A5-sized Journals, Part 1. 1987 to 1996 inclusive

Cover: Diesel railcar W13W at Monmouth Troy forms the 3.47pm to Severn Tunnel Jcn.

A.   Drivers Memoirs: Bob Hughes - Fireman promotion to Bristol, St.Philips Marsh, March 1940 onwards. (3 pages)
B.   Malayan Rlys: Chris Yewlett - describes visit there in 1986 and impressions thereof. (6 pages + 1 map)
C.   Extract from 1906 GWR Magazine: increase in heavy goods train lengths in S.Wales. (3/4 page)

Photographs

1.  2-8-0T 4241 west bound freight passes through Newport station. Late 1950's.
2.  0-4-2T 1421 leaves Newport station, ex-Monmouth service. Both M.Cornick.

Cover: Firemans'- eye view from 46443 approaching the Severn Tunnel on the English side. T.Clift

A.   The Swansea Valley: H.Walkley - industrial transport development and decline. (5 pages + 1 page sketchmap)
B.   Drivers Memoirs: Bob Hughes - references to railway personnel nick names and how they were derived. Also, the railway gardening experts. Short ref to 28XX ending up in Glebelands allotments. (2.5 pages)
C.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (3.5 pages)
D.   Newslines/Linesider: (2 pages)

Photographs

1.  Park Jcn. signalbox, 1983. B.Tanner
2-5 inc.  Four of 'Tower Road Railtour', 11/4/87, inc Newport station, Tower Colliery and Nantgarw.

Cover: Some of Landore's allocation of class 03 shunters - 03144/141 & 152, Pembrey Sidings, 8/83.

A.   Drivers Memoirs, The Bassaleg Banker: Bob Hughes - example of banking a train of 80 wagons, 57XX on the front and 1 banking. Includes photo of author and work mates on 6711, Pill shed. (2 pages + 1 photo)
B.   Newslines: (1.5 pages + 1 photo)
C.   Compound Rly.Locomotives: H.Walkley - describes and discusses. (4 pages plus 1 page with drawing of 3 cyl.compound configuration)
D.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (4 pages)
E.   Severn Tunnel Jcn : details of intentions to close the yards and effects to East Usk, A.D. Jcn. and Cardiff Tidal Sidings (2 pages).

Photographs

1.  4058 'Princess Augusta' passing Chepstow on Down train, 4/51. W.Clemo
2.  6711, Pill shed. Bob Hughes and work mates (ref.article A).
3.  40122 (D200) passing Gaer Jcn., 26/5/87, 05.15 Holyhead - Cardiff (ref.article B). G.Shadbolt
4.  Committee members pose on Cardiff Central, 4/87.
5.  4MT 40138, Tebay shed. 7/59. J.C.Coombes
6.  P.S.Waverley, Cardiff dry dock, 4/87. D.Hughes.

Cover: Radstock North Signalbox repositioned at the GWS Centre, Didcot.

A.   Severn Tunnel Jcn.Yards: W.Winter - brief history of development of the area, and some personal memories from the former Yard worker and rostering clerk. (4.5 pages)
B.   The Final Hours - S.T.Jcn: B.Thomas - account of the last weekend of operations at the yards. Includes details of train movements. Some inaccuracies corrected by articles B & C, Spring 1988 issue(2 pages, 2 photos).
C.   Drivers Memoirs: Bob Hughes - some recollections of firing at Ebbw Jcn.. Long reference to driver George W.Read (GWR!) on 4074 'Caldicot Castle'. (2.5 pages)
D.   Newslines: (2 pages)
E.   The Ubiquitous 0-6-2T: brief history on 2 engines of this wheel arrangement, of pre-grouping origin. Barry Rly 126 (GWR 276) & T.V.R. 111 (GWR 314). Inc 2 photos taken 1935 & 1938. (2 pages)
F.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (3.5 pages)

Other : Letter to editor re- 64XX Pannier tanks working Western Valley.

Photographs

1.  Aberbeeg - view looking north from south of, and above the station. Early 1930's? See also 'Other' section in Spring 1988 issue.
2 & 3.  Two of last day at STJ (article 'A'). 37198 departing Bristol Yard, 08760 shunting in the cripple sidings. B.Thomas
4 & 5.  2 x 0-6-2T as per article 'E'.

Cover: IC125 passing Aberthaw during Sunday diversions, 11/85.

A.   Drivers Memoirs; High Speed Coaltrain: Bob Hughes - account of 4233 running away on a coal train from Blaenavon to Gwenalt some time during the II W.W. Driver Dauncey and fireman Lawrence. (2.5 pages)
B.   Severn Tunnel Yards, Postscript 1: B.Thomas - update on the recovery of track and other lineside eqpt up to the end of 1/88. (1 page)
C.   Severn Tunnel Yards, Postscript 2: C.Hopcroft - refers to working the last few days on the pilots (short list of pilot numbers, loco allocated and dut duty performed) in the last week of operations. Corrections and clarifications to the B.Thomas item on STJ closure (The Final Hours/Winter 1987) with some of the dispersal movements on the Sunday 11/10/87. (1.5 pages)
D.   Newport Signalboxes: H.Walkley - lists 73 boxes in the Newport area that existed at various times, includes sketch map of locations. (2.5 pages)
E.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne. (2 pages)

Other : i)  small item on the guard who worked the first train through the Severn Tunnel, Joseph Offer, b 3/1863 d 1961.
ii)  Letter to Editor - additional comment on the photo of Aberbeeg published in the Winter 1987 Journal.
iii)  Letter to Editor - notes offered on the colliery in the picture of Aberbeeg, as item ii.

Photographs

1.  'Star' 4039 'Queen Matilda' on Neath shed in 1912, includes small caption.
2.  Aberbeeg shed, elevated view, Summer of 1939. J.C.Coombes
3.  Colliery at Aberbeeg, inc caption and comment on tramroad Aberbeeg-Ebbw Vale.
4.  S.T.Jcn., DMU leaves the depot on 11.10.87 with staff and belongings, smoke drifting as detonators explode beneath the leading coach. G.Shadbolt
5.  31405 propelling the emergency train away from S.T.Jcn. depot, det's exploding beneath the leading low flat wagon. Sunday 11.10.87. G.Shadbolt
6.  97806 (formerly class 09) emergency train loco, viewed at Sudbrook pumping station, 25.10.87.

Cover: 'Trelewis Bog' Railtour at Newport Dockside, 4/88. B.Thomas

A.   The Webb Coal Tanks: H.Walkley - description of, design etc. Use in South Wales, run down and disposal in Gwent. (5 pages + 2 photos)
B.   Drivers Memoirs: Bob Hughes - tale to tell at South Quay, Newport Docks with the Pannier tanks, and coming down through Bedwas to Newport with a passenger on the footplate of a 36XX Pannier. (2 pages)
C.   Newslines: inc details of workings of last weekend of locohauled Pompey - Cdf, 14 & 15 May'88. (2.5 pages + 1 photo)
D.   The Cambrian 21 Years On: D.Mathew - comparing Summer 1987 visit and travel, with that of 1966. (2.5 pages + 1 photo)
E.   Newport Boxes: R.Caston - addtl info added to H.Walkley list of 73 boxes, as published in Spring'88 issue.
F.   Ubiquitous 6 Coupled: R.R. 'R' class, B.R. No.136 and T.V.R.'H' class 0-6-0, B.R. No.163. Brief history and photo of both, supplied by B.Foster. (2 pages)
G.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (1.5 pages)

Photographs

1.  7819 'Hinton Manor', Newtown 8/64, on Aberystwyth - Whitchurch train. D.Mathew
2 & 3.   Webb Coaltank locos no.'s 58888 + 58880 (ref.article A).
4.  33011, 14/5/88 at Newport plat.2, Ports.-Cdf train (ref.article C). B.Thomas
5.  75012 on Machynlleth turntable (ref.article D). D.Mathew
6.  Ex-R.R. class'R', B.R. No.36, Cdf East Dk, 28/4/57. (ref.article F). B.Foster
7.  Ex-T.V.R. class'H', B.R. No.193,Cdf East Dk, 28/4/57. (ref.article F). B.Foster
8.  Early 60's 3 car DMU passing Ponthir.

Cover: DFR saddle tank "Wilbert" approaches the station at Norchard, viewed from the shop roof during construction. B.Thomas

A.   Drivers Memoirs- The 42's....Water, Water Everywhere! : Bob Hughes - recalls the class 42XX 2-8-0's relating to their high water consumption. 2 stories, one of a '42' using colossal amounts from Pontypool to Newport, and 4280 working the 05.30 Maesglas - Talywain. (5 pages + 1 photo)
B.   Staniers Follies: H.Walkley - Staniers early LMS days produced some unexciting modifications to boilers and engines. Some are recalled. Blastpipe dimensions get close attention. (2 pages)
C.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (2 pages)

Other : Public Notice issued 12/68 for the proposed closure of Caldicot Halt and Lydney.

Photographs

1.  4222, close 3/4 shot, Caerphilly works. BR plates & emblem. J.White
2.  P.S.Waverley & M.V.Balmoral at Blaina Wharf on the Usk, 6/88.
3.  P.S.Waverley & M.V.Balmoral passing beneath Newport Transporter Bridge in the evening after cruising the Bristol Channel. Both, B.Thomas
4.  Cross Street Crossing Box Ground Frame. 1961. W.J.Skillern.
5.  5080 'Defiant', Newport Railfete. 6/88 B.Thomas

Cover: Webb Coal tank 58916, nice shot at Birmingham New St., Jan 1949.

A.   West Somerset Mineral Rly.: N.Sprinks - history/description of the line built to move iron ore down to Watchet for shipment across the Bristol Channel to feed the Ebbw Vale furnaces. (3 pages)
B.   Drivers Memoirs: Pill Passenger Problems: Bob Hughes - recalls the transfer of two passenger workings from Ebbw Jcn. to Pill in 1943 due to pressure of work, and the acquiring of Pannier tanks 3700 + 3605 to work the Tredegar turns. Subsequently, 4662 sent new to replace 3700. Mention of last Brecon train, 12/62 with 3700. (3 pages)
C.   Toot! Toot! Toot! or 3 Crows: K.Mumford - recalls a week spent with 9675 in 9/65 around Pengam(Mon) and Sirhowy Valley and its crew, banking class 47 diesel D1652 and also a cab ride in the '47' with 400 tons from Pengam to Pontymister, returning on 9675. (5 pages + 2 photos)
D.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (3 pages)

Photographs

1.   Driver Cooper, fireman Brown, on 9675 (ref.article C). K.Mumford.
2.   37798 working over the Lady Windsor colliery branch 17.4.87 shortly before closure. Tom Clift.
3.   2-8-0 3857 on Up freight passing an 'Austerity' 2-8-0 at Pengam, Rumney, Cardiff. (W.Mail & Echo)
4.   MRS 'Ynysybwll' railtour on Lady Windsor branch, 15.10.88. B.Thomas
5.   Castles 5014 & 4076, Swansea High St., Up and Down "Capitals United Express". John Davies.
6.   1946, LNER B1, 1057 at Liverpool St., London, when the loco was just 1 year old. In 1950 it was damaged beyond repair. N.Sprinks.

Cover: Viewed from ballast level, Mogul 6349 approaches northbound towards Hereford, in the Wye Valley.

A.   Drivers Memoirs- An Unsavoury Breakfast: Bob Hughes - recalls an incident working the 'N6' 06.30 W.Mendalgeif - Bargoed or New Tredegar. The normal stop in the loop at Bedwas was not made so ruining breakfast for driver Steve Woods and he let the relief signalman know it! (2 pages)
B.   Newslines: (2 pages)
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes- Middle Connection (Mon.Bank): R.Caston - 4 paragraphs & 1 large photo c.1910 covering 2 pages.
D.   Omnibus Notes: (3 pages)

Photographs

1.  42XX + Toad brakevan near Grove Park, Malpas. 1960ish. M.Cornick.
2.  37426 pauses at Cwmbran station, 09.15 Liverpool - Cdf. 26/9/88. B.Thomas
3.  Mon.Bank Sidings Signalbox in a sea of coal wagons c.1910. (ref.article C).
4 & 5.  4+5. P.S. Cardiff Queen, Cardiff. 1960's. M.Cornick.
6.  1507 plus 6 other Pannier tanks on Pill shed. M.Cornick.

Cover: 841 'Greene King' at March. 3.4.76.

A.   Last Day on the B & M: K.Mumford - recalls the last day of passenger operations, 29/12/62, taking the train from Pengam(Mon.) - Brecon and return. 4627 Up, 3700 & 9776 Down. See also 'Postscript' article in Winter 89/90 issue (6 pages + 3 photos).
B.   Drivers Memoirs: Bob Hughes - tells of working 1027 'County of Stafford', Newport - Swansea - Cdf. Problems getting steam, poor coal and yet the driver still trying to thrash it. (5 pages)
C.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (4 pages)

Other : Letter to editor in reference to a platform used at Ebbw Jcn. Shed.

Photographs

1.  2247 with an afternoon train from Brecon to Newport at Pengam (Mon.) in June 1961 (ref. article A)
2.  Old meets new at Pengam (Mon.). 2 tank engines and a class 37 diesel at the colliery sidings (ref. article A).
3.  3682 shunting at Britannia Colliery, 1962 (ref. article A). pics 1-3, K.Mumford.
4.  The Dean Forest 0-4-0T Peckett sporting a 'face' for the 'Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends' day in July 1989.
5.  A superb photo of Three Cocks Junction c.1900. Station staff pose whilst trains fill all 4 platforms.

Cover: Crumlin Viaduct from the North East in the late fifties with a longer than usual rake heading west. J.C.Coombes.

A.   A Driver's Memoirs - Wartime : Bob Hughes - some of the aspects of a railway during wartime. Air raids and U.S. troops berthing at South Quay, Newport Docks are included (3 pages ).
B.   Last Day on the B & M; A Postscript : K.Mumford - some updates and clarifications are provided adding to the article and photographs that appeared in the Summer/Autumn 1989 issue (2.5 pages).
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 2: Llanhilleth Branch/Llanhilleth South - R.Caston (1 page + 1 photo).
D.   The Railway Clearing House : Bill Snell - explains how and why it came into existence and its responsibilities (3 pages).
E.   Omnibus Notes : Des Thorne (5 pages).

Photographs

1.  Viewed through the 'off' signal at Ferryside station, a 2-car DMU forms a Milford H.- Swansea service in 1987. B.Thomas
2.  5572 at Williton , W.S.R., on the occasion of the M.R.S. inspection in Oct.1986. B.Thomas
3.  The Pembroke Coast Express pounds through Magor on a wintry Saturday in 1958. M.Cornick.
4.  Llanhilleth Branch signalbox with staff posing outside (ref. article C).
5.  Elevated view of Llanhilleth South signalbox and the nearby housing (ref.article C).
6.  37234 leaving Severn Tunnel Jcn Down hump with a train of sheeted wagons, 9/7/86. B.Thomas.

Cover: 31210 beneath the water tower, Canton. Pictured during the Open Day in 1985. B.Thomas

A.   Good Engines - With the Right Shovel! : H.Walkley - describes the 1946 Ivatt class 2 2-6-2T with some detail on their physical attributes. Refers to modifications and their use and testing on the Abergavenny - Brynmawr line. Some firing problems noted at Brecon, examples of non-LMS men trying them out (6.5 pages + 2 photos).
B.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 3, Pengam Colliery South : R.Caston (2 pages + 1 full page pic.)
C.   A Driver's Memoirs : Bob Hughes - describes the processes involved when a fireman comes on duty and is given a loco with just 60lb pressure and 1 inch of water in the gauge glass and has to get ready to move off (3 pages).
D.   Omnibus Notes : D.Thorne (2.5 pages).

Photographs

1.  92220 'Evening Star' leaving Newport for Hereford, viewed from the Bejam carpark. 7/85. B.Thomas
2.  Ivatt 2-6-2T 1204 at Risca station, 7/4/47 (ref. article A). W.J.Skillern.
3.  Tender engine version of the 2-6-2T, 2-6-0 number 46520 enters Talyllyn station from the tunnel at the end of the platform (ref. article A). K.Mumford.
4.  Pengam Colliery South signalbox (ref. article B).
5.  The first M.R.S. 'Caerwent Cannonball' railtour at Blaenavon Furnace sidings, 3/80. B.Thomas.
6.  The other end of the train as in '5' pictured in the mouth of Netherhope Tunnel, 3/80. B.Thomas.
7.  Fintona, County Tyrone and the 4.15pm horse-drawn double-deck tramcar departs for Fintona Jcn., 25th June 1952. Neil Sprinks.
8.  'Drysllwyn Castle' posed at Landore Open Day 1985 next to the Penydarren replica. B.Thomas.
9.  37431 at platform 4 Cardiff Central towing a failed 37401 on the 09.15 Liverpool - Cardiff, 20/6/89. B.Thomas.

Cover: 6000 KGV stands in Newport station, 1959/60 bound for Paddington. K.Mumford

A.   The Beames 0-8-4 Tanks : T.G.Housden - description of design, short-comings and use in North Monmouthshire. Some historical notes of local interest. (2.5 pages)
B.   Newslines : B.G.Thomas (3 pages)
C.   L.M.S.R. Automatic Blowdown Valve : H.Walkley - why, how, what, when including hand drawn cut away drawing of the valve designed to slow down sludge build-up in boilers and prolong the time between boiler washes. (2 pages)
D.   Chinese Interlude : Ray Morgan - brief but concise description of the impressions climbing up onto the footplate of a Chinese steam loco in Changde station, N.E.China. (1 page)
E.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 4, Rhiwderin : R.Caston - includes 1 photo (2 pages)
F.   Boiler Certificates Explained : (1.5 pages)
G.   Omnibus Notes : D.Thorne (1.5 pages)

Photographs

1.  6800 'Arlington Grange' in store at Ebbw Jcn, 9/64. K.Mumford
2.  Unidentified 'Castle', Newport Down platform. Goods depot behind. Early 60's. M.Cornick
3.  Beames 0-8-4T 7935, reduced to fit with article 'A'.
4.  Rhiwderin signalbox, view from footplate of Pannier tank, ref article 'E'. K Mumford.
5.  'Caerwent Cannonball II' railtour alongside the Usk, Newport Docks. Transporter bridge behind. B.Thomas
6.  'Caerwent Cannonball II' railtour eases off Halls Road branch at Lime Kiln box. B.Thomas
7.  5080 'Defiant' in platform 1, Newport, for the Railfete, 7/90. C.Hopcroft on footplate. B.Thomas
8.  'Caerwent Cannonball II' railtour being flagged through a level crossing by stewards near Oakdale. B.Thomas
9.  Leyland Bull at Aberbargoed, approx 1932. Extended caption by D.Thorne about W.Mon Omnibus co., bus construction and maintenance.
9.  'Caerwent Cannonball II' railtour, stewards with their backs to camera, return to the DMU after crossing duty on the branch to Oakdale. D.Hughes

Cover: 20032 & 20007 prepare to cross over at Abergavenny station with a Hereford Openday special, 5/5/91. B.Thomas

A.   Loco Development on the LNWR/LMS/BR of 'Claughton' and 'Patriot' classes: H.Walkley - a description, as title suggests, including various people of note, design differences, the loco numbering involved etc. 4 small, basic quality photos included. (3.5 pages)
B.   South Wales Newslines: B.Thomas - inc. 2 photos. (3.5 pages)
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 6, Cwm Station: R.Caston - includes pages centre spread b/w photo (1 page).
D.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (3 pages)

Photographs

1.  6000 KGV on pseudo-Bristolian, fake sepia effect but taken in contemporary era.
2.  Southern DEMU 207010 in platform 1, Newport on 05.10 Pompey - Cdf. 8/3/91. (see article B) B.Thomas
3.  Cardiff and first day of intro of 158 Sprinters. 158760 with 05.10 Pompey - Cdf. 156426 0840 to Birmingham 18/3/91 (see article B) B.Thomas.
4.  Cwm Station and signalbox, pre-1920's. (assoc with article C).
5.  Southbound Class 156 Sprinter passes Tram Inn signalbox, 4/91. B.Thomas
6.  Parkend and DFR/MRS members on the Pump Trolley during a 50 mile sponsored pump. 3/3/91.

Cover: Pannier tank 5786 at Bulmers railway centre during the occasion of Hereford Open Day, 5/5/91. B.Thomas

A.   A Diver's Memoirs, All Change at Paddington - The End of an Era: Bob Hughes- recalls a 'superb trip' firing on 6999 Capel Dewi Hall, Newport - Paddington non-stop, Autumn 1952. Departed 10m late, arrived 2m early. Last in the series. (4 pages)
B.   South Wales Newslines: B.Thomas - inc. 1 photo. (2 pages)
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 7, Aberbargoed Jcn.: R.Caston - with centre spread photo (1 page).
D.   Excursion to Cadbury's: H.Walkley - August 1948 and 2 Super D's work a typical day-out trip from Monmouthshire. Also relates the last one in 1950 and the problems encountered causing the trains to be ceased. (2 pages + 2 photos).
E.   Omnibus Notes: Des Thorne (2 pages)

Other : : "Is it Really 20 Years?" - Small picture feature on the inside back cover of souvenir programme and ticket, 6000 KGV 'Return to Steam' in October 1971.

Photographs

1.  3440 'City of Truro' posed on the branch above Norchard L.L. 18.8.91. B.Thomas
2.  3440 crosses the A48 tender first at Lydney, first Official Opening Train to Lakeside, DFR. 8.9.91. B.Thomas
3.  Aberbargoed Jcn. old and new signalboxes on the centre pages. (ref.article C).
4.  Super D's 49113 & 48932 leaving Brecon Road shed, Abergavenny for Ponllanfraith to work the excursion to Cadbury's. 8/48. H.Walkley
5.  The 2 Super D's are captured again coming past Brecon Road with the excursion. H.Walkley.
6.  Gloucester Open Day, 4.8.91. D7017, D1035 (D1010 in disguise), D821 and D7018 line up. B.Thomas

Cover: Smoke and steam swirl as 6412 heads the MRS special at Bishop's Lydeard on the occasion of the visit in 11/91. B.Thomas

A.   Portrait of a Locomotive, BB Class '25 Squadron': Barry Fletcher - with an intro by H.West who was in the actual squadron, a bit of a history of the class and loco including rebuild details, some allocations and disposal at Cashmores, Newport. ( 3 photos, 3 pages).
B.   LMS 2-6-4T Engines: H.Walkley - run through some of the different types, designers and detail changes of a type totalling 645 by 1951. (2 pages + 1 full page photo).
C.   West Somerset Inspection: H.West - describes in enough detail and a little anecdotal, the MRS day out at the WSR in Nov'91. (2.5 pages + 4 photos).
D.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 8, Pill Bank Jcn.: R.Caston (1 page + photo)
E.   Memories of a Very Temporary Railwayman: N.Stevens - loosely describes the 6 months spent working on the railway based at Barrack Hill Jcn as general labourer. (2.5 pages)
F.   Newslines : B.Thomas (2 pages)
G.   An Unimpressive Slog : H.Walkley - from a Midland perspective, impressions of a footplate trip on a 49XX Hall from Cardiff to Bristol and back. Much comment on the heavy water and coal consumption. (1.5 pages)
H.   Omnibus Notes : Des Thorne (1 page)

Other :

Photographs

1.  Drivers view of the fireman getting water into 6412 at Williton, WSR. (ref. article C) H.West
2.  H.West taking his footplate trip on 6412. 11/91 (ref. article C).
3.  '25 Squadron', ¾ full page works photo after rebuilding, 11/60. (ref. article A) NRM, York.
4.  '25 Squadron' name plate. (ref article A). B.Fletcher collection.
5.  '25 Squadron' crest. (ref article A). B.Fletcher collection.
6.  42403, Fowler 2-6-4T, reversing near coalstage at Tebay, 4/61.(ref. article B) J.C.Coombes.
7 - 9 inc.  6412 on the WSR, 11/91 (ref.article C).
10.  Pill Bank Jcn signalbox (ref. article D) L.E.Copeland
11.  47628 sporting new lined green colours for GWR 150. Departs in the snow from Newport station with a service to Hull, 2/85. B.Thomas
12.  A pair of tea cans sit on the shelf above the firebox door on 6412, WSR, 11/91. (ref. article C) H.West
13.  IC125 43125 passes Bishton box on the Up line. Unusual view from the S.T.Jcn side. 24/4/97. B.Thomas

Cover: 4930 Hagley Hall blast the underside of the bridge as she departs Kemble for Swindon, 2/2/85. B.Thomas

A.   The Pontrhydyfen Accident : J.Livsey - highly detailed account of the events leading upto, during and after the head-on collision of a Down coal train and a DMU on 24/11/60. (8 pages plus Gradient Profile and timetable extract).
B.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 9, Moderator Sidings. : Ray Caston (1 page + 2 photos)
C.   The Norfolk & Western Rly. Co. : Anon - Potted history of this U.S. company then describes some of their loco design and policy. (5 pages + 1 photo).
D.   Newslines : B.Thomas (3.5 pages)
E.   That(s) Hall! : Ray Caston - in response to H.Walkley's article of March 1992 (item G) this explores in a basic way coal & water consumption for 4 different locos, drawing conclusions on driver skills. (1.5 pages).

Photographs

1.  The second 'Moderator Sidings Signalbox' making a centre spread of the Journal, 6/33. L.E.Copeland/ M.Christenson. (ref.article B)
2.  The third 'Moderator Sidings Signalbox' now in 7/35 after remodelling of the area. Newport Market behind. L.E.Copeland/ M.Christenson. note: printed reversed, corrected in March'93 issue.
3.  2-car DMU formed of W52046/53939 making the lunchtime Cardiff - Chepstow service, passing Bishton Flyover. 11/5/92. B.Thomas
4.  Norfolk & Western Rly Co 2-8-2 No.611 (ref article C).
5.  6024 'King Edward I' in plat.1, Newport, with the Bristol Evening Post Centenary Special from Swindon, 4/5/92. H.West

Cover: S & DJR 2-8-0 53904 pulls hard through Chilcompton with a mineral train banked by 'Jinty' 47887, 27/4/57. N.Sprinks.

A.   A First Footplate Trip Remembered : Ian Brewer - describes his schoolboys footplate trip on a 9F from Park Jcn. to Ebbw Vale steelworks and back with an ore train in the 1950's. (2 pages + 1 photo).
B.   Driving Defiant : H.West - a day spent at Tyseley on a footplate experience course, some of which included GWR Castle 'Defiant'. (3 pages + 4 photos).
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 10, Fleur-De-Lis : R.Caston (1 page + 1 large photo).
D.   More on that Unimpressive Slog to Bristol : H.Walkley - adds some more to the article that appeared in the March '92 Journal including his first footplate trip in 1948 with GWR men on an LMS 'Jubilee' from Hereford to Pontypool (3 pages).
E.   Double-Deck Commuting : Neil Sprinks - after a then recent visit to Toronto, he describes the different trains on offer when getting around the city (2 pages + 1 photo).
F.   Newslines : B.Thomas (4.5 pages + 2 photos).

Photographs

1.  9F 92001 at Park Jcn with an ore train for Ebbw Vale, 6/5/54. S.Rickard.
2.  'DMU Demise' Railtour of Autumn '92 at Onllwyn, passengers milling around. B. Thomas.
3.  On 'Defiant', fireman's-eye view coming up to the dreaded stop sign (ref. article B).
4.  On 'Defiant', H.West looks slightly ruffled after trying his hand at firing (ref. article B).
5.  H.West on the footplate of 5080 (ref. article B).
6.  H.West grips the regulator on 5080 and realises a life's ambition (ref. article B).
7.  Pannier tank 9674 with a Newport - New Tredegar train passing Fleur-de-Lis box, 5/62. (ref. article C).
8.  The 16.50 Toronto Union - Whitby, formed of loco 543 and 10-car pull-and-push set of double-deck coaches (ref. article E). N.Sprinks.
9.  Moderator Sidings Signalbox - picture re-published the right way round after reversal in 9/92 issue.
10.  2-car Pacer unit 143606 at Maesteg on 15/10/92 with the 12.24 to Cardiff Central routed via Leckwith Loop. The third week of the new service (ref. article F). N.Sprinks.
11.  Recovery of the derailed loaded steel coil wagons at Llanwern West which damaged the crossovers putting the Down relief line out of action for months (ref. article F). M.Cornick.

Cover: At Hildenborough between Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, Southern double-header power formed of N1 2-6-0 31879 and U1 2-6-0 31891, 18/7/53. Neil Sprinks.

A.   Sid Davie's Reminiscences (part 1) - starting work at Ebbw Jcn. in 11/40, Sid tells of his early experiences as Call Boy and Cleaner then promotion to fireman at Aberbeeg where some of the workings from the depot are recalled. He soon returned to Ebbw Jcn for a 16 year spell until 1957, working up through the Links. He lists a number of the Pilot duties based on Ebbw Jcn. Quite a bit of detail here on general operations at the shed. Goes on to list some of the loco types allocated and the duties they performed (13 pages + 2 photos).
B.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 11, Newport West : R.Caston (4 pages + 5 photos).
C.   Newslines : B.Thomas (6.5 pages + 1 photo).
D.   Filming Experience : I.Brewer & R.Viney - recall the planning involved preparing to film some of the TVR 150 celebrations and pitfalls encountered when making a reconnoitre of the Barry - Pontypridd line (2 pages).
E.   Forty Years Ago - short item on some of the locos and workings in the 'news' (0.5 page).

Other : An interesting 'Passing Loop' explaining what shape the new look B.R. would take with the first split up of Inter-City, Railtrack, Regional Railways and freight.

Photographs

1.  Inspector Sid Davie pictured with one of the Society's 1984 railtours (ref.article A) D.Hughes.
2.  Ebbw Jcn shed yard in 1944, viewed from the roof. Busy with USA locos. The Pentagon, Washington.
3.  Newport West Box, full width front view (ref. article B).
4.  The signal gantry adjacent to West Box, the signalbox behind (ref. article B).
5.  The Up main gantry and signals half way along the former plat.4 & 5, protecting the scissors crossover (ref. article B).
6.  The platform road signals under slung from the canopy half way along the former plat.4 & 5, protecting the scissors crossover (ref. article B).
7.  Newport Station in the late 1860's showing the 3 tracks and disc & crossbar signal referred to in article B. Newport Museum.
8.  Sprinter 158788 calls at Caldicot on an East bound service one Sunday afternoon shortly after the station's rebuild in March and April 1993 (ref. article C). B.Thomas.

Cover: Reverse ¾ view of 6024 'King Edward I' climbing Llanvihangel bank, Easter Monday, 1993. R.Viney.

A.   Sid Davie's Reminiscences (part 2) : records his time spent 1954-57 as Assistant Ebbw Jcn. Running Shed Foreman, detailing some of the duties. Then promoted to driver and reports to Old Oak Common but gives examples of turns he had made to O.O. which meant it wasn't unfamiliar. Returned to EJ in 1960 (4.5 pages + 5 photos). NOTE: Sadly, Sid died between the publication of the first article in 9/93 and this one, and is recorded as such at the beginning of this item.
B.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 12, Crumlin High Level : R.Caston (1.5 pages + 1 photo).
C.   Homage to a King : Keith Webb - describes with detail, his day out behind 6024 on Easter Monday 1993 from Gloucester to Hereford and return and why it meant so much, recalling boyhood memories in London (6 pages + 2 photos).
D.   Chepstow Race Day 1960 : S.R.Irwin - a nice snapshot of railway observations recalling a busy afternoon at Chepstow station with a wealth of train movements recorded and even some passenger figures (4 pages + 1 photo).
E.   Newslines: B.Thomas (5.5 pages).

Photographs

1.  Small portrait of Sid Davie, associated with article A. D.Hughes.
2.  Driver S.Davie with Fireman D.Bourne in the prep link at Old Oak Common on 4082 'Windsor Castle' in 1956 (ref. article A).
3.  Fireman Sid Davie & Driver Larner on 5069 'IKB' at Newport with the 4.20pm to Paddington, 6/56 (ref. article A).
4.  Sid in the prep link at O.O.C. in 8/57 working on King Henry V (ref. article A).
5.  On the "ups & downs" pilot. Sid Davie on 1504 about to move off from O.O.C. passenger shed with a set of coaches for Paddington, Summer 1958 (ref. article A).
6.  Sid applies a spot of oil to the glands of 1504 whilst in the "ups & downs" pilot link, 1958 (ref. article A).
7.  Close ¾ view of Crumlin High Level signalbox (ref. article B) T.Davis.
8.  6024 'K.E.I' passing Lydney Jcn. bound for Cardiff, early 1994. Gethin Williams.
9.  6024 on Easter Monday 1993 climbing Llanvihangel bank (ref. article C). R.Viney.
10.  4058 'Princess Augusta' passing Chepstow yard with a Birmingham - Swansea stopping service shortly before her withdrawal in Feb. 1951. W.Clemo.
11.  'Duchess of Hamilton' stopped at Garsdale Road, S&C, in August 1992. (picture repro is a bit dark).

Cover: Midland half-cab 41708 hauling our Summer evening inspection of the DFR near Lydney Town crossing, 13/7/94. B.Thomas.

A.   For 'Glamour' Read 'Graft' : Ken Lush/Tom Jones - Ken records impressions of a talk with top link driver Tom Jones of Bath Road, who retired in 1994. Includes some nice detail of footplate life, too much to start to list here. A good piece of 'reminiscence' writing, removing some of the 'glamour' as per the title (7 pages + 1 large photo).
B.   West Highland Fling : I.Brewer - impressions of a short break in the West Highlands in 2/94, explaining the journey and the sites to be viewed (3.5 pages + 1 photo).
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 13, Llanvihangel : R.Caston (1 page + photo).
D.   'Gwaun Cae Gurwen Growler' Railtour Report : B.Thomas - describes the main parts of the railtour of 22/4/94 taking in DFR, V of G, Court Sart, Swansea District Line to Hendy Jcn., GCG, Cwmgrach, Newlands loop and Cardiff Docks (Minimet). (2 pages + 2 photos).
E.   Linesider : B.Thomas (3.5 pages).
F.   Pulling Power Explained : H.Walkley - brief explanation as per title, with the relevance of piston size, steam pressure, wheel diameter (1 page).

Other : Passing loop - with added observations and comparisons of 'old', briefly puts the case for the Summer inspection of the DFR in July 1994.

Photographs

1.  Mystery Photo - Pinpoint the location for N.Stevens, offers of ideas were asked for.
2.  Covering a full page, reverse ¾ shot of 5096 'Bridgewater Castle' with fireman Tom Jones in the cab. 1950's. (ref. article A). courtesy of C.Hopcroft.
3.  Ian Brewer poses next to a class 156 Sprinter, 156450, at Mallaig (ref. article B).
4.  Llanvihangel signalbox and road overbridge with one platform (ref. article C).
5.  The long disused platform faces at Tondu for the Newlands loop to Margam (ref. article D).
6.  Passing the lower quadrant bracket at Tondu as the GCG railtour leaves the Ogmore vale branch (ref. article D), both B.Thomas.
7.  41708 stands in St.Mary's halt on the occasion of the MRS visit to the DFR, 7/94. B.Thomas.
8.  41708 viewed from the observation saloon during the MRS visit to the DFR, 7/94. B.Thomas.
9.  70025 'Western Star' heads the 1.55pm Paddington - Cardiff past Gaer Jcn, 11/8/53. W.J.Skillern.

Cover: Eurostar 3105/6 stands at Waterloo International, taking passengers on board.

A.   Exploring - to the West and to the East : Neil Sprinks - impressions of contrasting journeys on the Cardiff - Swansea line with its Swanline stations and then the Eurostar from Waterloo to Brussels and return (2 pages).
B.   The Pacific Locomotives of the LMS : H.Walkley - explains how William Stanier came to build these capable machines. Loco numbers and names listed with some streamlining details (4.5 pages + 1 photo).
C.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 14, Newport East : R.Caston (1.5 pages + 2 photos).
D.   ...And What's Wrong About a Fortnight in Ealing? : H.West - certainly with an element of humour, Henry relates some of the more interesting items found in the 1935 issue of 'GWR Holiday Haunts'. Places to stay in Scilly Isles, Ilfracombe, Penzance and Newquay are included (3 pages).
E.   Linesider : B.Thomas (4 pages).

Other : i.   Picture puzzle solved - extended caption for photo 6 (1 page).
ii.   GWR poster of 1928 advertising trips from Cheltenham to the 'Daffodil district' of Newent, Dymock and Ledbury.

Photographs

1.  Britannia 70004 'William Shakespeare' passing Wandsworth road with the Victoria - Folkstone Harbour 'Golden Arrow' on 23/5/53. N.Sprinks.
2.  View of Folkstone Harbour in 8/60. Cross channel ship 'Invicta' waits for a berth as 3 Pannier tank engines make their way off the harbour in the gloom. D.Hughes.
3.  6201 'Princess Elizabeth' in preservation on the North & West with 13 on (ref. article B).
4.  Newport East signalbox and adjacent bracket signal. D.Hughes collection (ref.article C).
5.  King class engine passing Newport East box with the 'Capitals United Express' (ref.article C).
6.  Cardiff New Town South goods yard : Puzzle picture solved with descriptions by 2 members.
7.  Aerial view of Whiteheads works, Cardiff Road and Mon Bank sidings, Newport. More detailed caption by R.Caston in 9/95 issue.

Cover: Carrying a 'The Bristolian' headboard, 6024 in the guise of 6026 at Bristol T.M., September 1995. K.Webb.

A.   The Kettle Valley Railway : E.G.W. Eke - describes this now closed line that was found in British Columbia, some of its features including extensive engineering under, over and through this mountainous area of Western Canada. In places reaching over 4000 ft. (3 pages + 2 diagrams + 1 photo).
B.   The Support Crew : K.Webb - gives a good idea on what goes on behind the scenes when 6024 runs mainline tours (5 pages + 2 photos).
C.   Linesider : B.Thomas (3 pages).
D.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 15, West Mendalgief : R.Caston (0.5 pages + 1 photo).
E.   To Paddington Behind the King : I.Brewer - on the 1st March '95, 6024 ran from Swansea - Paddington - Didcot on its last run before withdrawal from service and a major overhaul. The trip is described with timings of the run (3.5 pages + 3 photos).
F.   The Cheshire Lines Committee : H.Walkley - describes who ran the system and the relationships between the joint owners of the CLC (3.5 pages + 1 diagram).

Photographs

1.  Kettle Valley terrain, straight off a viaduct, over a gorge and into a tunnel (ref.article A). E.Eke
2.  The support crew swing into action on 6024, bringing coal forward on the tender (ref.article B).
3.  Newport station and 2287 waits to depart for Brecon. Pannier 3712 has arrived from Blaenavon. R.E.Toop.
4.  PT 9644 at Ynysddu on the last day of service of the Tredegar - Risca trains. R.E.Toop.
5.  Junction of Commercial St. and Cardiff Rd. with the railway crossing gates outside the Salutation Hotel. The railway connected Salutation Jcn. with Llanarth St. Jcn. and crosses the tram lines of Commercial St. 1920's?
6.  Ray Viney fixing the '6024 Preservation Society' headboard to the smokebox (ref.article B).
7.  West Mendalgief signalbox (ref.article D).
8.  6024 at the buffer-stops in Paddington (ref.article E). R.Viney.
9.  6024 pictured at Didcot Rly. Centre after completing the railtour of 1/3/95 (ref.article E). J.Livsey.
10.  Ian Brewer at the controls of 'Wilbert' on the DFR.

Cover: Southern Austerity Q1 class 0-6-0 number C1 enters Horsted Keynes, Bluebell Line. N.Sprinks.

A.   An Engineman Remembers : L.Staddon/B.Thomas - ex-Neath and Severn Tunnel footplateman, L.Staddon, describes his early days on the GWR as a cleaner in 1936/7 at Neath Court Sart, covering some firing turns including Swansea Docks and shed pilot. Some of the cleaners pranks are told. First firing job on 'prep' link at STJ recalled after promotion in 1938 (4.5 pages + 2 photos).
B.   Bluebell '95 : N.Sprinks - describes a visit to the railway's Steam Fair, enjoying the large locomotives trying to maintain a busy timetable (1.5 pages + 2 photos).
C.   Slow...But Sure, The Rimutaka Incline (N.Z.) : H.West provides a description of this astonishing 1 in 13, narrow-gauge line and its operation through a review of a 'high production values' video of the long-gone Fell railway. Some additional information retrieved from leaflets sent by the Fell Engine Museum, Featherstone(2 pages + 2 photos).
D.   Railtour Review, The Garw Growler : B.Thomas - 37427 + 37901 on the MRS tour of 7/10/95 (1 page).
E.   Linesider : B.Thomas (4.5 pages).
F.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 16, Pontypool Road South Jcn. : R.Caston (1 page).
G.   What a Way to Run a Railway!, Part 1 : H.Walkley - describes how, after he was promoted from Abergavenny (LMS) to Aberbeeg (GWR) in 1952, he attempted to make some changes and improvements to loco maintenance. Some of them embraced but other ideas dismissed. Comparisons with LMS and GWR working practises are made with company rivalry to blame for some of the disagreements. Specific examples are referred to in some detail. (3 pages).

Photographs

1.  Neath Court Sart shed, taken from the R&SB lines, 2/6/26 (ref.article A). W.I.M.M.
2.  Neath Court Sart shed, coal stockyard with mobile crane in action (ref.article A). W.I.M.M.
3.  S.R. class S15 no. 847 rests at Sheffield Park shed, Bluebell Railway (ref.article B) N.Sprinks.
4.  SE & CR locos, H class 0-4-4T no.263 and C class 0-6-0 no.592, Sheffield Park shed (ref.article B) N.Sprinks.
5.  2-8-0T 4280 in a spot of bother against the wall above Cardiff Rd., Newport. Off the road near Maesglas sidings, breakdown van in attendance, 1955.
6.  Park Jcn. viewed from a signal gantry opposite the signalbox. 8/10/36. GWR coll./NRM/WIMM
7.  The Caerwent branch under construction, 17/5/40.'Holborn Construction' crane in action. W.I.M.M.
8.  Fell engine H199, the last surviving Fell engine in the world (ref.article C).
9.  The last train ascends the Rimutaka Incline, New Zealand, on 29/10/55 (ref.article C).
10.  Pontypool Road South Jcn. signalbox (ref.article F) S.Rickard.

Cover: Class 150 Sprinter, 150270, leaves Taffs Well for Cardiff with Walnut Tree signalbox behind, 30/3/96. B.Thomas.

A.   An Engineman Remembers, Part 2 : Len Staddon/B.Thomas - this article relates to firing days at Severn Tunnel Jcn with some of the more and less mundane tasks included. Talks of the relationship between driver/fireman and the learning processes involved. Finishes off with the story of a derailment on 5679 in the Up loop near Pontsarn with Driver Smith (5.5 pages + 1 photo).
B.   The Railways of Newport : W.J.Skillern - an article previously published in the July 1960 issue of the Railway Magazine. As the title suggests, describes the evolution of the railways in the area up to the 'then' present day with an insight into how the future was viewed (6.5 pages + 5 photos + 2 diags).
C.   Signalbox Tour in the Cardiff Area : B.Thomas/R.Caston - on the 30th March 1996, 13 members visited Walnut Tree, Maesmawr, Radyr Jcn. and Radyr Quarry boxes due to their programmed replacement in 1997. This describes what was to be found on the tour with the Railtrack inspector as guide (2.5 pages).
D.   Linesider : B.Thomas (3.5 pages).
E.   Monmouthshire Signalboxes 17, Ebbw Vale Station : R.Caston (1 page + 1 photo).
F.   What a Way to Run a Railway! Part II : H.Walkley - criticises some of the poor track layout and operational procedures that currently exist at various location in the Merseyside area, after watching a 'cab-ride' video of the area (1 page).

Photographs

1.  Severn Tunnel shed, early 1960's. 4119, 2231, & 2887 included (ref.article A). C.Woodhead
2.  PT 9667 alongside Cardiff Rd. near Courtybella Jcn., viewed from footbridge (ref.article B). A.V.Davies
3.  Monmouthshire Bank Sidings , Sept.1926. Middle Connection s/box also in photo (ref.article B).WIMM
4.  Herbert St. Crossing, Cardiff Road sidings, 31.3.30. (ref.article B). WIMM
5.  Lliswerry Crossing, 29.7.41 during quadrupling to Severn Tunnel Jcn.. Soon to be demolished signalbox on the left (ref.article B). WIMM
6.  4090 Dorchester Castle pulls out of Newport station with the South Wales Pullman on 8/9/61 (ref.article B).
7.  Ebbw Vale Signalbox (ref.article E). M.Hale