Brookside Miniature Railway - 'Billie May' hauls a train. (Peter Scott 13 Sep 2014)

MR187] Brookside Miniature Railway, Cheshire (MR p13) (BLN 1307.MR118): The previous operator
of this 7¼" gauge 950 yard long railway at Brookside Garden Centre finished on Sunday 2 September
2018. It was scheduled to operate daily, weather permitting, 11.00 to 15.30 until then. The line then
closed for refurbishment and is scheduled to reopen on 2 December 2018 with new operators from
the Altrincham area appointed. One of our peripatetic members was in the area on Friday 17 August
and paid his respects. The walk from Poynton station took some 25 minutes (go into town and turn
left at the first main road junction as indicated by a brown tourist sign); the bus from Poynton directly
past there ceased from 1 April 2018. Trains were running around every 15 minutes, well supported
with family visitors, behind Union Pacific 4-4wDH 6110 'Miss Katie'. All steam locos had been sold and
signs and other memorabilia not already sold will be auctioned on 6 October at Poynton Leisure
Centre, Yew Tree Lane by GNR Auctions (catalogue online). A small British Railways totem was sold
while our member was chatting with volunteers in the shop, its inner walls more visible now than for
many years after other such sales. Many of the outdoor larger signs and station nameboards dotted
around the railway remained. The volunteers were accepting of the situation and hoping that the new
operators may be looking for their assistance still or they will look to volunteer elsewhere.

On leaving Brookside Central station, the line immediately went through the new Brookside 2017
Tunnel, then alongside the main road outside but at a lower level before circling through the Centre in
an almost figure-of-eight. There is a short connection allowing the outer route within that figure to be
'short-circuited', part of a shorter, earlier loop, which would allow shorter runs, but showed no sign of
use. The line to the turntable by Brookside Central had been lifted as had the short siding just before
the station. It is unclear if this indicates that the railway was to be lifted and then relaid by the new
operator. There are two through platforms, the normal route being that furthest from the shop but
the other was available and covered on request by two members visiting the weekend before. The
shop sold the tickets, separate mauve adult and buff child versions, even though both are £2 per ride!

These were torn off a roll and state 'BROOKSIDE MINIATURE RAILWAY The Greatest Little Railway in
Cheshire', then clipped on the train before travel. [MR Ed: The line first opened in July 1989, although
an earlier ground level 5" gauge line had existed for a short time before that. The garden centre and
railway, at the time of opening, were owned by Chris Halsall, who went on to open a railway at his Hills
Garden Centre at Allostock and a short-lived fruit picking line at Coppice Farm near Poynton.]

MR188] Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Hampshire (MR p18) (BLN 1294.MR230): Sunday
19 August saw our roving reporter visit this site containing 2ft and 7¼" gauge railways. The 2ft gauge
line was operating with 4wPM 'Brambridge Hall' (MR5226/1930) and 4wDM 'Ashby' (MR8694/1943)
topping and tailing one bogie coach. The fare, £1, is additional to the entrance fee%. Two other locos
were in or about the loco shed. The 7¼" gauge miniature railway was not operating ('Sorry'). The track
was noted to be black rust - so is this line out of use or is there just no staff to operate it? (MR Ed: Any
information welcome.) On this day a Car Rally was taking place at the Museum, with around 56 cars
and 30 motor bikes. The Traction Engine shed was visited, but nothing was in steam. The Southampton
& District Transport Heritage Trust has moved into part of the car park with 11 buses present. [%£5
Adults; £4 Concession, £3 Child; £13 Family (sign up to Gift Aid for a free cup of tea). April to October
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays 11.00 to 16.00. See website/enquire about special events at the
UK's only steam driven brickworks such as the monthly 'steam up' (until September) and brick making.]

MR189] Wolds Way Lavender Railway, North Yorkshire (MR p22) (BLN 1220.MR190): An admission
charge of £4.95 applies to gain access to this 7¼" gauge railway. The train ride costs £2 for which a till
receipt is issued, and allows one circuit of the line. A four wheel petrol mechanical locomotive built by
Roanoke is used hauling three sit-astride coaches. There is also a locally built steam locomotive on site,
constructed to a Bagnall design, but it is not used, having insufficient power to pull the train. The
station is called Grosso Junction after one of the varieties of lavender grown. The railway is principally
a tourist attraction, but sees some use during harvesting season for conveying cut lavender to the
distillery, and a couple of wagons are available for this. A restaurant serves light refreshments on site.

[BLN 1313]
X.141] Postland Miniature Railway: ABOVE: This short lived 7¼" gauge railway ran at Crowland
Garden Centre. In the green shirt, behind the driver, is avid minor railway enthusiast and BLS member
the sadly much missed late John Lickfold from Weston-supper-Mare. (Peter Scott 29 Sep 2009)

MR190] Vale of Rheidol Railway (VoR), Ceredigion (MR p29) BLN 1308.1376: A visit was made here on
Friday 3 August. The VoR station at Aberystwyth is nowadays separate from the ATW station, being
accessed through its own car park and ticket office in Park Avenue. All a far cry from BR days (the line
was privatised in 1989), but with only two trips provided on this date, connections were hardly of
relevance. Loco '1213', in Great Western green, hauled a splendid rake of six coaches in contemporary
chocolate-and-cream that would have done Swindon proud. Apart from Llanbadarn and Glanyrafon,
which are merely nameboards, the intermediate stations have most certainly been greatly improved
since our correspondent's last visit. There is also a policy of managing the lineside vegetation which
has greatly improved the views from trains. Capel Bangor station is particularly fine, now boasting a
passing loop, floral displays, a tidy station building and period platform lamp standards; there are
similarly well-tended flowers and buildings at Nantyronen and Aberffrwd. Inexplicably, the Welsh
rendering of the nameboard at Rheidol Falls has a spelling mistake, 'Rhaedr' instead of 'Rhaeadr'. The
northernmost track at Devil's Bridge used for the 'Driver for a Fiver' is disconnected; unfortunately on
this date 'Margaret' remained firmly locked in her shed; the café and bookshop provided alternative
entertainment. Back at Aberystwyth, the very out-of-scale diesel No10 was busy manœuvring stock;
workshop tours are offered twice daily but unfortunately did not fit our member's schedule.

[BLN 1313]
MR191] Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, Gwynedd (MR p29): Wednesday 1 August; a nice
round trip can be undertaken using the 10.05 Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog, 11.35 ATW Conwy
Valley train to Llandudno Junction, 13.13 to Bangor, 13.42 Arriva Cymru '5C' bus to Caernarfon, and
15.40 WHR train to Porthmadog. The FR had two trains in use, hauled by 'Merddin Emrys' and
'Blanche', with 'Lyd' on station pilot/ECS duty. An impressive 11-coach load on the 10.05 included
Pullman observation car '152' and, regardless of 'request stop' status, the train called at all halts and
stations. Lateness of 11 minutes at Tanygrisiau raised fears of missing the 15-minute ATW connection,
but there is evidently 'recovery time' in the schedule as arrival into Blaenau was only 3½ minutes late.

The sparse Conwy Valley timetable [but much better than it once was] makes it difficult to visit the
Railway Museum at Betws-y-Coed, but viewed from the train the 7¼" gauge miniature railway could
be seen in operation, although the 15" gauge electric tramway is clearly out of use, and the ex-BR
rolling stock kept in the open does not look well-maintained. At Caernarfon, the new station building is
approaching completion; meantime the ticket temporary office is a fair walk from the end of line but
just opposite the south end of the platform. Even in the school holidays, the WHR timetable shows
only three trains each way, and only two of those offer a return trip. Locos in use were ex-SAR Garratts
'87' and '143'; the 15.40 was tailed by the very impressive Pullman observation saloon 2100 'Glaslyn',
the other train by '2115 Bodysgallen'. Most request stops were made, with only Bontnewydd, Tryfan
Junction and Plas y Nant omitted, discounting two which have nameboards but are not mentioned in
the timetable, namely Hafod y Llyn and Pen-y-Mount Junction. Altogether, a great day out!

MR192] Newport Transporter Bridge: This is
generally operational April to September 10.00-
17.00, but these times are subject to alteration,
and it would be advisable to ring 01633 656656
before visiting. The return fare is £1.50; an
attractive illustrated light card ticket 15cm x
10cm is issued. This includes admission to the
west bank Visitor Centre, viewing the winding
house, and access to the upper walkway (subject
to weather); a gruelling 270 steps. Newport
Transport service buses No40 & 41 run every
hour on the hour from the Bus Station to St
Stephen's Church, about 10 minutes walk away.

LEFT: These 270 gruelling steps lead to a less
common view of the Transporter Bridge with
Llanwern Steel Works (when it was) in the
background. (The non-acrophobic Ian Mortimer)

MR193] Warrington Transporter Bridge: A
support group https://goo.gl/c51KqP (that is
Friends of Warrington Transporter Bridge) is
working with Warrington Borough Council
towards preserving, and possibly restoring the
structure to working order. The scheduled
monument, Grade II* listed, is on the 'Buildings
at Risk' register due to its poor condition. The
Friends can be contacted at: 4 Chalfont Close,
Appleton, Warrington, WA4 5JT. Walking routes
to the bridge, visible from the WCML, are
available.

MR194] Mid Suffolk Light Railway, Suffolk (MR p8): The railway has planning permission to extend the
railway to Aspall Halt, where a small new platform will be built. Volunteers have already started to
clear some of the vegetation that has grown up on the route since the line closed in 1952, but relaying
the track should be relatively straightforward. A formal sod-cutting ceremony took place on Sunday 26
August to begin work. The railway has brought in Colas to help build the extension and has bought
redundant track from disused sidings in Ipswich. A three-year-programme to complete the extension
has been drawn up, but members are hopeful that if things go well it could be finished before that.

1313 FIXTURES REPORTS (Paul Stewart) [email protected]
2050] Saltmarshe - Hull Signal Box Visits; 13 Feb & 7 Mar 2018, Part 1: By John Cowburn. At the time
of writing, the railway between Goole and Melton Lane, west of Ferriby remains a haven of manual
and primarily mechanical signalling, with 12 staffed installations in a distance of about 15 miles! While
Goole signal box and that at its nearby swing bridge will be retained for now, a scheme to abolish all
but one of the other ten is now approaching completion, although the expected commissioning date
of Apr 2018 was deferred and is now being planned for late Nov/early Dec 2018. Responsibility for the
patch is split between two Local Operations Managers, so separate visits were arranged with relatively
small groups of members on each. For the first, six met at Saltmarshe station for 09.30; some had
already observed the overhead signal box on Goole swing bridge from the east bank of the River Ouse.

Saltmarshe Signal Box is located at the Goole end of the Up platform of the station of the same name.
This has a sparse service (eight Up trains SuX, eight Down SSuX, seven Down SO and nothing on
Sundays) so all of the participants arrived by road. The station still only has a foot crossing to access
the Down platform, though ongoing works appeared likely to change this. It is actually at the small
village of Laxton; Saltmarshe itself is about a mile away on the north bank of the River Ouse.
The Signalling Atlas and Signal Box Directory (Third Edition) by Peter Kay, published by the Signalling
Record Society in 2010, records the box as a 1905 North Eastern Railway (NER) type S2 box. This
definitive work is the source of all other box classifications in this report. It has a brick base and timber
upper and is now fitted with a modern 'Entrance-Exit' (NX) panel, at which the signaller sits. Signals are
colour lights and control is by track circuit block (TCB) with a single stroke bell to Goole Swing Bridge
and absolute block to Gilberdyke. The box supervises the adjacent level crossing and has an interesting
'splay corner', an angled cut away section at the rear, to give the signaller a better view along the road
which crosses the railway at a sharp angle. The crossing is one of two on the line unusually with power
operated barriers but no road lights; in this case the two full barriers each cover both road lanes.

Although not on our programme, some of the group went via Green Oak Goit Gate Box, a couple of
miles towards Gilberdyke, to observe it from the public road. It is staffed by a crossing keeper based in
a modern portable style building who manually operates single lane width white-painted tubular metal
gates with red targets. These open outwards away from the railway and the gates are normally kept
closed to the road unless vehicles need to cross.

Gilberdyke Junction Signal Box is also a NER type S2 box, though much larger than Saltmarshe and
dating from 1903. Most of the boxes between here and Brough date from the 1901-04 period when
the railway was quadrupled to deal with increasing traffic levels. Originally 'Staddlethorpe West', the
box acquired its current name from 5 Aug 1974 (and not 7 Jan 1974/75!) along with the station. It is on
the Down side of the line, just to the east of the double junction where the Selby (main) and Goole
(branch) routes converge. It works absolute block to Saltmarshe and Broomfleet and track circuit
block with single-stroke bell to the former Selby West signal box, now referred to simply as 'Selby'.
The layout was rationalised in the late 1980s, when the four-track section between Gilberdyke and
Broomfleet was reduced to two tracks and new platforms were built adjacent to the former main
lines, in the centre of the formation, at both stations. The signalling was rationalised but not
modernised and the result is eight manual signalling installations in nine miles and one of the greatest
remaining concentrations of slotted home and distant signals in the UK. The box still has a full frame

and this, with the lack of false ceiling and two wooden cased London & North Eastern Railway double
track block instruments on the block shelf, all combine to give the box a very traditional ambience.
Although there is less activity than in years gone by, it is still a very busy box with typically nine or ten
movements per hour. This includes reasonable levels of freight and two such workings were witnessed
during the visit. The box is open on two shifts of approximately nine hours, as are all on the line.

The frame has 55 levers, but 30 are now out of use, and signals are primarily semaphores; the points
of the double junction (which include a single slip rather than diamond crossing to provide a trailing
crossover) are mechanically worked. Normal bell codes are used with the exception of Down trains not
booked to stop at Gilberdyke and for which a 'line clear' has been given by Broomfleet. For these, the
Gilberdyke signaller waits 90 seconds after receiving 'train entering section' from Saltmarshe and then
sends the unusual 'train approaching' bell code (1-2-1) to Broomfleet; this gives the Oxmardyke
crossing keeper, less than a mile ahead, time to lower the barriers and clear the signals.

Heading east, Oxmardyke Gate Box is a brick built NER type S1a structure dating from 1901 located on
the Down side of the line. It is now much larger than is needed for its role, but with sympathetic
replacement windows, a high ceiling and good views, it remains a very agreeable box internally.
Downgraded from a one-time signal box, it contains a reconditioned frame of only 16 levers, of which
seven are still in use; four of these are for the mechanically-worked semaphore home signals and
motor-worked semaphore distant signals in each direction. There are also semaphore distant
repeaters under each of Gilberdyke's two Down second home signals which protect the junction.

However, the adjacent level crossing has the most interest here and accounts for the remaining three
(brown) levers in the frame, which operate the wicket gates and barrier release. An undated black and
white photograph on the wall shows the remarkable former arrangement of ten wheel-operated gates
here. These were arranged in three groups and in the photograph are all being swung simultaneously
across the four-track railway of the time. Roll on several decades and the crossing is now a rare
example of 'wheel-operated barriers', a type of control found only on the former North Eastern Region
of British Railways, whereby a traditional gate-wheel (on the right hand end of the frame) controls
mechanically-operated lifting barriers. As at Saltmarshe, there are no warning lights for road traffic.

Unlike the other non-block-post level crossings in the area, Oxmardyke is normally maintained with

the barriers open to the road and the protecting signals at danger. The crossing keeper has Up and

Down line indicators, which are mounted on the front of the block shelf and a single stroke repeater

block bell is also provided above the indicators on the block shelf. With only the single bell, it is often

not possible to establish whether it is Gilberdyke or Broomfleet offering a train; the bells simply call

the crossing keeper's attention and he/she will then determine which way the train is approaching

from the block indicators. However the crossing keeper must listen to the bells; if the 1-2-1 'train

approaching' bell-code is heard, it indicates that it is time to start lowering the barriers. Otherwise the

sequence is started when the two beats of the 'train entering section' bell code are heard and the

indicator for one or other of the lines flicks across to 'Train in Section'. [To be continued…]

2051] AV Dawson II … Let them eat cake! … Sat 21 Jul 2018: By A Member. On a very pleasant day in
Middlesbrough (no, seriously) I arrived at AV Dawson's on Depot Rd. The 10.00 railtour was just about
to cross returning from the North Sea Supply Base Wharf. There were numerous photographers taking
advantage of the proceedings with some rather bemused road users waiting patiently; they seemed
understanding. I gave my details to David Russell, the BLS
steward. He registered my attendance and gave me a Jim
Sellens masterpiece ticket in return. David also mentioned an
'00 gauge' special Class 08 in RSS livery (£150 reserve - it
sold) and a cab ride on a first come basis for £40 with all
proceeds to AV Dawson's chosen charity, the Middlesbrough
and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation.

[BLN 1313]
ABOVE: Seems like a good idea! Forty Foor Rd level crossing with the large Automtotive Steel Terminal
in the background. (All pictures in this section by BLS Steward Dickie Irvine - access with permission.)

Once in the upstairs refreshment area of the offices, the very pleasant ladies raising money for the
local Grade II listed St John's Church Refurbishment Fund greeted everyone with: 'Would you like a
drink? …and a cake?' With the best part of over 20 different types of homemade cake on display, it
was a shame that I don't eat cake, to others it was cake paradise! In the seated area of this room the
gathering* of visiting enthusiasts held many conversations with snippets of information being wielded
to and fro. (*What is the collective noun? A 'grice of railway enthusiasts', a 'Quail' or an 'enthusiasm'?)

Soon we were ushered into the adjacent meeting/conference room where more formal matters were
about to take place. A presentation, by Charlie Nettle, Head of Commercial and Marketing, outlined
the history of AV Dawson's which, coincidentally celebrated 80 years of business that very month.
The dos and don'ts about photographs, do not touch the (razor sharp) steel in the warehouse, the fire
drill - no test was expected - together with the clear progress the company is making made for a most
interesting illustrated talk. It was obvious to all that Charlie was very proud of the Automotive Steel
Storage Terminal with its temperature and humidity controlled environment plus other features at the
leading edge of technology. He cited several cities from around the World from where visitors had
come to see and appreciate the warehouse with a view to having similar facilities at their locations.

With the presentation over it was a walk through the impressive very smartly kept Automotive Steel
Storage Terminal to find our train waiting outside. The train, in the order of the first move, was 08774
'Arthur Vernon Dawson' (Derby 1960), 786968 'Molly' (some mainline railway companies could benefit
by adopting seating of a similar standard to Molly's) and Cobra's 01567 'Elizabeth' (TH 276V 1977).

BELOW: Thanks to Martyn B, track coverage is shown by the thicker line in BLN; red of course in e-BLN.

Lead FROM TO (Total 3½ miles per railtour) Decimal

08774 AV Dawson Auto Steel Term (outside). clear of No25 points 0.11m

01567 clear of No25 points Ayrton Terminal Warehouse 0.40m
via No23 points 0.68m
0.77m
08774 Ayrton Terminal Warehouse clear of No4 points 0.61m
0.11m
via No23 points, No21 points & No6 points 0.39m
0.43m
01567 clear of No4 points North Sea Supply Base Wharf

via No5 points, No9 points, Road 4, No17 points & No16 points

08774 North Sea Supply Base Wharf Cobra Railfreight Terminal (outside)

via No16 points, No11 points, No12 points, No13 points & No14 points

01567 Cobra Railfreight Terminal (outside) clear of No12 points
via No14 points & No13 points

08774 clear of No 12 points Network Rail Boundary

via No10, 9, 8, 7, 5, 2 points & Metz Bridge

01567 Network Rail Boundary AV Dawson Auto Steel Term (Outside).

ABOVE: Over the Forty Foot Rd Crossing (staffed by Crossing Keeper Martyn Brailsford) at the end of
the line in Ayrton Terminal Warehouse, previously used for steel coils it is now receiving investment.

With everyone on board we departed a few minutes early on the 11.00 trip. After a short distance it
was the first reversal, at No25 points. With 01567 now leading we headed to the Warehouse passing
the Undertrack Unloading Facility on our right with 08600 (Derby 1959) and 08598 'Hercules' (Derby
1959) plus a few JGA and similar wagons. It turned out that these contained the final consignment of
Potash by rail from Boulby Mine, although Polyhalite (K2Ca2Mg(SO4)4·2H2O) traffic continues instead.
At the warehouse itself the traditional BLS 'Kissing of the buffers' ceremony was duly achieved.

We returned back the way we had arrived and could view progress on building of a new £1M rail
loading facility for imported German gypsum. It will enable the gypsum to stay drier with less energy
required to dry it fully when it reaches British Gypsum's site, 'somewhere' in the East Midlands.

When clear of No4 points we reversed and took the right hand road. On our right was an old track
panel graveyard with several score present, all stacked about ten high with a dozen or so stop blocks
on individual short pieces of track scattered around. We continued via No4 road (between points No9
and 17) then across Depot Road Level Crossing and onto the inland road of the two at the North Sea
Supply Base Wharf. The end of this line, which has no traffic, was not quite reached because of steel
stacked across it. The branch to Dent's Wharf remains well blocked. Reversing again it was left at No16
points and from No14 points to the left hand road of Cobra's facility; the highlight of the day for many.

We changed direction once again and when clear of No11 points reversed yet again and travelled on
the left hand road beyond the Metz Road overbridge right up to the Network Rail boundary. The final
reversal saw us go left at No2 points to just short of the Automotive Steel Storage Terminal ready to
form the next tour. Many then took the opportunity to take photographs of the train and locomotives.

It was back to see the ladies in the refreshment area for another coffee again and I selected a lemon
butterfly cake for the long suffering lady in my life. Who said romance was dead‽ I initially wrote the

previous sentence without the 'long suffering' and was asked to insert those words by the said lady.
My first attempt selected a lemon butterfly cake for the lady in my long suffering life did not pass the
domestic vetting procedure which caused butterflies in my stomach. Despite my best endeavours,
the cake would not be accepted as an early Christmas present but, and I quote: 'It was a lovely cake…'
This fixture would not have been possible without a great deal of effort by many organisations and
people; AV Dawson, Cobra Railfreight, Reid Freight, Barrow Hill Roundhouse, Rail Support Services,
PLEG, Martyn Brailsford for the maps, Gary Lonsdale for the stocklist, 'Pogo' for the mileage and moves
report and Jim Sellens (who else?) for the tickets. To the stewards and officials of the BLS, particularly
the one and only indefatigable Kev Adlam, who all gave up so much so the visitors could enjoy a
journey on an excellent fixture. The planning for such an event would be difficult to underestimate.
Getting the rolling stock together, checking the routes available, its suitability for travelling along and
changes which might stem from all that are but just a part of it. I left the site leaving our volunteer
stewards to continue to give up most of their day to bring a lot of pleasure to so many.

While in the area, I decided to have a run to Saltburn to do the remodelled Saltburn West Jn and to
Bishop Auckland for any realignment due to the new Hitachi plant. This only served to remind me how
much those volunteers unselfishly give. Over the next day various members could be seen locally at
places such as the 15" Saltburn Miniature Railway, Darlington Railway Museum, Teesside Small
Gauge Railway as well as Ruswarp and Ryedale Miniature Railways. Others also made a whistle-stop
tour by car including Seal Sands, the Wilton branch, Tees Dock, Redcar and South Gare Breakwater.

One thought regularly crosses my mind, if AV Dawson can make such a welcome increase in the use of
rail freight then what is holding back other companies in other similarly industrialised areas? Finally, a
thank you is long overdue to the wives and girlfriends (or both) who tolerate our absences so regularly
in pursuit of this highly addictive interest but which raised a very creditable £6,300 in total for charity.
A series of pictures taken (access with permission) by our steward Dickie Irivine unless specified…

BELOW: Near Ayrton Warehouse, the view through the Undertrack Unloading Facility.

ABOVE: Between Points 11 and 16 along the edge of the yard, coming out of Cobra Terminal before
reversing to reach the NR Boundary with the third transporter bridge (Middlesbrough) to feature in
this BLN. BELOW: Crossing Depot Road Level Crossing coming off the the North Sea Supply Base
Wharf branch. Martyn Brailsford is on the left facing sideways and Mark Haggas is on the loco balcony.





ABOVE: Hold on tight everyone; the crane shunting demonstration is about the begin … at the end of
the North Sea Supply Base Wharf, inner track. PREVIOUS PAGE: On that branch which is now rarely
used. NEXT PAGE: The highlight of the trip, the Cobra Railfreight Terminal hopper house.



2052] Wester Pickston Railway; Sat 4 Aug: This was
kindly arranged by Simon Mortimer, as quite a few
members were 'in the area' for the Invergarry & Fort
Augustus Railway fixture (a mere 113 miles or just
2½ hours away) the next day. This Wester Pickston
Railway, home of the Scottish Model Engineering
Trust, was a great introduction to the world of
7¼"railways for your author who had previously only
sampled this gauge in the form of short temporary
lines laid at open days and the like. By contrast,
Wester Pickston is very much a 'proper' railway with
multiple loops, varying scenery, viaducts, and even a tunnel! The layout is far too complicated to
describe in detail but BLN 1305 had a full page detailed track plan. The main route is actually dual
gauge (5"/7¼") to run 5" locos, although the ride-on stock is, as common with mixed gauge, all 7¼".

The weather forecast was not promising and the morning brought the usual Scottish dreich¶. Happily,
as we arrived the sun burst out and remained for the whole of our visit, a definite plus for an extensive
tour in uncovered sit-astride stock. Refreshments were provided in the well appointed club room and,
once all had arrived from far and wide, we moved to the railway's main station, Pickston. Our party of
18 (an impressive collection of miniature men and women) divided into three trainloads which the
layout could easily take simultaneously. One steam hauled by WPR No3 0-4-0 'Auld Reekie', one pulled
by replica Barclay industrial shunter 'Puffin' and our train was hauled by BR Class 20 replica '20020'.

I cannot speak for the other trainloads but we quickly fell into a very efficient pattern of working with
our member Henry Kennedy operating points and our BLN editor directing operations from the guard's
position at the back of the train. Exercising his photographic memory of the layout and which bits we
had covered so far, Paul directed our (extremely obliging) driver to literally every available nook and
cranny of the railway - even up the loading/unloading ramp! Certainly the 'Auld Reekie' contingent
also had a similarly obliging driver who liaised with the points operative to gain all running lines before
starting on Ducks End bay platform and siding. They ended up threading multiple roads on the new
shed and turntable branch and even the centre road (of 3) of the carriage shed missed last time!

For public running days, the railway has a comprehensive computer-controlled signalling system based
on miniature (how appropriate!) colour lights. The clever design allows signal heads to be removed for
safe storage when not in use. Given our complex itinerary, the signalling was not in use - we were

'driving on sight' - a tour of the box was kindly given also
showing us some signal heads after. (LEFT: You've got to hand it
to them - these signal heads are a very good idea, two would be
better than one though.)

The railway continues to grow. Since the previous BLS tour a new
turntable has been installed, with at least 16 roads so far and
plenty of space for expansion, so a return visit will be needed. I
would highly recommend this railway to anyone who couldn't
make this visit. Although normally private, they have four public
open days each year. http://smet.org.uk/ will have next year's
dates in due course. (Nick Jones - all photos by Nick too.)

After this excellent visit one car load explored some old railways
including St Fillans station. Although closed in the early 1950s
after less than 50 years of use, or perhaps because of this,
remarkably the Category 'B' listed station buildings, signal box,
waiting room and retaining walls are all intact, original and well
cared for as a caravan holiday park.



[BLN 1313]
The former St Fillans station holiday park is well worth a visit, or stay in the converted signal box and
walk the trackbed by Loch Earn. In outstanding countryside the 1965 Glen Ogle landslip site was seen;
it precipitated the Callander & Oban line closure. Ballachulish branch terminus was also visited.
¶Dreich an old Scots word: 'A combination of dull, overcast, drizzly, cold, misty and miserable weather.'

PREVIOUS PAGE: Two pictures of the main station looking in either direction. In the lower one our
organiser, Simon Mortimer on the platform, is plotting the next moves with one of the volunteers.

BELOW: Permissive working, all three trains can be (just) seen in this shot. Many miniature railways
seem to feature woodlands and very delightful they are too.

NEXT PAGE BELOW: The line to the right leads to a new 19 road turntable (we will need to return
when they are all complete). Also shows detail of an interesting dual gauge point (made on site).

NEXT PAGE BUT ONE, TOP: The end of the new turntable was reached - next time it will be 'spinnage'.

NEXT PAGE BUT ONE, LOWER: The impressive turntable on the shed/turntable branch.







PREVIOUS PAGE TOP: If they had told us before we went that we would be doing the loading/
unloading ramp I'd have said it was a 'wind up' - well actually it was….
PREVIOUS PAGE LOWER: The other main station, Ducks End (one way of deterring ducks - who always
prefer Down Roads, incidentally) where all the track and both sidings were covered by our tours.
BELOW: A very smart carriage shed - fortunately the line was clear to the end.

2053] Blenheim Park Railway, Sat 25 Aug: 24 members (sadly not including a couple stuck on the M6)
met for 09.30 at this 1,000yd, 15" gauge railway on a nice warm sunny Saturday morning with a little
breeze ideal for 90 minutes of private BLS running. Most gathered at Pleasure Gardens station - but a
few went to the wrong end! Some took photos of 'Winston' (AK 94) in the station as others wandered
off to the nearby café which was open especially for us and served complimentary tea and coffee.
The line at Blenheim Palace meanders between the Pleasure Gardens and Palace stations through
pleasant surroundings of trees and open parklands of grassed areas via a tunnel that doubles as the
carriage shed, situated next to the loco shed. There are also a couple of open crossings. Our tour
started from Pleasure Gardens hauled by 'Winston'; the first port of call was the loco shed right hand
line, a portent of the success to come. The end reached, the train propelled out to the running line;
'Sir Winston Churchill' (AK 39) was then attached to the shed end and hauled the train onto the left
hand shed line. This was bonus haulage for many as the loco is not used very often. It then pushed our
train back out to the running line, was removed then 'Winston' re-attached for the run to Palace.
The ride was very pleasant through the grounds in the delightful weather with matching surroundings.

[BLN 1313]
On arrival at Palace, our special was routed into the loop to the stops then pushed back via the loop to
the running line and hauled into the platform line. 'Winston' ran round the train then took us back to
Pleasure Gardens where we went via the loop to the buffer stops. The train was propelled out via the
loop onto the running line where the eccentric part of the hobby began...

ABOVE: A photo stop - the rest of the party are behind the photographer! (Andrew Murray)
One coach was detached from the train and, while half the party rode in it, the other half manually
pushed the coach via the platform to the very buffer stops - 'people power' at its best. At the stops, it
was a change of direction and back through the loop to the running line and to the platform. Then it
was all change; those who rode first became pushers and the pushers became riders. This ensured
everyone covered the entire platform and loop at this end of the line. After these manœuvres, the
coach was re-attached and we set off for Palace again. There the process was repeated for all to
achieve full coverage. The general public was now arriving; some giving strange looks in our direction,
obviously wondering what these nutters were up to pushing a coach around. With the coach
re-attached the train formed the first public run, the 11.00 to Pleasure Gardens with our party aboard.
There it was off to the Pleasure Gardens café for a surprise, complimentary high quality croissants with
tea or coffee for everyone, before heading off to the Beeches Light Railway (BLN 1312.1920). The only
track on the line not covered was the short siding by the tunnel in the loco shed due to its poor
condition. In conclusion a very pleasant visit and, for once, local for the writer. The crew enjoyed it too
'we have certainly never done anything like this before' - that's what we like to hear! Thanks to 'our'
John Cameron for arranging it, the perfect accompaniment to The Beeches Light Railway. (Paul Green).

Details must be checked 1313 CONNECTIONS (Paul Stewart) [email protected] Please mention BLN

.Armchair Member's Special Section:: 2054] Julia Bradbury MkII? 'Walking Britain's Lost Railways'
a Channel 5 series with Rob Bell, six one hour programmes started 21.00 Fri 21 Sep with 'The Moray
Railway' (Elgin - Lossiemouth and Portsoy). It included a significant appearance by our member and
esteemed former BLN Editor of great repute Tony Jervis. Rob Bell had lost the site of the former
Lossie Jn and Tony helped him to find it. (Available on 'My5' https://goo.gl/SkHbR5 for 12 months
after each episode.) Then: 28 Sep Woodhead route, 5 Oct Dartmoor, 12 Oct Lake District, 19 Oct
Somerset & Dorset & 26 Oct Wales. Our sister organisation Railway Ramblers was heavily involved.

2055] Paddington Station 24/7: Channel 5 Mondays 21.00-22.00; a new series began 17 Sep about
recent events, the hot summer and electrification. Also on 'My5' for 12 months - as is the last series.

2056] F(f)estiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, Mon 15 Oct: History Channel; an episode in the
series: "Why does everyone hate the English?" filmed on the railways with comedian Al Murray.

2057] RCTS Free Membership: The Railway Correspondence & Travel Society, for those interested in all
aspects of railways past, present and future, was formed in 1928 by a small group in Cheltenham Spa.
The monthly 'Railway Observer' is published on paper and electronically (samples on website);
meetings are held at 28 local branches. An extensive library of working timetables is available and
RCTS published books are discounted to members. For the 90th anniversary year free membership
https://goo.gl/twUBfq is available until 31 Dec this year (including paper 'Railway Observer').

2058] Blackpool an illuminating trip, Sat 3 Nov: UK Railtours; Euston (08.40/00.30), selected stations to
Rugby (10.40/22.25) and Blackpool North from £79.50; optional double-deck 'Balloon' Heritage Tram (£9)
to Fleetwood (rarer loop possible) and Rigby Road Depot branch. https://goo.gl/FbvcyK 01438 715050.

2059] The Somerset Strimmer (or Rhubarb Rhubarb) Sat 16 Mar: UKRT London Victoria (07.50/20.20), via
Olympia, SW Sidings PU Ealing Broadway, Slough & Reading (09.10/19.00); Class 59/2 loco to Cranmore
(break/steam trip) - Merehead Quarry Jn (rev) - Merehead Quarry - Bath - Rhubarb Loop - Filton Chord -
Avonmouth - Rhubarb Loop - Bath - Hawkeridge Curve - Victoria. https://goo.gl/TQJ4Tj from £79.50.

2060] IR Trekker: Unlimited Irish Rail travel including Dart; 4 days €110 (£99) from ticket offices only.

X.142] Railway Mystery: LEFT: A recent low
resolution picture taken by a member at Enstone
Airfield, Banbury Rd (B4022), Enstone, Chipping
Norton, OX7 4NS, northwest of Oxford on
15 Sep. The standard gauge track is the middle
of: https://goo.gl/mwtCW4 is near the end of a
runway (SP 3846 2580) and about 20 to 30yd
long with a signal and a gantry. Any ideas of what
it is for and its history please?

●Bookings Officer: Jill Everitt, 4 Barnside Way, Moulton, NORTHWICH, CW9 8PT. [email protected]
●Fixtures Secretary: Kev Adlam, 53 Kemble Close, Wistaston, CREWE CW2 6XN. [email protected]
●General Secretary: Tim Wallis, 10 Sandringham Road, STOKE GIFFORD, BS34 8NP [email protected]
●Chairman: John Williamson La Marguertite, Croit-e-Quill Rd, LAXEY ISLE OF MAN, IM4 7JD [email protected]
●Sales: Mark Gomm, 84 Mornington Road, STOKE-ON-TRENT, ST1 6EL. 01782 769960 (day). [email protected]
●Paper BLN Problems: Dave Monger, 6 Underhill Close, GODALMING, GU71NU [email protected] Text/ring Editor.
●Electronic Messages (to submit short notice items/data)/E-BLN or BLN problems: Nick Garnham [email protected]
●Electronic Messages (to sign up) BLS members: https://goo.gl/JqT61k Non-BLS members: https://goo.gl/uCErpL
●Editor: Paul Stewart, 4 Clarence Close, MALVERN, WR14 3HX. 01684562862 07790652351. [email protected]
●MAPS: By permission of the National Library of Scotland http://maps.nls.uk/index.html except where shown.

●Published by the Branch Line Society, 10 Sandringham Road, STOKE GIFFORD, BS34 8NP. ISSN 1354-0947