Seen at the railway


An informal diary of recent interesting news and activity at the railway. We are indebted to all our local correspondents and photographers for this material:




Museum Donations


Recently, Okehampton Station was visited by DRA's good friend Colin Burges of the Exeter and Teign Valley Railway. Colin very kindly donated 4 items for the station museum. They were a London & South Western Railway padlock (stamped 'L& SWR Co' on the shackle), two Southern Railway coat buttons, a wheelset back-to-back gauging rod (stamped 'SRly GAUGE No12 LOCO CONTOUR E'), and the last working timetable for the through route (inscribed 'Okehampton Booking Office').

The gauging rod needs some explanation. The back-to-back dimension of a rail vehicle's wheelset is the distance between the inner faces of the pair of wheels. On a standard gauge (4' 8 1/2 ") rail, it has a nominal dimension of 4' 5 5/8". It is important that the dimension isn't undersized (i.e. the wheels too close together), otherwise when passing through points there is a danger of one wheel derailing as the other is constrained by the checkrail. To check this parameter, locomotive sheds kept a gauging rod such as this one. If it would fit between the wheels then the wheelset was OK.

The hardware items are now on display in the Arthur Westlake Museum. The timetable has been added to the already rather large document and photograph backlog of DRA's hard working archive volunteer, David Naylor.

Following his visit, Colin unloaded his bicycle from his little truck, and rode a 35 mile route through Halwill and Hatherleigh. You can read all about it here, in number 98 in a series of travelogues, mostly on West Country railway themes, which enjoy the title 'Scouting'. They are affectionate and highly informative essays, with occasional necessary acerbity; you might like to set aside a couple of evenings and read the whole series.

The interesting, if not very photogenic, gauging rod.brDate taken 10072024

The interesting, if not very photogenic, gauging rod.
Date taken: 10/07/2024



LSWR padlock and SR coat buttons not to same scalebrDate taken 10072024

LSWR padlock and SR coat buttons (not to same scale!)
Date taken: 10/07/2024



1967-1968 working timetablebrDate taken 10072024

1967-1968 working timetable
Date taken: 10/07/2024




DMU Variety


Unusually on Sunday Feb 18th there were 5 different types of DMU formations at Okehampton: 2 car 158, 3 car 158, 3 car 166, 2 car 150 and 4 car 150 units. This was the most variety ever at Okehampton on one day, they were variously on Paignton and Exeter St Davids revised services due to line closure between St Davids and Central for planned Engineering works. Dave Ellis's photos below show the 166.

Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18022024

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/02/2024



Looking west towards the wildernessbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18022024

Looking west towards the wilderness
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/02/2024


Unusual Visitors


Our thanks to local resident Dave Ellis, who is our eyes and ears around Okehampton Station and stayed up late for a couple of these.

Class 66 66113 on the Plymouth end of a late evening railhead treatment train RHTT in Okehampton Station.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 05102023

Class 66 66113 on the Plymouth end of a late evening railhead treatment train (RHTT) in Okehampton Station.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 05/10/2023



Class 66 66097 on the Exeter end of a late evening RHTT in Okehampton Station.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 05102023

Class 66 66097 on the Exeter end of a late evening RHTT in Okehampton Station.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 05/10/2023



A change from the usual class 150s - GWR Class 166 'Networker Turbo' 166219 at Okehampton on a scheduled Sunday service.  brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 24092023

A change from the usual class 150s - GWR Class 166 'Networker Turbo' 166219 at Okehampton on a scheduled Sunday service.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 24/09/2023




How things were


Class 20s 20169 and 20184 at Meldon Quarry with Fielding  WattsPathfinder's 'Devonshire Dart' railtour.brPhotographer Chris MilnerbrDate taken 08071984

Class 20s 20169 and 20184 at Meldon Quarry with Fielding & Watts/Pathfinder's 'Devonshire Dart' railtour.
Photographer: Chris Milner
Date taken: 08/07/1984



50 years since Pathfinder started operating railtours, here's a splendid image of one of their offerings in 1984. Meldon Quarry has changed a tad since. Does anyone recall seeing the train, or travelling on it? Our thanks to Chris Milner for permission to use the photo.


New shop floor


The renovation of the floor of our shop and the NPA visitor centre has been completed (by Ryan's), and looks fantastic.

Tom and Graham admiring the new floorbrPhotographer Andy TurnerbrDate taken 12072023

Tom and Graham admiring the new floor
Photographer: Andy Turner
Date taken: 12/07/2023



Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 11072023

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 11/07/2023




Traction variety


The latest period of industrial action resulted in the use of former �??Thames Turbo�?? 2-car class 165 DMU 165137 on Okehampton services. Our thanks to Dave Ellis for a couple of pictures of one of the workings, with a quiet Okehampton station looking its best in glorious weather.

Class 165 165137 at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 04062023

Class 165 165137 at Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 04/06/2023



165137 opposite some of Okehampton's well tended flower beds.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 04062023

165137 opposite some of Okehampton's well tended flower beds.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 04/06/2023




The first use of a class 165 on the Dartmoorline was a few weeks earlier

Some welcome variety Class 165 Networker Turbo DMU 165132, based at Bristol St Phillips Marsh Depot, replaced the regular class 150 units on several services on May 3rdbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 03052023

Some welcome variety; Class 165 Networker Turbo DMU 165132, based at Bristol St Phillips Marsh Depot, replaced the regular class 150 units on several services on May 3rd
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 03/05/2023




The Meldon Line


Whilst visiting the railway to present new rail signs to campaign groups (see news item 23/04/23 'Signs of things to come'), Colin Burges cycled along the Meldon section and looked at the effect of 3 years without maintenance:

Photographer Colin BurgesbrDate taken 20042023

Photographer: Colin Burges
Date taken: 20/04/2023



Photographer Colin BurgesbrDate taken 20042023

Photographer: Colin Burges
Date taken: 20/04/2023



Someone has gone to great lengths and hazard to add unintelligible graffiti.brPhotographer Colin BurgesbrDate taken 20042023

Someone has gone to great lengths and hazard to add unintelligible graffiti.
Photographer: Colin Burges
Date taken: 20/04/2023



Photographer Colin BurgesbrDate taken 20042023

Photographer: Colin Burges
Date taken: 20/04/2023




Activity at Okehampton's transport hub



Class 158 Super Sprinter 158769 deputising for the usual class 150 on the 1225 Okehampton to Exeter Central.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 12032023

Class 158 Super Sprinter 158769 deputising for the usual class 150 on the 1225 Okehampton to Exeter Central.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 12/03/2023



Class 158 158769 in Okehampton platform 3brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 12032023

Class 158 158769 in Okehampton platform 3
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 12/03/2023



The three buses lined up shortly before departure are the 1025 to Launceston, 1030 to Exeter via Whiddon Down and Tedburn and 1025 to BudebrPhotographer A visitor to OkehamptonbrDate taken 06032023

The three buses lined up shortly before departure are the 1025 to Launceston, 1030 to Exeter via Whiddon Down and Tedburn and 1025 to Bude
Photographer: A visitor to Okehampton
Date taken: 06/03/2023



Through the Waiting Room window Welcoming flowers as often provided in the past at stations, the 1930s Art Deco furniture, the 1025 train to Exeter Central with about 40 passengers, a deserted Downside platform bench and in the distance the former Goods Shed, now a Youth Hostel.brPhotographer A visitor to OkehamptonbrDate taken 06032023

Through the Waiting Room window: Welcoming flowers as often provided in the past at stations, the 1930’s ‘Art Deco’ furniture, the 1025 train to Exeter Central (with about 40 passengers), a deserted Downside platform bench and in the distance the former Goods Shed, now a Youth Hostel.
Photographer: A visitor to Okehampton
Date taken: 06/03/2023




Preparations for February lineside works


Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 16022023

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 16/02/2023



The above shows a low loader delivering a Road Rail Digger from Quattro Plant�??s Newton Abbot Liverton Depot to the site of Okehampton Parkway station car park, for use on lineside drainage improvements during the planned closure of the Okehampton line and North Devon line from Monday 20th to Friday 24th February. Details of the replacement buses are on our Services page.




Station team


Some of Okehampton Station's unsung heroes. Volunteer wardens - 2 Daves and Geoff - take a break during one of their regular patrols keeping the station looking tidy and cared for.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 21122022

Some of Okehampton Station's unsung heroes. Volunteer wardens - 2 Daves and Geoff - take a break during one of their regular patrols keeping the station looking tidy and cared for.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 21/12/2022




Busy Sunday at Okehampton


Our roving reporter Tony Hill was at a busy Okehampton Station on December 4th with his little camera, recording the following, emphasising the station's emerging role as a local transport hub.

Some of the 75 or so passengers about to board the 1125 train to Exeter CentralbrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 04122022

Some of the 75 or so passengers about to board the 1125 train to Exeter Central
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 04/12/2022



The 1130 service 118 Rail Link bus to Tavistock operated by DartlinebrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 04122022

The 1130 service 118 Rail Link bus to Tavistock operated by Dartline
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 04/12/2022



The 1228 service 6 bus to Bude,  operated on Sundays by Plymouth Citybus Go Cornwall.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 04122022

The 1228 service 6 bus to Bude, operated on Sundays by Plymouth Citybus ‘Go Cornwall’.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 04/12/2022





Okehampton booking office and waiting room


Our thanks to Richard Burningham of the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership for the following photos, showing the latest status of the Platform 3 booking office and waiting room:


Photographer Richard BurninghambrDate taken 23112022

Photographer: Richard Burningham
Date taken: 23/11/2022



Photographer Richard BurninghambrDate taken 23112022

Photographer: Richard Burningham
Date taken: 23/11/2022



Photographer Richard BurninghambrDate taken 23112022

Photographer: Richard Burningham
Date taken: 23/11/2022



Photographer Richard BurninghambrDate taken 23112022

Photographer: Richard Burningham
Date taken: 23/11/2022



Photographer Richard BurninghambrDate taken 23112022

Photographer: Richard Burningham
Date taken: 23/11/2022




Some recent Okehampton images



Network Rail contractors at work in Okehampton Station carpark cutting back overhanging trees to improve the clearance for double decker buses. brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26102022

Network Rail contractors at work in Okehampton Station carpark cutting back overhanging trees to improve the clearance for double decker buses.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/10/2022



Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 23082022

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 23/08/2022



Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 23082022

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 23/08/2022



Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 23082022

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 23/08/2022



Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 23082022

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 23/08/2022



Upgrade work on the Dartmoor Line


Our thanks to Dave Ellis, Tony Hill, Tom Baxter,Colas driver Alan Peters and David Tozer for this selection:

Seen on Sun 10th July 2022 near Stoke Canon is the 0815 Engineers train from Crediton to Westbury with Colas class 70 locos 70815 and 70808, having been loaded overnight SatSun 9th10th July with the last of the spoil and ballast to be cleared from the Fatherford trackworks improvements carried out over the April 25th to May 9th 2022 Okehampton line blockade.brPhotographer David TozerbrDate taken 10072022

Seen on Sun 10th July 2022 near Stoke Canon is the 0815 Engineers train from Crediton to Westbury with Colas class 70 locos 70815 and 70808, having been loaded overnight Sat/Sun 9th/10th July with the last of the spoil and ballast to be cleared from the Fatherford trackworks improvements carried out over the April 25th to May 9th 2022 Okehampton line blockade.
Photographer: David Tozer
Date taken: 10/07/2022



Early morning at a verdant Sampford Courtenay. Colas Rail Freight 70808 working 6C22 from Okehampton to Westbury with spoilballast from recent blockade works near Fatherford.brPhotographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 22052022

Early morning at a verdant Sampford Courtenay. Colas Rail Freight 70808 working 6C22 from Okehampton to Westbury with spoil/ballast from recent blockade works near Fatherford.
Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 22/05/2022



Fancy roadrail vehicle RRV access point at the north end of the Okehampton car park.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 22052022

Fancy road/rail vehicle (RRV) access point at the north end of the Okehampton car park.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 22/05/2022



Close-up of the Strail access pointbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 22052022

Close-up of the Strail access point
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 22/05/2022



View from Camp Park Bridge number 610. The Military sidings area was quite useful for access on this job and the working area had been stoned out for the occasion.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26042022

View from Camp (Park) Bridge (number 610). The Military sidings area was quite useful for access on this job and the working area had been stoned out for the occasion.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/04/2022



View from the Granite Way of the HOBC under Camp Bridge.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26042022

View from the Granite Way of the HOBC under Camp Bridge.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/04/2022



Colas Class 70 70803 with the HOBC from the Granite WaybrPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26042022

Colas Class 70 70803 with the HOBC from the Granite Way
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/04/2022



70803 going so slowly with the HOBC that Tom was able to overtake it.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26042022

70803 going so slowly with the HOBC that Tom was able to overtake it.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/04/2022



Some of the stuff excavated from the cutting at Fatherford which jammed the conveyor system.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26042022

Some of the stuff excavated from the cutting at Fatherford which jammed the conveyor system.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/04/2022



70803 with the HOBC at Okehampton Station. Also apparent is the much improved Platform 3 building roof and canopy.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 27042022

70803 with the HOBC at Okehampton Station. Also apparent is the much improved Platform 3 building roof and canopy.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 27/04/2022



Not quite as elegant as a Drummond T9, but fairly capable nevertheless.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 30042022

Not quite as elegant as a Drummond T9, but fairly capable nevertheless.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 30/04/2022



Privatised military vehicle recovery. Oddly prescient registration number.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 26042022

Privatised military vehicle recovery. Oddly prescient registration number.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 26/04/2022





The high output ballast cleaner train departing OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 27042022

The high output ballast cleaner train departing Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 27/04/2022




Looking west towards Fatherford from the Exeter Road overbridge on the Okehampton outskirts. brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 26042022

Looking west towards Fatherford from the Exeter Road overbridge on the Okehampton outskirts.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 26/04/2022


In the above image the new track and ballast, laid in April 2021, has been temporarily removed, to allow further traxcavation (Tony's word!) and preparation of the now single line formation, laying of waterproof membrane, installation of improved and larger pipe drainage system, prior to reinstatement of track and new ballast with a planned line speed of 65 mph at this location. The extensive tree removal and slope stabilisation works done here, by Network Rail contractors in 2021, can be seen on the downside cutting.


View east from the same Exeter Road overbridge as in the above photo.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 26042022

View east from the same Exeter Road overbridge as in the above photo.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 26/04/2022


The view east shows some of the long welded track removed and the McCulloch Rail self propelled Panel Lifters used. The upside cess is full of water despite several days of dry weather. When, until 1971, this was a double line railway, with a line speed of 45mph, both cesses and their associated drainage systems were manually and regularly kept in a functioning condition.


Colas Rail class 70 70803 arriving at Okehampton with the high output ballast cleaner train brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 25042022

Colas Rail class 70 70803 arriving at Okehampton with the high output ballast cleaner train
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 25/04/2022





Okehampton braced


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18022022

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/02/2022





Work in progress at Okehampton Station (updated 05/02/2022)



We are grateful to Geoff Horner for the following series of photos showing the current state of progress with the refurbishment of Okehampton Station. Geoff was a bit disappointed not to find anyone actually working.

The east end of the main station building on platform 3brPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

The east end of the main station building on platform 3
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



Looking west at the main buildingbrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

Looking west at the main building
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



West end of the main station buildingbrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

West end of the main station building
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



The main building roof, seen from the footbridgebrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

The main building roof, seen from the footbridge
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



The signalboxbrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

The signalbox
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



The signalbox seen from the road. brPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

The signalbox seen from the road.
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



The east end of the main building, from the car parkbrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

The east end of the main building, from the car park
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022



1330 Dartline departure for Tavistock which connected with the 1317 arrival from ExeterbrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 26012022

1330 Dartline departure for Tavistock which connected with the 1317 arrival from Exeter
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 26/01/2022




Geoff returned the following week and encountered a bit more activity

Work in progress on the platform 3 main building roofbrPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 02022022

Work in progress on the platform 3 main building roof
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 02/02/2022





Footbridge lighting


A few photos from Tom Baxter showing the changeover of the electrics for the footbridge lighting. Completed by DCC Highways Lighting, using a team from their electrical contractor SSE. The job involved changing supply to come off the down platform side rather than up (i.e. now NR) side.

SSE rather amazingly got their truck loaded with lampposts and an onboard crane under Klondyke Bridge 609. A bridge that has caught up many in the past.

The job made a nice change from orange hi vis.

Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 09122021

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 09/12/2021



Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 09122021

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 09/12/2021



Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 09122021

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 09/12/2021





Not our best signage



Doctor Shop I presume

Doctor Shop I presume?





Reopening miscellany


The first public train on reopening day, comprising 150233 and 150221, the 0632 for Okehampton waiting time at Exeter St.DavidsbrPhotographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 20112021

The first public train on reopening day, comprising 150233 and 150221, the 0632 for Okehampton waiting time at Exeter St.Davids
Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 20/11/2021



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 20112021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 20/11/2021



The Network Rail Track Testing Train with ex-LNER, now Colas, HST Power cars 43251 and 43272, at Okehampton briefly around 0800 before departing for Derby.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 17112021

The Network Rail Track Testing Train with ex-LNER, now Colas, HST Power cars 43251 and 43272, at Okehampton briefly around 0800 before departing for Derby.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 17/11/2021



The NR track testing train passing the new GMS-R mast on the way back to DerbybrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 17112021

The NR track testing train passing the new GMS-R mast on the way back to Derby
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 17/11/2021






Celeb train


Our thanks to Paul Vodden who photographed the VIP special at Crediton:

Very smart class 150 150233 arriving at CreditonbrPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Very smart class 150 150233 arriving at Crediton
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Rt. Hon. Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for TransportbrPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Rt. Hon. Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



and at Okehampton

Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021



Some of the railway workforce who have contributed to the reopening effort.brPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 17112021

Some of the railway workforce who have contributed to the reopening effort.
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 17/11/2021








Final Preparations


Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 16112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 16/11/2021



Photographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 16112021

Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 16/11/2021





Network Measurement Train


Recently the railway was visited by Network Rail's Network Measurement Train. We are grateful to David Tozer for the following image of it at Silverton on its return to the Railway Technical Centre at Derby.

The Colas worked track testing Network Measurement Train with HST power cars 43274 and 43272 forming the 0025 Sat 1Q40 Exeter Riverside to Derby R.T.C via Crediton-Okehampton-Crediton three times.brPhotographer David TozerbrDate taken 30102021

The Colas worked track testing Network Measurement Train with HST power cars 43274 and 43272 forming the 0025 (Sat) 1Q40 Exeter (Riverside) to Derby (R.T.C) via Crediton-Okehampton-Crediton three times.
Photographer: David Tozer
Date taken: 30/10/2021




Class 158


A class 158 Super Sprinter unit attached to a class 150 unit ran from Exeter Depot to Okehampton and back on the morning of Saturday October 9th to test clearances etc for the class 158. Whilst regular Okehampton services are expected to be formed of class 150 units, at times class 158 and 165/66 units may instead be used.

158750 and 150221 at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 09102021

158750 and 150221 at Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 09/10/2021





Driver Training


Driver training for the new Exeter service commenced on Monday September 20th.

150246 preparing for departure.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 20092021

150246 preparing for departure.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 20/09/2021



150246 arriving at Okehampton platform 3 on another training run.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 20092021

150246 arriving at Okehampton platform 3 on another training run.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 20/09/2021



150246 arriving on the first driver training run.brPhotographer David BellbrDate taken 20092021

150246 arriving on the first driver training run.
Photographer: David Bell
Date taken: 20/09/2021





Platform 2 connection


The points and ground frame at the Meldon end of Okehampton station connecting the platform 2 road have been removed and replaced with plain track.

Very tidy transition between old and new.brPhotographer David BellbrDate taken 20092021

Very tidy transition between old and new.
Photographer: David Bell
Date taken: 20/09/2021



The truncated platform 2 track at the former station throat.brPhotographer David BellbrDate taken 20092021

The truncated platform 2 track at the former station throat.
Photographer: David Bell
Date taken: 20/09/2021



The ground frame, destined for the museum.brPhotographer David BellbrDate taken 20092021

The ground frame, destined for the museum.
Photographer: David Bell
Date taken: 20/09/2021



New sleepers at the Meldon end of Okehampton Station, preparatory to plain lining the ground frame operated points.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 16092021

New sleepers at the Meldon end of Okehampton Station, preparatory to plain lining the ground frame operated points.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 16/09/2021





Superpower at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Jon KelseybrDate taken 04082021

Superpower at Okehampton
Photographer: Jon Kelsey
Date taken: 04/08/2021



Ballasting


GBRf class 66 66784 'Keighley  Worth Valley Railway' arrived overnight on July 20th with a train of  autoballasters. After unloading it proceeded to Meldon to run round, then idled at Okehampton before heading back to Westbury late in the afternoon, via a second runround at Exeter Riverside. brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 21072021

GBRf class 66 66784 'Keighley & Worth Valley Railway' arrived overnight on July 20th with a train of autoballasters. After unloading it proceeded to Meldon to run round, then idled at Okehampton before heading back to Westbury late in the afternoon, via a second runround at Exeter Riverside.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 21/07/2021



Another view of 66784 with the train of autoballasters at Okehampton StationbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 21072021

Another view of 66784 with the train of autoballasters at Okehampton Station
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 21/07/2021



The Colas ballast tamper DR 73924 at Okehampton Station on July 7th. Thanks to Dave Ellis for the photos, and Tony Hill for the commentary.

Colas Rail's Plasser and Theurer ballast tamper DR 73924 brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 07072021

Colas Rail's Plasser and Theurer ballast tamper DR 73924
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 07/07/2021



A busy scene at Okehampton the tamper stabled on the former down platform line  and a train of 20 'Falcon' bogie opens, with a Colas class 70 loco each end, being loaded with scrap sleepers for the NR Westbury materials recovery depot.  In the distance can be seen stacks of more scrap track that has been ferried by road rail vehicles with trailers, back to Okehampton from along the 11 miles of track that has been renewed with concrete sleepers and continuous welded rail, currently in the process of receiving its final ballasting and tamping.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 07072021

A busy scene at Okehampton the tamper stabled on the former down platform line and a train of 20 'Falcon' bogie opens, with a Colas class 70 loco each end, being loaded with scrap sleepers for the NR Westbury materials recovery depot. In the distance can be seen stacks of more scrap track that has been ferried by road rail vehicles with trailers, back to Okehampton from along the 11 miles of track that has been renewed with concrete sleepers and continuous welded rail, currently in the process of receiving its final ballasting and tamping.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 07/07/2021



The tamper standing on the down platform siding extension, being refuelled from a road vehicle positioned in the Youth Hostel yard.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 07072021

The tamper standing on the down platform siding extension, being refuelled from a road vehicle positioned in the Youth Hostel yard.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 07/07/2021





Polar postscript






Scrap track removal


In recent weeks, heavy lorries have been used to remove the old track which was replaced during the relaying, much to the concern of local residents. However, on Wednesday June 23rd the first scrap track was despatched by rail from Okehampton to the NR materials recovery depot at Westbury. Some pictures below.

70811 awaiting departurebrPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 30062021

70811 awaiting departure
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 30/06/2021



Scrap rail materials being loaded at Okehampton. Colas class 70 70812.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 23062021

Scrap rail materials being loaded at Okehampton. Colas class 70 70812.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 23/06/2021



View from the Okehampton Station footbridge of the train partially loaded with old sleepersbrPhotographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 23062021

View from the Okehampton Station footbridge of the train partially loaded with old sleepers
Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 23/06/2021



Colas class 70 70817 on the Exeter end of the trainbrPhotographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 23062021

Colas class 70 70817 on the Exeter end of the train
Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 23/06/2021



Roadrailers unloading scrap track panels at the site of the former military sidings.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 24052021

Roadrailers unloading scrap track panels at the site of the former military sidings.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 24/05/2021



More scrap panels being unloaded, with the de-vegged Bridge 610 Tors Road in the background.brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 24052021

More scrap panels being unloaded, with the de-vegged Bridge 610 (Tors Road) in the background.
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 24/05/2021





Unusual Traction


Kawasaki Mule in Okehampton StationbrPhotographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 29052021

Kawasaki Mule in Okehampton Station
Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 29/05/2021





Track renewal


Track renewal has started in earnest. We are grateful to Paul Vodden at Crediton Station, Dick Henrywood at Bow Station, Ron Kirby and Dave Ellis at Okehampton Station, Tony Hill out and about, and driver Alan Peters, for the following photos which give a flavour of the extent of the works.

Dick commented:- "Lots of passing activity at Bow Station in preparation for the arrival of two deliveries, the first hauled by Colas Rail 56302 with more sleepers but also the Balfour Beatty NTC track laying machine. It was followed by 70808 with yet more sleepers. The two were assembled at Okehampton and then passed again on the way back to their work site to the East of Bow. This was the first recorded Class 56 to visit the line for at least a decade". Dick also reminds us of the Bow Station information on his own website www.reynardine.co.uk/BowStation/BowStation.html.

Tony explained what was happening in his first 2 images:- "First job - sever and remove to lineside the old track with road rail vehicles and prepare the new trackbed, including surveying and marking out the centre etc. Spread some new bottom ballast (from lineside stockpile) if needed in readiness for when the relaying train starts at the east end of the existing CWR (continuous welded rail) at Bow, then working to just beyond Landsend level crossing and meet the existing CWR at milepost 186."

There's a Balfour Beatty video of the track construction machine at work here, and you can see footage of the BB equipment in use on April 19th east of Bow here.


A few more pictures of the track work, thanks to Dave Ellis:

Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 13052021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 13/05/2021



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 13052021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 13/05/2021



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 13052021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 13/05/2021



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 13052021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 13/05/2021



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 13052021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 13/05/2021



After DRCIC closed for business at the end of 2019, much consternation was caused by the discovery of a damaged section of rail in the points at the Meldon end of Okehampton Station. NR took the repair in their stride,brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 09012021

After DRCIC closed for business at the end of 2019, much consternation was caused by the discovery of a damaged section of rail in the points at the Meldon end of Okehampton Station. NR took the repair in their stride,
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 09/01/2021



Another view of the repaired point.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 09012021

Another view of the repaired point.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 09/01/2021




Tamper at Bow Station:

The Colas tamper, seen from the Bow Stationmasters bedroom windowbrPhotographer Dick HenrywoodbrDate taken 09052021

The Colas tamper, seen from the Bow Stationmaster’s bedroom window!
Photographer: Dick Henrywood
Date taken: 09/05/2021




A couple of photos from Ron Kirby taken on May 10th when relaying work started at Okehampton Station:

Photographer Ron KirbybrDate taken 10052021

Photographer: Ron Kirby
Date taken: 10/05/2021



Photographer Ron KirbybrDate taken 10052021

Photographer: Ron Kirby
Date taken: 10/05/2021



Thanks to Alan Peters for the next 4 photos, showing the scene at Meldon on the afternoon of Friday May 7th:

Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 07052021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 07/05/2021



Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 07052021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 07/05/2021



Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 07052021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 07/05/2021



Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 07052021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 07/05/2021








Looking east from Sampford Courtenay main road overbridgebrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 04052021

Looking east from Sampford Courtenay main road overbridge
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 04/05/2021



Looking west from Sampford Courtenay main road overbridge with roadrailers regrading the trackbed etc for 55mph running.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 04052021

Looking west from Sampford Courtenay main road overbridge with roadrailers regrading the trackbed etc for 55mph running.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 04/05/2021



A view from the western end of the former goods yard at North TawtonbrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 27042021

A view from the western end of the former goods yard at North Tawton
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 27/04/2021



The Balfour Beatty New Track Construction trainbrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 27042021

The Balfour Beatty New Track Construction train
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 27/04/2021



The Balfour Beatty New Track Construction train approaching North Tawton, with Dartmoor in the background.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 27042021

The Balfour Beatty New Track Construction train approaching North Tawton, with Dartmoor in the background.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 27/04/2021



One of the NR signs responsibly erected it is meant to refer to road trafficbrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 19042021

One of the NR signs responsibly erected; it is meant to refer to road traffic!
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 19/04/2021



From Nymet Bridge 583 looking west towards Bow.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 19042021

From Nymet Bridge (583) looking west towards Bow.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 19/04/2021



View from overbridge 583 near Nymet Tracey near Bow, looking east.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 19042021

View from overbridge 583 near Nymet Tracey near Bow, looking east.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 19/04/2021



The scene at Okehampton the morning afterbrPhotographer Ron KirbybrDate taken 19042021

The scene at Okehampton the morning after
Photographer: Ron Kirby
Date taken: 19/04/2021



70808 arriving at Okehampton with more sleepersbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18042021

70808 arriving at Okehampton with more sleepers
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/04/2021



The Balfour Beatty track laying equipment on the rear of 56302's train, with 70808 behind.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18042021

The Balfour Beatty track laying equipment on the rear of 56302's train, with 70808 behind.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/04/2021



The track construction train arriving at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18042021

The track construction train arriving at Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/04/2021



56302 arriving at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18042021

56302 arriving at Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/04/2021



56302 arriving at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 18042021

56302 arriving at Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 18/04/2021



The track laying kit passing through BowbrPhotographer Dick HenrywoodbrDate taken 18042021

The track laying kit passing through Bow
Photographer: Dick Henrywood
Date taken: 18/04/2021



56302 at Bow StationbrPhotographer Dick HenrywoodbrDate taken 18042021

56302 at Bow Station
Photographer: Dick Henrywood
Date taken: 18/04/2021



Balfour Beatty track laying equipment departing CreditonbrPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 18042021

Balfour Beatty track laying equipment departing Crediton
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 18/04/2021



Balfour Beatty track laying equipmentbrPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 18042021

Balfour Beatty track laying equipment
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 18/04/2021



56302's Devon connectionbrPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 18042021

56302's Devon connection
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 18/04/2021



Colas class 56 56302brPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 18042021

Colas class 56 56302
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 18/04/2021



56302 with the engineering train passing 158950 at CreditonbrPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 18042021

56302 with the engineering train passing 158950 at Crediton
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 18/04/2021





Nice touch from Network Rail


We were pleased to see this notice near Greenslade Bridge, whereby Network Rail enjoins its staff and subcontractors to keep Devon tidy.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 17042021

We were pleased to see this notice near Greenslade Bridge, whereby Network Rail enjoins its staff and subcontractors to keep Devon tidy.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 17/04/2021





Track work preparations


Signs of preparation work at Buttisland level crossing (188m 03c) near Butterlands Park farm. This User Worked LC is to be upgraded and have miniature red/green warning lights installed for users.


Looking east towards Bow Station, the 60' rails are marked for 'cropping' by a snipping attachment on a Road Rail vehicle into short lengths for scrap.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 15042021

Looking east towards Bow Station, the 60' rails are marked for 'cropping' by a snipping attachment on a Road Rail vehicle into short lengths for scrap.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 15/04/2021



Looking west, the track here was laid in 1959 and alongside lies the new continuously welded rail made at Scunthorpe steelworks together with some ballast that came by rail from Cliffe Quarry in Leicestershire, via Westbury one of the last remaining Freight and Engineering train marshalling yards on the former BR WR. Lineside generators power the temporary electric lighting erected along the line for several miles for night working.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 15042021

Looking west, the track here was laid in 1959 and alongside lies the new continuously welded rail (made at Scunthorpe steelworks) together with some ballast that came by rail from Cliffe Quarry in Leicestershire, via Westbury; one of the last remaining Freight and Engineering train marshalling yards on the former BR WR. Lineside generators power the temporary electric lighting erected along the line for several miles for night working.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 15/04/2021




Stock Move


March 22nd saw the much-anticipated move of DRCIC's rolling stock from Okehampton to Meldon, prior to its onward removal to the lucky purchasers.

The former long-term contents of the platform 1 siding en route to Meldon behind Aggregate Industry's 08937. RMS's 31452 was on the rear for emergency braking.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 22032021

The former long-term contents of the platform 1 siding en route to Meldon behind Aggregate Industry's 08937. RMS's 31452 was on the rear for emergency braking.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 22/03/2021



The scene at Meldon the day after.brPhotographer Geoff HornerbrDate taken 23032021

The scene at Meldon the day after.
Photographer: Geoff Horner
Date taken: 23/03/2021



The bay siding, having been vacated by the attractive collection of vans and sleepers which occupied it for so long.brPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 23032021

The bay siding, having been vacated by the attractive collection of vans and sleepers which occupied it for so long.
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 23/03/2021



Work begins on clearing the vacated bay siding. A DRSA volunteer approaching a hazardous part of the DRCIC sleeper plumbing.brPhotographer Paul VoddenbrDate taken 23032021

Work begins on clearing the vacated bay siding. A DRSA volunteer approaching a hazardous part of the DRCIC sleeper plumbing.
Photographer: Paul Vodden
Date taken: 23/03/2021





Ballast train



Cowley Bridge Junction Wednesday 10032021. Colas loco 70812 heading the 1255 Crediton to Westbury via Exeter Riverside Yard, with 15 empty bogie wagons, mostly Falcons, with 70810 dead on the rear, having delivered the first trainload of ballast to a site on the Okehampton line.brPhotographer Mark FishlockbrDate taken 10032021

Cowley Bridge Junction Wednesday 10/03/2021. Colas loco 70812 heading the 1255 Crediton to Westbury via Exeter Riverside Yard, with 15 empty bogie wagons, mostly Falcons, with 70810 dead on the rear, having delivered the first trainload of ballast to a site on the Okehampton line.
Photographer: Mark Fishlock
Date taken: 10/03/2021





Another sleeper train


Another load of Doncaster-made concrete sleepers arrived on the February 25th 1946 Westbury to Okehampton, topped and tailed by Colas class 70s. The train is shown below unloading the following morning, before returning the wagons empty to Westbury, and thence to Doncaster.

Colas class 70 70811 at Okehampton with sleeper trainbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 26022021

Colas class 70 70811 at Okehampton with sleeper train
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 26/02/2021



Some of the new concrete sleepers being delivered to OkehamptonbrPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 26022021

Some of the new concrete sleepers being delivered to Okehampton
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 26/02/2021





Sleeper train at Bow


Class 66  66723 'Chinook'  paused briefly at Bow Station on January 28th, having delivered 2,520 concrete sleepers to Okehampton. The train was tailed by DB Cargo classmate 66039, its planned companion having failed before leaving Westbury the previous day. Unusual to see Freightliner and DB Cargo locos on the same working.brPhotographer Dick HenrywoodbrDate taken 28012021

Class 66 66723 'Chinook' paused briefly at Bow Station on January 28th, having delivered 2,520 concrete sleepers to Okehampton. The train was tailed by DB Cargo classmate 66039, its planned companion having failed before leaving Westbury the previous day. Unusual to see Freightliner and DB Cargo locos on the same working.
Photographer: Dick Henrywood
Date taken: 28/01/2021





Interesting rails


Transition rails have been delivered to Okehampton. They are 95lb/yd bullhead at one end transitioning to flat bottom at the other, made by the Austrian rail manufacturer, Voestalpine. Pictures below. I'm sure Hornby used to make something similar.

Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 07012021

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 07/01/2021



Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 09012021

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 09/01/2021




Another sleeper train at Okehampton


2 GBRf Class 66s powered the sleeper train on January 22nd. They were 66723 'Chinook' and 66748 'West Burton 50'. The train's 15 Salmon wagons carried another batch of about 2500 Doncaster made concrete sleepers.

Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 22012021

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 22/01/2021


Photographer Tony HillbrDate taken 22012021

Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 22/01/2021


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 22012021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 22/01/2021


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 22082020

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 22/08/2020




Sleeper train at Okehampton


After a distinct lack of activity for the last twelve months, the visit of a trainload of sleepers to Okehampton attracted a lot of attention, and we have been pleasantly inundated with pictures. A selection is shown below, with grateful thanks to all the photographers.

The train, topped and tailed by 70809 and 70815, originated at Westbury, and comprised 15 bogie 'Salmon' wagons with a total of 2,520 concrete sleepers.

It was the first time a class 70 diesel had been seen at Okehampton. Clearly a capable machine, just lacking input from Dugald Drummond with the styling.


Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 14/01/2021


En route, at CreditonbrPhotographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 13012021

En route, at Crediton
Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 13/01/2021


Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 14/01/2021


DRSA team prepares to meet the intruderbrPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

DRSA team prepares to meet the intruder
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Nose end detailbrPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

Nose end detail
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Photographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Loaded wagon - 8 stacks of 21 slprs  168 per wagonbrPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

Loaded wagon - 8 stacks of 21 slprs = 168 per wagon
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Signs of spring at OkehamptonbrPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

Signs of spring at Okehampton
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 14/01/2021



Unloading:

Photographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 14012021

Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 14/01/2021


Unlashing the last wagon brPhotographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

Unlashing the last wagon
Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


2 roadrailers grab 14 sleepers each to move from train to stack in the car parkbrPhotographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 14012021

2 roadrailers grab 14 sleepers each to move from train to stack in the car park
Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 14/01/2021


The crane retractedbrPhotographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 09012021

The crane retracted
Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 09/01/2021




Network Rail Track Testing Train


On Tuesday Jan 12th the 0950 special from Derby to Exeter Riverside transit move of a NR Track Testing Train worked by Colas locos 37099 and 37254 is seen passing through Highbridge station. This train was scheduled to do two track testing and recording runs, in connection with the Okehampton reinstatement, from Exeter to Okehampton and back very early on the morning of Wednesday Jan 13th, before returning to Derby.

Photographer Chris RedwoodbrDate taken 12012021

Photographer: Chris Redwood
Date taken: 12/01/2021





Working Platforms


Two almost new road rail MEWPs Mobile Elevated Working Platforms have recently arrived at Okehampton Station for use on inspections of bridges and structures between Coleford and Meldon.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 19122020

Two almost new road rail MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Working Platforms) have recently arrived at Okehampton Station for use on inspections of bridges and structures between Coleford and Meldon.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 19/12/2020





Update 30/11/20


Some recent developments at the railway:

Specialist engineers have been much in evidence, surveying the track alignment, drainage, and bridge structures, to identify the remedial work which is required to bring the railway up to scratch.

They get around the railway on a Quattro road rail vehicle. It has six road wheels with balloon tyres, and four rail wheels. A flat bed trailer is attached at one end, and a six seat trailer at the other. Unlike many of its Wickham ancestors, it doesn�??t have any weather protection for the passengers. Those old gangers were wimps.

A representative of the Dartmoor National Park Authority has visited and is keen to improve the information display in the platform 2 carpark, and for the platform 3 booking office and/or shop to provide Moor visitors with travel advice for the Granite Way and north Moor.

With the assistance of the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership�??s Richard Burningham, plans are being made for comprehensive new signage for the station and its environs, including appropriate replica heritage material for platform 2.

Officials have surveyed the station site�??s accessibility for bus services, checking the layout and turning area.

It has emerged that the signal box is likely to be considered an integral part of the station estate, possibly creating further opportunities for DRSA.

Quattro road rail vehicle and passenger trailer.brPhotographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 26112020

Quattro road rail vehicle and passenger trailer.
Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 26/11/2020





Rail delivery Nov 25th/26th


A ghostly 70813 departing Bow station at the back of an empty rail delivery train in the early morning of 26 November. Only the second known Class 70 to visit the line, 70805 having worked a similar delivery four days earlier.brPhotographer Dick HenrywoodbrDate taken 26112020

A ghostly 70813 departing Bow station at the back of an empty rail delivery train in the early morning of 26 November. Only the second known Class 70 to visit the line, 70805 having worked a similar delivery four days earlier.
Photographer: Dick Henrywood
Date taken: 26/11/2020



Rail delivery Nov 21st


The railway was visited by the 1724 Westbury to Okehampton LWR (long welded rail) train on the evening of November 21st. The train, hauled by Colas class 70 70805, with 66850 dead on the rear, unloaded 32 rails between Coleford and Bow. (Each rail is 216 m or 702 ft long, making a trainload just over 2 miles). Tony Hill saw it creeping along under the overbridge near Horwell Barton at 2245. The following morning the empty train departed Crediton for Westbury at 0900. We are grateful to Alan Peters and Guy Vincent for the photos below of the returning train.


66850 'David Maidment' with the returning LWR train at Crediton CN3 signal.brPhotographer Alan PetersbrDate taken 22112020

66850 'David Maidment' with the returning LWR train at Crediton CN3 signal.
Photographer: Alan Peters
Date taken: 22/11/2020



70805 with the returning LWR train passing Berkley Marsh near Frome.brPhotographer Guy VincentbrDate taken 22112020

70805 with the returning LWR train passing Berkley Marsh near Frome.
Photographer: Guy Vincent
Date taken: 22/11/2020




Fallen tree


A couple of months ago, a tree fell, fouling the bay siding on the Meldon side of the Klondyke Road underbridge no. 610. At the time, it wasn't clear whose responsibility it was, but that seems to have been resolved, and recently it was cleared. Dave Ellis's photos (below) show the aftermath. Clearly there was some damage to the bridge guardrail.

As an aside, Dave's pictures provide an interesting view of the railway which will be unfamiliar to most folks except members of the Station Maintenance Team. GUV (General Utility Van) E86443 was the subject of a decent paintjob by the SMT in 2012. Now the BR Maroon is turning back to SR Green of its own accord. It was in use as the SMT workshop and store for many years, but this year all DRSA equipment has been removed from it, in preparation for its removal by the lucky purchaser. The last picture shows E86443 in better times, for comparison.

Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 21112020

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 21/11/2020



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 21112020

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 21/11/2020



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 21112020

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 21/11/2020



Photographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 21112020

Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 21/11/2020



The freshly painted and lettered GUV in the bay platform at OkehamptonbrPhotographer John CaesarbrDate taken 24032012

The freshly painted and lettered GUV in the bay platform at Okehampton
Photographer: John Caesar
Date taken: 24/03/2012




Roadrailer


Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 11112020

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 11/11/2020



Photographer Tom BaxterbrDate taken 11112020

Photographer: Tom Baxter
Date taken: 11/11/2020



Above, the Quattro Roadrailer departed on a lowloader on November 11th. The observant will notice that the Christmas train is still here.



Bridge work



Bridge No. 584 at 187m 42c, near Bow Station over the Bow to Spreyton road, having vegetation removed by a Groundforce Team from Paignton, prior to inspection of its condition by Network Rail.brPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 28102020

Bridge No. 584 at 187m 42c, near Bow Station over the Bow to Spreyton road, having vegetation removed by a Groundforce Team from Paignton, prior to inspection of its condition by Network Rail.
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 28/10/2020







Vegetation clearance on and around bridges between Coleford and Okehampton continues, prior to a full structural survey, with recent work at Bridge No.596 Fullaford 192 miles 35 chains (i.e. from Waterloo) and at Bridge No. 595 Greenslade 191m 55c:

GreensladebrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 21102020

Greenslade
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 21/10/2020



FullafordbrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 21102020

Fullaford
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 21/10/2020



FullafordbrPhotographer Tony HillbrDate taken 21102020

Fullaford
Photographer: Tony Hill
Date taken: 21/10/2020






At Okehampton Station


Roadrailer in the car parkbrPhotographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 16102020

Roadrailer in the car park
Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 16/10/2020



Last of the first load of sleepers loadedbrPhotographer Sue BaxterbrDate taken 13102020

Last of the first load of sleepers loaded
Photographer: Sue Baxter
Date taken: 13/10/2020



Delivery of sleepers in the car park.brPhotographer Dave EllisbrDate taken 11102020

Delivery of sleepers in the car park.
Photographer: Dave Ellis
Date taken: 11/10/2020