Ron's Railway Pix - 1

Ron's Railway Pix - 1 http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/ 73 rows en-gb 60 03) Festiniog Railway - 1978. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1709950.html 03) Festiniog Railway - 1978. Tuesday 30 November 1999: 03) Festiniog Railway - 1978.

618 1978/01.R5822. Originally, the Festiniog Railway was engineered to have a continuous gradient from the slate quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog to the coast at Portmadoc Harbour so that the loaded slate waggons could be run by gravity all the way from the quarries to the waiting ships. However, as running gravity slate trains is no longer a requirement, a short section of down gradient towards Blaenau was incorporated when the deviation line was built to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir. The summit of this new section of line is behind the hydro-electric power station and the track was laid in this area in January, 1978. First World War Baldwin 2-4-0 tractor MOELWYN, now fitted with a diesel engine, stands on newly laid but not fully sleepered track in Summit Cutting, the beginning of the down grade section to Tanygrisiau. Rodney Thorp writes : Hi Ron, Just a slight correction to the pictures caption. The sleepering as seen was just a temporary measure to give rail access to the rest of track construction sites. The area shown is the summit of the deviation which was latter fitted with long Glasgow Underground sleepers to take the guard rails to protect the Power Station. Thanks, Rodney.

619 1978/01.R5823. When the Tanygrisiau Pumped-Storage Hydro-Electric scheme was built in the 1960s, the Festiniog Railway had to construct a deviation line to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir which had flooded the original course of the line. This is a view of the new line looking back towards Portmadoc with Llyn Ystradau on the left. Whereas the old line had been built with a continuous gradient all the way from the slate quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog to the Harbour at Portmadoc, the new line has a short section of down grade towards Blaenau and the summit is just above this point behind the hydro-electric power station out of shot to the left. 1st World War Baldwin 2-4-0 tractor MOELWYN, now fitted with a diesel engine, is just creeping into the picture.

620 1978/01.R5824. Originally, the Festiniog Railway was engineered to have a continuous gradient from the slate quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog to the coast at Portmadoc Harbour so that the loaded slate waggons could be run by gravity all the way from the quarries to the waiting ships. However, as running gravity slate trains is no longer a requirement, a short section of down gradient towards Blaenau was incorporated when the deviation line was built to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir. The summit of this new section of line is behind the hydro-electric power station and the track was laid in this area in January, 1978. First World War Baldwin 2-4-0 tractor MOELWYN, now fitted with a diesel engine, stands behind the hydro-electric power station at the summit on newly laid, but not fully sleepered, track.

621 1978/01.R5825. Originally, the Festiniog Railway was engineered to have a continuous gradient from the slate quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog to the coast at Portmadoc Harbour so that the loaded slate waggons could be run by gravity all the way from the quarries to the waiting ships. However, as running gravity slate trains is no longer a requirement, a short section of down gradient towards Blaenau was incorporated when the deviation line was built to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir. The summit of this new section of line is behind the hydro-electric power station and the track was laid in this area in January, 1978. Looking towards Tanygrisiau and Blaenau Ffestiniog, First World War Baldwin 2-4-0 tractor MOELWYN, now fitted with a diesel engine, stands on newly laid but not fully sleepered track in Summit Cutting, the beginning of the down grade section to Tanygrisiau.

622 1978/01.R5826. When the Tanygrisiau Pumped-Storage Hydro-Electric scheme was built in the 1960s, the Festiniog Railway had to construct a deviation line to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir which had flooded the original course of the line. This is a view of the new line looking towards Tanygrisiau and Blaenau Ffestiniog with Llyn Ystradau on the right. The grey building is the hydro-electric power station and the wall of the dam which created the reservoir can be seen on the extreme right. On the volunteer built deviation line, newly laid track has reached the new summit behind the power station. As gravity slate trains are no longer a requirement, a continuous gradient from the slate quarries to the coast is not needed any more and there is now a short down grade section before the deviation rejoins the original route at Tanygrisiau. January, 1978.

623 1978/01.R5827. When the Tanygrisiau Pumped-Storage Hydro-Electric scheme was built in the 1960s, the Festiniog Railway had to construct a deviation line to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir which had flooded the original course of the line. This is a January, 1978 view of the new line looking back towards Portmadoc with Llyn Ystradau on the left. Originally, the Festiniog Railway crossed the ridge of hills in the middle distance by means of rope worked inclines and the course of this line is just visible towards the left of the picture. Further down the line can be seen the temporary terminus of Llyn Ystradau; this was in use from June, 1977 until the line was extended through to Tanygrisiau in July, 1978.

624 1978/01.R5828. When the Tanygrisiau Pumped-Storage Hydro-Electric scheme was built in the 1960s, the Festiniog Railway had to construct a deviation line to avoid the Llyn Ystradau reservoir which had flooded the original course of the line. This is a view of the new line looking towards Tanygrisiau and Blaenau Ffestiniog with Llyn Ystradau on the right. The grey building is the hydro-electric power station. On the volunteer built deviation line, newly laid track has reached the new summit behind the power station and First World War 2-4-0 Baldwin MOELWYN, now fitted with a diesel engine, is approaching with a permanent way construction train. As gravity slate trains are no longer a requirement, a continuous gradient from the slate quarries to the coast is not needed any more and there is now a short down grade section before the deviation rejoins the original route at Tanygrisiau. January, 1978.

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]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Hungarian Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1694673.html In May, 1966, I made a visit to the then communist state of Hungary on a tour arranged by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain. The slides that I took are now being scanned and, as time permits, I shall be putting the pictures in here. As usual, I shall put them in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' for the first couple of weeks or so but, to begin with, a few up to date pictures from April, 2009. Tuesday 30 November 1999: In May, 1966, I made a visit to the then communist state of Hungary on a tour arranged by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain. The slides that I took are now being scanned and, as time permits, I shall be putting the pictures in here. As usual, I shall put them in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' for the first couple of weeks or so but, to begin with, a few up to date pictures from April, 2009.

2009/04/24.RD3487. One of Budapest’s bright yellow trams on route No.2, Ganz CSMG2 articulated car built in the 1960s, at the northern terminus at Jászai Mari té. 24th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/25.RD3489. An interior view of Budapest’s splendid Keleti Pu station. The full name is Keleti pályaudvar which means Eastern Railway Station. It was constructed between 1881 and 1884 and is the largest of the three Budapest railway stations. It is still undergoing restoration. 25th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/25.RD3488. An exterior view of Budapest’s splendid Keleti Pu station. The full name is Keleti pályaudvar which means Eastern Railway Station. It was constructed between 1881 and 1884 and is the largest of the three Budapest railway stations. It is still undergoing restoration. 25th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/25.RD3490. Buda Rack Railway – part of the urban network (line 60). Modern Austrian-built (SGP) stock at the upper terminus at Széchenyi-hegy. 25th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/25.RD3491. The 76cm gauge Children’s Railway in Budapest has both steam and diesel traction and this is 0-8-0T 490.039 at Széchenyi-hegy station. Previously known as the Pioneer Railway, it is one of several in eastern Europe where children can learn the basics of railway operation. This stands them in good stead if they go on to work on the big railway after leaving school. Photograph by John Cosford. 25th April, 2009.

2009/04/25.RD3492. The 76cm gauge Children’s Railway in Budapest has both steam and diesel traction. This is Bo-Bo diesel Mk45.2006 on an uphill train at Csilleberc on the 25th April, 2009. Previously known as the Pioneer Railway, it is one of several in eastern Europe where children can learn the basics of railway operation and this stands them in good stead if they go on to work on the big railway after leaving school. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3493. American built MÁV 411 class 2-8-0 411.118 at the Hungarian Railway Museum in Budapest. The 411 class was the standard USATC S160 wartime design and The MÁV had over 500 of them. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3500. Two MÁV Nohab class M61 diesel locos., M61.001 and M61.020, on display at the Hungarian Railway Museum in Budapest. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3495. An interesting line up of MÁV Old-timers lined up around the turntable at the Hungarian Railway Museum in Budapest. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3496. Nicknamed 'Ugly Duckling', GySEV outside-framed 0-6-0 No 17 built by Wiener Neustadt in 1885. It is on display at the Hungarian Railway Museum in Budapest. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3497. MÁV 303 class 4-6-4 303.002 – one of only two locos of this class. Built in 1951 for heavy express work but were found to be less effective than the standard 4-8-0s. The 303 has a 10-wheel tender in the form of a leading 4-wheel bogie and a fixed 6-wheel frame. Hungarian Railway Museum, Budapest. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3498. MÁV 520 class 2-10-0 520.034, the standard German class 52 'Kriegslok' of which the MÁV received 165 directly, plus others that had first been delivered to the Soviet Union. Hungarian Railway Museum, Budapest. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3501. Cowan & Sheldon 45T steam-powered breakdown crane on display at the Hungarian Railway Museum in Budapest. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3499. MÁV 424 class 4-8-0 424.365 on display at the Hungarian Railway Museum in Budapest. The 424 class were the standard MÁV mixed traffic loco of which over 300 were built including those for Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Russia and China. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

Symbolic of the communist era, a bold Red Star adorns the smokebox door of 424 class 4-8-0 424.365 on display at the Budapest Railway Museum. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

2009/04/26.RD3504. The Budapest Funicular with a train leaving the lower station. This line is standard gauge with two cars and it was opened in 1870. 26th April, 2009. Photograph by John Cosford.

1966/05/19.R2848. Ganz railcar A02-602 at Garadna on the 76cm gauge forestry railway which ran up into the hills from the suburbs of Miskolc. Fortunately, although the forestry traffic ceased in 1994, the line is still in operation as a tourist railway and a visit is highly recommended. 19th May, 1966.

1966/05/19.R2849. Ready to depart back down to Miskolc, Ganz railcar A02-602 at Garadna on the 76cm gauge forestry railway which ran up into the hills from the suburbs of Miskolc. Fortunately, although the forestry traffic ceased in 1994, the line is still in operation as a tourist railway and a visit is highly recommended. 19th May, 1966.

1966/05/19.R2846. Lillafüred on the 76cm gauge forestry railway which ran from the suburbs of Miskolc; the train seen in the previous picture is seen disappearing into the tunnel. Fortunately, although the forestry traffic ceased in 1994, the line is still in operation as a tourist railway and a visit is highly recommended. 19th May, 1966.

1966/05/19.R2845. A 76cm gauge Forestry Railway ran from the suburbs of Miskolc up into the hills to Lillafüred and Garadna. It also ran tourist passenger trains and this is one of them leaving Lillafüred behind Ganz railcar A02-601 of 1929 vintage. Fortunately, although the forestry traffic ceased in 1994, the line is still in operation as a tourist railway and a visit is highly recommended. 19th May, 1966.

1966/05/17.R2820. A feature of the communist era was the ‘Pioneer Railway’ where children were trained in the basics of railway operation with a view to transferring these skills to the big railway when they left school. This is the Pioneer Railway in Budapest with trains behind class 49 Bo-Bo diesels (Ganz Mavag 1950) crossing at Hárshegy on the 17th May, 1966. Fortunately, now advertised as the Children’s Railway, this line is still in operation today and is a well known Budapest tourist attraction. (See pictures RD3491 and RD3492, below.)

1966/05/17.R2821. A feature of the communist era was the ‘Pioneer Railway’ where children were trained in the basics of railway operation with a view to transferring these skills to the big railway when they left school. This is the Pioneer Railway in Budapest with trains crossing at Hárshegy and a young lady salutes smartly as our train departs. 17th May, 1966. Fortunately, now advertised as the Children’s Railway, this line is still in operation today and is a well known Budapest tourist attraction. (See pictures RD3491 and RD3492, below.)

1966/05/17.R2822. A feature of the communist era was the ‘Pioneer Railway’ where children were trained in the basics of railway operation with a view to transferring these skills to the big railway when they left school. This is the Pioneer Railway in Budapest with trains behind class 49 Bo-Bo diesels (Ganz Mavag 1950) crossing at Hárshegy on the 17th May, 1966. Fortunately, now advertised as the Children’s Railway, this line is still in operation today and is a well known Budapest tourist attraction. (See pictures RD3491 and RD3492, below.)

1966/05/16.R2787. On our way from Vienna to Budapest we called in at Kapuvar to have a short ride on the 76cm gauge agricultural railway that was still running there. Our train consisted of 4-wheel diesel GV3756 and one coach and we trundled through the somewhat featureless countryside until we reached a grass grown passing loop in the middle of nowhere! The loco ran round here and we returned whence we came. 16th May, 1966.

1966/05/16.R2788. On our way from Vienna to Budapest we called in at Kapuvar to have a short ride on the 76cm gauge agricultural railway that was still running there. Our train consisted of 4-wheel diesel GV3756 and one coach and we trundled through the somewhat featureless countryside until we reached a grass grown passing loop in the middle of nowhere! The loco ran round here and we returned whence we came. 16th May, 1966.

1966/05/16.R2789. On our way from Vienna to Budapest we called in at Kapuvar to have a short ride on the 76cm gauge agricultural railway that was still running there. Our train consisted of 4-wheel diesel GV3756 and one coach and we trundled through the somewhat featureless countryside until we reached a grass grown passing loop in the middle of nowhere! The loco ran round here and we returned whence we came. 16th May, 1966.

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]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 06) Isle of Man Railways and Tramways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1691507.html The Isle of Man Railways and Tramways are well worth a visit, so here are a few pictures to whet your appitite! Tuesday 30 November 1999: The Isle of Man Railways and Tramways are well worth a visit, so here are a few pictures to whet your appitite!

2006/05.RD3504. The Booking Office at the Douglas terminus of the Isle of Man Steam Railway. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3505. 1874 built Beyer Peacock 2-4-0T No.4 LOCH at Douglas on the Isle of Man. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3505. 1874 built Beyer Peacock 2-4-0T No.4 LOCH at Port Erin on the Isle of Man. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3507. 2ft gauge 2-4-0T SEA LION at Lhen Choan on the Isle of Man. It was built by W.G.Bagnall of Stafford in 1896. The Groudle Glen Railway was opened in1896 and is ľ mile long. It closed in 1962, but was re-opened by volunteers in 1986. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3508. 2ft gauge 2-4-0T SEA LION at Sea Lion Rocks on the Isle of Man. It was built by W.G.Bagnall of Stafford in 1896. The Groudle Glen Railway was opened in1896 and is ľ mile long. It closed in 1962, but was re-opened by volunteers in 1986. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3509. The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway at Douglas on the Isle of Man. This was opened in 1876 and is of 3ft gauge. It is 1.6 miles long and runs along the seafront promenade during the summer months. There are 23 tramcars and some 45 horses to provide the motive power. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3510. The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway at Douglas on the Isle of Man. This was opened in 1876 and is of 3ft gauge. It is 1.6 miles long and runs along the seafront promenade during the summer months. There are 23 tramcars and some 45 horses to provide the motive power. May, 2006. Photograph by John Cosford.

2006/05.RD3511. 1895 built car No.2 of the Snaefell Mountain Railway on the Isle of Man at Bungalow, the station before the summit. At 2036ft, Snaefell is the highest point on the island and the 5 mile long line was opened in August, 1895. It is 3'6

2006/05.RD3512. 1895 built car No.2 of the Snaefell Mountain Railway on the Isle of Man at Laxey, the bottom station. At 2036ft, Snaefell is the highest summit on the island and the 5 mile long line was opened in August, 1895. It is 3'6

1972/09/12.RD3332. Isle of Man Railways Beyer, Peacock 2-4-0T No.13 KISSACK leaving Douglas on the 12th September, 1972. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1972/09/12.RD3333. Isle of Man Railways Beyer Peacock 2-4-0T No.13 KISSACK at Douglas on the 12th September, 1972. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1972/09/12.RD3331. The Isle of Man Railways crest on the side of 2-4-0T No,13 KISSACK. 12th September, 1972. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1972/09/13.RD3339. Isle of Man Railways Beyer Peacock 2-4-0T No. 11 MAITLAND of 1905 at Douglas with the 10:00 for Port Erin. 13th September, 1972. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1972/09/13.RD3343. Isle of Man Railways Beyer Peacock 2-4-0T No.13 KISSACK arriving at Port Erin. 13th September, 1972. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

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]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Yugoslavian Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1690971.html During May / June, 1966, I went on a splendid tour of Hungary and Yugoslavia organized by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain. Pictures from the Yugoslavian leg of the tour will appear in this collection and will be added in batches as time permits. As it my usual custom, I shal start them off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so before transferring them into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: During May / June, 1966, I went on a splendid tour of Hungary and Yugoslavia organized by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain. Pictures from the Yugoslavian leg of the tour will appear in this collection and will be added in batches as time permits. As it my usual custom, I shal start them off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so before transferring them into here.

1966/07/06.RD3125. J.Z. 4-8-0 (MAV) 11-049 at Zagreb. The JZ 11 class were the Hungarian class 424 which originated in 1924. Because of their success in Yugoslavia, a further batch was ordered from Hungarian builders and these were delivered between then and 1955. 6th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/07.RD3127. J.Z. 2-6-2s 01-077 and 01-053 at Zagreb. These 4-cylinder locomotives were built by various German builders as reparations after the first world war and there were 126 of them. 7th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/15.RD3129. J.Z. 2-6-2T 51-027 at Vincovci shed. These engines to Yugoslavia from Hungary after the second world war. In Hungary they were the 375 class. They were 2-cylinder compounds and they were built during the period 1907 to 1943. The strange looking object between the steam and sand domes is a Pecz-Rejto water purifier. Vincovci is a major junction on the Beograd (Belgrade) to Zagreb main line. 15th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/15.RD3130. J.Z. 2-8-0 37-055 (ex U.S.A. / T.C.) at Vincovci shed. As in other parts of Europe, there was a motive power shortage in Yugoslavia following the destruction of the second world war. This was met by American S.160 class 2-8-0s which were classified as class 37. Vincovci is a major junction on the Beograd (Belgrade) to Zagreb main line. 15th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/16.RD3131. J.Z. 2-6-0 20-138 at Virovitica to the east of Zagreb, just to the south of the Hungarian border. There were 200 of the 20 class and they were built by a variety of German builders as reparations following the first world war. They originated on the Otterman Railway in 1912 but were perpetuated by the Yugoslavs after 1918. 16th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/07.RD3380. J.Z. 0-6-0 120-028 at Sesak. I do not know much about these locomotives other than that they were the Hungarian 370 class. Any further information would be much appreciated. 7th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection. She was built in 1907 and, prior to being transferred to Yugoslavia, was MAV 370.102. Thanks to ‘03 1008’ for this information.

1966/07/16.RD3381. J.Z. Metre gauge 0-8-2 No.21 (Corpet & Louvet 1923) at Belišce. Although Yugoslavia is, well, was, well known for its 760mm gauge narrow gauge systems, there was also a much smaller and lesser know metre gauge system based on Osijek in the north of the country near the Hungarian border. It was unusual in that the locomotives had side buffers and central three link couplings, features not often found on the narrow gauge. Most of the locomotives were tank engines, but there were a couple of exceptions, and this is one of them. 16th July, 1966. Thanks to '03 1008', I now know that 0-8-2 No.21 came to Yugoslavia from the Greek Thessaly Railway in 1945. Also, thanks to J.F.Andrist, I also know that she was originally an 0-8-0 tank engine and the tender and additional carrying wheels were added later - the tender does look like an old converted water tank! Whether this was added in Greece or Yugoslavia is not known. Does anybody know where she was to be found between 1923 and 1944 which is when she went to Greece? Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/06.RD3384. J.Z. 2-6-2 01-042 at Zagreb. These 4-cylinder locomotives were built by various German builders as reparations after the first world war and there were 126 of them. 6th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/07/04.RD3486a. Clearly a snatch shot from a passing train, this is an ex Austrian ÖBB 91 class 2-6-0T now in industrial use. However, I have no idea where it is, other than that it is somewhere in Yugoslavia. 4th July, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection. . '03 1008' tells me that this is No11 at the Štore Steelworks to the east of Celje on the main line between Maribor and Zidani Most. The loco was built by Krauss of Linz in 1900 and had a varied career before finally surviving into preservation. Vielen Dank, Helmut.

1966.R2876. A patriotic Yugoslavian flag adorns the smoke deflector of this 05 class Pacific. June, 1966.

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]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 06) Longmoor Military Railway. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1680438.html The original military railway at Longmoor in Hampshire was an 18 inch gauge line built in 1903. It was later converted to standard gauge between 1905 and 1907 and became known as the Woolmer Instructional Military Railway. The name was changed to the Longmoor Military Railway in 1935. It ran between Bordon and Liss, but with a circular loop in the middle and was used to train the Royal Engineers in all aspects of railway operation from construction to operating. There were stations, junctions and signal boxes, and an assortment of freight and passenger rolling stock including both steam and diesel locomotives. The MoD closed the line in 1969 and there was a proposal that it would be taken over by preservationists who would run it as a transport museum. Unfortunately, local residents objected and the scheme came to nothing. Tuesday 30 November 1999: The original military railway at Longmoor in Hampshire was an 18 inch gauge line built in 1903. It was later converted to standard gauge between 1905 and 1907 and became known as the Woolmer Instructional Military Railway. The name was changed to the Longmoor Military Railway in 1935. It ran between Bordon and Liss, but with a circular loop in the middle and was used to train the Royal Engineers in all aspects of railway operation from construction to operating. There were stations, junctions and signal boxes, and an assortment of freight and passenger rolling stock including both steam and diesel locomotives. The MoD closed the line in 1969 and there was a proposal that it would be taken over by preservationists who would run it as a transport museum. Unfortunately, local residents objected and the scheme came to nothing.

1965/05/01.RD3432. Perhaps the most well known of the War Department locomotives on the erstwhile Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire was 2-10-0 No.600 GORDON built by the North British Locomotive company in 1943. Here is a close-up of the nameplate. 1st May, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1964/03/07.R1291. Also plinthed at Longmoor Camp alongside 'Gazelle' was this 0-6-0ST named WOOLMER. Where is it now? Does anybody know? TonyW tells me that it is now at Shildon. Thanks, Tony. 7th March, 1964

1964/03/07.R1292. Another view of 0-6-0ST WOOLMER plinthed at Longmoor Camp alongside 'Gazelle'. 7th March, 1964

1964/03/07.R1290. The attractive glass panel in the door of the L.N.W.R. inspection saloon seen in the previous two pictures.

1964/03/07.R1287. This bogie coach was seen on the Longmoor Military Railway on the 7th March, 1964. Does anybody know its origins, or what happened to it when the Longmoor line closed? Keith Gunner advises that it is of L.M.S. origins being built at Derby in 1929 to a Fowler design. It went to France in WW11 as part of an ambulance train, was captured by the Germans and then recaptured by the Allies in 1944. It was on the Longmoor line by 1953. In 1970 it was sold to David Shepherd who presented it to the Army Museum at Beverley in E. Yorkshire. It is currently in store at Long Marston. Thanks for the info., Keith.

1964/03/07.R1288. This, and the next shot, show the L.N.W.R. inspection saloon on the Longmoor Military Railway on the 7th March, 1964. This vehicle is now preserved on the Kent and East Sussex Railway having previously been stationed on the Severn Valley Railway. There are some pictures of it in my other Fotopic Gallery in the Kent & East Susses Railway collection. Thanks to Tony Willmore for help with this caption.

1965/05/01.RD3429. Built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1943, this is War Department 2-8-0 No.400 SIR GUY WILLIAMS on the erstwhile Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire. 1st May, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1965/05/01.RD3431. A close-up of the nameplate on War Department ’Austerity’ 0-6-0ST 118 BRUSSELS built by Hudswell Clark in 1945. The loco was based on the erstwhile Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire. 1st May, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1965/05/01.RD3433. This prize specimen is an ex London and North Western Railway 6-wheel Inspector's Saloon. It is now preserved on the Kent and East Sussex Railway, but was previously to be found on the erstwhile Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire. 1st May, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1965/05/01.RD3435. Two more interesting diesel locomotives on the erstwhile Longmoor Military Railway were these English Electric / LMS diesel-electric 0-6-0s 876 BARI and 878 BASRA of 1945. 1st May, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1964/03/07.R1294. [325] This, and the previous picture, show the ex Shropshire and Montgomeryshire Railway GAZELLE on display at the Longmoor military camp. 7th March, 1964. This loco is now in the museum of the Kent and East Sussex Railway at Tenterden Town and there are some pictures of it in my other Fotopic Gallery.

1964/03/07.R1286. [325] Longmoor Downs signal box on the Longmoor Military Railway. This line was run by the Royal Engineers as a training facility for soldiers involved in Railway Operations. 7th March, 1964.

1965/05/01.RD3440. To entertain the crowds during an open day on the Longmoor Military Railway, the Army arranged for a demonstration train hold up. Following the rescue of the held up train by the British troops, WD Austerity 0-6-0ST 196 backs quickly away after investigating the mock hold up. 1st May, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1966/04/30.RD3442. On the 30th April, 1966, the Railway Correspondence and Travel Society ran a special train from London to visit the Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire. They then had a special train over the Longmoor system and this is WD 0-6-0ST 196 which was used on the Hollywater Loop. The train comprised an interesting combination of brake vans and elderly SE&CR coaches. The number 68011 painted on the smokebox is a relic from the Great St. Trinian’s Train Robbery which was filmed on the LMR. I am assuming that this picture was taken at Longmoor Downs - can anyone confirm this? 30th April, 1966. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection. NB : There is another splendid picture of this train on Geoff Plumb's Fotopic site. See under 'Links' on the home page.

1969/08.RD3443. The Longmoor Military Railway's star turn, WD 2-10-0 600 GORDON. August,1969. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1969/07/05.RD3444. Longmoor Military Railway WD 0-6-0ST 196, now named ERROL LONSDALE. There is nothing on the slide mount to say where this was taken, but it looks like Longmoor Downs to me. Can anyone confirm this, please? 5th July,1969. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Danish Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1680432.html Between the 19th and 26th September, 1970, the Railway Enthusiasts' Club based in Farnborough, Hampshire, ran a tour of Denmark. E.A.S.Cotton was on the trip and I am grateful to Adrian Jarvis for letting me borrow some pictures for inclusion here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Between the 19th and 26th September, 1970, the Railway Enthusiasts' Club based in Farnborough, Hampshire, ran a tour of Denmark. E.A.S.Cotton was on the trip and I am grateful to Adrian Jarvis for letting me borrow some pictures for inclusion here.

1970/09.RD3309. The Railway Enthusiasts' Club based in Farnborough, Hampshire, ran a tour of Denmark between the 19th and 26th September, 1970 and the 'REC' headboard can be seen adorning the front of Danish State Railways 'E' class compound Pacific 978. Built by Frichs in 1943, the loco is shown here on a railtour based on Copenhagen. The first batch of the ‘E’ class were bought from the Swedish Railways in 1936 with a further 25 locos being built for the DSB between 1943 and 1950. Some of them had double chimneys and No. 978 is one of them. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller, Niels Munch and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

1970/09.RD3310. The Railway Enthusiasts' Club based in Farnborough, Hampshire, ran a tour of Denmark between the 19th and 26th September, 1970. One of the locomotives used was 'E' class compound Pacific 978 and the loco is shown here at Copenhagen Central Station. The first batch of the Danish State Railways ‘E’ class were bought from the Swedish Railways in 1936 with a further 25 locos being built for the DSB between 1943 and 1950. Some of them had double chimneys and No. 978, built by Frichs in 1943, is one of them. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller, Niels Munch and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

1970/09.RD3311. The Railway Enthusiasts' Club based in Farnborough, Hampshire, ran a tour of Denmark between the 19th and 26th September, 1970. One of the locomotives used was 'E' class compound Pacific 978 and the loco is shown here on a railtour that started at Copenhagen Central Station. The first batch of the Danish State Railways ‘E’ class were bought from the Swedish Railways in 1936 with a further 25 locos being built for the DSB between 1943 and 1950. Some of them had double chimneys and No. 978, built by Frichs in 1943, is one of them. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller, Niels Munch and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

1970/09.RD3313. Locomotive No.7 of the ŘSJS (Řstsjćllandske Jernbaneselskab or East Zealand Railway Company) is a 2-6-0 tank and it was under restoration at Haarlev when the Railway Enthusiasts‘ Club of Farnborough, Hampshire, visited in September, 1970. The loco was built by Henschel in 1907. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

1970/09.RD3314. This attractive 2-6-4T is Danish State Railways ‘S’ class No. 740 and it is seen here at Elsinor on the 22nd September, 1970. It was working a railtour for the Railway Enthusiasts’ Club of Farnborough, Hampshire, who ran a tour of Denmark between the 19th and 26th September. It later came to England and worked on the Nene Valley Railway at Peterborough where it was named ‘Danish Seaways’. Whilst on the Nene Valley it played a starring role in the James Bond film ’Octapussy’ with Roger Moore as the co-star. No. 740 is now preserved back in Denmark. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

1970/09.RD3316. This attractive 2-6-4T is Danish State Railways ‘S’ class No. 740 and it is seen here at Elsinor on the 22nd September, 1970. It was working a railtour for the Railway Enthusiasts’ Club of Farnborough, Hampshire, who ran a tour of Denmark between the 19th and 26th September. It later came to England and worked on the Nene Valley Railway at Peterborough where it was named ‘Danish Seaways’. Whilst on the Nene Valley it played a starring role in the James Bond film ’Octapussy’ with Roger Moore as the co-star. No. 740 is now preserved back in Denmark. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller, Niels Munch and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

1970/09.RD3312. The Railway Enthusiasts' Club based in Farnborough, Hampshire, ran a tour of Denmark between the 19th and 26th September, 1970. One of the locomotives used was 'E' class compound Pacific 978 and this shot shows the wheels and motion catching the last rays of the evening sun. The first batch of the Danish State Railways ‘E’ class were bought from the Swedish Railways in 1936 with a further 25 locos being built for the DSB between 1943 and 1950. Some of them had double chimneys and No. 978, built by Frichs in 1943, is one of them. The photograph, from the Adrian Jarvis collection, is by E.A.S.Cotton and thanks are due to Steen Larsen, Nick Quinn, Kurt Möller, Niels Munch and Helmut Dahlhaus for help in identifying both the locomotives and the locations.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Dutch Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1680427.html 07) Dutch Railways. Tuesday 30 November 1999: 07) Dutch Railways.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 03) Festiniog Railway - 1968. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1680423.html 03) Festiniog Railway - 1968. Tuesday 30 November 1999: 03) Festiniog Railway - 1968.

1968/08/25.RD3307. Ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway 0-4-0ST BLANCHE makes a smokey departure from the Festiniog Railway’s Portmadoc Harbour station on the 25th August, 1968. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1968/08/25.RD3308. On the 25th August, 1968, a group of German enthusiasts from the B.D.E.F. (Bundesverband Deutsche Eisenbahnfreunde or Federation of German Railway Enthusiasts) paid a visit to the Festiniog Railway in North Wales. They had a special train hauled by ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway 0-4-0ST LINDA, seen here at Tank Curve below the then upper terminus of Dduallt. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 1.3. The 1960s, Part 3. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1680413.html A further continuation of the German Railway pictures from the 1960s. Tuesday 30 November 1999: A further continuation of the German Railway pictures from the 1960s.

1967/05/04.R7926. There were two of the 3 cylinder class 10 Pacifics, built by Krupp in 1956/7. 10 002 was scrapped sometime after withdrawal in 1967, but 10 001 is still with us today. The had a very heavy axle loading and could only work on certain lines based on Kassel. However, in May, 1967, there was a B.D.E.F. exhibition in Essen and 10 001 was on display. Can anyone tell me what the initials B.D.E.F. stand for? Thanks to 'Mikado-Freund', this is the Bundesverband Deutsche Eisenbahnfreunde, or Federation of German Railway Enthusiasts. 4th May, 1967. Photograph by the late E.A.S. Cotton.

1967/05/04.R7927. A close up of the number plate and DB 'keks' on class 10 Pacific 10 001 on display at an exhibition in Essen on the 4th May, 1967. Photograph by the late E.A.S.Cotton.

1967/05/04.R7928. Wheels and motion of class 10 Pacific 10 001 on display at an exhibition in Essen on the 4th May, 1967. Photograph by the late E.A.S.Cotton.

1967/05/04.R7929. The tender of class 10 Pacific 10 001 was almost as impressive as the loco itself! This shot was taken by the late E.A.S.Cotton at the B.D.E.F. exhibition in Essen on the 5th May, 1967. Fortunately, this loco survived into preservation, unlike her sister 10 002 which was scrapped.

1967/07/04.R7951. This slide of 93 583 is a bit under-exposed, but I have included it because I like the 93.5s and I suspect that others do too. This class of 2-8-2Ts was introduced in 1918 and E.A.S.Cotton took the picture on the 4th July, 1967. Photograph from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/14.RD2995. One of the spoke-wheeled 01.5 class Pacifics 01 524 at Erfurt. 14th July, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/14.RD3149. Rebuilt Prussian P10 class 2-8-2 22 018 at Erfurt shed. 14th July, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/10/06.RD3152. 01 class Pacific 01 1089 at Osnabrück Hbf. 6th October, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/04.RD3143. 10 class Pacific 10 001 on display at Essen. 4th July, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/14.RD3148. The ex. Prussian State Railways 2-cylinder G 8.2 class 2-8-0s were derived from the larger 3-cylinder G 12 class 2-10-0s. They were introduced in 1919 following an earlier 3-cylinder version which was classified G 8.3. E.A.S.Cotton saw and photographed G 8.2 56 2356 at Erfurt shed in East Germany on the 14th July, 1967. Photograph from the Adrian Jarvis collection. Thanks to all those that have pointed out that my original caption was incorrect.

1967/07/08.RD3145. Sachsen State Railways XI HT class 0-10-0T 94 2117 on the turntable at Hilbersdorf shed in East Germany. 8th July, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/03.RD3142. An East German ex Prussian State Railways P8 class 4-6-0, DR 38 1586, at Bergen on the Island of Rügen. The train is the 10:47 to Stralsund. 3rd July, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/02.RD3140. The crew of DB 01 class Pacific 01 1089 get the details of the train from the guard at Osnabrück Hbf. The train is destined for Hamburg. 2nd July, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/07/02.RD3141. The 62 class 4-6-4 tanks were from the first generation of the pre-war Deutsche Reichsbahn standard locomotives and were designed to run fast passenger trains over short distances on main lines. They were equally at home whether running chimney first or bunker first. They were withdrawn in the early 1970s, but E.A.S.Cotton saw and photographed 62 006 on shed at Rostock on the 2nd July, 1967. Fortunately, one of the class, 62 015, was preserved and is now at Dresden. Photograph from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/10/06.RD3151. 44 class 3-cylinder 2-10-0 44 431 storms through Vehrte with a freight bound for Bremen. 6th October, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1967/10/07.RD3305. Train E748, Hamburg Altona to Osnabrück Hbf. following arrival at it’s destination behind 2-cylinder original boilered 01 class Pacific 01 043 from Bremen shed. 7th October, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection. Thanks to Niek Opdam and '03 1008' for help with the caption.

1967/10/06.RD3485. Oil fired 44 class 3 -cylinder 2-10-0 44 100 on a goods train to Bremen entering Vehrte. 6th October, 1967. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 02) B.R. Steamdays in colour - 3.1.1. London Midland Region - Part 1 : L.N.W.R. lines, continued. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1652048.html An overflow to the previous collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: An overflow to the previous collection.

1965/10.11 A little to the south of Parsley Hay station was the junction where the famous Cromford and High Peak line joined the Ashbourne to Buxton line. In this southerly view, the Cromford line went of to the left, and the Ashbourne line went to the right through the deep cutting seen on the right of the picture. It is still a junction today, but a footpath/cycleway junction where the Tissington Trail (right) meets the High Peak Trail (left). 19th October, 2007.

1965/10.12 Another view of Parsley Hay Junction in October, 2007. Looking north, the Tissington Trail (or the line from Ashbourne!) is on the left, and the High Peak Trail (or the line from Cromford Junction!) is coming in from the right. Parsley Hay station was a little further to the north in the Buxton direction.

1965/10.04 Another view of the LNWR line to Buxton looking north towards the site of Parsley Hay station. It is now the High Peak Trail for walkers and cyclists. 19th October, 2007.

1965/10.03 Looking north towards the site of Parsley Hay station on what is now the High Peak Trail. 19th October, 2007.

1965/10.02 This, believe it or not, is, as far as I could tell, taken from the same location as the previous picture. The old railway line is now a footpath/cycle track and it is hard to believe that there was once a station here. 19th October, 2007.

1965/10.06 Taken from almost the same spot as the previous picture, there is absolutely nothing there to indicate that there used to be a station here. Parsley Hay, 19th October, 2007.

1965/10.09 Parsley Hay in October, 2007. Taken from from a similar position to the previous one, there is now no sign whatsoever that there used to be a station here!

1965/10.10 Even a closer look at the embankment at Parsley Hay fails to reveal any clues that there was once a station building up on the embankment. 19th October, 2007.

1965/10.01 (292) Parsley Hay station on the LNWR line between Buxton and Ashbourne in Derbyshire. It was the junction for the Cromford and High Peak line with its famous 1 in 14 gradients. This, and the next few pictures, show it in October 1965 after closure, and as in is today. It is still a junction, but not a railway one. The Tissington Trail and the High Peak Trail utilize the old railway trackbeds and meet at this point.

1965/10.05 (230) Parsley Hay as seen in October, 1965. Compare this with the next picture taken from the same place 42 years later.

1965/10.07 (233) Parsley Hay in October, 1965. This area is now a car park and there is a café and cycle hire centre in place of railway sidings.

1965/10.08 (227) Parsley Hay down side station buildings as seen from the road below in October, 1965. The station was built out on the embankment with a wooden staircase giving access to/from the road. Compare this picture with the next one taken 42 years later.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 1.2. The 1960s, Part 2. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1617149.html As the Germany 1960s collection continues to grow, and with lots more still to come, I have created this as an overflow collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: As the Germany 1960s collection continues to grow, and with lots more still to come, I have created this as an overflow collection.

1967/03/24.R3078. Easter 1967 was spent gricing in northern Germany. We were mostly looking for steam, but started off with a look at the famous Schwebebahn in the Wuppertal. The trains run over the river Wupper itself at this point, and the Schwebebahn and the river are both crossed by the main line railway on the stone bridge in the background. 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3079. Dangling over the River Wupper, the Schwebebahn follows the winding course of the river at the northern end of the line. 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3084. Traffic lights mean nothing to the trains of the Schwebebahn. They simply sail serenely overhead. 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3085. Another view of the Wuppertal Schwebebahn as it follows the course of the River Wupper through the congested Wuppertal. 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3086. The southern section of the Wuppertal Schwebebahn runs over the city streets. 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3087. Our first taste of steam over the Easter, 1967, weekend was at Wuppertal-Vohwinkel shed. There were 94s, a 78, 50s....... 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3088. A closer view of 94 class 0-10-Ts at Wuppertal-Vohwinkel shed on Good Friday, 24th March, 1967.

1967/03/24.R3089. Ex Prussian T16.1 class 0-10-0Ts 94 1730 and 94 1586 at Wuppertal-Vohwinkel shed on Good Friday, 24th March, 1967. The engine with its back to us is ex Prussian T18 class 4-6-4T 78 159.

1967/03/25.01 On Easter Saturday, the 25th March, 1967, a special train was run from Wuppertal around some branch lines in the Ruhr area behind ex Prussian G10 class 0-10-0 57 2559.

1967/03/25.02 A lone gricer on the hillside gets a shot of ex Prussian G10 class 0-10-0 57 2559 on an enthusiast's special in the Wuppertal area on the 25th March, 1967. The train was made up of 4 wheel end balcony coaches nicknamed 'Donnerbuchsen' (Thunder-boxes). Ride in one, and you'll find out why!!

1967/03/25.03 There were a number of Photo Stops on the 25th March, 1967 when ex Prussian G10 class 0-10-0 57 2559 headed an enthusiasts' special based on Wuppertal.

1967/03/25.05 The line beyond Heiligenhaus had been closed since 1960 so the Easter Saturday Sonderzug (enthusiasts' special train) could go no further. Ex Prussian G10 class 0-10-0 57 2559 and 'Thunderboxes'. 25th March, 1967

1967/03/25.07 Now running tender first, ex Prussian 0-10-0 57 2559 and its train of 'Donnerbuchsen' return back down the line from Heiligenhaus. 25th March, 1967

1967/03/25.08 ex Prussian G10 class 0-10-0 57 2559 on an enthusiasts' special in the Ruhr area on the 25th March, 1967.

1967/03/25.09 A last view of the enthusiasts' 'Sonderzug' on Easter Saturday, 25th March, 1967. We had to say 'Auf Wiedersehen' to the special train as we had to push on, but with a visit to the Teutoburgerwald Eisenbahn next on the agenda.

1967/03/25.10. On the independent Teutoburger Wald Eisenbahn, this is the station at Iburg, south of Osnabrück on the 25th March, 1967. The TWE is now part of the Connex Group.

1967/03/25.11 The last rays of the setting sun catch this 2-8-0T No.161 of the Teutoburger Wald Eisenbahn. Can someone tell me more about it, and where the picture was taken? 25th March, 1967. Hartmut Riedemann tells me this is the TWE workshops at Lengerich. Danke, Hartmut.

1967/03/25.12 Teutoburger Wald Eisenbahn No.221 is a 2-6-2T which started life as Eutin-Lübecker Eisenbahn No.12 and then became DRG 75 632 before being sold to the TWE. Lengerich Workshops, 25th March, 1967.

1967/03/25.13 Another view of 2-6-2T 221 of the Teutoburer Wald Eisenbahn at the Lengerich Workshops on the 25th March, 1967. The TWE is now part of Connex and these workshops are still very much in business carrying out repairs for the whole of the Connex Group in Germany.

1967/03/26.01 Our next port of call after the Teutoburger Wald Eisenbahn was Bw Osnabrück. 41 class 2-8-2 41 364 and Prussian T16.1 class 0-10-0T 94 1052 poke their noses out of the shed on what looks like a somewhat dismal morning. 26th March, 1967

1967/03/26.05 In ex-works condition, 01 class Pacific 01 1098 at Osnabrück shed on the 26th March, 1967.

1967/03/26.06 Nicely painted and clean red wheels, frames and motion were always one of the attractions of German steam power. This is 01 class Pacific 01 0198 at Osnabrück Bahnbetriebwerk (m.p.d.) on the 26th March, 1967.

1967/03/26.07 A final view of 01 1098's wheels and motion at Bw Osnabrück on the 26th March, 1967.

1967/03/26.03 With 01 1098 behind it, 41 class 2-8-2 41 105 at Bw Osnabrück on the 26th March, 1967.

1967/03/26.10 Can someone tell me what this coach is, and where the picture was taken? It is a five compartment clerestory roofed bogie coach with a guard's compartment, complete with high level lookout. 26th March, 1967. 'Jörg810' and Detlef Hasselmann tell me that it is Nordfriedische Verkehrsbetrieb AG No.6, ex Prussian, of 1899. It was scrapped in 1967. How could they??!!! The loco is KL2, built by Jung in 1937, originally for the Mindener Kreisbahn. This, too, met its end in 1967. Photo taken at Niebüll. Danke, Jörg und Detlef.

1967/03/26.11 This is a diesel railcar of the Nordfriedische Verkehrsbetriebe (NVAG) which is now the Norddeutschland Eisenbahngesellschaft (DEG). The line runs between Niebüll and Dagebüll Mole on the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein where it connects with ferries to the North Friesian Islands. Niebüll, 26th March, 1967

1967/03/26.12 The metre gauge railways on the Island of Sylt were the home of these extremely unusual Borgward railcars. There were five of them, built in 1954 and based on lorry chassis. Sorry about the camera-shake. I'm not sure if it was the cold or the astonishment! 26th March, 1967

1967/03/26.13 LT3, a Borgward railcar of the Sylter Inselbahn. This was the metre gauge system on the Island of Sylt off the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein. 26th March, 1967

1967/03/26.14 Another view of Borgward railcar LT3 at Westerland on the Island of Sylt. 26th March, 1967

1967/03/26.20 The Island of Sylt is connected to the German mainland by an 11 kilometre long causeway known as the Hindenburgdamm. It is rail only, so cars are carried on car transporter wagons between Niebüll and Westerland. This is a view through the car windscreen as we approach the mainland on the 26th March, 1967.

1967/05.R3175. There was once a superb metre gauge line connecting the towns of Zell and Todtnau in the Black Forest in south west Germany. It closed in 1967, but I managed to get there on one occasion before it was too late. This is 0-4-4-0 Mallet tank 105 on a special train in May, 1967. The line was already freight only having closed to passengers on the 25th September the previous year. The line closed completely almost exactly one year later on the 24th September, 1967 and the track was lifted during November. I understand that it is now a 'Wanderweg' (footpath). Thanks to Tony Adams for providing information regarding dates.

1967/05.R3176. This is a 'Sonderzug' (special train) in May, 1967 on the now long closed metre gauge line between the towns of Zell and Todtnau in the Black Forest area of south west Germany. The line had been freight only since the previous September and closed completely in September, 1967. I understand that it is now a footpath.

1967/05.R3177. Built in Karlsruhe in 1918, this is 0-4-4-0 Mallet tank 105 of the Zell - Todtnauer Eisenbahn. The picture was taken on a Sonderzug - special train - passing Kasteler Brücke in May, 1967. Although the line was closed in the following September, the trackbed became a Wanderweg - footpath - and the loco, happily, was preserved. she now runs on the Chemin de Fer Blonay - Chamby near Montreaux in western Switzerland.

1967/05.R3178. Lokführer Rudolf Ueber at the controls of 1918 built 0-4-4-0 Mallet tank 105 on the Zell - Todtnauer Eisenbahn in the Black Forest area of south west Germany. May, 1967.

1967/05.R3179. 0-4-4-0 Mallet tank 105 of 1918 vintage approaches a level crossing at Schönau im Schwarzwald on the Zell - Todtnauer Eisenbahn in the Black Forest area of south west Germany in May, 1967. This was a special train as the line was, by that time, freight only. It closed completely on the 24th September that year and the trackbed became a footpath. The loco survived and is now running on the Chemin de Fer Blonay - Chamby near Montreux in western Switzerland.

1967/05.R3180. A special train on the now long closed Zell - Todtnauer Eisenbahn in the Black Forest area of south west Germany pauses at an intermediate station in May, 1967. Can anybody tell me which station it is? It's Schönau im Schwarzwald. Thanks to Herbert, 'Der lustige Wiesentäler' for identifying the locations for me. The loco is 0-4-4-0 Mallet tank 105, built in Karlsruhe in 1918. Happily, she still survives today and can be seen running on the Chemin de Fer Blonay - Chamby near Montreux in western Switzerland.

1965/07/07.RD2943. DB 44 class 2-10-0 44 1551 near Marburg on the 7th July, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1965/07/06.RD2996. Prussian T18 class 4-6-4T 78 050 at Giessen. 6th July, 1965. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 3. The Bodensee - 2001 & 2003. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1616070.html In 2001 and 2003 I went to Graubünden in south eastern Switzerland. However, I made a couple of day trips to the Bodensee (Lake Constance) on both occasions, visiting Friedrichshafen in 2001 and Lindau in 2003. Tuesday 30 November 1999: In 2001 and 2003 I went to Graub_nden in south eastern Switzerland. However, I made a couple of day trips to the Bodensee (Lake Constance) on both occasions, visiting Friedrichshafen in 2001 and Lindau in 2003.

2003/04.R12842. During our holiday in Switzerland in April, 2003, we had a day trip to the Bodensee (Lake Constance) where we took the ferry from Romanshorn across to Friedrichshafen in Germany. Fortunately for me, the Harbour station, Friedrichshafen Hafen, is near the ferry terminal. Here I saw a pair of 650 class single unit DMUs, 650 114 and 650 116.

2003/04.R12843. 650 class single unit DMUs 650 114 and 650 116 at Friedrichshafen Hafen. April, 2003.

2001/08.R11712. Looking the other way from the footbridge that crosses the station at Lindau. A pair of 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulics are arriving from München (Munich) with a EuroCity train for Zürich. The train is composed of Swiss coaches and a Swiss Re4/4 II Bo-Bo electric was waiting to work the train for the remainder of its journey. Lindau is situated on an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) and is attached to the mainland by a causeway. The blue waters of the lake can just be seen on the left. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11713. A general view of Lindau Hbf. from the footbridge that conveniently crosses the whole of the station. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11715. The 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulics seen arriving at Lindau in picture R11712. A Swiss Re4/4 II Bo-Bo electric took the train on to Zürich and the pair of diesels are backing out of the terminal station. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11711. Looking down on a driving trailer at Lindau Hbf. from the footbridge that crosses the station. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11727. One of the best things about train watching at Lindau is the international flavour as trains from both Austria and Switzerland can be seen as well as the native German ones. This one is a push-pull unit from Austria, seen from the footbridge that spans the station. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11728. The same Austrian train seen in the previous picture sets off across the causeway that connects the island of Lindau with the mainland. The train engine pushing at the rear is 1016 class Bo-Bo electric 1016 012. The bright blue waters of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) can be seen on the left. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11719. 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulics 218 437 and 218 321 stand side by side at Lindau Hbf. in August, 2001.

2001/08.R11723. A general view of Lindau Hbf. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11724. 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic approches Lindau Hbf. across the causeway connecting the island with the mainland. The blue waters of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) are on the left. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11725. 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic 218 240 arrives at Lindau Hbf. in August, 2001.

2001/08.R11732. Seen across the blue waters of the Bodensee (Lake Constance), a push-pull train with a 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic at the rear approaches Lindau across the causeway that links the island to the mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11733. Sunbathers enjoy the afternoon sunshine on the banks of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) as a 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic propels a push-pull train into Lindau Hbf. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11743. A 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic heads a three coach train across the causeway connecting the island of Lindau in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11748. Is the Bodensee (Lake Constance) really that blue?! A multi-coloured push-pull train sets out from Lindau Hbf. onto the causeway which connects the island to the German mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11749. Whether both these 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulics were under power or not I'm not sure, but, if they were, they were supplying super-power indeed for a four coach train! They are at the rear of a local train leaving Lindau Hbf. and are crossing the causeway that connects the island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the German mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11750. A telephoto shot of the train seen in the previous two shots as it is propelled across the causeway connecting the island of Lindau in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) to the German mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11718. DB DMU 628 346 at Lindau Hbf. in August, 2001. Pity about the graffiti. Lindau is an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany.

2001/08.R11720. Two different liveried 611 class DMUs at Lindau Hbf. 611 041 in red livery is nearest the camera. Lindau is on an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11730. A three coach local train is propelled across the causeway connecting the island of Lindau to the mainland by a 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic. Lindau is an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11744. A 611 class DMU on the causeway at Lindau. This connects the island, situated in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany, with the mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11736. An Austrian Railways EMU crosses the causeway connecting the island of Lindau in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the German mainland. Seeing Austrian and Swiss trains as well as the indigenous German ones adds interest to train watching at Lindau. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11737. An Austrian Railways EMU crosses the causeway connecting the island of Lindau in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the German mainland. Seeing Austrian and Swiss trains as well as the indigenous German ones adds interest to train watching at Lindau. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11738. An Austrian Railways EMU crosses the causeway connecting the island of Lindau in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the German mainland. Seeing Austrian and Swiss trains as well as the indigenous German ones adds interest to train watching at Lindau. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11739. An Austrian Railways EMU has crossed the causeway connecting the island of Lindau in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the German mainland and is approaching the Hauptbahnhof. Seeing Austrian and Swiss trains as well as the indigenous German ones adds interest to train watching at Lindau. August, 2001.

1963/09/19.RD3058. Flashback to 1963! Rebuilt Bavarian State Railways S 3/6 class Pacific 18 614 departing from Lindau Hauptbahnhof and setting off across the causeway that connects the island to the mainland. 19th September, 1963. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

2001/08.R11734. A modern 2-car DMU crossing the causeway connecting the island of Lindau with the Geman mainland. Lindau is situated in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany. I am not sure which class the DMU is; could it be a Siemens Br.642? I am hoping someone will tell me. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11729. A 628 class DMU on the causeway between the island of Lindau and the German mainland. Lindau is in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11740. A 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic on the causeway connecting Lindau with the German mainland. Lindau is situated on an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) near the border with Austria. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11741. A push-pull train with a 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic on the causeway connecting Lindau with the German mainland. Lindau is situated on an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) near the border with Austria. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11742. With a 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic at the head, this push-pull train has reached the end of the causeway connecting Lindau with the German mainland. Lindau is situated on an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) near the border with Austria. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11721. Lindau Hauptbahnhof with the Austrian Alps in the background. On the left are a pair of 611 class DMUs in two different liveries while, on the right, is a push-pull train with a class 218 B-B diesel-hydraulic out of sight at the far end. Although Lindau is situated on an island in the Bodensee (Lake Constance), it is connected to the German mainland by a causeway. The borders of Germany, Austria and Switzerland all come together near here. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11745. A 611 class DMU on the causeway at Lindau. This connects the island, situated in the Bodensee (Lake Constance) in south west Germany, with the mainland. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11751. 218 class B-B diesel-hydraulic 218 469 at Lindau Hbf. Lindau is situated on an island in the Bodensee (Like Constance) in south west Germany. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11752. A final view of Lindau Hbf looking back towards the mainland with the Bodensee (Lake Constance) just visible. On the right is a Swiss Re4/4 II Bo-Bo electric locomotive waiting for the next arrival from München which it will take over for the rest of the run to Zürich. August, 2001.

2001/08/25.R11753. The curiously named station of Aha in the Black Forest area of south west Germany. Aha is situated on the branch line from Titisee to Seebrugg. 25th August, 2001.

2001/08/25.R11754. 143 class Bo-Bo electric 143 331 at Aha on the Titisee to Seebrugg branch in Germany's Black Forest. 25th August, 2001.

2001/08/25.R11756. With the driving trailer leading, a train from Seebrugg calls at the curiously named station of Aha in Germany's Black Forest. 25th August, 2001.

2001/08/25.R11758. With 143 class Bo-Bo electric 143 331 pushing at the rear, a train from Seebrugg leaves the curiously named Aha station and heads towards Titisee in Germany's black Forest. 25th August, 2001.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) France 5 : Brittany and Normandy, 2002. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1584514.html Having visited Brittany back in 1964, I had long fancied another trip there. This was achieved in June, 2002 when I re-visited some of the places visited on the previous visit, plus some new places as well. This included the summertime steam tourist trains on the old Réseau Breton Guingamp - Paimpol line between Paimpol and Pontrieux. This used to be metre gauge but was later dual gauge, and then standard gauge only. This line remained open when the bulk of the Réseau Breton system was closed. 231K class Pacific 231 K 8 was doing the honours when we visited the line in 2002. As with most collections, pictures will be added over time having spent the first couple of weeks in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Having visited Brittany back in 1964, I had long fancied another trip there. This was achieved in June, 2002 when I re-visited some of the places visited on the previous visit, plus some new places as well. This included the summertime steam tourist trains on the old R_seau Breton Guingamp - Paimpol line between Paimpol and Pontrieux. This used to be metre gauge but was later dual gauge, and then standard gauge only. This line remained open when the bulk of the R_seau Breton system was closed. 231K class Pacific 231 K 8 was doing the honours when we visited the line in 2002. As with most collections, pictures will be added over time having spent the first couple of weeks in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

2002/06.R12069. During the summer months, there are steam hauled tourist trains on a section of the old Réseau Breton between Paimpol and Pontrieux. In June, 2002, 231K class Pacific 231K8 was in charge.

2002/06.R12083. 231K class Pacific 231K8 at Pontrieux on the old Réseau Breton branch between Guingamp and Paimpol. Steam hauled tourist trains run between Paimpol and Pontrieux in the summer months. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12088. Vive la vapeur! 231K class Pacific 231K8 on the servicing siding at Pontrieux following its arrival from Paimpol with the tourist train. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12118. The fireman of 231K class Pacific 231K8 is clearly making up his fire at Pontrieux ready for the return run to Paimpol with the summer tourist train that runs on this section of the old Réseau Breton. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12100. This attractive poster from the Chemin de Fer de l'Ouest extolling the virtues of the Bains de Mer de Bretagne was displayed on the station at Pontrieux on the old Réseau Breton line between Guingamp and Paimpol. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12104. The line between Guingamp and Paimpol may be used between Paimpol and Pontrieux for steam hauled tourist trains in the summer months, but it is also still in use for daily diesel service trains as well. A single car DMU with a couple of interesting looking trailers is seen here calling at Pontrieux on its way from Paimpol to connect with the main line at Guingamp. The tourist train can just be seen in the other platform to the left. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12096. The rolling stock used on the summer steam hauled tourist trains between Paimpol and Pomtrieux in Brittany. The coach nearest the camera is an ex German Railways 4-wheel 'Thunderbox' If you are wondering why they are so called, go and have a ride in one! June, 2002.

2002/06.R12097. Another of the coaches used on the summer tourist steam hauled trains in Brittany is this ex Belgian Railways suburban bogie coach. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12084. 231K class Pacific 231K8 at Pontrieux on the old Réseau Breton line between Guingamp and Paimpol. There is a summer steam hauled tourist train over part of this line. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12091. A close up of the cabside and numberplate of 231K class Pacific 231K8. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12093. 231K class Pacific 231K8 on the servicing siding at Pontrieux having arrived with the tourist train from Paimpol. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12115. A close-up of 231K class 231K8's smokebox taken from the balcony of the front coach. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12127. Cabbing a 231K! Although my French is non-existant, my wife drilled me in how to ask whether I could have a look at the footplate. This is the fireman's side view down the length of the boiler of 231K8. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12128. Through the oval window! A driver's eye view from the footplate of 231K class Pacific 231K8. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12135. On the way back to Paimpol, the tourist trains stop at a wayside halt where passengers can sample locally produced cider and crepes. 231K class Pacific 231K8 simmers quietly whilst waiting for the passengers' return. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12129. A close-up of 231K8's fire during the refreshment halt on the return journey. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12106. The ex SNCF support coach for the 231K class Pacific 231K8 that was running the summer tourist trains between Paimpol and Pontreux in Brittany. Pontrieux, June, 2002.

2002/06.R12119. 231K class Pacific 231K8 at Pontrieux readies itself for the return trip to Paimpol with the summer tourist train that runs on part of the old Réseau Breton line from Guingamp to Paimpol. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12239. [12] Loudéac station in June, 2002. Although the narrow gauge Réseau Breton lines have long gone, the standard gauge is still there, but most of the trains are now buses!

2002/06.R12245. A pair of 673xx class B-B diesel-electrics with 67318 leading sweep through the sleepy station of Caulnes with a freight train. Caulnes is situated on the Paris - Brest main line between St. Brieuc and Rennes in Brittany. The BB673xx class are a modified version of the BB67xxx class with some being built as BB673xx from new while others are BB67xxx converts. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12241. A pair of 673xx class B-B diesel-electrics with 67322 leading sweep through the sleepy station of Caulnes with a train of tank wagons. Caulnes is situated on the Brest - Paris main line between St. Brieuc and Rennes in Brittany. The BB673xx class are a modified version of the BB67xxx class with some being built as BB673xx from new while others are BB67xxx converts. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12247. The attractive, and typically French, station at Avranches on the line connecting Brittany with Normandy. It leaves the Paris - Brest main line at Dol and joins the Paris - Granville line at Folligny. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12248. The platform side of the station at Avranches on the line connecting Brittany with Normandy. It leaves the Paris - Brest main line at Dol and joins the Paris - Granville line at Folligny. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12260. Once the preserve of 141P class 2-8-2s, Granville on Normandy's west coast is now home to X72500 class DMUs. These now work the principle trains to Paris. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12263. A pair of X72500 class DMUs arrive at Granville on the west coast of Normandy with a working from Paris. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12242. The sleepy station of Caulnes on the Paris - Brest main line to the west of Rennes. A westbound two-car Caravelle DMU is slowing to call at the station. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12249. Avranches on the line connecting Brittany with Normandy. It leaves the Paris - Brest main line at Dol and joins the Paris - Granville line at Folligny. Note the chaired track, an unusual feature on continental railways, but quite common in parts of France. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12254. An exterior view of the stylish station at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12259. An interior view of the station at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. A train of Corail stock is waiting to depart for Paris Montparnasse. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12273. SNCF 67400 class B-B diesel-electric 67500 in 'Fret' livery at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12274. In main line passenger livery, SNCF 67400 class B-B diesel-electric 67403 at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12243. An S.N.C.F. 2 car Caravelle DMU calls at the sleepy station of Caulnes on the Paris - Brest main line between Rennes and St. Brieuc. This is one with the new style front ends; personally, I prefer the original version. High speed TGVs pass this way, hence the amount of super-elevation. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12244. An S.N.C.F. 2 car Caravelle DMU departing from Caulnes on the Paris - Brest main line between Rennes and St. Brieuc. This is one with the new style front ends; personally, I prefer the original version. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12250. Another view of the station at Avranches. A permanent way maintenance vehicle stands in the adjoining platform. The bullhead track in rail chairs, uncommon in continental Europe, but not in parts of France, is clearly visible. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12251. I didn't have a lot of time to hang around the station at Avranches, so did not see any trains and had to make do photographing the empty station. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12253. The stylish new, well, newish, station at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12258. Granville station on the west coast of Normandy. A train of Corail stock can be seen on the left. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12269. 63000 class B-B 63678 at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. I imagine that it was on emergency rescue standby duties. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12270. 63000 class B-B 63678 at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. I imagine that it was on emergency rescue standby duties. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12271. An S.N.C.F. coach converted into a mess or riding van for use on emergency rescue trains. It was coupled to BB63678 at Granville on the west coast of Normandy when I saw it in June, 2002.

2002/06.R12276. 47400 class B-B 67500 in 'Fret' livery at Granville on the west coast of Normandy . June, 2002.

2002/06.R12278. 47400 class B-B 67500 in 'Fret' livery at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12275. 47400 class B-B 67403 at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12264. A 2-car caravelle DMU with the new front ends departs from Granville on the west coast of Normandy. A train of loco hauled Corail stock stands in the platform with a state of the art X72500 DMU on the left. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12266. A 2-car caravelle DMU with the new front ends departs from Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12267. Granville station on the west coast of Normandy. A train of loco hauled Corail stock stands in the platform with a state of the art X72500 DMU on the left. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12277. Front ends - French style. 47400 class B-B 67500 in 'Fret' livery and a modern X72500 DMU at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

47400 class B-B 67500 in 'Fret' livery at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

2002/06.R12261. A 3-car SNCF X72500 railcar set stabled at Granville on the west coast of Normandy. June, 2002.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) France 3 : Brittany , 1964. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1584383.html After a weekend on the Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury (see previous collection), I moved on to Brittany to see the Réseau Breton metre gauge system. Am I glad I did! - the system closed soon afterwards. Pictures will be added over time and will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: After a weekend on the Tramway de Pithiviers _ Toury (see previous collection), I moved on to Brittany to see the R_seau Breton metre gauge system. Am I glad I did! - the system closed soon afterwards. Pictures will be added over time and will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

1964/10.R2075. Vive la briquette! One of the 0-6-6-0 Mallet Tanks lays a smokescreen over Châteaulin Embranchement where the metre gauge Réseau Breton line from Carhaix connected with the standard gauge line from Quimper. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2039. 141C class 2-8-2 141C3 and a freight train have just arrived at Loudéac from the St. Brieuc direction. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2040. 141C class 2-8-2 141C3 catches the low autumnal sunshine as it takes water at Loudéac in October, 1964.

1964/10.R2042A (2002/06.R12240.) Loudéac today - well, in 2002, anyway. 38 years after the previous pictures were taken, I paid another visit to Loudéac in June, 2002. Although the narrow gauge was long gone, the Réseau Breton loco shed was still in situ and can just be seen in the distance.

1964/10.R2041. 141C class 2-8-2 141C3 at Loudéac. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2044. Metre gauge 0-6-6-0 Mallet tank 41 shunting freight wagons at La Brohiničre, the most easterly point on the Réseau Breton. This loco was restricted to the Loudéac - La Brohiničre section because it had less water capacity than the other Mallets. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2046. The most easterly point of the metre gauge Réseau Breton was La Brohiničre where 0-6-6-0 Mallet tank 41 was seen shunting a recently arrived freight. The engine shed is out of shot to the right of the picture, but the water column, and the edge of the turntable, can just be seen. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2047. Metre gauge 0-6-6-0 Mallet tank 41 comes on shed at La Brohiničre one evening in October, 1964. This loco had smaller water tanks than the other Mallets and was restricted to the Loudéac - La Brohiničre section on account of this.

1964/10.R2049. Once a railway station on the metre gauge Côtes-du-Nord system, this impressive trainshed at St. Brieuc is now a bus station. Les chemins de fer Côtes du Nord (CdN) was an extensive system in the north of Brittany which complimented the Réseau Breton system. It was closed in stages between 1937 and 1956 with the section from Paimpol to St. Brieuc being the last to survive. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2050. An interior view of the impressive one-time Chemin des Fer Côtes du Nord (CdN) trainshed at St. Brieuc in October, 1964. The CdN was an extensive system in the north of Brittany which complimented the Réseau Breton system, but it closed in stages between 1937 and 1956 with the section from Paimpol to St. Brieuc being the last to survive. As can be seen, the station at St. Brieuc was turned into a bus station following closure of the railway.

1964/10.R2052. 141TC class 2-8-2T 141TC4 on shed at Guingamp in October, 1964.

1964/10.R2053. 141TC class 2-8-2T 141TC3 catches the late afternoon autumn sun at Guingamp on the Paris - Brest main line. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2054. A standard gauge S.N.C.F. railcar at Guingamp on the Chemin de Fer de l'Ouest Paris - Brest main line. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2055. A Réseau Breton de Dion-Bouton OC2 type autorail (railcar). They were ordered in 1939, but delivery was delayed by the war and the first of the six entered service in 1946. Two examples still survive, one on the Blanc - Argent line and the other at the Côtes du Nord preservation group's site near St. Brieuc. I took the picture in October, 1964, but I don't know where. Does anyone recognize the location?

1964/10.R2056. Morlaix in northern Brittany on the Paris - Brest main line looking towards Paris. Note the dual-gauge track; this is because the standard gauge Chemin de Fer de l'Ouest main line and the metre gauge Réseau Breton shared the imposing viaduct to the east of the station. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2059a (R12216). A similar southerly view to the previous picture, but taken further down the platform - and 38 years later! The line from Carhaix to Guingamp in the north survived the 1967 closure of the Réseau Breton system, but it was converted to standard gauge and it is now just a branch line terminus instead of the thriving central hub it had been previously. The platform shelter on the left has been rebuilt, but the main station building remains intact and the awning columns appear to be the same even if the awning itself has been replaced. June, 2002.

1964/10.R2061. The Réseau Breton metre gauge railcar shed at Carhaix in central Brittany. This was the hub of the system and the major workshops and stock sheds were situated here. October, 1964.

1964/10.R2061a (R12201). The old Réseau Breton metre gauge railcar shed seen in the previous picture was still in situ when I visited Carhaix again in June, 2002. It is the building on the right hand side of this picture taken looking south. Carhaix is now a shadow of its former self being a standard gauge terminus at the southern end of a branch line from Guingamp rather than the hub of an extensive metre gauge system as it had previously been.

1964/10.R2062a (R12195). A northerly view of the station at Carhaix, once the important hub of the Réseau Breton metre gauge system. Now converted to standard gauge, it is the southern terminus of a branch line from Guingamp. The Buffet de la Gare, however, is still recognisable some 38 years after the previous picture was taken in 1964. June, 2002.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Luxembourg Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1495597.html Luxembourg, like neighbouring Belgium, often seems to be overlooked by British enthusiasts. This is a pity, because Luxembourg is well worth a visit with some superb scenery as well as interesting railways. It is truely the crossroads of Europe where trains from France, Belgium and Germany can be seen alongside each other as well as the indigenous Luxembourg ones. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Luxembourg, like neighbouring Belgium, often seems to be overlooked by British enthusiasts. This is a pity, because Luxembourg is well worth a visit with some superb scenery as well as interesting railways. It is truely the crossroads of Europe where trains from France, Belgium and Germany can be seen alongside each other as well as the indigenous Luxembourg ones.

2004/06/30.R14091 Luxembourg station with a 3600 class Bo-Bo on the left and a 2000 class EMU on the right. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14104 A reminder of the steam age at Luxembourg is the old roundhouse by the station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14099 Luxembourg station on the 30th June, 2004. On the right is an 850 class Bo-Bo diesel while, in the centre, is a 250 class EMU. Built in 1975, these are based on the French Z6100 class, but with detail differences. On the far left the end of a DB coach from Germany is just visible indicating the international flavour of Luxembourg railways.

2004/06/30.R14095 The Luxembourg Railways 3600 class centre cab electric locomotives were the Luxembourg versions of the French 12000 class. The class was built in 1958 - 9, with 3602 being one of the earlier 1958 built examples. I was just in time to see it at Luxembourg City station on the 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14093 This CFL 3600 class centre cab Bo-Bo was due to leave Luxembourg City station and it was touch and go whether I would get to the end of the platform before it did! 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14094 A closer view of Luxembourg Railways 1958 vintage Bo-Bo centre cab electric before it left Luxembourg City station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14096 Although this 628.4 class DMU is from Germany, it only appears to be going as far as Wasserbillig which is just on the Luxembourg side of the border. Luxembourg City, 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14097. Luxembourg Railways rolling stock built by Wegmann & Co of Kassel in Germany in the mid-1960s. Luxembourg City station, 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14098 CFL 850 class Bo-Bo diesel 855 at Luxembourg City station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14100 Ready to set off back to Germany, DB dual voltage class 181 Bo-Bo 181 204 at Luxembourg City station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14101 DB dual voltage 181 class Bo-Bo 181 204 sets off from Luxembourg City on its way back to Germany. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14123. French Railways 15000 class Bo-Bo electric BB15042 adds to the international flavour at Luxembourg City station, as does the Belgian loco in the next picture. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14125. Another indication of the international aspect of Luxembourg City station is this Belgian Railways 2000 classCo-Co electric 2014. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14119. Built in 1975, the Luxembourg Railways 250 class EMUs are based on the French Railways Z6100 class. 253 is seen here arriving at Luxembourg City station on the 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14120. 250 class EMU 253 at Luxembourg City station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14113. French Railways 15000 class Bo-Bo electric BB15040 at Luxembourg City. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14116. Luxembourg Railways 3000 class Bo-Bo electric 3013 at Luxembourg City. These are the Luxembourg versions of the Belgian 1300 class. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14133. Belgian Railways 2000 class Co-Co electric 2003 at Luxembourg City. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14117. Nicknamed 'Flatirons', the Luxembourg Railways 3600 class centre cab Bo-Bo electrics were the CFL versions of the French 12000 class. They were very much endangered species when I was there so I was lucky to see a couple. This is 3612 at Luxembourg City on the 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14127. CFL 850 class Bo-Bo diesel 855 shunts empty coaching stock at Luxembourg City station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14132. Another indication of the international aspect of Luxembourg City station is this French Railways BB16500 class Bo-Bo electric 16770. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14084. Luxembourg Railways 2000 class EMU 2010 at Ettelbrück. These units were introduced in 1990 and are similar to the SNCF Z2 class. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14090. CFL 3000 class Bo-Bo electric 3013 calls at Ettelbrück with a train from Ličge to Luxembourg City on the 30th June, 2004. These locos are the same as the Belgian Railways 1300 class.

2004/06/30.R14115. SNCF Bo-Bo electric BB15040 about to head south from Luxembourg with a train of Belgian rolling stock. Another example of the international nature of the place. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14118. A rake of French Co-rail coaches at Luxembourg City add to the international character of the station. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14134. A train of double deck Belgian rolling stock has just arrived at Luxembourg City from Brussels behind SNCB 2000 class Co-Co electric 2003. 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R14129. Luxembourg Railways rolling stock built by Wegmann & Co of Germany in the mid-1960s. Luxembourg City station, 30th June, 2004.

2004/06/30.R13135. Luxembourg Railways 2000 class EMU 2015 gets ready to leave Luxembourg City station on the 30th June, 2004.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 03) Festiniog Railway - 1965. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1489627.html 03) Festiniog Railway - 1965. Tuesday 30 November 1999: 03) Festiniog Railway - 1965.

1965/07.R2426 When First World War Alco-Cooke 2-6-2T 3-23 of the Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury first came to the U.K., it was stored at Isleworth in Middlesex. It was later to become 'Mountaineer' on the Festiniog Railway. July, 1965.

1965/07.R2427 Tucked away behind a scout hut in Isleworth, Middlesex, together with Mike Elvy's traction engine, is Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury 2-6-2T 3-23. Originally built in America by Alco-Cooke for use behind the lines in France during the First World War, it was purchased in 1965 by John Ransom who can be seen on the right. TPT 3-23 was later to become 'Mountaineer' on the Festiniog Railway.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 03) Festiniog Railway - 1964. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1489626.html 03) Festiniog Railway - 1964. Tuesday 30 November 1999: 03) Festiniog Railway - 1964.

1964/05/19.S72. In the gathering gloom, 0-4-4-0 double Fairlie MERDDIN EMRYS at Tan-y-Bwlch having posed for the well know painting by renowned railway artist Terence Cuneo. 19th May, 1964.

1964/05/19.S71. Once Terence Cuneo had finished with his sketches and photography at Tan-y-Bwlch, MERDDIN EMRYS drew forward and into the station. LINDA is just visible through the steam. It was getting dark and the weather was closing in, so apologies for the second rate pictures! 19th May, 1964.

1964/05/19.S70. On the 19th May, 1964, the famous railway artist Terence Cuneo visited the Festiniog Railway to make sketches and take photographs for what was to become a well known painting of trains passing as Tan-y-Bwlch. It was carefully staged with ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway Hunslet LINDA waiting at the top points with an up train while double Fairlie MERDDIN EMRYS arrives with a down train. As the line above Tan-y-Bwlch was still awaiting re-opening in 1964, this was seen as symbolic of the FR Co's resolve to continue with the re-opening of the line despite the C.E.G.B. reservoir blocking the line at Tan-y-Grisiau. The artist can just be seen on Linda's footplate with the then General Manager, Allan Garraway.

1964/05/19.S73. LINDA and MERDDIN EMRYS arrive at Minffordd with the returning special train that had been specially posed at Tan-y-Bwlch for Terence Cuneo's well known painting of trains crossing at the loop which is situated there. The artist can just be seen on Linda's footplate wearing a light coloured mac. 19th May, 1964.

1964/09.R1954. London Area Group permanent way volunteers get stuck in near Minffordd in September, 1964.

1964/09.R1955. A view of The Cob, the embankment built across the Glaslyn Estuary, as seen from Y Garth (Garth Terrace) in September, 1964. This view would not be very different today.

1964/09.R1956. The Festiniog Railway's Harbour Station and the old slate wharves as seen from Garth Terrace (Y Garth) in September, 1964. This was long before the later housing developments were to change the ambience of Harbour Station and its surroundings for ever.

1964/09.R1957. Another view of the Festiniog Railway's Harbour Station and the old slate wharves as seen from Garth Terrace (Y Garth) in September, 1964. This was long before the later housing developments were to change the ambience of Harbour Station and its surroundings for ever.

1964/04.B10. For the 1964 Festiniog Railway Society Annual General Meeting London Area Group Working Party weekend in April of that year, something a little bigger than the customary minibus was required. So I hired a charabanc - this six-wheel Bedford Plaxton 52 (?) seater Panorama from Whitefriars Coaches of Harrow. This is it outside Harrow-on-the-Hill Metroplitan Line station prior to departure on the Friday evening. Opinions varied as to whether it was a 4-2-0 or an 0-4-2!

1964/06.R1548. Ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway 0-4-0ST/T LINDA passes Pen Cob Halt and the entrance to Boston Lodge Works as she heads another train from Portmadoc to Tan-y-Bwlch. June, 1964.

1964/06.R1550 A general view of Glan-y-Mor Yard at the Festiniog Railway’s Boston Lodge Works. June, 1964.

1964/06.R1551. Another view of Glan-y-Mor Yard at the Festiniog Railway’s Boston Lodge works, but looking a bit further to the right from the previous view and showing the old gunpowder sheds which were still there at that time. June, 1964.

1964/06.R1553. The Festiniog Railway’s George England 0-4-0ST/T PRINCE of 1863 vintage is being prepared for its next turn of duty at Boston Lodge Works. Ex BR East Coast Main Line Top Link driver Bill Hoole is loading the tender. June, 1964.

1964/06.R1554. The fireman of 0-4-0ST/T PRINCE (me, actually!) poses to have his picture taken whilst shovelling coal from waggon No.60 to Prince’s tender. Boston Lodge Works, June, 1964. Photograph by Bill Hoole.

1964/06.R1569. Ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway 2’ gauge 0-4-0ST/T LINDA runs into Minffordd station with another train from Portmadoc to Tan-y-Bwlch. The slope down to the underpass leading to the low level B.R. Western Region Cambrian Coast line platform is on the left. June, 1964.

1964/06.R1572. An overall view of the Festiniog Railway’s then upper terminus at Tan-y-Bwlch in June, 1964. Ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway 0-4-0ST/T LINDA has run round the train and is ready to set off back down the line to Portmadoc. Despite now being an intermediate station, Tan-y-Bwlch is still a favourite stopping off point for many of the Festiniog Railway’s passengers as it is set in a peaceful location in the hills of Snowdonia and is the starting point for many delightful woodland and hillside walks. Linda is, of course, still with us. But I wonder whether the same can be said about the Mark II Ford Consul and the Daimler DB18 Consort?

1964/06.R1547. Ex Penrhyn Quarry Railway 0-4-0ST/T LINDA rounds Boston Lodge Curve with another train for Tan-y-Bwlch. The Festiniog Railway's General Manager, Allan Garraway, is in charge. Note the vintage caravan on the road below! June, 1964.

1964/06.R1571. Ex 2’ gauge Penrhyn Quarry Railway 0-4-0ST/T LINDA approaching the Festiniog Railway’s then upper terminus of Tan-y-Bwlch in June, 1964.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 6. The Rhein and The Mosel - 2004. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1486696.html In July, 2004, I spent a holiday at Rüdesheim am Rhein. Needless to say, I took a few railway pictures whilst in the area and this is the collection for them. To begin with, however, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before I move them into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: In July, 2004, I spent a holiday at R_desheim am Rhein. Needless to say, I took a few railway pictures whilst in the area and this is the collection for them. To begin with, however, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before I move them into here.

2004/07/06.R14232 The Pündericher Hangviadukt on the line between Trier and Koblenz as seen from the pleasure steamer 'Mosella' on the River Mosel. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14233 Seen from the pleasure steamer 'Mosella' on the River Mosel, this is the Pünderlicher Hangviadukt on the line between Koblenz and Trier. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14236 I had hoped that I would get a train to photograph as we passed the Pünderlicher Hangviadukt alongside the River Mosel. However, this was not to be and this was my final view of the viaduct from the stern of the pleasure boat 'Mosella'. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14237 The double-deck road-rail bridge over the River Mosel at Bullay on the line between Koblenz and Trier. Picture taken from the pleasure boat 'Mosella'. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14238 Seen from the stern of the pleasure boat 'Mosella' on the River Mosel, the double-deck road-rail bridge at Bullay on the line between Koblenz and Trier. The trains run on the upper level, with the road below. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14239 The line between Koblenz and Trier crosses the River Mosel on this double-deck road-rail bridge at Bullay. This is the view of the bridge from river level as seen from the stern of the pleasure boat 'Mosella' on the 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14242 I had hoped to get a shot of a train crossing the double-deck road-rail bridge where it crosses the river Mosel at Bullay. I thought that I was going to be out of luck, but, just as the bridge was about to diasappear from view round a bend in the river, a train finally appeared! Photograph taken from the stern of the pleasure boat 'Mosella' on the 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14247 To my surprise, I found this 1957 vintage ex. Danish State Railways MY class NoHAB A1A-A1A diesel-electric at the end of a siding at Bullay station. It had been purchased by a track maintenance company for use on permanent way trains in Germany. 6th July, 2004. Thanks to Kenny Ericson for help with the details.

2004/07/06.R14249 A view of the other end of the ex Danish State Railways 1957 vintage MY class NoHAB A1A-A1A diesel-electric that I unexpectedly came across at Bullay on the Koblenz to Trier line. It belongs to a track maintenance company who bought it to use on permanent way trains. 6th July, 2004. Thanks to Kenny Ericson for help with the details.

2004/07/05.R14205 A good place to go train watching is the deck of a boat on the River Rhein. There are busy railway lines on both sides of the river and this is a northbound local train on the left bank. 5th July, 2004.

2004/07/05.R14218 A view of a local train on the right bank of the River Rhein, seen from a boat on the river. 5th July, 2004.

2004/07/05.R14225 The sleek lines of an ICE on the left bank of the River Rhein as viewed from a boat on the river. 5th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14243 A preserved semaphore signal on display outside the station at Bullay on the Koblenz to Trier line in Germany. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14244 In its shiny blue livery, Connex 185 class Bo-Bo electric 185-CL 003 heads a freight towards Koblenz. Bullay, 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14246 A 143 class Bo-Bo electric slows for the station stop at Bulley with a Koblenz-Trier train on the 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14253 A pair of 151 class Co-Co electrics, with 151 110 leading, head a westbound freight through Bullay on the 'Moselstrecke' between Koblenz and Trier. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14254 Heading towards Trier, and possibly France, 181 class Bo-Bo electric 181 203 calls at Bullay on the 'Moselstrecke'. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14256 A local train calls at Bullay on the line between Trier and Koblenz behind 110 class Bo-Bo electric 110 335. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14257 Trans Regio Rheinland-Pfalz single unit railcar VT 002 was working the branch line from Bullay to Traben-Trarbach. It is in the bay platform at Bullay having just arrived from Traben-Trabach on the 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14259 Departing from Bullay for a trip down the branch line to Traben-Trarbach. This is the view through the glass screen looking onto the rear cab of single unit railcar VT 002. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14260 Crossing the Mosel. This is the view through the glass screen overlooking the reat cab of single unit railcar VT 002 as it crosses the double-deck bridge over the River Mosel just outside Bullay station. The road part of the bridge is below us. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14262 Crossing thePünderlicher Hangviadukt which crosses the hillside above the River Mosel seen on the right. In the distance at the far end of the viaduct can be seen the Prinzenkopf Tunnel, the other end of which opens onto the double-deck bridge over the river. A view through the glass screen overlooking the rear cab of single unit railcar VT 002. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14264 Leaving the main Trier - Koblenz line for the branch line down to Traben-Trarbach. Seen through the glass screen overlooking the rear cab of the single unit railcar, VT 002. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14265 Running down the single track branch line to Traben-Trarbach. The River Mosel can be seen on the right, with the Pünderlicher Hangviadukt running along the hillside visible in the distance. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14267 Inter Regio Rheinland-Phalz single unit railcar VT 002 at the now somewhat spartan terminus at Traben-Trarbach. It has just srrived down the branch line from Bullay on the line between Trier and Koblenz. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14268 Looking towards the town, this is the somewhat spartan single platform station at Traban-Trarbach. The original station is a little further back and can just be seen in the right background. Inter Regio Rheinland-Pfalz railcar VT 002 has just arrived from Bullay on the line between Trier and Koblenz in the evening of the 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/06.R14269 The somewhat reduced station at Traben-Trarbach. This is at the end of a branch line that comes off the Koblenz to Trier line near Bullay. The original station was a lettle further on and an altogether more commodious affair. 6th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14274 Evening is falling and the light is fading as 103 class Co-Co electric locomotive 103 235 runs through Rüdesheim-am-Rhein on a southbound test train. 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14273 [138] The signalbox at Rüdesheim-am-Rhein on the right bank of the River Rhein. 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/04.R14141. The Lorelei is a large chunk of rock standing some 400 feet above the right bank of the River Rhein. Legend has it that Lorelei, one of Rhein Maidens, sits high up on the rock which bears her name and lures boatmen onto the treacherous rocks in the river below. She seemed to have taken the day off when I went to have a look; well, it was raining at the time! So I did a bit of high level gricing instead and this is a 101 class Bo-Bo electric heading a southbound working on the busy left bank main line. 4th July, 2004.

2004/07/04.R14142. A freight train headed by a class 66 Co-Co diesel-electric on the busy main line on the left bank of the River Rhein. A view from high up on the Lorelei on the other side of the river. 4th July, 2004.

2004/07/04.R14143. The River Rhein as seen from the Lorelei, a large rock overlooking a particularly narrow and treacherous stretch of the river. A southbound freight train can be seen on the right bank, but it is on the left of this picture as I am looking south. 4th July, 2004.

2004/07/04.R14145. A northbound InterCity express behind a class 101 Bo-Bo electric on the busy right bank of the River Rhein. A view from the Lorelei Rock on the opposite side of the river on the 4th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14270. On the right bank of the River Rhein, a southbound passenger train leaves Rüdesheim in the evening of the 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14271. 110 class Bo-Bo electric 110 406 propels a southbound passenger train out of Rüdesheim station on the right bank of the River Rhein. 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14272. Ex DR 243 class Bo-Bo electric 143 064 heads a northbound passenger train into the station at Rüdesheim-am-Rhein on the right bank of the River Rhein on the evening of the 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14278. Ex DR 243 class Bo-Bo electric 143 328 runs into Rüdesheim on the right bank of the River Rhein with a northbound passenger train. 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14279. Ex DR 250 class Co-Co electric 155 159 heads a northbound freight train through Rüdesheim on the right bank of the River Rhein on the evening of the 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14280. 110 class Bo-Bo electric 110 436 approaches Rüdesheim station on the right bank of the River Rhein with a northbound passenger train on the evening of the 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/07.R14281. Tri-voltage 189 class Bo-Bo electric 189 009 heads a nothbound freight through Rüdesheim-am-Rhein on the right bank of the River Rhein. 7th July, 2004.

2004/07/08.R14283. Ex DR 243 class Bo-Bo electric 143 269 pauses at Rüdesheim-am-Rhein on the right bank of the River Rhein with a southbound passenger train on a dull and dismal 8th July, 2004.

2004/07.R14137. 110 class Bo-Bo electric 110 439 with a local train on the right bank of the Rhein somewhere to the north of Rüdesheim. July, 2004.

2004/07.R14139. A view from Assmannshausen on the right bank of the River Rhein looking across to to the main line on the left bank. I'm not sure what the train is, though, but I'm sure that someone will know. Please tell me if you do. July, 2004. Mark B tells me that the loco is a Siemens Eurosprinter, aka Taurus, in Dispolok (Spot Hire) livery. Thanks, Mark. Does anybody recognize the rolling stock?

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 02) B.R. Steamdays in colour - 3.3. London Midland Region - Part 3 : The Great Central, S.M.J. and Other Lines. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1477241.html This is the third part of the London Midland Region collection and covers the ex Great Central and other lines that were transferred from the Eastern Region following the boundary changes of the late 1950s. I have also included the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway in here. The ex L.N.W.R. lines are covered in Part 1 of this collection (3.1) and the ex Midland Railway territory is covered in Part 2 (3.2). As is usual, newly added pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press!' Collection for a couple of weeks or so before being transferred into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: This is the third part of the London Midland Region collection and covers the ex Great Central and other lines that were transferred from the Eastern Region following the boundary changes of the late 1950s. I have also included the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway in here. The ex L.N.W.R. lines are covered in Part 1 of this collection (3.1) and the ex Midland Railway territory is covered in Part 2 (3.2). As is usual, newly added pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press!' Collection for a couple of weeks or so before being transferred into here.

1961/06.01 There was an exhibition at Marylebone in June, 1961. Steam was represented by 9F class 2-10-0 92220 EVENING STAR and the Midland Compound 4-4-0 1000.

1961/06.05 The Engineers' Train on display at the Marylebone exhibition in June, 1961.

1963/10/12.R1173 Despite its LNER/Eastern Region origins, the old Great Central line was well and truly in London Midland Region territory by 1963. Ex LMS engines were becoming more common than ex LNER ones and an 8F 2-8-0, 48650, is seen here on the down line approaching Woodford Halse. 12th October, 1963.

1963/10/12.R1179 LMS 8F class 2-8-0 48002 takes the spur to the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway (S.M.J.) off the Great Central main line to the south of Woodford Halse. 12th October, 1963.

1964/04/21.R1401 Somewhat hidden in the evening shadows, an ex LMS 8F class 2-8-0 on the old Great Central line passes West Hampstead light engine on the 21st April, 1964. Although of LNER/Eastern Region origin, the G.C. line into Marylebone was well and truly in London Midland territory by this time.

1964/04/18.R1377 The crew of Ivatt class 4 2-6-0 43156 busy themselves topping up the tender at the ex Great Northern Railway station in Derby, Derby Friargate. 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1378 Ivatt class 4 2-6-0 43156 departs the ex Great Northern Railway station in Derby, Derby Friargate, on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1379 Thompson B1 class 4-6-0 61188 heads a freight working through Derby Friargate on the 18th April, 1964. This was the ex Great Northern Railway station in the city.

1964/04/18.R1380 The Great Northern Railway crossed Friargate in Derby by this magnificent bridge which was built in 1878. Trolleybuses were still in use when I photographed it on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/16.R1367 Although the shed for London's Marylebone station was a few miles up the line at Neasden, there was a stabling and servicing area just outside the station. Stanier 'Black 5' 4-6-0 45301 was being prepared to work the 14:38 pm to Nottingham Victoria on the 16th April, 1964. By 1964, however, Neasden had closed and Cricklewood, 14A, had become the shed responsible for servicing the G.C. line engines.

1964/04/18.R1383 Although the Great Central London Extention was previously LNER / Eastern Region territory, by 1964 it was well and truly in the London Midland Region as the maroon running in board testifies. Despite this, ex LNER locos such as Thompson B1 class 4-6-0 61281 were still to be seen. 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1385 An iron ore train trundles through Nottingham Victoria behind Riddles 'WD' class 2-8-0 90103 on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1390 Even by 1964 there were still some Great Central engines on the Great Central. This is Robinson 04 class 2-8-0 63675 as rebuilt with a B1 boiler in 1944 and reclassified 04/8. Nottingham Victoria, 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1391 Despite being transferred to the London Midland Region, ex LNER engines could still be seen on the Great Central. This is Thompson B1 class 4-6-0 61361 running light engine through Nottingham Victoria on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1392 With the transfer of the Great Central main line to the London Midland Region, ex LMS classes replaced the ex LNER ones. This is Royal Scot class 4-6-0 46163 CIVIL SERVICE RIFLEMAN (but now running without nameplates) at Nottingham Victoria waiting to leave with the 5:15 pm semi-fast to London Marylebone. 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1393 The platform starter is off for Royal Scot class 4-6-0 46163 CIVIL SERVICE RIFLEMAN as it sets off from Nottingham Victoria with the 5:15 pm to London Marylebone. On the right is 'WD' class 2-8-0 90259 which had been sent to rescue the failed DMU to which it is attached. 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1382 Ivatt class 4 4-6-0 43059 runs light engine through Nottingham Victoria on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1394 This appears to be an ex Great Northern Railway 6-wheel coach in departmental use at Annesley on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1395 Royal Scot class 4-6-0 46112 SHERWOOD FORESTER has clearly seen better days judging by the state of the buffer beam. I don't think it lasted much longer after I saw it at Annesley on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/21.R1396 Ex LNER engines were still to be seen on the Great Central in 1964 despite the line having been transferred from the Eastern Region to the London Midland Region. This is Gresley V2 class 2-6-2 60886 at the stabling / servicing point outside London's Marylebone station. 21st April, 1964.

1964/04/21.R1397 The shed for the Great Central's London terminus at Marylebone was a few miles up the line at Neasden. However, to save on light engine movements, there was a servicing / stabling point just outside the station where engines could be turned and prepared for their next duties. On the 21st April, 1964, I saw Fairburn 2-6-4T 42092 and Gresley V2 2-6-2 60886. The LMS 2-6-4Ts had replaced the LNER L1 class 2-6-4Ts on suburban workings following the transference of the G.C. main line from the Eastern to the London Midland Region. When Neasden shed closed in 1962, however, Cricklewood (14A) became the shed responsible for servicing the G.C. line locos.

1964/04/21.R1398 Gresley V2 class 2-6-2 60886 at the stabing / servicing point outside the Great Central Railway's terminus at London Marylebone. 21st April, 1964. Ex LNER engines were still to be seen on the G.C. despite the line now being part of the London Midland Region.

1964/04/21.R1399 What's this!!?? I found this grounded coach body at Marylebone Goods Yard, so I presume that it is of Great Central origin. However, if anyone can tell me anything about it, I would be grateful. 21st April, 1964.

1964/04/21.R1400 The Great Central's London Terminus at Marylebone on the 21st April, 1964. The loco is LMS Fairburn 2-6-4T 42092; these engines replaced the LNER L1 class 2-6-4Ts on Great Central line suburban workings when the London Midland Region took over from the Eastern Region.

1964/04/16.R1366 Stanier 'Black 5' 4-6-0 at the Marylebone servicing point prior to working the 2:38 pm semi-fast to Nottingham Victoria. 16th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1373 One of the ex. Crosti boilered 9F class 2-10-0s, 92021, crosses Swithland Reservoir on the Great Central main line between Leicester and Loughborough. 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1369 A very nice Period 1 LMS Parcels Van at Leicester Central (the Great Central station) on the 18th April, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1370 An LNER Parcels Van parked next to the LMS one seen in the previous picture. Leicester Central, 18th April, 1964.

1964/01.R1253 Blakesley station on the Stratford upon Avon & Midland Junction Railway in Northamptonshire once had a 15 inch gauge miniature railway connecting it to the nearby Blakesley Hall. This had long gone by January, 1964 when I photographed Stanier 'Black 5' 4-6-0 45287 on a freight working.

1964/01.R1255 Another view of the signal box at Towcester on the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway in Northamptonshire. At one time, lines radiated in four directions from here. In this picture from January, 1964, Black 5 class 4-6-0 45287 heads a freight in the Blisworth direction.

1964/01.R1256 On the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway near Towcester in Northamptonshire. Black 5 class 4-6-0 45287 heads towards Blisworth with a freight working. January, 1964.

1964/01.R1254 Towcester in Northamptonshire was once a junction station on the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway. It boasted a supurb signal box which can be seen in this January, 1964 view wiith Black 5 class 4-6-0 45287 on a freight working. Passenger services on the SMJ had been withdrawn long before this time.

1965/07.R2423 The sad and sorry sight of Towcester station on the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway in Northamptonshire following closure. July, 1965. The station site is now a Tescos, such is progress.

1965/07.R2425 The once imposing signal box at Towcester in Northamptonshire used to control the four branches of the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway. By July, 1965, however, the line was closed, the track lifted and the signal box was well on the way to being no more. How could they!!

1965/07.R2424 Towcester station in Northamptonshire used to be a junction on the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway. By July, 1965, the line had been closed and the track lifted. Demolition of the once imposing signal box was well under way. The station site is now a Tescos, such is progress!

1964/01.R1252 A freight train headed by a Stanier Black 5 class 4-6-0 stands at Blakesley on the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway in Northamptonshire. January, 1963.

1965/07.R2422 This was the sorry sight that greeted us on a visit to Blakesley station in July, 1965. The track has gone and the signal box demolished. All very sad. Blakesely is in Northamptonshire and, prior to closure, it was served by the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway, later part of the L.M.S.

1963/10/12.R1187 With G.W. 2-6-0 6368 leading, the L.C.G.B.'s Thames, Avon and Severn Rail Tour pauses at Byfield on the S.M.J. (Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway). The train had started at London Waterloo and travelled via Ascot, Reading, Banbury and Culworth Junction to reach Woodford Halse on the great Central where it reversed for the trip over the S.M.J. 12th October, 1963.

1963/10/12.R1185 On the 12th October, 1963, the Locomotive Club of Great Britain ran a Rail Tour from London Waterloo to London Paddington via all sorts of places in between! Part of the route included the Great Central between Culworth Junction and Woodford Halse, reached via Ascot, Reading, and Banbury. Motive power for this leg of the tour was the LSWR 'T9' class 4-4-0 120 double heading with the first of the 'U' class 2-6-0s to be rebuilt from a River class 2-6-4T, 31790. The pair are seen here approaching Woodford Halse where the train will reverse for a trip over the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway (S.M.J.)

1963/10/12.R1190 The Locomotive Club of Great Britain 'Thames, Avon and Severn Rail Tour' gets away from Fenny Compton en route for Stratford upon Avon via the S.M.J. Great Western 2-6-0 6368 is leading 0-6-0 2246. This pair had taken over from Southern locos 120 (T9 class 4-4-0) and 31790 (U class 2-6-0) at Woodford Halse where the train had reversed. 12th October, 1963.

1963/10/12.R1186 On the 12th October, 1963, the Locomotive Club of Great Britain ran a Rail Tour from London Waterloo to London Paddington via all sorts of places in between! Part of the route included the Great Central between Culworth Junction and Woodford Halse, reached via Ascot, Reading, and Banbury. Motive power for this leg of the tour was the LSWR 'T9' class 4-4-0 120 double heading with the first of the 'U' class 2-6-0s to be rebuilt from a River class 2-6-4T, 31790. The pair are seen here approaching Woodford Halse where the train will reverse for a trip over the Stratford upon Avon and Midland Junction Railway (S.M.J.)

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Switzerland - 3. Graubünden - 2001. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1472839.html Graubünden, the largest of the Swiss Cantons, is situated in the south-east of the country and is bordered by both Austria and Italy. I have been there a couple of times and if one has to have a favourite part of Switzerland, this would be mine. This collection shows the pictures I took in August, 2001. Pictures will be added over time, starting off, as usual, in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Graub_nden, the largest of the Swiss Cantons, is situated in the south-east of the country and is bordered by both Austria and Italy. I have been there a couple of times and if one has to have a favourite part of Switzerland, this would be mine. This collection shows the pictures I took in August, 2001. Pictures will be added over time, starting off, as usual, in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

2001/08.R11352 Thusis is a village on the Rhätische Bahn line between Chur and St. Moritz. Ge4/4 II 627 REICHENAU-TAMINS was on its way to St. Moritz when I caught it in August, 2001.

2001/08.R11333 Driving trailer 1711 at Thusis. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11334 Rhätische Bahn Be4/4 railcar 511 at Thusis. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11335 The bronze lady waits patiently for her train as a local for Chur and Schiers heads off down the valley. Thusis, August, 2001.

2001/08.R11338 With an all over advert for the resort of Pontresina, Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 III 651 FIDERIS arrives at Thusis with a Chur to St. Moritz train. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11365 A first glimpse of the famous Landwasser Viaduct as seen from an approaching train. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11366 The famous Landwasser Viaduct on the Albula Line which runs from Chur to St. Moritz. After crossing the viaduct, trains disappear straight into the tunnel. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11368 The famous Landwasser Viaduct on the Chur - St. Moritz line near Filisur is sprung directly off the sheer rock face with the line going straight into the tunnel. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11361 On the Albula Line, near Tiefencastel. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11345 Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 I 605 SILVRETTA with a short freight train at Thusus. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11347 A St. Moritz to Chur train at Thusis behind Ge4/4 III 644 SAVOGNIN with Radio Grisia all over advertising. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11378 Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 I 604 CALANDA at Filisur with the connecting shuttle service to Davos. August, 2001.

2001/08.R11536. The Swiss Rhätische Bahn Bernina Line crosses the border to terminate at Tirano in northern Italy. An RhB train has just arrived from St. Moritz on the 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11523. The Swiss Rhätische Bahn runs trains to Tirano in northern Italy and this is point where the trains cross the border and enter Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11534. Approaching Tirano station, Rhätische Bahn rolling stock in the sidings awaits the call to duty. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11496. Looking back towards the Bernina Pass, the Rhätische Bahn's Bernina Line alongside the Lake of Poshiavo. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11497. Approaching the southern end of the Lake of Poshiavo, a view from a Bernina Line train of the Rhätische Bahn on a St. Moritz to Tirano working. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11505. Approaching the small station of Brusio on the Bernina Line of the Rhätische Bahn. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11511. A little to the south of Brusio, the Rhätische Bahn's Bernina Line loses height by means of a curved viaduct and spiral. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11512. Looking down on the spiral at Brusio on the Bernina Line of the Rhätische Bahn. The line loses height by crossing the curving viaduct on the left before completing a circle and going under the viaduct from right to left. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11513. A view from a Rhätische Bahn Bernina Line train as it descends the Brusio spiral. The line completes a circle to go under the viaduct on the line seen at the lower level. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11514. Coming off the curved viaduct on the Brusio spiral. This is situated on the Rhätische Bahn's Bernina Line between St. Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11515. Having crossed the curved viaduct at Brusio on the Bernina Line of the Rhätische Bahn, the train completes a circle to go under the viaduct it has just crossed. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11517. Having gone round in a complete circle, the train is about to go under the viaduct that it crossed a few moments earlier. Brusio spiral on the Rhätische Bahn's Bernina Line between St. Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11521. A final view of the curved viaduct at the Brusio spiral which the train had crossed a few moments earlier. It then completes a circle to continue losing height before crossing under the viaduct to continue southwards. The spiral is situated on the Bernina Line of the Rhätische Bahn between St. Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11558. A train of the Swiss Rhätische Bahn at Tirano in northern Italy. It will shortly be leaving to climb high into the Alps and the famous resort of St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11559. A train of the Swiss Rhätische Bahn at Tirano in northern Italy. It will shortly be leaving to climb high into the Alps and the famous resort of St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11561. High in the Swiss Alps between St. Moritz and Tirano in northern Italy is the elevated Rhätische Bahn station of Alp Grüm. Situated on the single line Bernina Bahn, there is a passing loop here and a small café/restaurant can be found in the station building. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11564. After a lengthy wait, the opposing train finally arrives at the Alp Grüm passing loop on the Rhätische Bahn's Bernina Line between St. Moritz and Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11570. Motor cars from the Bernina Bahn at St. Moritz in the evening of the 16th August, 2001. The Bernina Bahn is electified at 1000V DC, whereas the rest of the Rhätische Bahn system is electrified at 11,000V AC. The Bernina Bahn trains at St. Mortiz and the junction station of Pontresina therefore have their own tracks and platforms.

2001/08.R11569. A Rhätische Bahn composite coach at St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11575. An evening train for Chur is ready to depart from St. Moritz behind Ge4/4 III Bo-Bo electric 649. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11574. Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 III class Bo-Bo electric 649 at St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11573. The evening shadows are falling as a Bernina Bahn train sets off for Tirano in northern Italy. St. Moritz, 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11576. It's the end of the day and Rhätische Bahn rolling stock is parked in the sidings at St. Moritz ready for the morrow. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11572. Rhätische Bahn rolling stock, passenger and freight, at St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 5. 'Molli' and Rügen - 2003. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1471013.html A continuation of the previous collection, showing the pictures taken on my second German trip in 2003. I visited the Baltic Coast narrow gauge railways, these being the 'Mollibahn' from Bad Doberan to Kühlungsborn West and the Rügensche Kleinbahn on the Island of Rügen. On the way home we had a brief pause in Berlin to change trains and and overnight stop at Aachen. The trip was arranged by Ffestiniog Travel. Tuesday 30 November 1999: A continuation of the previous collection, showing the pictures taken on my second German trip in 2003. I visited the Baltic Coast narrow gauge railways, these being the 'Mollibahn' from Bad Doberan to K_hlungsborn West and the R_gensche Kleinbahn on the Island of R_gen. On the way home we had a brief pause in Berlin to change trains and and overnight stop at Aachen. The trip was arranged by Ffestiniog Travel.

2003/12.002 Newly built Desiro EMUs for Britain's South West Trains await delivery through the Channel Tunnel. They were seen near Düsseldorf on the 30th November, 2003. Just think - you might have commuted to work in one of those this morning!

2003/12.006 DB Cargo 0-6-0 diesel shunter 363 146 outside the Hbf at Osnabrück. 20th November, 2003

2003/12.007 Approaching Bremen with the power 'box on the left. 30th November, 2003

2003/12.008 Bremen Hauptbahnhof. 30th November, 2003

2003/12.021 On the 'Mollibahn', 2-8-2T 99 2322 arrives at Heiligendamm from Kühlungsborn. The train will terminate here and a bus provide onward transportation to Bad Doberan because of major track relaying. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.022 With the fallen autum leaves still forming a carpet on the ground at Heiligendamm, 2-8-2T 99 2322 runs round its train. This is not normally a terminus, but major track relaying works between here and Bad Doberan necessitated a bus connection from here onwards. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.023 On the 1st December, 2003, 'Mollibahn' 2-8-2T 99 2322 runs round at Heiligendamm before returning to Kühlungsborn. Not normally a terminus, buses were providing the connection to/from Bad Doberan because of major track relaying works.

2003/12.024 Having arrived at the terminus, Kühlungsborn-West, 2-9-2T 99 2322 takes water in the loco yard. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.026 Once the tanks are filled, 99 2322 moved to the coaling stage. Kühlungsborn-West, 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.027 Another view of 900mm gauge 2-8-2T 99 2322 at the coaling stage. Kühlungsborn-West, 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.034 While the train was away, I had a look round the small museum at Kühlungsborn-West. This is a small signalling display outside the museum. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.028 (42) 32 years after my previous visit when 99 2322 was also on duty, 900mm gauge 2-8-2T 99 2322 waits at Kühlungsborn-West on the 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.033 900mm gauge rolling stock of the 'Mollibahn' at the Kühlungsborn-West terminus. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.029 Getting ready for departure with another train for Heiligendamm, 2-8-2T 99 2322 at Kühlungsborn-West. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.030 A head on view of 900mm gauge 2-8-2T 99 2322 at Kühlungsborn-West on the 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.031 Departing for Heiligendamm, 2-8-2T 99 2322 at Kühlungsborn-West. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.032 Heading back to Heiligendamm, 'Mollibahn' 2-8-2T 99 2322 leaves the terminus at Kühlungsborn-West on the 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.035 An old open goods wagon forms a terrace outside the café at Kühlungsborn-West. A plesant place to sit and have a beer or a coffe in summer, no doubt, but not in December! 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.036 As only half of the line was in use because of the engineering works between Heiligendamm and Bad Doberan, there was an hourly service instead of the two hour service normal at that time of year. As the light begins to fade in the early afternoon, 2-8-2T 99 2322 arrives back at the terminus of the line, Kühlungsborn-West, with a return working from Heiligendamm. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.009 (28) Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (main station) where we changed trains between Köln and Stralsund. 30th November, 2003

2003/12.019 Bad Doberan - change here fore the 900mm gauge 'Mollibahn' steam trains to Kühlungsborn. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.020 The station building at Bad Doberan. The narrow gauge Mollibahn steam trains have their own station to the right. Unfortunately, the tracks in the station, and elsewhere along the line, were being relaid so there was a replacement bus connection to the intermediate station of Heiligendamm where steam trains continued the rest of the way to Kühlungsborn. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.037 Back at Bad Doberan again after our visit to the Mollibahn. (Or, at least, half the Mollibahn!) The line from Rostock to Wismar is single track and trains pass in Bad Doberan. Wismar bound trains stop way down the platform as that is where the passing loop is situated. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.038 The Rostock bound train arriving at Bad Doberan. Both trains use the same platform and this one will leave first. Once in the passing loop, the line will then be clear for the Wismar bound train to proceed. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.010 At Hamburg Hbf a train of Danish (DSB) stock was waiting to leave for Copenhagen. 30th November, 2003.

2003/12.011 I was hoping to reach the end of the platform and a bit more daylight befor the DSB train left Hamburg Hbf for Copenhagen. But it was not to be..... 30th November, 2003.

2003/12.012 Some services from Hamburg are now operated by Connex. This is Nord-Ost Bahn class 185 Bo-Bo electric 185 516 at Hamburg Hbf on the 30th November, 2003.

2003/12.013 Our train for Stralsund arriving at Hamburg Hbf with the Steuerwagen (driving trailer) leading. 30th November, 2003.

2003/12.014 The train for Stralsund reversed in Hamburg Hbf and 120 class Bo-Bo electric 120 134 will now be pulling, rather than pushing. 30th November, 2003.

2003/12.015 Heading a train to Sassnitz, a Steuerwagen (driving trailer) at Stralsund. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.016 At the other end of the train, 101 class Bo-Bo electric loco 101 047 was pushing this Sassnitz bound train at Stralsund. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.017 101 class Bo-Bo electric 101 047 at Stralsund. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.018 At Stralsund on the 1st December, 2003, an ex DR 143 class Bo-Bo electric loco waits to leave with a train of double-deckers on a local service. 1st December, 2003.

2003/12.039 A DB 2-car DMU at Lauterbach Mole on the Island of Rügen, north-east Germany. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.040 The station at Lauterbach Mole on the Island of Rügen, north-east Germany, is just a single line and platform. Being used by DMUs only on the standard gauge there is no need for run-round loops, sidings or other trackwork. It is, however, duel gauge as, during the summer season, the section between here and Putbus is shared with the 750mm gauge Rügensche Kleinbahn. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.041 The end of the line! Looking towards the Baltic Sea - hidden in the mist in the background - this is the end of the branch line that runs from Bergen, via Putbus, to Lauterbach Mole on the Island of Rügen in north-east Germany. The section between Putbus and Lauterbach Mole is duel gauge as it is shared with the 750 mm gauge Rügensche Kleinbahn in the summer season. Their trains, however, are topped and tailed over this stretch because of the lack of run-round facilities. A Bo-Bo diesel is normally used at this end of the train, with a steam loco at the other. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.042 A driver's eye view of the branch line to Putbus and Bergen at Lauterbach Mole. The line from here to Putbus is duel gauge as this section is shared with the 750 mm gauge Rügensche Kleinbahn which runs steam trains during the summer season. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.043 This is the standard gauge station at Putbus on the branch line from Bergen to Lauterbach Mole on the north-east German island of Rügen. A DB 628 class DMU is about to leave for Bergen and the narrow gauge tracks of the Rügensche Kleinbahn can just be seen on the left. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.045 This is the narrow gauge station of the Rügensche Kleinbahn at Putbus on the north east German island of Rügen. The next train to Binz and Göhren awaits custom. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.044 A reminder of times past when 03 class Pacifics operated the standard gauge trains on the Island of Rügen in north-east Germany. Putbus, 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.047 Privately owned, but kept on the Rügensche Kleinbahn, 0-6-0T/T NICKI + FRANK S, a Henschel of 1941, and AQUARIUS C, a Borsig 0-10-0T/T of 1939. Putbus shed, 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.048 Borsig 0-10-0T/T AQUARIUS C of 1939 at Putbus on the 75cm Rügensche Kleinbahn. Privately owned, together with NICKI + FRANK S, it is available for special trains. 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.049 1953 built 99 783 is supposed to be a 2-10-2T. However, in this shot it is more of an 0-00-0T! Putbus shed, Rügensche Kleinbahn, 2nd December, 2003.

2003/12.050 Running like a well oiled sewing machine, 53Mh is an 0-8-0T built by Vulcan (Stettin) in 1925. In DR days it was numbered 99 4633. Putbus shed on the Rügensche Kleinbahn. 2nd December, 2003.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 X Inter-gallery Transfers. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1451360.html This is just a temporary collection for use when I am transferring pictures between galleries. So, most of the time, there won't be anything in here! Tuesday 30 November 1999: This is just a temporary collection for use when I am transferring pictures between galleries. So, most of the time, there won't be anything in here!

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 06) Doncaster Plant Open Day - 26th July, 2003. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1448935.html There was an inpressive line up of motive power at Doncaster Works during the open weekend of the 26th and 27th July, 2003. By lucky chance, I was on my way home from a week in Whitby on the Saturday so was able to pop in and have a look. A selection of pictures will appear here as time permits, although they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so. Tuesday 30 November 1999: There was an inpressive line up of motive power at Doncaster Works during the open weekend of the 26th and 27th July, 2003. By lucky chance, I was on my way home from a week in Whitby on the Saturday so was able to pop in and have a look. A selection of pictures will appear here as time permits, although they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so.

2003/07/26.R13082 The star of the show, well, one of them, was the famous Great Northern Railway 4-2-2 Stirling Single.

2003/07/26.R13150 Seen from the footbridge connecting the Doncaster Plant to the station approach, a pair of West Coast Railway Company B.R. Standard Mark I coaches.

2003/07/26.R13083 Stirlings's Masterpiece, the Great Northern Railway 4-2-2 'Single' No.1 on display at Doncaster Works. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13084 Great Northern Railway Stirling Single 4-2-2 No.1 on display at the 2003 open weekend at Doncaster Works. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13115 In its fetching Porterbrook purple livery, Deltic 9016 GORDON HIGHLANDER at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13121 East Coast racer; Type 5 'Deltic' Co-Co diesel-electric D9009 ALYCIDON is not short of visitors at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13125 Built at Doncaster in 1959 for the Kent Coast electrification, Bo-Bo electric locomotive E5001 on display at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13127 Once bearing the name 'Avocet', this is the on-off 89 class Bo-Bo electric locomotive 89 001 on display at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13093 Gresley's masterpiece. Record holding A4 Pacific 4468 MALLARD on display at Doncaster Works. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13120 Class 50 50 035 ARK ROYAL at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13089 East Coast racer; A4 class Pacific 60009 UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA on display at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13094 Sir Nigel Gresley's record breaking A4 class Pacific 4468 MALLARD at the 2003 Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13096 LNER Pacific 4472 FLYING SCOTSMAN was hard to photograph because of the sheer volume on people surrounding it! Doncaster Works, 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13142 'Peak' class 1Co-Co1 45112 ROYAL ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13099 Robinson Great Central 2-8-0 63601 on display at the 2003 Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13145 56 class Co-Co diesel electric 56006 at Doncaster Works 2003 open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13113 I don't know what the big attraction was, but it was clearly better than the Great Northern 6 wheel coach behind them! Doncaster Works open weekend, 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13149 The L.N.E.R. Coronation 'Beavertail' Observation Car was undergoing restoration in 2003. It was on display at the Doncaster Works open weekend in July of that year. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13097 Thompson B1 class 4-6-0 1306 MAYFLOWER at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13100 Gresley D49 class 4-4-0 246 MORAYSHIRE at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13110 Still in the L.M.S. style livery from its starring role in a Harry Potter film, G.W.R. Hall class 4-6-0 5972 OLTON HALL at the Doncaster works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13133 EWS 90 class Bo-Bo electric locomotive 90028 at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13086 A close-up of the Great Northern Railway Stirling Single No. 1's impressive 8' driving wheel. Doncaster Works Open Weekend, 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13087 Another view of the Great Northern Railway Stirling 4-2-2 Single No. 1. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13091 Another view of L.N.E.R. A4 class Pacific 60009 UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13092 Two 'Streaks' together at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 60009 UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA is in front of the camera, with 4468 MALLARD almost hidden behind visitors. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13102 Another view of Gresley L.N.E.R. D49 class 4-4-0 246 MORAYSHIRE at the Donacaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13106 Gresley L.N.E.R. V2 class 2-6-2 60800 GREEN ARROW at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13128. 47 class Co-Co diesel-electric 47 635 THE LASS O' BALLOCHMYLE. Doncaster Works, 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13132. 92 class Co-Co electric locomotive 92 001 VICTOR HUGO. Doncaster Works, 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13126. 85 class Bo-Bo electric 85 101 DONCASTER PLANT 150 1853 - 2003 at Doncaster Works. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13134. 86 class Bo-Bo electric 86 609 at Doncaster Works. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13135. 84 class Bo-Bo electric 84 001 at Doncaster Works. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13098. Thompson L.N.E.R. B1 class 4-6-0 1307 MAYFLOWER at the 2003 Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13103. Gresley L.N.E.R. D49 class 4-4-0 246 MORAYSHIRE at the 2003 Doncaster Works open day. V2 class 2-6-2 60800 GREEN ARROW is also visible. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13105. Gresley L.N.E.R. V2 class 2-6-2 60800 GREEN ARROW at Doncaster Works on the 2003 open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13107. 60800 GREEN ARROW, the first of the Gresley L.N.E.R. 2-6-2 V2 class. In the background is 68846, an Ivatt G.N.R. class J52 0-6-0ST. Doncaster Works open weekend, 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13108. Of 1886 vintage, Worsdell N.E.R. J21 class 0-6-0 65033 at the 2003 Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13109. The Worsdell N.E.R. J21 class 0-6-0s were originally built in 1886 as 2 cylinder compounds, but later rebuilt as simply locos. 65033 was at the 2003 Doncaster works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13136. Freightliner 86 class Bo-Bo electric 86609 and preserved General Electric Type A Bo-Bo electric 84 001 of 1960 vintage at the Doncaster Plant open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13141. Derby/Sulzer 'Peak' class 1Co-Co1 45112 ROYAL ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS and Brush Type 4 Co-Co 47316 at the Doncaster Plant open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13144. Another ex East Coast Main Line racer, English Electric 'Deltic' Type 5 Co-Co diesel-electric 55 019 ROYAL HIGHLAND FUSILIER at the Doncaster Plant open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13147. The modern railway was represented at the Doncaster Works open weekend by 66 class Co-Co diesel-electric 66715. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13122. The 58 class Co-Co diesel-electrics were introduced in 1983 but were withdrawn by 2002. 58 001 was at the Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13123. The forerunner to the now ubiquitous class 66 was the 59 class. This is Co-Co diesel-electric 59001 YEOMAN ENDEAVOUR at the Doncaster works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13137. Fresh from Scarborough Spa Express duties, ex LMS 8F class 2-8-0 48151 at Doncaster Plant open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13148. Another view of ex LMS 8F class 2-8-0 48151 at Doncaster Works open weekend. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13118. An impressive line-up of diesel and electric locomotives at the Doncaster Works Open Weekend to celebrate 150 years of 'The Plant'. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13119. 50 class Co-Co diesel-electric 50 035 ARK ROYAL sandwiched between a class 47 and Deltic D9009 ALYCIDON at the Doncaster Works Open Weekend to celebrate 150 years of 'The Plant'. 26th July, 2003.

2003/07/26.R13124. A comparison in electric front ends with overhead AC Bo-Bo E3035 and Southern Region 3rd rail DC Bo-Bo E5001. Doncaster Plant Open Weekend, 26th July, 2003.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) France 7 : Chemin de Fer du Vivarais. Ocotober, 2004. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1446973.html On the way back from the South of France, we stopped at Tournon in the Rhone Valley to visit the renowned metre gauge Chemin de Fer du Vivarais. This line runs up into the hills to the west of the river and is part of the old Réseau du Vivarais which was a much larger system. Pictures will be posted here as time permits, although, initially, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: On the way back from the South of France, we stopped at Tournon in the Rhone Valley to visit the renowned metre gauge Chemin de Fer du Vivarais. This line runs up into the hills to the west of the river and is part of the old R_seau du Vivarais which was a much larger system. Pictures will be posted here as time permits, although, initially, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred here.

2004/10.R14695 Built by the SLM in Winterthur, Switzerland in 1903, Mallet 0-6-6-0T 403 gets ready to leave Tournon with a train for Lamastre on a Sunday morning in October, 2004.

2004/10.R14698 Mallet 0-4-4-0T 104 is from the PO Corrčze but now resides on the Vivarais. It was built by Blanc-Misseron in 1906 and I saw it on shed at Tournon on a Sunday morning in October, 2004.

2004/10.R14735. SLM built Mallet 0-6-6-0T 403 0f 1903 at the intermediate station of Boucieu le Roi. While the locomotive takes water, the passenger are offered refreshments from sales stands on the platform. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14689 The freight only line on the left bank of the River Rhone at Tournon. The metre gauge Chemin de Fer du Vivarais station can be seen on the right with a train getting ready to depart for Lamastre on a Sunday morning in October, 2004.

2004/10.R14704 The shed yard on the metre gauge Chemin de Fer du Vivarais at Tournon. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14712 Leaving Tournon metre gauge station and joining the dual gauge section where the metre gauge trains share the line with SNCF's standard gauge freight trains. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14713 For the first couple of kilometres or so, the metre gauge trains of the Chemin der Fer du Vivarais run on dual gauge track which is shared with the standard gauge freight trains of the SNCF. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14716 Just before the junction where the metre gauge track parts company from the standard gauge, the lines cross the River Doux on this lattice girder bridge. Or at least, in October, 2004, they did. Since then, this bridge has been replaced with a modern concrete structure.

2004/10.R14723 Once clear of the main line, the metre gauge line climbs into the hills to the west of the Rhone. For part of the way, it climbs through the spectacular gorge of the River Doux. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14734 At the half-way station of Boucieu-le-Roi, trains stop so that the engine can top up with water. At the same time, the passengers can top up with cheese, wine and other local products sold from sales stands on the platform. The loco on this occasion is Mallet 0-6-6-0T 403, built by SLM in Winterthur, Switzerland in 1903. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14749 The present day Chemin de Fer du Vivarais is only a small portion of the original extensive Réseau de Vivarais system and the upper terminus is now at Lamastre some 20 miles from Tournon. SLM Mallet 0-6-6-0T 403 of 1903 has just arrived at Lamastre with the morning train from Tournon. There is a lengthy lay-over here and the passengers have plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely lunch and then wander round the village before the return journey. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14757 Not all trains on the Chemin der Fer du Vivarais are steam! The second train on the day of my vivit was formed by Billiard railcar No.213 of 1938 vintage. It is arriving at Lamastre on a Sunday in October, 2004.

2004/10.R14696. Standing in the yard at Tournon, Corpet-Louvet 1616 of 1923. It was one of four 0-8-0 tanks built for the French public works contractor Paul Frot and he numbered it 24. A sister engine, No.22, is under restoration at the 'other' Vivarais, the nearby Voie Ferrée du Velais. This engine has a British connection; it once worked on the Island of Jersey in the Channel Islands during the German occupation of World War II. Another of these engines, No.21, went to Greece in 1944 and then to Yugoslavia in 1945. At some stage, it was converted into an 0-8-2 tender engine. October, 2004.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) France 6 : South of France. October, 2004. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1444923.html In October, 2004, I paid a long overdue visit to the South of France. We spent a few days in Aix-en-Provence before moving on to Nice, and then stopped off at Tournon on the way back. The Vivarais pictures are in the next collection. I took lots of pictures as usual, and they will be appearing on here as time permits. They will, however, start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: In October, 2004, I paid a long overdue visit to the South of France. We spent a few days in Aix-en-Provence before moving on to Nice, and then stopped off at Tournon on the way back. The Vivarais pictures are in the next collection. I took lots of pictures as usual, and they will be appearing on here as time permits. They will, however, start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred into here.

2004/10.R14636 The station at Monaco-Monte Carlo is underground because of the shortage of land above. It is, however, well lit as can be seen. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14536 A pair of 'Duplex' double deck TGVs on a Paris Gare de Lyon to Marseille working call at Aix-en-Provence TGV station on the 10th October, 2004. Although situated a few miles out of Aix itself, there is a regular and frequent bus service connecting the station with the town.

2004/10.R14553 The original station at Aix-en-Provence is much more centrally situated than the new out-of-town TGV station. A pair of BB674xx Bo-Bo diesels with 67542 leading call with a train to Marseille on the 11th October, 2004.

2004/10.R14577 A TGV waits to depart from Marseille St. Charles. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14615 Having arrived at Nice Ville from Marseille, Bo-Bo electric BB22324 has uncoupled from its train and is moving away to the depot. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14620 The imposing exterior of the main station in Nice, Nice Ville. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14622 As well as the main line through Nice, there is also a narrow gauge line in the form of the metre gauge Chemin de Fer de la Provence which runs from a terminus in Nice to Digne les Bains up in the hills. These trains now start from a modern station a bit a the back of the town, but, at one time, they started here. This once imposing station is now in a semi-delapidated state and it looks very forlorn and sorry for itself. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14623 Although the old Chemin de Fer de la Provence metre gauge station in Nice is securely bricked and boarded up, I managed to find a hole just big enough to poke a camera lens through! This is the semi-derelict concourse and the bricked/boarded up doors to the platforms. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14631 To save space above ground, the station at Monaco - Monte Carlo is built underground. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14647 An early morning view of Nice Ville station as seen from a convenient multi storey car park. BB22321 is waiting to depart with a train for Marseille. October, 2004.

2004/10.R14694 An endangered species at the time, and now extinct altogether, Co-Co electric CC6550 hurries through Tournon in October, 2004. Tournon is on the left bank of the River Rhone and the line is freight only with all passenger trains running on the right bank.

2004/10.R14798 Tain l'Hermitage is on the right bank of the River Rhone and is the staion for Tournon as the left bank line is freight only. On a morning in October, 2004, Bo-Bo electric BB22360 calls with a Marseille to Lyon Part-Dieu train.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Switzerland - 4. Graubünden - 2003. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1440356.html A continuation of the previous collection, this collection show pictures from a visit in the Spring of 2003. Not all the pictures are in Graubünden, though, as we made a couple of day trips to nearby cantons. New additions will be added over time, but, to begin with, you will find them in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: A continuation of the previous collection, this collection show pictures from a visit in the Spring of 2003. Not all the pictures are in Graub_nden, though, as we made a couple of day trips to nearby cantons. New additions will be added over time, but, to begin with, you will find them in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

2003/04.R12883 Rhätische Bahn Ge6/6 II 703 ST. MORITZ starts the climb away from Klosters Dorf towards Klosters. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12882 Rhätische Bahn articulated Bo-Bo-Bo 703 ST. MORITZ at Davos Platz. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12891 Railcars from the Bernina line of the Rhätische Bahn at St. Moritz in April, 2003.

2003/04.R12899 Rhätische Bahn articulated Ge6/6 II class Bo-Bo-Bo 704 DAVOS at St. Moritz. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12691 Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 II 632 ZIZERS at Klosters Dorf. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12692 Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 II 629 TIEFENCASTEL starts the climb away from Klosters Dorf towards Klosters. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12693 Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 II 632 ZIZERS gets away from Klosters Dorf and starts the climb towards Klosters. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12689 Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 III 651 at Klosters Dorf. April. 2003.

2003/04.R12690A A close up of Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 III 651 as it leaves Klosters Dorf towards Klosters. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12690 Showing the steep change of gradient, Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 III 651 gets away from Klosters Dorf and heads towards Klosters. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12678 The railway junction of Sagliains exists soley to enable the interchange of passengers between the Klosters - Scoul/Tarasp trains and the trains to St. Moritz. The concrete structure behind the train is the car loading area for the Vereina Tunnel car carrying shuttle trains. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12679 The south-eastern portal of the Vereina Tunnel at Sagliains in the Engadine Valley. The tunnel was newly built in 1999 to improve communications in this remote corner of Switzerland. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12681 There are two entrances to the Vereina Tunnel at its southern end, and this is the south-western one enabling trains from Klosters to have direct access to Pontrasina and St. Moritz without having to reverse at Sagliains. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12884 This is the Klosters end of the new Vereina Tunnel. Opened on the 19th November, 1999, it provides a direct connection to the Scuol/Tarasp - St. Moritz line in the Engadine Valley. On the left, is one of the car carrying shuttle trains that operate between Klosters and Sagliains. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12885 The railway junction of Sagliains exists soley to enable the interchange of passengers between the Klosters - Scoul/Tarasp trains and the trains to St. Moritz. The concrete structure to the left is the car loading area for the Vereina Tunnel car carrying shuttle trains. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12682 Evening shadows are begining to fall as Rhätische Bahn Ge4/4 II 617 ILANZ propels a Scoul/Tarasp - St. Moritz train away from Cinuos-Chel-Brail, a wayside station in the Engadine Valley. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12596 Night is falling and the town and station at Klosters are already deep in shadow. The last rays of the setting sun, however, are still catching the snow covered mountains beyond on the 14th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12605 The Rhätische Bahn line from Chur to Arosa is independent of the main Rh.B. system with trains starting in the Bahnhofsplatz outside the main station. Ge4/4 II 611 LANDQUART is about to depart with an Arosa train on the 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12610 Leaving Chur on the Rhätische Bahn's line to the renowned ski and mountain resort of Arosa. 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12614 The Rhätische Bahn line from Chur to Arosa clings to the hillside as it climbs the valley side. Sometimes, there isn't enough hillside to cling to, so bridges and viaducts are used to span the gaps. 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12615 The Rhätische Bahn line from Chur to Arosa is single line, but with stratigically placed passing loops. We are passing through one such loop on the way up tp Arosa on the 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12619 The Rhätische Bahn line from Chur to Arosa twists and turns as it makes its way up the valley. 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12624 The world renowned ski and mountain resort of Arosa is the upper terminus of the Rhätische Bahn's line from Chur. Ge4/4 II 611 LANDQUART has just arrived on the 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12625 The trains on the Rh.B's Chur - Arosa line are push-pull, with the locomotive at the uphill end. This is the driving trailer at the downhill end at Arosa on the 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12637 The Rhätische Bahn Chur - Arosa line starts off by running through the streets of Chur, tramway fashion. Here we see two cars trying to pass the train. Interestingly, they are both going in opposite directions! 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12638 A Rhätische Bahn Arosa - Chur train in the streets of Chur. 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12642 Another train for the renowned ski and mountain resort of Arosa is waiting to leave the lower terminus in the Bahnhofsplatz outside Chur's main station. The locomotive is G34/4 II 618 BERGÜN. 16th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12595 Ge4/4 II 628 S-CHANF at Klosters on the evening of the 14th April, 2003.

2003/04.R12856. SBB Ae6/6 class Co-Co electric 11471 PRATTELN parked, apparently stored, at the end of a siding at Buchs. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12857. SBB Re4/4 II class Bo-Bo electric 11118 at Landquart. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12694. RhB Ge4/4 II class Bo-Bo electric 633 ZUOZ runs into Klosters Dorf with a train from Davos to Chur. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12695. Trains cross at a passing loop in the Prättigau Valley between Landquart and Klosters. Ge4/4 II class Bo-Bo electric 623 BONADUZ heads a train up the valley towards Klosters. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12698. The wayside station of Igis, built in a traditional Swiss Chalet style, is just outside Landquart on the line to Chur. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12699. The next station on the metre gauge Rhätische Bahn line between Landquart and Chur is Zizers. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12854. SBB Re6/6 class Bo-Bo-Bo electric 11677 NEUHAUSEN AM RHEINFALL and an unidentified Re4/4 II class Bo-Bo electric at Buchs. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12859. The Filisur - Davos-Platz shuttle heads for Davos behind Ge4/4 I class Bo-Bo electric 606 KESCH in April, 2003.

2003/04.R12861. To the south of Davos on the line to Filisur, a push-pull shuttle calls at Davos-Frauenkirch. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12862. RhB Ge4/4 I class Bo-Bo electric 606 KESCH at the rear of the Davos - Filisur shuttle. Bf Wiesen, April, 2003.

2003/04.R12864. Deep in the valley between Davos and Filisur is the picturesque chalet style wayside station of Wiesen. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12815. Ae6/6 class Co-Co electric 11430 GEMEINDE SCHWYZ seen at Sargans in April, 2003.

2003/04.R12828. The other RHB, not to be confused with the RhB (Rhätische Bahn). RHB stands for Rorschach-Heiden Bahn, a standard gauge line which runs from the SBB station of Rorschach Hafen on the shores of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) up to Heiden, a village in the hills overlooking the lake. This is RHB EMU No.25 at the lower end of the line in April, 2003. Note the ornate fluted columns on the platform.

2003/04.R12829. The other RHB, not to be confused with the RhB (Rhätische Bahn). RHB stands for Rorschach-Heiden Bahn, a standard gauge line which runs from the SBB station of Rorschach Hafen on the shores of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) up to Heiden, a village in the hills overlooking the lake. This is RHB EMU No.25 at the lower end of the line in April, 2003.

2003/04.R12831. The other RHB, not to be confused with the RhB (Rhätische Bahn). RHB stands for Rorschach-Heiden Bahn, a standard gauge line which runs from the SBB station of Rorschach Hafen on the shores of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) up to Heiden, a village in the hills overlooking the lake. This is RHB EMU No.25 at the lower end of the line in April, 2003. The Bodensee can be seen in the right background.

2003/04.R12819. Austrian visitor. ÖBB 4020 class EMU 4020 111 at St. Margrethen working a shuttle through Austria to Lindau in Germany. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12820. Re4/4 II class Bo-Bo electric locomotive 11103 still in Swiss Express livery at St. Margrethen. On the right is an Austrian 4020 class EMU on a working to Lindau in Germany. April, 2003.

2003/04.R12823. 526 class Turbo unit 526 685 departing from Rorschach and heading for Rorschach Hafen on its way to Kreuzlingen. April, 2003.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 02) B.R. Steamdays in colour - 3.2. London Midland Region - Part 2 : Midland lines. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1335968.html So as not to have too many pictures in each collection, I have split the London Midland collection into three parts. This is part 2 and covers the ex Midland Railway territory. The previous collection (3.1) covers the ex London and North Western Railway lines and the next collection (3.3) covers the Great Central and other ex Eastern Region lines transferred under the boundary changes of the late 1950s. New additions will, as usual, start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before being transferred into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: So as not to have too many pictures in each collection, I have split the London Midland collection into three parts. This is part 2 and covers the ex Midland Railway territory. The previous collection (3.1) covers the ex London and North Western Railway lines and the next collection (3.3) covers the Great Central and other ex Eastern Region lines transferred under the boundary changes of the late 1950s. New additions will, as usual, start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before being transferred into here.

1960/05/08.05 Royal Scot class 4-6-0 46144 HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY AT Derby. 8th May, 1960. (166)

1960/03/27.01 (236) 3F class 0-6-0 43637 at Derby Works 27th March, 1960

1960/03/27.02 (217) Fowler 3MT class 2-6-2T 40070 at Derby Works. 27th March, 1960

1960/03/27.04 (154) Midland Compound 4-4-0 1000 in the paint shop at Derby Works. 27th March, 1960

1960/08.15 'Royal Scot' class 4-6-0 46151 THE ROYAL HORSE GUARDSMAN on the Midland main line near Elstree. August, 1960

1960/08.16 A B.R. Standard class 5 4-6-0 leaves Elstree Tunnel on the Midland main line in August, 1960.

1960/05/08.03 (148) ex North London Railway 0-6-0T 58850 at Rowsley (17D) shed on the 8th May, 1960.

1960/06.01 (142) Class 0F 0-4-0T 41535 in the gloomy interior of Toton (18A) shed on the 18th June, 1960.

1960/06.03 (209) One of the 9F 2-10-0s experimentally fitted with Crosti boilers, 92027 at Cricklewood (14A) shed on an evening in June, 1960.

1960/06.04 (207) One of the 9F 2-10-0s experimentally fitted with Crosti boilers, 92027 at Cricklewood (14A) shed on an evening in June, 1960.(207)

1960/06.05 (209) On the evening of the 24th June, 1960, I set off for Scotland by catching an overnight train from St. Pancras. I broke the journey several times, going via Carlisle and Newcastle. The first port of call, however, was Skipton where Jubilee class 4-6-0 45589 GWALIOR is seen looking more like a leakomotive than a locomotive as she sets off for the Settle - Carlisle line early on the morning of the 25th.

1960/06.06 (157) 'Mickey Mouse' Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46453 shunts E.C.S. at Skipton early in the morning of the 25th June, 1960.

1960/06.08 (163) A3 class Pacific 60082 NEIL GOW passing through Skipton with a parcels train. 25th June, 1960.

1960/06.09 (165) B.R. Standard class 4MT 3-6-0 76051 at Hellifield shed, previously 20G but now 24H, on the 25th June, 1960.

1960/06.10 (178) Ready for winter! Snowploughs, and stored class 3F 0-6-0 43271 at Hellifield shed. This had been part of the Leeds, Holbeck division as 20G, but now came under Accrington as 24H. 25th june, 1960.

1960/06.11 (170) Stanier 'Black 5' 4-6-0 45329 arrives at Hellifield on the 25th June, 1960.

1960/03/27.05 (162) First of the class. Kitson designed to Stanier's requirements, class 0F 0-4-0ST 47000 in the gloomy interior of Toton, 18A, shed on the 27th March, 1960.

1960/03/27.06 (170) Midland/LMS development of the Whitelegg London, Tilbury and Southend Railway 79 class, 3P 4-4-2T 41947 at Toton (18A) on the 27th March, 1960.

1960/03/27.07 (156) Midland Railway 0F 0-4-0T 41536 (minus 50% of its wheels!) at Burton on Trent. 27th March, 1960.

1960/06.12 (172) Stanier 8F class 2-8-0 48472 on a southbound freight near Hellifield. 25th June, 1960

1960/06.13 (161) B.R. Standard class 9F 2-10-0 92086 on a southbound freight near Hellifield. 25th June, 1960

1960/06.14 (132) A southbound local passenger train near Hellifield behind Stanier class 4 2-6-4T 42589. 25th June, 1960

1960/06.15 (140) On a northbound express on the Settle to Carlisle Line, a B.R. Standard Britannia class Pacific approaches Ribblehead Viaduct on the 25th June, 1960.

1960/06.16 (139) Approaching Blea Moor, a B.R. Standard Britannia class Pacific on the Settle - Carlisle line. 25th June, 1960

1960/06.17 (139) A B.R. Standard Britannia class Pacific heads a northbound express on the Settle - Carlisle line. 25th June, 1960

1960/06.19 (140) Now on the downgrade, the crew of this B.R. Standard Britannia class Pacific can take life a bit easier for the rest of the run over the Settle and Carlisle line to Carlisle. 25th June, 1960

1960/06.20 (163) Approaching Appleby on the Settle - Carlisle line behind a B.R. Standard Britannia class Pacific; a southbound express behind a Jubilee class 4-6-0 is on the up line. 25th June, 1960

1964/04/04.R1326 An unidendified 8F class 2-8-0 at Finedon on the Midland Railway between Wellingborough and Kettering. 4th April, 1964.

1964/08.01 Stanier 'Black 8' 2-8-0 48492 runs through Corby light engine in August, 1964.

1964/08.02 Near Corby in August, 1964, Stanier LMS 8F class 2-8-0 48055 on a freight train.

1964/08.03 Stanier LMS 'Black 8' 2-8-0 48116. Does anyone recognise the location? August, 1964.

1964/04/18.R1381 Fowler Midland Railway 4F 0-6-0 43864 shunting in Toton yard. 18th April, 1964.

1963/08/10.R1112. This is Ravenstonewood Junction, the most easterly point of the Stratford upon Avon & Midland Junction Railway. It is, well was, near Olney on the Midland Railway branch from Bedford to Northampton. The double track 'main line' with the shiny rails is the Midland line looking towards Northampton and the branch line with the rusty rails going off to the left and disappearing into the greenery is the late lamented SMJ. This section of the SMJ had been closed some five years when I took this picture in the evening of the 10th August, 1963.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) France 2 : Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1323962.html In October, 1964 I visited the 60cm gauge Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury to the south of Paris. This line was only operational in the Autumn during the suger beet harvesting season. Although long since closed, a short section from Toury has been preserved as a museum line. Pictures will be added over time, but, as usual, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so. Tuesday 30 November 1999: In October, 1964 I visited the 60cm gauge Tramway de Pithiviers _ Toury to the south of Paris. This line was only operational in the Autumn during the suger beet harvesting season. Although long since closed, a short section from Toury has been preserved as a museum line. Pictures will be added over time, but, as usual, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so.

1964/10.01 Later to become better know as the Ffestiniog Railway's MOUNTAINEER, Alco-Cooke 2-6-2T 3-23 in the shed at Pithiviers on the Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury. October, 1964.

1964/10.02 Franco-Belge 0-8-0T 4-15 in the shed at Pithiviers on the Tramway de Pithiviers ŕ Toury in October, 1964. The number 23 visible on the front of the tanks is from its days at the Sucerie Ternynck et Fils at Coucy le Château who owned the engine before it came to Pithiviers in 1963. However, once here, it was never used. Thanks to Ben Fisher and Eric Fresne for the information regarding the numbers. These were originally 0-8-0T/T engines, but the tenders were removed and the tanks extended forwards to compensate.

1965/07.R2426 In 1965, TPT 3-23 was purchased by British enthusiast John Ransom who brought it to the U.K. Initially, it was stored to the west of London at Isleworth in Middlesex but, later, it went to the Festiniog Railway in North Wales where it was to become 'Mountaineer'. July, 1965.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 03) Welshpool & Llanfair Railway. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1315592.html The Welshpool and Llanfair Railway was in its infancy in the early 1960s, but it made an interesting diversion for Festiniog volunteers on their way home on Sunday afternoons. I have therefore opened up a collection for pictures taken on such occasions, although the first three are of the W & L locomotives THE EARL and THE COUNTESS in store at Oswestry Works in 1960. They were still the property of the British Railways Western Region in those days, so the pictures are in the Western Region collection, 02.1. However, I have copied them into this collection as well. New pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before I transfer them into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: The Welshpool and Llanfair Railway was in its infancy in the early 1960s, but it made an interesting diversion for Festiniog volunteers on their way home on Sunday afternoons. I have therefore opened up a collection for pictures taken on such occasions, although the first three are of the W & L locomotives THE EARL and THE COUNTESS in store at Oswestry Works in 1960. They were still the property of the British Railways Western Region in those days, so the pictures are in the Western Region collection, 02.1. However, I have copied them into this collection as well. New pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before I transfer them into here.

1960/02/21.01 Welshpool and Llanfair Railway 2'6

1960/02/21.02 Most of the pictures in this early series were taken on Sunday excursions run by the Home Counties Railway Club to which I belonged. Other Club members are seen here queueing to 'cab' the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway 2'6

1960/02/21.03 Welshpool and Llanfair Railway 2'6

1961/08.01 A view of Lanfair Caerinion in August, 1961 with 0-6-0T THE EARL approaching in the distance.

1962/04 Prior to its sale to the Festiniog Railway in 1968, the 4 wheel Hibbert 'Planet' diesel UPNOR CASTLE worked on the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway. Built for the Admiralty in 1954, it was previously at the naval Chattenden and Upnor Railway in Kent, as was the rolling stock. Llanfair Caerinion, April, 1962.

1962/11.01 On a November afternoon in 1962, 0-6-0T THE COUNTESS is shunted at Llanfair Caerinion by 4 wheel Hibbard 'Planet' diesel UPNOR CASTLE.

1962/11.02 On what is clerly a wet and murky afternoon in November, 1962, 0-6-0T THE EARL under a lean-to shelter at Llanfair Caerinion. The other Welshpool & Llanfair 0-6-0T THE COUNTESS has just been shunted in behind by UPNOR CASTLE.

1961/08.02 Great Western Railway 2'6

1961/08.03 In grey primer/undercoat, G.W. 2'6

1961/08.04 ex GWR 2'6

1961/08.05 G.W. 2'6

1961/08.06 ex Great Western 2'6

1961/08.07 Running round at Castle Caerinion, 2'6

1962/03/31 The original Welshpool and Llanfair Railway No.1 THE EARL was built by Beyer,Peacock in 1902. It later became Great Western Railway/British Railways No.822. It still works on the original line, but now in preservation. This picture was taken at Castle Caerinion on the 31st March, 1962.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) South Africa 1972 - Part 2. Natal onwards. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1306177.html Continuing from the previous collection, South Africa 1972 - Part 1, this collection will include the 2 foot gauge railways in Natal and our onward journey southwards to Port Elizabeth and De Aar. As always, pictures will be added over time, but they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Continuing from the previous collection, South Africa 1972 - Part 1, this collection will include the 2 foot gauge railways in Natal and our onward journey southwards to Port Elizabeth and De Aar. As always, pictures will be added over time, but they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so.

1972/08/26.R4074. At 2 o'clock on Saturday afternoons, a train left Pietermaritzburg for Donnybrook. It took all afternoon and did not reach its desination until after dark. It was an 'all stations' and, seemingly, it would also stop pretty well anywhere else as well if somebody asked it to! This is Elandskop with the sinking sun already casting deep shadows over GMA class 4-8-2 + 2-8-4 Garratt No.4099. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4076. Another view of GMA class 4-8-2 + 2-8-4 Garratt 4099 catching the glints of the sinking sun at Elandskop on the line between Pietermaritzburg and Donnybrook. The driver looked down at a group of us and said,

1972/08/26.R4077. From the footplate - 1 : Luckily for me, I was one of the six invited onto the footplate of GMA 4099. So this, and the next few pictures, show the Donnybrook line as seen by the loco crews. The setting sun catches the front tank and boiler sides as we take a right hand curve. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4078. From the footplate - 2 : The Donnybrook line climbs up, and down, through some pretty spectacular scenery. The line twists and turns and this is a driver's eye view as we sweep round a left hand curve. The line ahead can be seen cutting through the hillside in the middle distance. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4084. From the footplate - 3 : Looking back down the train on the Donnybrook line. The auxilary 'torpedo' water carrier can be seen between the rear tank and the train. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4086. From the footplate - 4 : Driver's eye view from the footplate of GMA class 4-8-2 + 2-8-4 Garratt on the Pietermaritzburg - Donnybrook line. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4087. From the footplate - 5 : A view forward from the footplate of GMA class 4-8-2 + 2-8-4 Garratt 4099 on the Pietermaritzburg - Donnybrook line. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4089. On the footplate - 9 : The fireman's side controls on GMA class Garratt 4099. The lower controls are for the mechanical stoker steam jets. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4091. From the footplate - 6 : Despite the failing light, I still managed to get some shots of the surrounding scenery from the footplate of GMA Garratt 4099. The line can just be seen snaking across the lower centre of the picture. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4092. From the footplate - 7 : A forward view from the fireman's side of GMA Garratt 4099 on the line from Pietermaritzburg to Donnybrook. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4094. From the footplate - 8 : The Pietermaritzburg - Donnybrook line snakes through the spectacular scenary as the sun finally sinks behind the mountains. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/26.R4097. On the footplate - 10 : With firebox door of GMA class Garratt 4099 open and the mechanical stoker in operation, coal is directed into different areas of the 'box by steam jets. 26th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4102. Built by S.L.M in Winterthur, Switzerland in 1929, the 19A class 4-8-2s were designed for use on lighter branch lines. This one was at Mason's Mill shed, Pietermaritzburg on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4103. Dating from 1927, the GF class Garratts were of the unusual wheel arrangement of 4-6-2 + 2-6-4. They were designed for branch and secondary main line use. This one was at Mason's Mill shed in Pietermaritzburg on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4104. Garratts a plenty were to be found at Mason's Mill shed in Pietermaritzburg on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4107. The S.A.R. class 1 4-8-0s began life as Natal Government Railways 'B' class in 1904. This one, 1247, was at Mason's Mill, Pietermaritzburg, on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4108. Another of the veteran class 1 4-8-0s, 1269, also at Mason's Mill, Pietermaritzburg on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4105. Dramatically sidelit at Mason's Mill shed in Pietermaritzburg, GMA class 4-8-2 + 2-8-4 Garratt 4101. 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4110. Class 1 4-8-0 of 1904 vintage at Mason's Mill, Pietermaritzburg. Originally, this was the 'B' class of the Natal Government Railways. 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4113. Another of the GCA class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 branch line Garratts at Mason's Mill, Pietermaritzburg on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4114. Plenty of steam atmosphere at Mason' Mill shed, Pietermaritzburg on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4120. Our first taste of the South African 2 foot gauge was at Ixopo between Donnybrook and the coast. This is NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG115 on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4121. Another view of S.A.R. NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG115 at Ixopo. 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4123. A close up of NG/G16 class 2 foot gauge 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG151's numberplate. This was from the last batch built in 1968 and photographed when only four years old in August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4124. A 2 foot gauge coach comprising Guard's compartment, luggage section and two passenger compartments. Ixopo, 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4125. The lower end of the line from Donnybrook up in the hills was at Umzinto, approximately 5 miles inland from the coast. This is 2 foot gauge 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 NG/G16 class Garratt NG113 on the 27th August, 1972. Note the tub wagons full of coal on the coaling stage in the background.

1972/08/27.R4126. Another view of NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG113 at Umzinto on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4128. 2 foot gauge NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG114 at the coaling stage seen in picture R4125. Coal is tipped directly from the tub wagons above into the bunker waiting below, while the fireman uses the slack hose to keep down the dust. Umzinto, 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4129. With coaling complete, 2 foot gauge NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG114 gets a final spruce up at Umzinto on the 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4130. Fully coaled and washed down, 2 foot gauge NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG114 is ready for its next turn of duty. Umzinto, 27th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4131. Numberplate of NG/G16 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt NG129.

1972/08/27.R4138. Timber traffic was predominant on the 2 foot gauge Umzinto - Donnybrook line. One such train is getting away from a wayside halt behind NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt E139. 28th August, 1972.

1972/08/27.R4139. 2 foot gauge NG/G16 class 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 Garratt E139 gets aways from a wayside halt on the Umzinto - Donnybrook line in Natal. 28th August, 1972. Can anybody tell me what the 'E' stands for? It was a mistake! Whoever cast the plate thought that it was destined for an electric loco. Hence the 'E' instead of the correct 'NG'. Thanks to Bob Francis, Owen Chapman and Graham Kelsey for information on this subject.

1974.RD2927. 23 class 4-8-2 23 3235 at Beaconsfield shed having just arrived from Bloemfontein with the Orange Express. 26th May, 1974. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2928. 16CR class Pacific 790 at Port Elizabeth in May, 1974. Note the ornamental smoke deflectors carrying the names plate KATINKA. The fireman can be seen on top of the boiler, busy with his polishing cloth. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2929. Witbank Colliery No.1, a 4-10-2T built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1928. Although built for industrial use, it was to the same design as locomotives built for the Natal Government Railways which were later to become the South African Railways H2 class. 25th May, 1974. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2932. 25 class 4-8-4 3517 departing from Orange River with a De Aar - Kimberley freight on the 27th May, 1974. The loco was built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1954. The class 25 condenser locomotives had a fan in the smokebox to create the draught and made a curious whinning noise instead of the expected 'chuff-chuffs'. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2933. Caprotti valve geared 19C class 4-8-2 2444 at Cape Town Docks on the 30th June, 1974. It was built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1935. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2934. 15AR class 4-8-2 1799 was built by the North British Locomotive company in 1914 as a class 15A. It later received a new standard boiler and became a 15AR. Bob Francis took the picture at Port Elizabeth's Sydenham shed on the 2nd June, 1974.

1974.RD2935. How's this for a shed pilot! 16CR class Pacific 800 built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1914 was acting as the coal stage pilot at Port Elizabeth's Sydenham shed on the 2nd June, 1974. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2982. NG11 class 2' gauge 2-6-0 + 0-6-2 Garratt NG54 at Humewood Road shed, Port Elizabeth. It was built by Beyer Peacock in 1925, this being the second series of the first Garratt type in Africa. 2nd June, 1974. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2983. 16CR class Pacific No. 792 built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1914. It is seen here at Port Elizabeth station working the 08:45 from Uitenhage on the 3rd June, 1974. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2984. 23 class 4-8-2 3270 at Karee between Bloemfontein and Kroonstad. The loco was built by Henschel & Sohn in Germany in 1938 and the train is beleived to be the overnight train from Cape Town to Durban. This was 08:30 off Bloemfontein. 4th June, 1974. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2985. 19D class 4-8-2 2534 at Bloemfontein shed on the 4th June, 1974. The loco was build by Borsig in 1937. Photograph by Bob Francis.

1974.RD2986. 15F class 4-8-2 2997 was built by the North British Locomotive Company in 1944. It was at Bloemfontein shed on the 4th June, 1974 when seen by Bob Francis who took this picture.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Italian Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1272089.html I have only been to Italy a couple of times, but the few pictures that I have got will find their way into this collection as time permits. I also have a few purchased slides of Italian subjects and they, too, will be posted here. As always, newly added pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so before being transferred into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: I have only been to Italy a couple of times, but the few pictures that I have got will find their way into this collection as time permits. I also have a few purchased slides of Italian subjects and they, too, will be posted here. As always, newly added pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks or so before being transferred into here.

1961/05/09.R7597 FS Italia 640 class 2-6-0 640 094 at Turin. 9th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1961/05/10.R7599 OM (part of the FIAT group) built railcar ALn 773 3501 at Brescia. 10th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1961/05/12.R7601 FS Italia 685 class 2-6-2 685 146 at Rome. 12th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1961/05/12.R7602. Awaiting preservation, FS Italia 980 class 0-6-0RT 980.002 at Rome. This loco is now at the recently re-opened railway museum at Pietrarsa, near Naples. It was originally one of a dozen locos built by SLM in Winterthur, Switzerland in 1911 - 1913. Thanks to Andrea Vanzetto for information provided. Niek Opdam writes : Hi Ron, as always I like your picture archive. This picture shows a 980 class Rack-engine, build for the Paola-Cosenza line in Calabria, which happened to be one of the last FS steam lines in Italy. Thanks, Niek. Photographed by E.A.S.Cotton on the 12th May, 1961.

1961/05/12.R7603 760mm gauge 0-8-2T P7 awaiting preservation at Rome. 12th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. This loco has an interesting history : It was built in Italy in 1922, but to an Austrian design. It worked on a 760 mm gauge railway at Trieste until that closed in 1935. There was a plan to convert it to 950 mm for further use in Sardinia, but that didn't happen. It was then proposed to send it to Yugoslavia for use on the 760 mm gauge there, but that didn't happen either! It survived into preservation and can now be seen at the Science and Technology Museum in Milan. Thanks to Andrea Vanzetto for the information.

1961/05/09.RD3000. The four cylinder 685 class 2-6-2s were introduced in 1912; this is 685 201 at Alessandria shed in north-west Italy. 9th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1961/05/11.RD3002. Alessandria shed in north-west Italy on the 11th May, 1961. The locos are 2-8-0 743 291, 2-6-2 685 201, 2-6-0 640 149 and 2-6-0T 880 047. Sorry that the quality of this slide is somewhat below par, but I have included it because of its historic interest to Italian railway enthusiasts. Niek Opdam writes : Note the double overhead catenary according to the trei-fasi system, which was in use at that time on a number of Italian lines (e.g. Brenner). Thanks, Niek. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1961/05/09.RD3001. Crosti boilered 743 class 2-8-0 743 069 at Alessandria in north-west Italy. 9th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

2001/08.R11539. I found this dinky little 0-6-0T at Tirano having journeyed down from Switzerland via the Berninabahn. Can anyone tell me anything about it? 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11540. This ex FS vintage coach is preserved at Tirano along with the 0-6-0T seen in the previous picture. Presumably, they belong to a preservation group; can anyone provide me with any details? 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11543. E636 articulated class Bo-Bo-Bo electric E636 355 at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11536. The Swiss Rhätische Bahn Bernina Line crosses the border to terminate at Tirano in northern Italy. An RhB train has just arrived from St. Moritz on the 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11523. The Swiss Rhätische Bahn runs trains to Tirano in northern Italy and this is the spot where the trains cross the border and enter Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11533. Having entered the town of Tirano in northern Italy, the Swiss Rhätische Bahn trains run through the streets tramway fashion before reaching the station. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11534. Approaching Tirano station, Rhätische Bahn rolling stock in the sidings awaits the call to duty. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11535. Panoramic coaches of the Rhätische Bahn's 'Bernina Express' which runs from the Graubünden capital of Chur over the Bernina Pass to the northern Italian town of Tirano. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11544. For some reason, E636 class Bo-Bo-Bo E636 355 has dropped its pantograph and is being shunted by 4-wheel diesel shunter 214 405. On the left is Ale582 class EMU 582 001. Tirano, 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11546. ALe582 class EMU 582-001 at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11547. ALe582 class EMU 582-001 at Tirano in northern Italy. The red coaches of the Swiss metre gauge Rhätische Bahn can be seen in the background. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11550. E636 class Bo-Bo-Bo articulated electric locomotive E636 135 at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11551. E636 class Bo-Bo-Bo articulated electric locomotive E636 355 at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11553. A push-pull passenger train arrives at Tirano in northern Italy with the driving trailer leading. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11554. An E633 B-B-B class electric locomotive on a push-pull passenger working at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11545. E636 class Bo-Bo-Bo articulated electric locomotive E636 355 at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11555. A 214 class 4 wheel diesel shunter at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11556. E636 class articulated Bo-Bo-Bo electric locomotives E636 355 and E636 135 at Tirano in northern Italy. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11558. A train of the Swiss Rhätische Bahn at Tirano in northern Italy. It will shortly be leaving to climb high into the Alps and the famous resort of St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11559. A train of the Swiss Rhätische Bahn at Tirano in northern Italy. It will shortly be leaving to climb high into the Alps and the famous resort of St. Moritz. 16th August, 2001.

2001/08.R11560. As well as running passenger trains, the Rhätische Bahn is also a freight carrier. One of the commodities carried is timber and these timber carrying wagons were seen in a siding at Tirano on the 16th August, 2001.

1961/05/12.RD3040. 685 class 2-6-2 685.146 at Rome Terminus with a train to Naples. Like many classes of Italian locomotives, these engines had Zara, or 'Italian' trucks, an arrangement whereby the leading radial wheels were coupled to the leading coupled wheels to form a bogie. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1971/06/27.RD3161. Italian Railways 640 class 2-6-0 640.073 of 1908 at Roma Tratevere on the 27th June, 1971. The train is a special run by GRAF, the Gruppo Romano Amici della Ferrovia. The 640 class were light passenger engines with, unusually, inside cylinders and outside piston valves. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

1971/06/29.RD3166. Italian Railways 740 class 2-8-0 740.308 on a runpast during a Gruppo Romano Amici della Ferrovia (GRAF) railtour of central Italy. The 740 class were the standard F.S. freight engine; there were 470 of them, built between 1911 and 1923. 29th June, 1971. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Spanish and Portugese Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1272061.html I only went to Spain and Portugal twice, but there are a few picture that will find their way into this collection as time permits. My pictures will be supplemented by some bought, and some borrowed. As usual, I shall start them off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before transferring them into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: I only went to Spain and Portugal twice, but there are a few picture that will find their way into this collection as time permits. My pictures will be supplemented by some bought, and some borrowed. As usual, I shall start them off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before transferring them into here.

SPAIN : 1964/05/03.RD3063. RENFE 242.2004 and 242.2001, both 4-8-4s, stop for water at Burgos in northern Spain with the Iberian Express on the 3rd May. 1964. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/13.RD3065. Built by Sharp Stewart in 1879, this is RENFE, ex-MZA (Madrid, Zaragoza, Alicante Railway), 030.2364 at Seville San Jeronimo. Its working days, however, appear to be over. 13th May, 1964. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/03.RD3064. Clearly a snatch shot from a passing train, an ex MZA (Madrid, Zaragoza, Alicante Railway) RENFE 241 class 4-8-2 on shed at Miranda. 3rd May, 1964. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/13.RD3066. RENFE 0-6-0 030.2331, clearly out of use, at Seville San Jeronimo on the 13th May, 1964 - 100 years after it was built for the MZA (Madrid, Zaragoza, Alicante Railway) in 1864. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/13.RD3067. Another 0-6-0 in the line of withdrawn engines at Seville San Jeronimo on the 13th May, 1964, was RENFE 030.2360. It was originally built for the Madrid, Zaragoza, Alicante Railway (MZA) by Sharp Stewart in 1879. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/14.RD3069. RENFE 030.2305 0-6-0 at Plaza d'Armas, Seville on the 14th May, 1964. This loco was originally built for the Madrid, Zaragoza, Alicante Railway in 1863 which means that it was 101 years old when E.A.S.Cotton took the picture. Photograph from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/15.RD3074. RENFE 4-8-0 240.2110 was built by Henschel & Sohn in Germany for the MZA (Madrid, Zaragoza, Alecante Railway) in 1913. These engines were intended for main line freight trains, but were also to be found on stopping passenger trains. 241.2110 was photographed on the turntable at Odiel depot, Huelva by E.A.S.Cotton on the 15th May, 1964 and the picture is from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Portugal : 1969/06/07.RD3155. Portuguese Railways four cylinder compound 4-6-0 No.355 and an Alco diesel at Barreiro depot, Lisbon, on the 7th June, 1969. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/15.RD3077. The mining company Rio Tinto used to have its own 3'6

Spain : 1964/05/16.RD3078. Ex Andaluces Railway 4-8-0 RENFE 240.2049, built by Hanomag in 1922, at Córdoba depot. 16th May, 1964. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Spain : 1964/05/13.RD3361. This powerful looking 4-8-2 is RENFE 241 class 241.2063 of 1927. It was built for the Madrid, Zaragoza, Alicante Railway (MZA), but ended its days in Seville where it was photographed by E.A.S.Cotton. The picture is from the Adrian Jarvis collection.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Switzerland - 1. The Sixties. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1272048.html In 1966-7 I spent just under two years living in Zürich. This collection will therefore show some of the pictures I took whilst in Switzerland, together with a few that I have since purchased from other people. As usual, I shall put the pictures in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before putting them in this collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: In 1966-7 I spent just under two years living in Z_rich. This collection will therefore show some of the pictures I took whilst in Switzerland, together with a few that I have since purchased from other people. As usual, I shall put the pictures in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before putting them in this collection.

1959/06/19 The non-electrified Sursee - Triengen Bahn to the north of Luzern at around 5˝ miles long is hardly a major player in the Swiss railway system. It did at one time, however, possess a unique steam railcar FZm 1/2 11. It was built in 1918 and comprised separate post and luggage compartments. The boiler, unusually, was situated transversly across the frames. Unfortunately, it did not survive into preservation being scrapped in 1961. However, E.A.S.Cotton was lucky enough to see and photograph it two years earlier on the 19th June, 1959.

1967/12 (207) A view of the sunset from the Zürich Hbf. platform end in December, 1967.

1960/07/15 Mittel-Thurgau-Bahn Eb3/5 class 2-6-2WT No.1, built by SLM at Winterthur in 1912, at Konstanz on the 15th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. Thanks to G.F.Fischer for additional information.

1960/09/05.01 SBB C5/6 class 2-10-0 2958 at Basel depot on the 5th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/05.02 Another shot of SBB C5/6 class 2-10-0 2958 at Basel Depot on the 5th September, 1960. Photgraph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/06 SBB C5/6 class 2-10-0 2965 at Olten. 6th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/07.01 The 1947 built replica of Switzerland's first locomotive, LIMMAT. It is a 4-2-0 and the original ran on Switzerland's first railway, the Schweizerische Nordostbahn between Baden and Zürich, the so called 'Spanisch-Brötli-Bahn', which was opened in 1847. E.A.S.Cotton photographed the LIMMAT on the 7th September, 1960 at the Luzern Transport Museum which is where it is still to be seen today.

1960/09/07.02 On the 7Ľ and 14˝ inch gauge Liliputbahn in Luzern. A fine model of a SBB A3/5 4-6-0 outside the shed on the 7th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. This miniature line was situated near the Swiss Transport Museum but closed down some years ago. This loco, however, lived on; it is now on the Steiner Liliputbahn at Stein-am-Rhein which is between Schaffhausen and Konstanz.

1960/09/07.03 Until it was privatised, the meter gauge Brünigbahn between Interlaken Ost and Luzern via Meiringen and the Brünig Pass used to be the SBBs only narrow gauge line. Privatisation, however, was many, many years in the future when E.A.S.Cotton photgraphed HGe3/3 class 0-6-0T 1067 at Meiringen on the 7th September, 1960. The loco was built by SLM at Winterthur in 1910. Thanks to G.F.Fischer for additional information.

1960/09/10.01 The Mittel-Thurgau-Bahn is a private concern situated in North East Switzerland. This is their locomotive No.1, an Eb3/5 class 2-6-2WT built by SLM at Winterthur in 1912, at Weinfelden on the 10th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. Thanks to G.F.Fischer for further information.

1960/09/10.02 The Mittel-Thurgau-Bahn is a private concern situated in North East Switzerland. This is their locomotive No.2, an Eb3/5 class 2-6-2WT built by SLM at Winterthur in 1912, at Weinfelden on the 10th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. Thanks to G.F.Fischer for additional information.

1960/09/10.R7586 Mittel-Thurgau-Bahn ABFm2/47 diesel mechanical railcar at Konstanz. 10th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/11.R7593 SBB Eb3/5 2-6-2T 5804 at Zürich Depot. 11th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/11.R7591 SBB A3/5 4-6-0 778 at Zürich Depot. 11th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/11.R7592 SBB 3/5 2-6-2T 6606 at Zürich Depot. 11th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/10.R7587 Mittel-Thurgau-Bahn diesel mechanical railcar ABFm2/47 at Weinfelden Depot. 10th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/11.R7589 A general view of SBB steam locos at Zürich Depot. 11th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/09/11.R7590 SBB 4/4 0-8-0T 8917 at Zürich Depot. 11th September, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1961/05/07.R7594 Berninabahn Ge4/4 Bo -Bo 'crocodile' 182 at Poschiavo. 7th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1961/05/07.R7595 Centre entrance Rhätische Bahn 2nd class coach at Samedan. 7th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1961/05/07.R7596 Rhätische Bahn AeB4/4 503 at Samedan. 7th May, 1961. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1967/10.R3357 The steeply graded metre gauge Chemin de Fer Blonay - Chamby near Montreux in western Switzerland. The first preservation scheme in that country, this line is about 3 kilometres long and opened to the public on the 1st May, 1968. I popped in to have a look whilst in the area the prevous year, probably around October.

1967/10.R3355 The metre gauge line from Blonay to Chamby near Montreux in western Switzerland was the first preservation scheme in that country. I paid a brief visit there in about October, 1967 although it did not open officially until the following year.

1967/10.R3358 The 3 kilometre metre gauge Blonay - Chamby museum line near Montreux in western Switzerland was the first such scheme in that country. I called in to have a look whilst in the area in about October of 1967, some six months or so before it opened its doors officially on the 1st May the following year. Can anybody tell me what the carriage is, and where it came frome? It is numbered 205.

1967/10.R3359 Metre gauge 0-6-6-0 Mallet tank 104 at the Blonay - Chamby museum line having newly arrived from its previous home, the Zell - Todnau line in Germany's Black Forest. It was built by Hanomag in 1925 and came to the Blonay - Chamby in the autumn of 1967 following the closure of the Zell - Todnau line the previous May.

1967/10.R3360 Built by Hanomag in 1925, metre gauge 0-6-6-0 Mallet Tank 104 of the Zell - Todnau line in Germany's Black Forest. Following the closure of that line in May, 1967, the loco was bought for preservation on the Blonay - Chamby museum line near Montreux in Western Switzerland where it arrived in the autumn of that year. It was newly arrived when I saw it, probably in about October.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Austrian Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1272046.html I visited Austria a couple of times during the 1960s, so this is the place to look for the pictures. They will, of course, be found in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred into here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: I visited Austria a couple of times during the 1960s, so this is the place to look for the pictures. They will, of course, be found in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred into here.

1966/05.R3000. 1966/05.R3000. A pair of 0-6-2Ts at Jenbach on the 76cm gauge Zillertalbahn in the Austrian Tyrol. May, 1966.

1966/05.R2991. Zillertalbahn 76cm gauge 0-6-2T No.2 runs round at Mayrhofen, the southern terminus in the Ziller Valley. Tyrol, Austria, May, 1966.

1966/05.R2992. Zillertalbahn 76cm gauge 0-6-2T No.2 gets ready to return to Jenbach. Mayrhofen in the Austrian Tyrol, May, 1966.

1966/05.R2993. Mayrhofen in the Ziller Valley, Tyrol, Austria. A train for Jenbach is getting ready for a return trip down the valley behind 76cm gauge 0-6-2T No.2. May, 1966.

1966/05.R2994. A train on the 76cm gauge Zillertalbahn returns towards Jenbach in the Austrian Tyrol. May, 1966.

1966/05.R2995. A train on the 76cm Zillertalbahn returns towards Jenbach in the Austrian Tyrol. May, 1966.

1966/05.R2996. A train on the 76cm gauge Zillertalbahn returns towards Jenbach in the Austrian Tyrol. May, 1966.

1966/05.R2998. There is still snow on the distant hills as a train on the 76cm gauge Zillertalbahn returns towards Jenbach in the Austrian Tyrol. May, 1966.

1966/05.R3001. Zillertalbahn 76cm gauge 0-6-2T No.6 at the northern terminus of Jenbach in the Austrian Tyrol. May, 1966.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Belgian Railways. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1272044.html Belgian railways are oftern neglected by photographers, which I think is a pity. Also, Belgium seems to be the place you pass through on the way to somewhere else, which is also a pity. So, to redress the balance a little, here are some Belgian railway pictures taken over the years. As usual, they will be added a few at a time, and will start off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Belgian railways are oftern neglected by photographers, which I think is a pity. Also, Belgium seems to be the place you pass through on the way to somewhere else, which is also a pity. So, to redress the balance a little, here are some Belgian railway pictures taken over the years. As usual, they will be added a few at a time, and will start off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection.

2003/12/05.R13819 EMUs at Brussels Midi. 5th December, 2003.

2003/12/05.R13820 A general view at Brussels Midi with electric locomotive 2129 on stand-by. 5th December, 2003.

2003/12/05.R13822 Four car suburban EMU approaching Brussels Midi. 5th December, 2003.

2003/12/05.R13823 A pair of two car EMUs approach Brussels Midi on the 5th December, 2003.

2003/12/05.R13824 Electric locos old and new at Brussels Midi. 5th December, 2003.

1964/08.R1851. My first taste of continental steam was this Belgian Railways Canadian built 2-8-0 29 128 at De Panne near the Belgian - French border. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1852. Belgian Railways Canadian built 2-8-0 29 128 runs through De Panne near the Belgian - French border. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1853. SNCB Co-Co diesel locomotive 200.012 at De Panne near the Belgian - French border in August, 1964. These locomotives were introduced in 1961 and were to later become class 51. Compare this picture with picture R14071, below, taken 40 years later in June, 2004.

2004/06.R14071. De Panne in Belgium near the French border. June, 2004. Compare this picture with picture R1853, above, taken 40 years earlier in August, 1964.

2004/06.R14072. Another June 2004 picture of the attractive station building at De Panne in southern Belgium near the border with France. This, too, can be compared with the pictures taken 40 years earlier in August, 1964.

1964/08.R1843. My first sight of a foreign land, this is Ostend Harbour early on a Saturday morning in August, 1964. Together with a couple of friends, I had travelled overnight from Dover. This was my first trip abroad and, boy!, was it rough! I swore blind that I was never going to do that again, but, when we got down into France, I soon changed my mind!

1964/08.R1844. Having travelled overnight from Dover, it was very early in the morning when we docked at Ostend. The sun was still low in the sky, hence the deep shadows over the harbourside station where a train for Brussels, and possibly beyond, can just be seen. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1845. The reason for going to France via Belgium was to see the metre gauge 'Vicinal' coastal tramway. This is some of the rolling stock in use at that time. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1846. A tram of the 'Société Nataionale des Chemin de Fer Vicinaux' which ran the metre gauge tramway system around Ostend and along the coast to De Panne near the border with France. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1847. Early on a Saturday morning in August, 1964, a vintage tram on the metre gauge SNCV coastal tramway between Ostend and De Panne on the French border.

1964/08.R1848. Out in the country to the south of Oostende (Ostend), a more modern tram on the metre gauge coastal tramway that runs to De Panne on the French border. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1849. The low early morning sun catches this interesting combination of modern and old on the SNCV metre gauge coastal tramway beteween Oostende (Ostend) and De Panne on the border with France. August, 1964.

1964/08.R1850. A final view of the SNCV metre gauge coastal tramway between Ostend and De Panne in August, 1964.

2004/06.R14073. De Panne on the Belgian coast just north of the border with France. The EMU is a class AM83. June, 2004.

2004/06.R14075. Those flats weren't there when I was here 40 years ago! This is the metre gauge 'Kusttram' which had previously been run by the SNCV. June, 2004.

2004/06.R14077. A tram on the metre gauge 'Kusttram' near De Panne on the Belgian coast not far from the French border. June, 2004.

2004/06.R14078. A tram on the metre gauge 'Kusttram' near De Panne on the Belgian coast not far from the French border. June, 2004.

2004/06.R14082. Another shot of a tram on the metre gauge 'Kusttram' which runs along the Belgian coast from Oostende to De Panne near the French border. The system also runs to the north of Oostende to Knokke. It used to be part of the Société Nationale des Chemin de Fer Vicinaux which was broken up in 1991 to become 'De Lijn'. June, 2004.

2004/06.R14083. A final shot of a tram on the 'De Lijn' metre gauge coastal tramway between Oostende and De Panne near the border with France.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 1.1. The 1960s, Part 1. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1271000.html Although my first visit to West Germany was in 1965, I purchased part of an extensive slide collection recently and some of these go back to 1959. As with all collections, it will take me a while to scan them and publish them on Fotopic, but, over time you will see them on here. Along, of course, with a few of my own. As there are so many pictures, I have started an overflow collection, Germany 1.2 - The 1960s Part 2, to take the overflow from this collection. Initially, however, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before being transferred here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Although my first visit to West Germany was in 1965, I purchased part of an extensive slide collection recently and some of these go back to 1959. As with all collections, it will take me a while to scan them and publish them on Fotopic, but, over time you will see them on here. Along, of course, with a few of my own. As there are so many pictures, I have started an overflow collection, Germany 1.2 - The 1960s Part 2, to take the overflow from this collection. Initially, however, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for a couple of weeks or so before being transferred here.

1965/06.01 Ediger-Eller, near Cochem in the Mosel Valley, with vinyard terraces on the hillside. Cochem is at the other end of the tunnel in the distance. June, 1960 Thanks to Uwe Busch for help with this caption.

1959/09/05.02 ET59 of the Köln Bonner Eisenbahn with an R.C.T.S. special. Can anybody tell me the location? Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. Joachim Biemann tells me that it is Köln Barbarossaplatz. Danke, Joachim.

1959/09/06.01 86 class 2-8-2T 86 346 alongside E40 class Bo-Bo electric E40 162 at Remagen on the left bank of the Rhein. 6th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/06.03 23 class 2-6-2 23 039 at Köln-Deutz on the 6th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/06.04 Close up of wheels and motion. Class 23 2-6-2 at Köln-Deutz, 6th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/06.05 Prussian P10, later DR/DB class 39, 2-8-2 39 240 at Köln-Deutz. 6th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/08.02 Ex Prussian G9 class 0-8-0 55 2426 of 1911, but now the Westfälische Landes-Eisenbahn (WLE) 0203 at Lippstadt shed on the 8th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. The WLE now uses diesels, not 0-8-0s! Thanks to '03 1008' for the additional information.

1959/09/08.04 (R7534). Diesel railcars at Lippstadt main workshops on the Westfälische Landes-Eisenbahn to the east of Dortmund. Note the clerestory coach just visible behind the railcar. 8th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/08.05 (R7535). On the 8th September, 1959, the RCTS visited the test track of the Alweg monorail system in the Köln suburb of Fühlingen. Nothing now remains of this system. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/08.06 (R7536). The interior of the experimental Alwag monorail train at Köln-Fühlingen. 8th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/09.01 I don't know much about this one other than it is a 2-10-2T on an RCTS special working at a place called Kerkerbach. So I am hoping that there are some experts on German railways out there that can tell me a bit more. Like exactly where it is (was), gauge, etc. Photograph taken by E.A.S.Cotton on the 9th September, 1959. Thanks to '03 1008' I now know that it is metre gauge No.16 built by Jung in 1942. It was originally 750mm gauge, but re-gauged to 1000mm when transferred from the Heeresfeldbahn to the Kerkerbachbahn. Kerkerbach is on the River Lahn to the north east of Limburg and part of the Kerkerbachbahn was laid to duel gauge so that metre gauge locos could haul standard gauge wagons.

1959/09/10.01 Nicely sidelit, Krupp 2-8-2T No.261 of 1934 at Frankfurt-Höchst on the Frankfurt-Königsteiner Eisenbahn. 10th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/11.01 ex Prussian T16.1 class 0-10-0T 94 555 at Trier-Ehrang. 11th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/11.03 50 class 2-10-0 50 1228 at Trier-Ehrang. 11th September, 1959. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1959/09/11.05. The Moselbahn closely followed the river between Trier and Bullay, but was closed in the 1960s. It was visited by the RCTS on the 11th September, 1959 when E.A.S.Cotton took this photograph at Andel, about half way along the line. The Moselbahn now runs bus services in that area.

1960/07/02.02. A snatch shot from another train, this is an ET25 EMU (or is it? I think that it is an ET65 of 1930s vintage, but before the front ends were rebuilt to do away with the central doors) near Stuttgart Hbf. 2nd July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. Yes, it is an ET65, but, as this is the driving trailer end, an ES65. Thanks to Jan Borchers for the information.

1960/07/02.03. An ET56 EMU at Stuttgart Hbf forming the 16:17 to Tübingen on the 2nd July, 1960. These were the first new EMUs in Germany after the war, and they were referred to as 'Eierköpfe' (eggheads) because of their round shaped front ends. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1965/06.04 A P8 class 4-6-0 with Wannen tender. Trier Hbf, June, 1965.

1965/06.03 I don't know what this coach is and I'm hoping that someone will be able to tell me. It was at Trier Hbf in June, 1965. Thanks to 'wr4üe', I now know that it is a wooden bodied Prussian Postal van. Being wooden bodied, it was not allowed to run in passenger trains after 1961. Danke, Will.

1965/06.05 Prussian P8 class 4-6-0 38 3634 at Trier Hbf. June, 1965.

1965/06.07 A bit of a rarity, at least to me, ex Prussian P10 class 2-8-2 39 057 at Trier Hbf in June, 1965.

1965/06.06 A close up of the wheels and motion of Prussian P8 class 4-6-0 38 3634 at Trier Hbf in June, 1965.

1960/07/05.01 Württembergische Staatsbahn Hz class 0-10-0RT 97 501 at Lichtenstein. There were four of these 4-cylinder compound rack tanks and three, including this one, have been preserved. They worked on the 1,79 km rack fitted Honau - Lichtenstein line to the south of Stuttgart. 5th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/03.03 Ex Württembergische Staatsbahn Tn class 0-10-0T 94 129 on shed at Tübingen. 3rd July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/05.03 The Riggenbach rack can be seen between the rails as 4-cylinder compound rack tank 97 501 propels a train of Uerdingen railbuses up the 1,79 km Honau - Lichtenstein incline on the 5th July, 1960. Were these the VT97.9 rack-fitted series of railbuses? If so, why was the steam loco necessary? Or were the ordinary ones used and propelled up the incline by the 0-10-0RT prior to the arrival of the rack fitted version? This is the answer. They are VT98.95 normal adhesion railbuses; hence the need for the rack fitted Dampflok on the steep bit. Thanks to Stefan Motz for the info. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/05.02 Uerdingen 4-wheel 'Schienenbusse' (railbuses) at Honau. This is at the bottom of the 1,79 km rack section to Lichtenstein which is situated to the south of Stuttgart. I would be grateful if someone could tell me which series of Uerdingen railbuses these are. They are the VT98.95 series which were not the later rack-fitted ones. A rack-fitted steam loco was therefore necessary to propel them up the rack section until the rack-fitted railbuses arrived. The 0-10-0RT 97 501 is about to be coupled up for the trip up the incline. Thanks to Stefan Motz for the info. 5th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.01 Ex Württembergische Staatsbahn Tn class 0-10-0T 94 109 at Tübingen. 7th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.02 Ex Prussian T16.1 class 0-10-0T 94 1234 at Tübingen on the 7th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.03 Ex Prussian T 14.1 class 2-8-2T 93 849 at Stuttgart-Kornwestheim. These engines were introduced in 1918 as a development of the earlier T 14 class. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.04 DB 01 class Pacific 01 154 at Stuttgart Hbf shed. 7th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.06 Known as 'Eierköpfe' (eggheads), the VT08 DMUs were introduced in 1952. Normally four-car units, the U.S. Army had six similar but only two-car units from 1956 and this is one of them, VT08 802, at Stuttgart HBF shed on the 7th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.07 E41 class Bo-Bo electric E41 060 at Stuttgart Hbf shed. 7th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/07.08 The E17s comprised a class of 38 1-Do-1 electric locomotives and they had a lifespan of 52 years; the first was delivered in 1928 and the last was withdrawn in 1980. This is E17 107 at Stuttgart Hbf shed on the 7th July, 1960 when it was photographed by E.A.S.Cotton. Two of these locos, however, survived into preservation and one of them, E17 113, is at the Eisenbahn Museum at Neustadt an der Weinstraße. There is a picture of it in collection 'Germany 7 - Plandampf Wochenende in der Pfalz, 2005', below.

1960/07/07.09 Introduced in 1925, the C-C E91 class electric locomotives had a lifespan of 50 years, the last of them being withdrawn in 1975. This is E91 16 and it was photographed by E.A.S.Cotton on the 7th July, 1960 at Stuttgart-Kornwestheim depot.

1960/07/07.10 Introduced in 1954, the E10 Bo-Bo electrics are to be found in many parts of Germany. E10 217 was at Tübingen on the 7th July, 1960 when photographed by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/10.01 The first of the Badische Staatsbahn VI c 2-6-2Ts was delivered in 1914 and they lasted until 1967 when the last of them, 75 1118, was withdrawn from service and subsequent preservation. On the 10th July, 1960, however, 75 436 was at Freiburg im Breisgau and photographed by E.A.S.Cotton. (R7564)

1960/07/10.02 One of a class of ten locomotives introduced in 1932, 2-10-2T 85 002 at Freiburg im Breisgau on the 10th July, 1960. The last of this class, 85 007, was withdrawn in 1962 and is now preserved. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. (R7565)

1960/07/10.04. One of a class of ten locomotives introduced in 1932, 2-10-2T 85 002 at Freiburg im Breisgau on the 10th July, 1960. The last of this class, 85 007, was withdrawn in 1962 and is now preserved. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton. (R7566)

1960/07/11 The E40 class of Bo-Bo electric locomotives are the freight version of the externally similar E10s. They were introduced in 1957, and this is E40 139 at Freiburg im Breisgau on the 11th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/12 50 class 2-10-0 50 1858 leaving Friedrichshafen with a Touropa Special train on the 12th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/13.01 The original Bayerische Staatsbahn S 3/6 class Pacifics went back to 1908. They were built in batches until 1931 and 30 from the last series were rebuilt by the DB during the period 1953 to 1956. 18 625 is one of these having been built by Henschel und Sohn in 1930. It was photographed by E.A.S.Cotton at Lindau on the 13th July, 1960.

1960/07/13.02 A side on view of 18 625 at Lindau on the 13th July, 1960. These Bayerische Staatsbahn S 3/6 Pacifics originated in 1908, but later batches were built up to 1931. 30 of the last batch were rebuilt by the DB in 1953 - 1956, and this is one of them. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/13.03 Everybody's favourite, the Prussian P8 4-6-0s were originally introduced in 1906 and built in batches until 1923. This is 38 3822 at Konstanz shed on the 13th July, 1960. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

1960/07/13.04 One of the prototype V100 class B-B diesel hydraulics V100 006 at Lindau Hbf. It was built by MaK in 1958 and had a 1,350 hp engine. The other five, V100 001 - V100 005, had 1,100 hp engines. Photograph by E.A.S.Cotton.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 03) Talyllyn Railway. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1270988.html I first visited the Talyllyn in 1957, but the earliest colour pictures are from 1960. Others will be added over time, although, initially, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: I first visited the Talyllyn in 1957, but the earliest colour pictures are from 1960. Others will be added over time, although, initially, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

1960/09.02 Talyllyn Railway No.1 TALYLLYN is an 0-4-2ST built by Fletcher Jennings in 1865. She was therefore a mere 95 years young when photographed at Towyn Wharf in September, 1960.

1960/09.03 Fletcher Jennings 0-4-2ST No.1 TALYLLYN gets ready to leave the Talyllyn Railway's Towyn Wharf station for another return trip up the Fathew Valley to Abergynolwyn. September, 1960

1960/09.04 Ex Corris Railway Kerr Stuart 0-4-2ST No.4 EDWARD THOMAS of 1921 at Brynglas passing loop. September, 1960

1960/09.05 A classic shot of No.1 TALYLLYN taking water at Dolgoch. September, 1960

1960/09.06 The Talyllyn Railway was built to transport slate from these quarries at Bryn Eglwys. September, 1960

1960/09.07 The Talyllyn Railway run up the Fathew Valley in mid-Wales. Seen from the upper terminus of Abergynolwyn, an approaching train from Towyn can be seen in the distance climbing the valley side. September, 1960

1960/09.08 No.1 TALYLLYN arrives at the then upper terminus of Abergynolwyn. September, 1960

1960/09.09 The Talyllyn Railway's No.1 TALYLLYN makes a nice study in the later summer afternoon sun at the then upper terminus of Abergynolwyn. September, 1960

1960/09.10 TALYLLYN runs round at Abergynolwyn. September, 1960

1960/09.11 Ready to return down the Fathew Valley, Fletcher Jennings 0-4-2ST TALYLLYN at Abergynolwyn. September, 1960

1960/09.13 Outside the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at Towyn Wharf was the Welsh Highland Railway 2-6-2T RUSSELL. This loco is now back where it belongs working on the Welsh Highland further up the Welsh coast at Porthmadog. September, 1960

1960/09.01 (1963/09) Talyllyn crest. September, 1963

1961/06.01 Talyllyn Railway 0-4-2T No.1 TALYLLYN waits to depart from Town Wharf with another train to Abergynolwyn. In the background can be seen CAMBRAI, a metre gauge 0-6-0T built by Corpet & Co in 1888. It worked in France until 1936 when it was bought by the Loddington Ironstone Company near Kettering in Northamptonshire. It is now at the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at nearby Irchester, near Wellingborough. June, 1961.

1961/06.02 Talyllyn Railway 0-4-2T No.1 TALYLLYN at Rhydyronen. June, 1961.

1961/06.03 Crossing Dolgoch Viaduct, the Talyllyn Railway's 0-4-2T No.1 TALYLLYN. June, 1961.

1961/06.04 Taking water at Dolgoch, Talyllyn Railway 0-4-2T No.1 TALYLLYN. June, 1961.

1961/06.05 On the return trip to Towyn, Talyllyn Railway 0-4-2T No.1 TALYLLYN. June, 1961.

1961/09.01 Newly restored to traffic in 1961, the ex Corris Railway saloon coach at Towyn Wharf. Prior to restoration on the Talyllyn, this vehicle had spent some 30 years as a garden shed and greenhouse! The two young lads seem to be quite impressed by No.4 EDWARD THOMAS, a Kerr Stuart 0-4-2T of 1921, also ex Corris Railway. September, 1961.

1961/09.02 The Corris Railway crest on the then newly restored Corris coach. Towyn Wharf, September, 1961.

1961/09.03 Inside the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at Towyn Wharf. To the left is ex Penrhyn Quarry 1'10ľ

1961/09.04 Outside the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at Towyn Wharf, CAMBRAI, a metre gauge 0-6-0T built by Corpet & Co in 1888. It worked in France until 1936 when it was bought by the Loddington Ironstone Company near Kettering in Northamptonshire. It is now at the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at nearby Irchester, near Wellingborough. September, 1961.

1961/09.05 With the ex Corris Railway coach bringing up the rear, a Towyn bound train crosses Dolgoch Viaduct. September, 1961.

1961/09.06 Andrew Barclay 0-4-0WT No.6 DOUGLAS of 1918 crosses the imposing viaduct on the approach to Dolgoch station. September, 1961.

1961/09.07 Andrew Barclay 0-4-0WT No.6 DOUGLAS of 1918 takes water at Dolgoch. The water hose disappearing under the boiler confirms that this is a well tank. September, 1961.

1961/09.08 Running round at Abergynolwyn, Andrew Barclay 0-4-0WT No.6 DOUGLAS. September, 1961.

1961/09.09 Built in 1918, Andrew Barclay 0-4-0WT No.6 DOUGLAS worked on the RAF railway at Calshot near Southampton before being bought privately and donated to the Talyllyn in 1953. It is seen here running round at the then upper terminus of Abergynolwyn in September, 1961.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 04) Ironstone and other Industrial Lines. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1216669.html During the 1960s, I managed to visit some of the Ironstone Railways in and around Northamptonshire before they were either dieselised or closed. From time to time I shall be putting a few pictures of those long forgotten lines in this collection although, as with other collections, they will start off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection. There will also be some pictures from other industrial concerns as I find them. Please note, however, that the Penrhyn, Dinorwig and other North Wales Quarry railways have their own collection, above. Tuesday 30 November 1999: During the 1960s, I managed to visit some of the Ironstone Railways in and around Northamptonshire before they were either dieselised or closed. From time to time I shall be putting a few pictures of those long forgotten lines in this collection although, as with other collections, they will start off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection. There will also be some pictures from other industrial concerns as I find them. Please note, however, that the Penrhyn, Dinorwig and other North Wales Quarry railways have their own collection, above.

1964/09.01 Peckett Metre gauge 0-6-0ST of 1942 at Finedon, Northamptonshire. Initially supplied to the Wellingborough Iron Company, she became No.87 when Stewarts and Lloyds took over that company in 1962. September, 1964.

1964/09.02 Somewhat unusual for this country, the railway system at the Wellingborough Iron Company at Finedon in Northamptonshire was metre gauge. This 0-6-0ST was supplied by Pecketts of Bristol in 1942 and became No.87 when Stewarts and Lloyds took over in 1962. September, 1964

1964/09.03 Stewarts and Lloyds metre gauge 0-6-0ST No.87 was originally supplied to the Wellingborough Iron Company at Finedon in Northamptonshire in 1942. S & L took over that system in 1962. September, 1964

1964/09.04 The Stewarts and Lloyds Minerals Ltd. metre gauge ironstone industrial system at Finedon, near Wellingborough, in Northamptonshire was being visited by an enthusiast group in September, 1964. A special train was to be run and Peckett 0-6-0ST No. 85 is being spruced up for the occasion. Loco No.86 can just be seen peeking out of the shed.

1964/09.05 Metre gauge Peckett 0-6-0ST of 1942 at Finedon shed near Wellingborough in Northamptonshire. She became Stewarts and Lloyds No.87 when that company took over the original wellingborough Iron Company in 1962. September, 1964

1964/09.07 Metre gauge 0-6-0STs on the Stewarts and Lloyds Finedon Ironstone line near Wellingborough in Northamptonshire. Both are from Pecketts of Bristol, with No.85 being from 1934 and No.87 from 1942. September, 1964

1964/05.01 N.C.B. locos inside the shed at Philadelphia, Co. Durham. This was on the Lampton, Hetton and Joicey Colliery Railway, a private concern, but later part of the National Coal Board, which connected the collieries with the River Wear at Sunderland. The locomotive directly in front of the camera to the left appears to be No.6, an 0-6-0PT constructed in 1958 from bits of other scrapped engines. May, 1964

1964/05.02 There's not much left of N.C.B. No.57, an 0-6-0 or 0-6-2 tank or saddle tank at the Philadelphia shed and works in May, 1964. Possibly a product of Robert Stephenson & Co.

1964/05.03 N.C.B. Robert Stephenson & Hawthorn 0-6-0ST No.8 of 1952 at the Philadelphia Shed complex in Co. Durham. May, 1964

1964/05.04 Wooden bodied N.C.B. coal wagons. I am assuming that this is at Philadelphia, Co. Durham, but would be grateful for confirmation or correction. May, 1964

1964/05.05 How's this for an antique coal wagon! I think that it is at Seaham Harbour on the Co. Durham coast as we went there after Philadelphia. The are known as 'Chaldron Wagons' and if anyone can confirm the location, and tell me why they are so called, I would be grateful. May, 1964

1964/05.12 There was something rather special at Seaham Harbour on the coast of Co. Durham! This little gem is 0-4-0ST No.18 and it was built by Stephen Lewin of Poole in 1863. With a light axle loading, it was retained for working the breakwater maintenance trains. It is now preserved at the nearby Open Air Museum at Beamish. May, 1964

1964/05.06 Robert Stephenson & Hawthorn 0-4-0ST No,183 of 1947 at Seaham Harbour, Co. Durham. May, 1964

1964/05.07 24 and 10 at Seaham Harbour in Co. Durham. No.24 is an 0-4-0ST built in 1947 by Robert Stephenson & Hawthorn, and No.10 is an 0-4-0ST built by Hawthorn Leslie in 1920. May, 1964

1964/05.08 No.10, a Hawthorn Leslie 0-4-0ST of 1920. Seaham Harbour, Co. Durham, May, 1964.

1964/05.09 I'm not sure which one this is, but it is another 0-4-0ST and if anyone can identify it, I would be pleased to hear. Seaham Harbour, May, 1964. Jon Marsh suggests B No.10 from Consett. Thanks for the suggestion, Jon.

1964/05.10 This is clearly a Sentinal, but I don't know which one. Can anyone tell me anything about it? Seaham Harbour, Co. Durham, May, 1964. Thanks to Adam Chapman, I now know that it is 9575 of 1954. It was used as a demonstrator by Sentinals until 1956 when they sold it to the Seaham Docks and Harbour Co. It was scrapped in 1965. Thanks, Adam.

1964/05.11 B No.23, an 0-4-0ST with what I think is Hawthorn Leslie 0-6-0ST NEPTUNE of 1936 behind it. Seaham Harbour, Co. Durham, May, 1964.

1964/05.13 Another shot of 1863 built 0-4-0ST No.18. Built by Stephen Lewin in Poole, its light axle loading enabled it to work the breakwater maintenance trains at Seaham Harbour in Co. Durham. May, 1964

1964/05.14 Two more saddle tanks at Seaham Harbour in co. Durham. I don't know which ones they are, though! May, 1964

1964/05.15 Could this be JUNO, a Hawthorn Leslie 0-6-0ST of 1922? I think that it is, and so does Geoff Plumb. He also has a shot of this loco on his Fotopic site. Seaham Harbour, Co. Durham, May, 1964.

1964/05.16 Coal staithes at Seaham Harbour in Co. Durham. May, 1964

1963/07.R1058. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/07.R1059. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/07.R1060. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/07.R1062. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/08.R1063. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/07.R1064. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/07.R1065. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1963/07.R1061. The 2' gauge railways serving the sand quarries at Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire were opened in November 1919. They were built using ex War Department railway equipment made superfluous by the ending of World War 1. However, after World War 2, the sand was shipped out by road and, by the mid-1960s, only one company, Arnolds, still used the railway. The main line closed in 1969, but a preservation society now runs steam trains from the Pages Park terminus. I paid a brief visit in July, 1963 when at least part of the quarry system was still in operation.

1964/05.R1540. I need some help with this one! It's an N.C.B. 0-6-0ST somewhere in the North East in May, 1964; but where? Hopefully, someone will know! Yes, someone does! Two someones, in fact; Phil Work and 'Silverlink60014' have identified the location as the N.C.B. shed at Wardley, Gateshead, also know as Springwell Bank Foot Shed as it was at the bottom of the self acting incline from Springwell on the Bowes Railway. The loco is Hawthorn Leslie 2545 of 1902, Bowes number 13, and NCB no 6, area number 24. Many thanks, chaps!

1964/05.R1541. I need some help with this one! It's an N.C.B. loco shed somewhere in the North East in May, 1964; but where? Hopefully, someone will know! Yes, someone does! Two someones, in fact; Phil Work and 'Silverlink60014' have identified the location as the N.C.B. shed at Wardley, Gateshead, also know as Springwell Bank Foot Shed as it was at the bottom of the self acting incline from Springwell on the Bowes Railway. The locos are Bowes Number 16, later area number 27, Vulcan Foundry 5288 of 1945, and Bowes 24 Area number 90, Hunslet 3833 of 1955. Many thanks, chaps, and also to ‘Porcy Mane’ who has confirmed the location as well. He tells me that the shed is still there, together with a new extension on the left, the construction of which appears to be just starting.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 06) Severn Valley Railway. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1215863.html I first visited the Severn Valley in 1969 before it was open to the general public. A group of us, Ffestiniog Railway volunteers on the way home to London after a weekend in Wales, had heard of a new standard gauge presevation scheme at a place called Bridgnorth and made a detour to give it the once over. Not being open to the public, we did not expect trains to be running. However, they were, but only SVR members were allowed to ride on them. So instead of selling tickets to ride, they sold day membership for five shillings and we had a free ride to Hampden Loade and back. We all agreed that it was the best five bob that we'd ever spent! As I have been there many times since, it is high time I opened a collection on Fotopic. To begin with, though, newly added pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: I first visited the Severn Valley in 1969 before it was open to the general public. A group of us, Ffestiniog Railway volunteers on the way home to London after a weekend in Wales, had heard of a new standard gauge presevation scheme at a place called Bridgnorth and made a detour to give it the once over. Not being open to the public, we did not expect trains to be running. However, they were, but only SVR members were allowed to ride on them. So instead of selling tickets to ride, they sold day membership for five shillings and we had a free ride to Hampden Loade and back. We all agreed that it was the best five bob that we'd ever spent! As I have been there many times since, it is high time I opened a collection on Fotopic. To begin with, though, newly added pictures will start off in the 'Stop Press! Latest Pictures!!' collection.

2007/02/17.02 The first train of the day, the 09:55 from Kidderminster, rolls into Bewdley behind Stanier LMS 2-6-0 42968. 17th February,2007

2007/02/17.15 Stanier LMS 8F 2-8-0 48773 waites to leave Kidderminster SVR station with the 1:30 service to Bridgenorth. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.19 Having retrieved the single line token from the engine crew, the signalman makes his way back to his 'box as the Great Western Large Prairie 2-6-2T 5164 and train draw to a stand at the down platform. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.03 Stanier LMS 2-6-0 42968 runs into Bewdley with the the 09:55 from Kidderminster on the 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.04 The Royal Scot it isn't, but, nevertheless, the ex LMS coaches are well suited to the ex LMS loco. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.05 Station clock, Bewdley. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.08 The next train to arrive at Bewdley was headed by Great Western 'Large Prairie' 2-6-2T 5164. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.09 Great Western 'Large Prairie' 2-6-2T 5164 runs into Bewdley on the 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.10 The Severn Valley Railway has a magnificent collection of rolling stock including some ex LNER Gresley coaches in varnished teak livery. These are depicted in this, and the next three pictures. Bewdley, 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.11 Gresley teak at Bewdley. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.12 Gresley teak at Bewdley. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.13 Gresley teak at Bewdley. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.14 The 1:30 pm departure for Bridgenorth gets away from Kidderminster behind Stanier 8F 2-8-0 48773 on the 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.16 The 1:30 pm from Kidderminster to Bridgenorth had extra coaches to accommodate those visiting the line on the Hertfordshire Railtours Blue Pullman special train. It was rather longer than the platform at Arley where it is seen here. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.17 The opposing train was formed by a heritage DMU and the trains are seen here crossing at Arley. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.18 The Arley signalman is ready to receive the single line token from the engine crew of Great Western Large Prairie 2-6-2T 5164. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.20 Four of the coaches on the train were in ex LNER Gresley varnished teak livery. This one is a brake/composite corridor coach with individual doors to each compartment. Arley, 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.21 Another ex LNER Gresley varnished teak liveried coach at Arley on the 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.22 A final view of an ex LNER Gresley varnished teak liveried vehicle at Arley. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.01 This could be from a different era!

2007/02/17.23 Ex LMS Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46443 runs round at Kidderminster SVR. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.26 Collett Resturant Car 9627 of 1932 at Kidderminster on the 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.27 Another view of Churchward 'toplight' 9055 saloon at Kidderminster. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.28 One of the last Collett coaches, 7284 is a corridor composite of 1941 vintage. Kidderminster, 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.29 Churchward 'nondescript' saloon 9369 of 1923. Kidderminster, 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.30 'Micky Mouse' Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46443 gets ready to leave Bridgnorth for Kidderminster with the final working of the day at 5:50 pm. 17th February, 2007

2007/02/17.31 Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46443 at Bridgnorth on the 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.32 Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46443. Bridgnorth, 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.33 Daylight is fading as the 5:50 pm for Kidderminster gets ready to leave Bridgnorth. This is the last train of the day, and Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46443 is in charge. 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.34 The station lights and the lights from the signal box present a warm glow at Bridgnorth as evening approaches. 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.35 The trains have finished for the day. Peace and solitude replaces the earlier hustle and bustle at Arley. 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.36 Arley by night. All is quiet once the last train has gone. Until tomorrow, of course..... 17th February, 2007.

2007/02/17.37 A final view of Arley after dark when the crowds have gone home. 17th February, 2007.

1969/04.04 (133) An early resident at Bridgnorth on the newly formed Severn Valley Railway was ex GWR diesel railcar No.22. April, 1969.

1969/04.01 (136) Some 12 months before the Severn Valley Railway opened to the public, locomotives and rolling stock were being collected at Bridgnorth. This is ex LMS Ivatt class 2MT 2-6-0 46443 in what is now the shed yard. April, 1969.

1969/04.03 (136) Another early arrival on the yet to be opened Severn Valley line was ex LMS Stanier 8F class 2-8-0 48773. Bridgnorth, April 1969.

1969/04.05 (97) ex GWR railcar No.22 stands at the Bridgnorth up platform in April, 1969. The Severn Valley was still a year away from public services.

1969/04.06 (76) Looking south from Bridgnorth's up platform with GW railcar No.22. April, 1969.

1969/04.07 (97) From the very beginning, the Severn Valley began collecting an interesting and varied selection of pre-nationalisation rolling stock from the ex LMS and GW lines. This is an LMS design Stanier 'period 3' BTK (brake/third/corridor) coach, albeit built by British Railways in 1950. Bridgnorth, April 1969.

1969/04.08 (98) Looking north towards Bridgnorth Station, Severn Valley Railway. April, 1969.

1973/09.01 Restored back to its old LMS livery and number, Stanier 8F class 2-8-0 48773 is now 8233. Bridgnorth, September, 1973.

1973/09.02 LMS Stanier 8F 2-8-0 8233 at Bridgnorth in September, 1973.

1973/09.03 LMS Stanier 8F 2-8-0 8233 at Bridgnorth in September, 1973.

1973/09.04 Restored back to its old LMS livery and number, Stanier 8F class 2-8-0 48773 is now 8233. Bridgnorth, September, 1973.

1973/09.05 Stanier Black 5 class 4-6-0 45110, now named BIGGIN HILL, at Bridgnorth in September, 1973.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 06) North Norfolk Railway. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1172074.html This is a line that is well worth a visit. I have only been there a couple of times, but have enough pictures to warrant a Fotopic collection. As always, they will be added over time, starting off in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: This is a line that is well worth a visit. I have only been there a couple of times, but have enough pictures to warrant a Fotopic collection. As always, they will be added over time, starting off in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

2005/10/28.05 R15267.

2005/10/28.01 R15263.

2005/10/28.02 R15264.

2005/10/28.03 R15265.

2005/10/28.04 R15266.

2005/10/28.06 R15268.

2005/10/28.07 R15269.

2005/10/28.08 R15271.

2005/10/28.09 R15272.

2005/10/28.10 R15273.

2005/10/28.11 R15274.

2005/10/28.12 R15275.

2007/08/11.01 A close-up of 34081 92 SQUADRON's nameplate and crest. Sheringham, 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.02 Battle of Britain class Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON running round at Sheringham, North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.03 Battle of Britain class Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON running round at Sheringham. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.04 ex Great Western 0-6-2T 5643 at Weyborne, North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.05 The signal is off and Bulleid 'Battle of Britain' class Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON starts away from Weyborne towards Holt. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.06 Battle of Britain class Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON has just arrived at Holt on the North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.07 'Spam Can' Light Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON starts the run round at Holt. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.08 Bulleid Battle of Britain class Light Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON running round at Holt. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.09 Nicely framed between the signal box and the signal, Bulleid 'BB' class Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON runs round at Holt on the North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.10 Bulleid 'BB' class light Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON waits at Weyborne for the opposing train to clear the single line. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.11 Bulleid 'BB' class light Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON waits at Weyborne for the opposing train to clear the single line. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.12 In the much loved early B.R. Carmine and cream livery, a Gresley Buffet at Weyborne on the North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.13 G.W. 0-6-2T 5643 runs into Weyborne on a beautiful sunny afternoon. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.14 The signalman at Weyborne waits to collect the staff as G. W. 0-6-2T 5643 runs into Weyborne. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.15 The section to Sheringham is protected by this somersault starter signal at Weyborne. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.16 Running round at Sheringham on the 11th August, 2007, Bulleid Battle of Britain class Pacific 34081 92 SQUADRON.

2007/08/11.17 The beutifully restored Sheringham station. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.19 Being watered in readiness for its next working, ex Great Western 5600 class 0-6-2T 5643 at Sheringham on the 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.18 Another view of Sheringham station with its nicely restored awning. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.20 Brush type 2 A1A-A1A 31 207 brings a train into Sheringham. G.W. 5600 class 0-6-2T 5643 is getting ready to work the next train to Holt. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.21 Brush Type 2 A1A-A1A diesel electric 31 207 at Sheringham. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.22 Ex Great Western 5600 class 0-6-2T 5643 at Sheringham. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.23 G.W. 5600 class 0-6-2T 5643 at Sheringham. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.24 G.W.R. 5600 class 0-6-2T 5643 gets ready to depart from Sheringham on the North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.25 Sheringham station, with G.W. 56xx class 0-6-2T 5643 about to depart for Weyborne and Holt on the 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.26 G.W. 56xx class 0-6-2T 5643 starts away from Sheringham with another train for Weyborne and Holt. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.27 G.W. 56xx class 0-6-2T 5643 has arrived back at Sheringham from Holt and Weyborne on the 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.28 An attractive floral display makes an inviting scene for the customers on the North Norfolk Railway's Sheringham station. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.29 Decorative ironwork at Sheringham station on the North Norfolk Railway. 11th August, 2007.

2007/08/11.30 A final shot of G.W. 56xx class 0-6-2T 5643 in the late afternoon sunshine at Sheringham. 11th August, 2007.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) France 4 : French Alps, and Switzerland. August, 1998. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1157921.html The family holiday in 1998 was in the French Alps near St.Gervais-les-Bains-le-Fayet and we took the Motorrail from Paris so as to have the convenience of the car whilst there. The car was abandoned at Paris Gare de Bercy, and a bus shuttle took us round to the nearby Gare de Lyon. Later, when the car-carrying wagons were shunted round and attached to the rest of the train, we were relieved to see the car safely on board! As with other collections, this one will also be added to over time, with new additions starting off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks. Tuesday 30 November 1999: The family holiday in 1998 was in the French Alps near St.Gervais-les-Bains-le-Fayet and we took the Motorrail from Paris so as to have the convenience of the car whilst there. The car was abandoned at Paris Gare de Bercy, and a bus shuttle took us round to the nearby Gare de Lyon. Later, when the car-carrying wagons were shunted round and attached to the rest of the train, we were relieved to see the car safely on board! As with other collections, this one will also be added to over time, with new additions starting off in the 'Stop Press!' collection for the first couple of weeks.

1998/08.040 The views from the top station at the Emosson Dam are spectacular in the extreme. A cabin of the minifunicular that completes the final leg of the journey from Le Chatelard on the Swiss/French border is seen here near the top station. August, 1998

1998/08.043 One of the earlier units at Le Chatelard Frontiere in August, 1998

1998/08.042 Change here for Emosson! A train from Martigny to Chamonix and St. Gervais-les-Bains-le-Fayet calls at Le Chatelard. The Funiculaire de Barberine is located behind the building on the left. August, 1998

1998/08.030 Tucked away behind the station at Le Chatelard is the lower terminus of the Funiculaire de Barberine. This takes you on the first stage of the jouney up to the dam at Emonsson. August, 1998

1998/08.031 The Funiculaire de Barberine is the steepest and longest that I have ever been on. It disappears from view up there and pictures don't do it justice! August, 1998

1998/08.033 At the top of the Funiculaire de Barberine is the start of the 60cm gauge Tramway d'Emonsson. This is operated by battery electric locomotives and is stage two of the journey to the Emonsson dam. August, 1998

1998/08.036 Stage three of the jouney from Le Chatelard to Emonsson is with the Emonsson 'Minifunic'. This connects with the 60cm gauge Tramway d'Emonsson which, in turn, connects with the Funiculaire de Barberine. August, 1998

1998/08.037 One of the cabins of the Minifunic Emonsson which completes the third stage of the journey from Le chatelard. August, 1998

1998/08.035 A bird's eye view of the 60cm Tramway d'Emonsson. It occupies a narrow shelf cut into the mountainside and gives some fabulous views of the valley below and distant mountains. August, 1998

1998/08.038 Nearly there! A cabin of the Minifunic Emonsson arrives at the top station at the Emosson dam and Lac d'Emosson. August, 1998

1998/08.039 With the majestic Mont Blanc in the background, a cabin on the Minifunic Emosson starts the decent to connect with the 60cm gauge tramway which links the two funiculars. August, 1998

1998/08.041 Two funiculars, an extremely long and steep one and this short mini one, connected by a 60cm gauge tramway, enable travellers to reach the lake and dam at Emosson high in the Swiss Alps near the border with France. Of course, you could drive up and park in the car park at the top, but, with views like this, who'd want to?! August, 1998

1998/08.034 The 60cm Tramway d'Emonsson with a train about to leave the Emonsson terminus for the run back to connect with the Funiculaire de Barberine which will take travellers back down to Le Chatelard in the valley below. August, 1998

1998/08.032 Like the Welsh Highland Railway in the Aberglaslyn Pass - but more so! The 60cm Tramway d'Emonsson snakes its way along a narrow mountain shelf and through several tunnels with a sheer drop down to the valley below. August, 1998

1998/08.138 Martigny Arrival. One of the new units arrives at Martigny having run through from St. Gervais-les-Bains-le-Fayet. August, 1998

1998/08.139 Martigny Departure. The unit in the previous picture is now waiting to leave Martigny on the return journey to St. Gervais-les-Bains-le-Fayet. The main CFF standard gauge Rhone Valley line can be seen to the left. August, 1998

1998/08.001 Stage one of a journey to the French Alps - joining 'Le Shuttle' for a quick dash under the Channel. 7th August, 1998

1998/08.002 On 'Le Shuttle', loading ready for departure to France. 7th August, 1998

1998/08.005 At Paris Gare de Lyon, a TGV awaits departure. 8th August, 1998

1998/08.006 Evening arrival at the Gare de Lyon in Paris. This TGV is still in the original orange livery. 8th August, 1998

1998/08.007 TGV rear ends. A double deck 'Duplex' on the left, and an earlier version still in orange livery on the right. Paris, Gare de Lyon, 8th August, 1998.

1998/08.008 The station at St. Gervais-Le-Fayet is not a terminal station despite being at the end of the standard gauge line. Tracks continue into some holding sidings beyond the station where trains can be shunted out of the way. Here are two Bo-Bo electric locos in the sidings - 25236 and 25186. 9th August, 1998

1998/08.009 The long winded station Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le-Fayet in the French Alps on the morning of the 9th August, 1998. We had travelled overnight on the Motorrail from Paris. This is the end of the line for standard gauge trains, but onward connections to Chamonix and over the border to Martigny in Switzerland are made by trains on the metre gauge line which starts from the right hand side of the station.

1998/08.010 Bo-Bo electric 25242 at St. Gervais-Le Fayet on the 9th Aug 1998

1998/08.011 Y class diesel shunter 8514 shunts Bo-Bo electric 25242 and the empty stock at St. Gervais-Le Fayet on the 9th august, 1998

1998/08.012 Bo-Bo electric 25209 awaits departure from Saint Gervais les Bains le Fayet (to give it its full title) on the 9th August, 1998. The metre gauge platforms are on the far side of the station behind the train. The narrow gauge goes up, and over, The Alps seen in the distance and connects St. Gervais - le Fayet with Chamonix and then goes on to Martigny in Switzerland.

1998/08.013 Older style 'vertes' coaches were still fairly common in 1998. These two were seen at St. Gervais - le Fayet on the 10th August. Note the metre gauge track in the foreground with third rail electrification. This is the line to Chamonix and Martigny.

1998/08.014 Local trains around the Rhone-Alps region are operated by these two-car EMUs. St. Gervais-le Fayet, 10th August, 1998.

1998/08.003 Before setting off for Paris, a quick look at Calais Gare de Ville where Bo-Bo electric 16531 dozed quietly in the morning sun. 8th August, 1998

1998/08.015 Across the station forecourt at St. Gervais les Bains - Le Fayet is the lower terminus of the rack and pinion Tramway du Mont Blanc. The next departure is loading well. 10th August, 1998

1998/08.016 Motor car ANNE propels one trailer out of St. Gervais - Le Fayet and sets off up the mountain. The Tramway du Mont Blanc uses rack and pinion to climb the gradients, but starts off as a street tramway as it passes through the village of Le Fayet. 10th August, 1998

1998/08.017 The Tramway du Mont Blanc ran out of money at the point, so never actually reached its goal of Mont Blanc. It is called the Nid d'Aigle, Eagles' Nest in English, which is probably quite appropriate for this craggy and remote location. 10th August, 1998

1998/08.018 Although the Tramway du Mont Blanc never made it to Mont Blanc, there are numerous footpaths up the mountain from the upper terminus at Nid d'Aigle. I only ventured a little way...... 10th August, 1998

1998/08.019 The French Alps as seen from Nid d'Aigle, the upper terminus of the Tramway du Mont Blanc. This starts as a street tramway at Le Fayet, climbs through the village of St. Gervais and out onto the open mountainside. 10th august, 1998

1998/08.020 Motor car JEANNE start the descent from the upper terminus at Nid d'Aigle on the Tramway du Mont Blanc. The station is just through this tunnel. 10th August, 1998

1998/08.021 At one of the passing loops on the Tramway du Mont Blanc, an ascending train is propelled by motor car ANNE. Note the sign on the left prohibiting cars and motor bikes from driving up the railway track! 10th April, 1998

1998/08.022 Back down at Le Fayet, another train of the Tramway du Mont Blanc. 10th August, 1998

1998/08.023 Back on the standard gauge again, the evening shadows are falling as Bo-Bo electric 25188 brings empty stock out of the holding sidings and into the station at Saint Gervais les Bains Le Fayet. 10th August, 1998

1998/08.004 (21) Evening is falling over the Gare de Lyon in Paris on the 8th August, 1998.

1998/08.024 Just across the bridge from the main station in Chamonix is the Chemin de Fer Chamonix - Montenvers. This is a rack operated line which goes up the side of Mont Blanc to the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice). An ascending train passes the large car park at the bottom of the climb in Chamonix. 11th August, 1998

1998/08.025 How it used to be! Stuffed and mounted at Chamonix, one of the 0-4-2 Rack Tanks that worked the line to the Mer de Glace in days gone by. 11th August, 1998

1998/08.026 Although electrified, the Chemin de Fer Montenvers also uses additional diesel traction at busy times. A decending train is arriving at the lower terminus of Chamonix on the 11th August, 1998.

1998/08.027 The usual motive power on the Chemin de Fer Montenvers rack line from Chamonix to the Mer de Glace is electric railcars. One such train is arriving at Chamonix on the 11th August, 1998.

1998/08.028 Setting off from the upper terminus of Mer de Glace, the diesel locomotive starts the decent to Chamonix in the valley far below. At the Mer de Glace, there are tunnels and galleries cut into the glacier which are well worth a visit. 11th August, 1998

1998/08.029 The steeply graded Chemin de Fer Montenvers rack line from Chamonix up to the Mer de Glace gives some spectacular views which are well worth the train fare to see. This is the upper terminus of Mer de Glace on the 11th August, 1998.

1998/08.044 Bo-Bo electric 25173 at Evian-les-Bains. 16th August, 1998

1998/08.045 One of the older style 'green' coaches at Evian-les-Bains on the 16th August, 1998.

1998/08.046 A rake of 'voitures vertes' (green coaches) at Evian-les-Bains. 16th August, 1998

1998/08.047 Awaiting departure for Paris, a TGV at Evian-les-Bains on the 16th August, 1998.

1998/08.049 The 'Rive-Bleue Express' arrives at the French resort of Evian-les-Bains at the end of its journey from Le Bouveret in Switzerland. The loco is 0-6-0WT HANSLI. 16th August, 1998

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 4. The Harz - 2003. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1155993.html It was to be 32 years before I was to go back to what had been East Germany, but I went on two trips organized by Ffestiniog Travel in the latter part of 2003. The first trip, in October, was to the meter gauge system in The Harz, and the second was to the Baltic Coast to see the 'Mollibahn' and the Rügensche Kleinbahn. We travelled by train on both occasions, so there are some standards gauge trains as well, plus some shots of the Schwebebahn at Wuppertal which was visited on the way to The Harz. As there are quite a lot of pictures, I have split the collection into two with Wuppertal and The Harz in this part and the 'Molli' and Rügen in the next part. Tuesday 30 November 1999: It was to be 32 years before I was to go back to what had been East Germany, but I went on two trips organized by Ffestiniog Travel in the latter part of 2003. The first trip, in October, was to the meter gauge system in The Harz, and the second was to the Baltic Coast to see the 'Mollibahn' and the R_gensche Kleinbahn. We travelled by train on both occasions, so there are some standards gauge trains as well, plus some shots of the Schwebebahn at Wuppertal which was visited on the way to The Harz. As there are quite a lot of pictures, I have split the collection into two with Wuppertal and The Harz in this part and the 'Molli' and R_gen in the next part.

2003/10.046 Built by Krupp in Essen in 1939 for the Nordhausen - Wernigerode Eisenbahn where it was number 21, this 2-6-2T now carries the number 99 6001. She is seen here at Birkenmoor on the Eisfelder - Stiege line working a demonstration train of standard gauge ballast hoppers on transporter wagons. 17th October, 2003. This is a 'still' from a video, hence the poor quality. However, I have included it because I was unable to get any proper stills at the time.

2003/10.047 Another 'still' from my video of 2-6-2T 99 6001 on a demonstration freight train at Birkenmoor between Eisfelder Talmühle and Stiege on the Selketalbahn. 17th October, 2003.

2003/10.048 At Stiege on the Selketalbahn between Eisfelder Talmühle and Alexisbad is a 360 degree turning loop so that through trains could reverse direction without detaching the loco to run round. 2-6-2T 99 6001 enters the loop with a demonstration freight on the 17th October, 2003. Another 'still' from my video, so not the highest quality.

2003/10.049 Another video still of 2-6-2T 99 6001 on the turning loop at Stiege. 17th October, 2003.

2003/10.050 2-6-2T 99 6001 completes a trip round the turning loop at Stiege on the Selketalbahn between Eisfelder Talmühle and Alexisbad. Another video still, so apologies for the poor quality. 17th October, 2003.

2003/10.051 These are the old style ballast wagons on their transporter wagons coming off the turning loop at Stiege on the Selketalbahn between Eisfelder Talmühle and Alexisbad. 17th October, 2003. Another video still, so sorry about the poor quality.

2003/10.055 This, and the next one, are two more video 'stills' of 2-6-2T 99 6001 working a demonstration freight train. She has just left Hasselfelder and is heading back towards Stiege. 17th October, 2003.

2003/10.054 This, and the previous one, are two more video 'stills' of 2-6-2T 99 6001 working a demonstration freight train. She has just left Hasselfelder and is heading back towards Stiege. 17th October, 2003.

2003/10.001 The journey to The Harz Mountains area of Germany started at London's Waterloo International. Three Eurostars are visible in this view at the outer end of the platform. 14th October, 2003

2003/10.002 Another view of the Eurostars at London's Waterloo International. 14th October, 2003

2003/10.003 On our way to The Harz, we stopped overnight at Wuppertal and spent the following morning riding on, and photographing, the famous Schwebebahn. (Hanging Railway.) This is a shot of a train leaving the northern terminus of Wuppertal-Oberbarmen and heading back southwards once more. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.005 A closer view of the wheels on the overhead rail. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.006 This is the southern terminus of Wuppertal-Vohwinkel. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.008 Driver's eye view! The driver invited me into his cab to enable me to film and photograph through the front window. This is the view as we proceeded northwards above the streets of Wuppertal. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.009 Another view of the Wuppertal streets as seen from the lofty viewpoint of the Schwebebahn. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.010 For the northern part of the journey, the Schwebebahn leaves the city streets and takes up position runnung over the River Wupper. A driver's eye view on the 15th October, 2003.

2003/10.011 Suspended over the River Wupper, a train on the Schwebebahn heads towards the city centre on the 15th October, 2003.

2003/10.012 Of course, if you miss the last train home......

2003/10.013 Back ar Wuppertal Hauptbahnhof, a 111 class Bo-Bo 111 155 is seen arriving from the Köln direction. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.004 Another train is seen arriving at the northern terminus of Wuppertal-Oberbarmen. 15th October, 2003

2003/10.007 Dangling over the streets of Wuppertal, a train leaves the southern terminus of Vohwinkel and restarts its northbound journey on the 15th October, 2003.

2003/10.015 218 class B-B diesel hydraulic 218 105 at Braunschweig in the evening of the 15th October, 2003.

2003/10.016 141 class Bo-Bo electric 141 256 at Braunschweig in the evening of the 15th October, 2003.

2003/10.017 The first train for the Brocken gets into its stride leaving Wernigerode in the morning of the 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.018 Between Wernigerode Hbf and Western Tor, 2-10-2T 99 7237 crosses the main road with the first train for the Brocken. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.019 2-10-2T 99 222 was in the works at Wernigerode Western Tor and not easy to photograph. So I had to make do with just a couple of close ups. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.020 Builder's plate on 2-10-2T 99 222 of 1931. Wernigerode Western Tor Works, 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.021 One of the 2-10-2Ts receives attention in the workshops at Wernigerode Westerntor. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.022 Outside in the yard at the Westerntor Works, Wernigerode, Mallet 0-4-4-0T 99 5902 of 1898. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.023 Another view of 99 5902 in the works yard at Wernigerode Westerntor on the 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.024 Referred to by local railwaymen as 'Rote Kamele' (red camels), the 199 class Bo-Bo diesels are standard gauge ex V100s regauged to the metre gauge for use on the Harz system. This is 199 861 at Wernigerode Westerntor on the 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.025 HSB Heritage rolling stock in the yard at Wernigerode Westerntor. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.026 HSB Heritage rolling stock in the yard at Wernigerode Westerntor. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.027 HSB Heritage rolling stock in the yard at Wernigerode Westerntor. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.028 A transporter wagon - standard gauge wagons can be transported over narrow gauge tracks by using such vehicles. Wernigerode Westerntor Works Yard, 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.029 A transporter wagon - standard gauge wagons can be transported over narrow gauge tracks by using such vehicles. Wernigerode Westerntor Works Yard, 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.030 The Ffestiniog Travel party had the sole use of diesel railcar 187 013 for journey down to Nordhausen. There were a number of photostops, the first one being at the only tunnel on the Harz sysyem, Kleiner Thumkulenkopf. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.031 Diesel railcar 187 013 came to the Harz from the East Friesian island of Langeoog in 1995. Prior to that it worked on the neighbouring island of Juist, but it started life on the Kreis-Altonaer-Eisenbahn in 1955. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.032 187 013 on a further photostop/runpast on the climb towards Drei Annen Hohne. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.033 187 013 on a further photostop/runpast on the climb towards Drei Annen Hohne. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.034 2-10-2T 99 7235 runs round at Drei Annen Hohne on the 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.035 Another of the magnificent 2-10-2Ts, 99 7243, at Drei Annen Hohne on the 16th October, 2003.

2003/10.036 A train bound for Wernigerode is waiting to leave Drei Annen Hohne. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.037 187 013 on another photostop/runpast, this time between Drei Annen Hohne and Benneckenstein. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.038 Members of the Ffestiniog Travel party clamber back on board 187 013 on another photostop/runpast, this time between Drei Annen Hohne and Benneckenstein. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.039 187 013 on another photostop/runpast, also between Drei Annen Hohne and Benneckenstein. 16th October, 2003

2003/10.041 It can be cold in the Harz. Damn cold! Not in our hotel, of course, but there was still frost on these coaches at Bahnhof Nordhausen-Nord early in the morning of the 17th October, 2003.

2003/10.042 Semaphore signals against an amazing blue sky at Bahnhof Nordhausen-Nord early in the morning of the 17th October, 2003.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 08) British Rail - 2 : The InterCity Era. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1155730.html Following the universal, and some would say boring, 'Rail Blue' livery, British Rail was broken up into 'Business Sectors' such as InterCity, Network SouthEast, Regional Railways, etc. Each Sector had its own livery and this brought a touch of colour after the years of plain blue. As with other collections, pictures will be added over time, although, initially, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred here. Tuesday 30 November 1999: Following the universal, and some would say boring, 'Rail Blue' livery, British Rail was broken up into 'Business Sectors' such as InterCity, Network SouthEast, Regional Railways, etc. Each Sector had its own livery and this brought a touch of colour after the years of plain blue. As with other collections, pictures will be added over time, although, initially, they will start off in the 'Stop Press!' collection before being transferred here.

1988/09.04 Awaiting the right away, the unique Co-Co electric locomotive 89 001 at Huntingdon with a Kings Cross - Peterborough commuter train. September, 1988

1988/09.03 On an evening in September 1988, the unique Co-Co electric locomotive 89 001 arrives at Huntingdon with a Kings Cross - Peterborough commuter train.

1988/09.05 Departing Huntingdon for Peterborough, the unique Co-Co electric locomotive 89 001 with a commuter train from Kings Cross. September, 1988

1988/09.01 Just north of where Offord and Buckden station used to be between St. Neots and Huntingdon on the ECML, the unique Co-Co electric locomotive 89 001 heads north with an evening Kings Cross to Peterborough train in September, 1988.

Published in Ron's Railway Pix - 1

]]> Tue Nov 30 1999 07) Germany 2. The 1970s - Still in Steam. http://ronfisher.fotopic.net/c1145625.html I have made several trips to Germany over the years, including the former East Germany in 1971. So it's about time I opened a Fotopic collection for some of the many pictures that I have and I am starting with some from the early 1970s when some steam still survived in places like Rheine, Lauda and Freudenstadt. (For more recent steam in Germany, see pictures from the 2005 Plandampf in The Pfalz.) As with other collections, photos will be added a few at a time and, to begin with, I shall put them in the 'Stop Press!' collection. Tuesday 30 November 1999: I have made several trips to Germany over the years, including the former East Germany in 1971. So it's about time I opened a Fotopic collection for some of the many pictures that I have and I am starting with some from the early 1970s when some steam still survived in places like Rheine, Lauda and Freudenstadt. (For more recent steam in Germany, see pictures from the 2005 Plandampf in The Pfalz.) As with other collections, photos will be added a few at a time and, to begin with, I shall put them in the 'Stop Press!' collection.

1973/05.01 A misty, moisty morning in May, 1973 saw oil fired 012 class Pacific at Rheine, ready to depart with a train for Emden.

1973/05.09 With the North Sea in the background, oil fired 012 class Pacific 012 071 waits at Norddeich Mole for a connecting boat from the East Friesian Islands. The 012 will only work as far as Rheine where electric traction will take over. May, 1973

1973/05.12 These 2nd class coaches from the 1930s had double doors to facilitate loading and unloading at station stops. This one is at Norddeich. May, 1973

1973/05.50 Freudenstadt silhouette. May, 1973

1973/05.02 German Pacific power, still very much alive in the early 1970s. Oil fired 012 class Pacific 012 081 stands at Rheine in May, 1973.

1973/05.04 Two museum pieces together! Stuffed and mounted Br.82 0-10-0 82 008 on a plinth at Lingen in May, 1973. In the foreground is my Daimler 104 that I ran at that time.

1973/05.06 During their final years, the oil fired 012 class Pacifics drew admirers along the whole stretch from Rheine northwards. This is Norddeich Mole, the northernmost extremity of the line from Rheine. May, 1973

1973/05.07 Although referred to by British enthusiasts as the 'Rheine - Emden line', Emden isn't the northern extremity of the line. This is at Norddich-Mole, a quay where trains connect with the ferries to the East Friesland islands of Nordeney and Juist. A train for Rheine and points beyond is waiting for custom behind oil-fired 012 class Pacific 012 071. May, 1973

1973/05.08 The northern extremity of the Rheine - Emden Line is at Norddeich Mole where boats connect to the East Friesland Islands of Norderney and Juist. Oil fired 012 class 4-6-2 012 071 waits for a boat connection before heading for Rheine and places south. May, 1973

1973/05.10 There were some interesting pre-war D.B. coaches in the sidings at Norddeich. May, 1973

1971/09.03 The 50.40 class 2-10-0s were the last new build steam locomotives to be built in East Germany. The first two appeared in 1956, with the remainder following in 1959-1960. One was seen at Schwerin on the 11th September, 1971.

1971/09.01 In September, 1971, I went on a trip to the then communist East Germany run by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain. At Schwerin, we saw this 01.5 oil-fired Pacific depart for Berlin. A 118 class diesel is in the adjoining platform. 11th September, 1971. And if anyone gets that feeling of 'déjŕ-vue', this would be because they have already seen Geoff Plumb's picture on his Fotopic site! He was standing next to me at the time.

1971/09.02 East German oil-fired Pacific, rebuilt as class 01.5, 01 0510 leaves Schwerin for Berlin. (The '0' before the number indicates an oil-fired loco.) 11th September, 1971

1971/09.08 Bad Doberan, 11th September, 1971

1971/09.09 With the imposing station building in the background, narrow gauge 2-8-2T 99 2322 waits to leave Bad Doberan on the 11th September, 1971. The standard gauge platforms are the other side of the building.

1971/09.10 Kuehlunsborn-West. When I said 'Auf Wiedersehen' to 99 2322 and 'Der Molli' on the 11th September, 1971, little did I realize that it would be 32 years before I would make a return visit! Strangely, it would be the same engine, 99 2322, that would be on duty 32 years later.

1971/09.12 03 class Pacific 03 2234 at Rostock. 12th September, 1971

1971/09.11 Oilfired class 50 2-10-0 50 0055 at Rostock shed. 12th September, 1971

1971/09.13 Oil fired 3 cylinder 44 class 2-10-0 44 0389 on the turntable at Rostock. 12th September, 1971

1971/09.14 Rusting quietly at Rostock, was class 93 2-8-2T. 12th September, 1971

1971/09.15 Introduced in 1956 as class 23, but renumbered as class 35 in 1970, this is 2-6-2 35 1091 at Rostock. 12th September, 1971

1971/09.16 At home on Rostock shed on the 12th September, 1971 was class 41 2-8-2 41 1314.

1971/09.17 Rostock shed on the 12th September, 1971, with 2-6-2 35 1091 on the turntable.

1971/09.18 On the 750mm gauge line from Zittau, 2-10-2T 99 1758 at the junction station of Bertsdorf. 13th September, 1971

1971/09.19 With a train for Jonsdorf, 750mm gauge 2-10-2T 99 1758 at Bertsdorf, the junction station where the line from Zittau divides. 13th September, 1971

1971/09.20 The other branch from Bertsdorf goes to Kurort Oybin. This is where 750mm gauge 2-10-2T 99 1741 was to be seen at 10:15 on the 13th September, 1971.

1971/09.22 This, and the next one, are further views of CSD 2-10-0 556 0280 at Zittau. 13th September, 1971

1971/09.23 Before setting off back home to Czechoslovakia, a final look at CSD 2-10-0 556 0280 at Zittau. 13th September, 1971

1971/09.24 The 16.5 km 75 cm gauge line from Radebeul Ost to Radeburg starts at a terminus in the north west suburbs of Dresden. 2-10-2Ts 99 1772 and 99 1784 stand outside the shed at Radebeul Ost on the 13th September, 1971.

1971/09.26 A picture of narrow gauge power! 75cm gauge 2-10-2T 99 1772 at Radebeul Ost in the north west suburbs of Dresden. 13th September, 1971. Now known as the Lößnitzgrundbahn, this line is still open and similar pictures can be taken today.

1971/09.27 Delivered to the Saxon State Railways in 1918, XVIII H class Pacific 18 010 looks very sad and neglected at Dresden in the evening of the 13th September, 1971.

1971/09.28 Once the pride of Saxony, but now looking very much a shadow of its former self, Saxon State Railways XVIII H class Pacific 18 010 at Dresden in the fading evening light. 13th September, 1971

1971/09.29 Although Saxony is still a mecca for narrow gauge steam, there were once many more narrow gauge systems than there are today. This is the junction station of Thum, 19km south of Chemniz, but known as Karl Marx Stadt when I was there. 14th September, 1971

1971/09.30 The loco shed at Thum on a now closed 75cm gauge system 19km south of Chemnitz. (Or Karl Marx Stadt as it was in those days.) 14th September, 1971