Great Western Railway (GWR) is proudly showcasing the history of their network and celebrating the rich heritage of Britain’s railways with brand new animated images By delving into the historical railway image archives and commissioning a photographer to capture the stations in their present-day glory, GWR has successfully showcased the gradual development of Britain’s railways over […]
The Railway to Merhead
Recently, I contacted Pete Briddon, an industrial railway engineering specialist, regarding a quotation for fitting a vacuum train brake system to an English Electric diesel hydraulic locomotive. The locomotive is kept on the old Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway at Midsomer Norton. During this process I became aware that Pete had written a book titled […]
Top of the Spots – Old Railway Photos
Over the years I have taken many British railway photos. I’d like to share a selection of railway photos which mean something special to me. It might be the locomotives, rolling stock or location that is important. I hope you enjoy my ‘Top of the Spots’.
Volunteers bring new life to the Somerset and Dorset railway
After a 40 year absence I had the opportunity to work on the P-Way again relaying track. This time it was actual reinstatement of a line closed in March 1966. The much lamented Somerset and Dorset Railway. Mourned by huge numbers of people and now at least part being reborn.
How did you get interested in railways?
As I mentioned in my blog about Starting out at Crewe Works, I had been interested railways since I was frightened by an A4 Pacific as it stormed through the old Stevenage station from the North. I was a small child sitting in my pushchair on the Up platform. I thought it would be fascinating to […]
Lulled By The Sound Of Steam
When I was a child I remember seeing Peter Hanford’s LP’s of steam railway sounds in record shops. Peter was a
How to build a model railway shed
If you have seen my post introducing to my model railway, then you will know I have included a model of Bath Green Park locomotive shed. I am going to explain how I built this model railway shed.
Do you agree with my list of top ten steam locomotives?
Do you agree with my list of top ten steam locomotives? Some locos have held a special place in my heart over the years. I’d like to know what your favourite is and whether it’s on my list or not?
Discover how much luggage can you take on the train
How much luggage can you take on the train? Most passengers have no idea! The National Rail Conditions of Travel sets out passengers’ rights and responsibilities when traveling on rail services provided by franchised train companies. The vast majority of people who purchase rail tickets are unaware of these conditions. Rail tickets are endorsed subject […]
Hunt for Railway Paintings by David Shepherd
A major new worldwide search has been launched, to track down hundreds of original artworks by world famous railway artist David Shepherd– just over a year since his death. It’s believed his paintings have ended up all over the world and now owners of originals by the renowned railway enthusiast and painter are invited to join […]
Let’s thank Beeching for our steam railways today
We owe the successful steam railways of today to the Government’s policy of railway closures enforced by Beeching.
The Remarkable Survival of Steam Locomotive 80150
Steam locomotive 80150 is a remarkable survivor. She nearly did not make it into the world. 80150 was part of the last batch of five Standard 4 Tanks ever built. British Railways tried to cancel this build due to the impending dieselisation. However, the construction was so far advanced that this final batch had to be […]