Taunton Now & Then

TAUNTON (THEN & NOW)

Cogload Junction

THEN

37675 and 37674 are seen on a North bound 'Speedlink' service on the 7th June 1988 passing Charlton Bridge on route from St Blazey. (Photo: Derek Garrett)

THEN

66527 'Don Raider' is seen passing the same spot at Charlton on the 17th May 2005 working the 6M37 Moorswater - Earles cement. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

THEN

1986, an unidentified Class 47 races north on an 11 coach passenger train made up from a mixed rake of Mk1 and Mk2 coaching stock. Note the out of use up and down slow lines. (Photo: Derek Garrett)

THEN

14th May 2005, some 19 years later and Class 47's are still out running in the South West! 47316 leads 47714 North through Charlton on the return leg of a charter from Crewe - Kingswear run by Heartland Railtours (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

The First Great Western sleeper service was in trouble again during the 5th / 6th July 2009. Having failed at Burngullow the 1A40 from Penzance - London Paddington was towed to Plymouth by a pair of FGW Powercars and was subsequently terminated. In a rare daylight outing 57605 is seen at Cogload Jn towing 57602 and the consist of 1A40 to Old Oak Common. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

BR Large Logo Class 50 No.50021 'Rodney' passes over Cogload Junction flyover with a south bound passenger service from the Bristol direction heading for Taunton. (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection)

NOW

EWS liveried Class 67 No.67003 leads the 2C85 Cardiff - Taunton stopping service over the Cogload Junction flyover with No.67018 trailing on the rear on the 4th June 2010. Just one year later in 2011 saw the landmark structure celebrate its 80th birthday, since being constructed in 1931. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

47294 is seen working North through Charlton towards Cogload Jn on the 10th May 1979 on the 08:50 Exeter Riverside - Walton Jn mixed freight (Photo: Chris Perkins)

THEN

59205 is seen passing Charlton exiting an engineering blockade on the 27th December 2005. The Class 59's train came to 2700 tonnes, and was moving forward to be released before heading back to Westbury via Bristol TM (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

Having delivered around 500 tonnes of ballast to Dawlish Colas Rail Freight's Class 70's returned to Westbury on Saturday 22nd March 2014. The locomotives remained in the same 'top and tail' formation, with No.70803 leading back to Westbury. (Photo: Bob Lathem)

THEN

13th September 1975, D1071 'Western Renown' powers the 12:00 Paignton - Paddington passenger service through Charlton having just left Taunton (Photo: Chris Perkins)

THEN

Network Southeast liveried Class 50 No.50048 'Dauntless' passes Cogload Junction on the 25th May 1989 passes with the 10:20 Paignton - Paddington service. (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

First Great Western's latest power car offering is one of the best produced so far, with a full sized 'Visit Plymouth' advert along the body side of power car No.43163, cutting the advert short of the cab certainly makes sense based on the previous HP power car's. 43163 is seen on its first outing on the 26th June 2014 in its new colourful guise, operating the 1A12 07:40 from Paignton to London Paddington passing Cogload Junction. (Photo: Adam Snow)

THEN

13th September 1975, D1022 'Western Sentinel' races South with Cogload Jn in the background with an express passenger service from London Paddington (Photo: Chris Perkins)

THEN

220020 'Wessex Voyager' is seen heading South at Cogload Jn on the 23rd January 2005. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

Freightliner Class 66 No.66610 passes Cogload Junction on the 10th Augst 2008 hauling the return 6Y34 Westerleigh - Fairwater Yard HOBC set. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

THEN

A unknown Western rounds the curve taking the Berks and Hants to London Paddington. Cogload Jn flyover can be seen in the background. This image was taken at some point during 1973. (Photo: Chris Perkins)

NOW

66603 is seen rounding the same curve on the 23rd June 2005 working the 6F95 Meldon - Hinksey stone. It's no longer possible to view the Cogload Jn flyover in the background due to the tree growth. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

Creech St Michael

THEN

31st August 1986 a rare sight of Class 20's passing through the village of Creech St Michael. 20194+20094 are seen working 'The Chopper Topper' railtour which worked between Wolverhampton and Penzance using various traction on route. It's possible to see the outer two tracks where out of use at this time. Note also the Class 20's are using the wrong line, due to the ongoing clear up at Cogload Jn after a cement train derailed several weeks previous to this photo.. (Photo: Paul Clarke)

THEN

30th July 2006, 6024 'King Edward 1st' races through the village with the 1Z27 'Torbay Express' to Kingswear. Note the extensive growth since the last photo was taken when the 4 tracks used to run through the village (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

The village of Creech St Michael has recently seen some attention from Network Rail in regards to cutting back. Some of the undergrowth was getting to the point of almost touching trains as they passed. Although only 'limited' clearance has taken place, two previously difficult shots have been opened up. This image shows a Voyager heading towards Taunton on the 30th March 2014, taken from the main road bridge in Creech St Michael. (Photo: Cameron Walker)

THEN

BR Blue Class 47 No.47124 passes through Creech St Michael in the 1980's on a north bound passenger (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection)

THEN

By comparison we have provided this image of Class 47 No.47972 passing through the same location at Creech on the 29th March 1995 (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

6th September 2014, First Great Western Class 158 passes through Creech St Michael with the 2U16 12:07 Taunton - Cardiff stopping service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

In the snowy Winter of 1987 an Intercity HST heads South through Creech St Michael with 4 track mainline still in place, although it would appear only two tracks were in use at time this image was captured. (Photo: Derek Garrett)

THEN

On the 7th February 2009 Taunton experienced it's heaviest snow fall for 27 years. 43129 is seen passing Creech St Michael in an image which was taken 22 years later than the original shot opposite . (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

FGW Class 150 No.150121 rounds the curve at Creech St Michael with the 2C71 10:00 Cardiff to Taunton stopping service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

Creech St Michael in 1965 showing the 4 track mainline, an Creech St Michael halt, note the road to the local Mill clearly visible, and the houses in Laburnham Terrace.(Photo: Bernard Mills)

THEN

On the 23rd November 2006, 33029 makes an ironic scene leading 850 'Lord Nelson' through the former Creech Halt, the scene has changed vastly from that shown opposite in 1965 by Bernard Mills. Ironically,33029 started life as D6547 in March 1961 then allocated to Hither Green depot where a large number of the class were allocated. As the “Nelsons” were not withdrawn until 1962 there was obviously a brief spell in the early 60s when 33029 and 850 were both in service on the then Southern Region of British Railways,both locos subsequently making it into preservation. (Photo: Quentin Hawkes)

NOW

It's not often we see HST rescues like this!! On the 10th April 2012, the 0Z70 Laira to Old Oak Common powercar moved was called upon to help assist the 1A83 from Exeter after it developed an air fault. 43087 and 43144 hauled the set in passenger use to Reading before it was taken out of use and taken empty stock to Old Oak Common. 1A83 was formed of 43124 + LA06 41103 41104 40713 42208 42054 42206 42209 44066 + 43163. 43087 and 43144 are seen towing 1A83 through Creech St Michel shortly after leaving Taunton. (Photo: Cameron Walker)

Bathpool

THEN

30th April 1978, 50007 'Hercules' which later became celebrity 'Sir Edward Elgar' is seen passing Bathpool with the 13:45 Plymouth - Paddington (Photo: Steve Awford)

THEN

Class 47 No.47702 passes Bathpool on the 26th July 1998 hauling Virgin Trains 1M87 Penzance - Manchester service. (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

18th July 2014, EWS liveried Class 66/0 No.66232 powers through Bathpool with the loaded Exeter Alphington Road - Newport ADJ scrap train, formed of MBA box wagons. (Photo: Wayne Potter)

THEN

Taken in 1970 an unidentified Class 45 passes through Bathpool, shortly after stopping in Taunton (Photol: Kevin Auger)

THEN

BR Large Logo Class 50 No.50016 passes Bathpool on the 12th July 1988 with a ballast train (probably from Meldon Quarry) heading North. (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

BR Western No.D1015 'Western Champion' passes Bathpool on the 28th May 2005 with a Kingswear - London Paddington special charter. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

BR Large Logo liveried Class 50 No.50017 'Royal Oak' storms away from Taunton (complete with flailing bashers) on the 8th April 1985. (Photo: Russell Watkins)

NOW

DRS Class 37's No.37607 & 37606 pass Bathpool on the 11th January 2012 with the 1Z13 Plymouth - Derby test train. (Photo: Cameron Walker)

THEN

On the 12th October 1990 Network Southeast liveried Class 50 No.50023 'Howe' passes Bathpool on the 12th October 1990 with the 6C55 14:37 Bristol East Yard - Exeter Riverside. (Photo: Alan Randle)

THEN

On the 26th March 2002 a Freightliner Class 47 No.47292 hauls failed Virgin Trains Class 47 No.47843 through Bathpool working the 1V50 Glasgow - Penzance. (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

DRS liveried Class 66 No.66419 passes Bathpool on the 11th January 2012 hauling the Network Rail HOBC set on the 6C73 Westbury - Fairwater Yard (Photo: Cameron Walker)

Obridge

THEN

BR Large Logo Class 50 No.50043 departs Taunton and is seen passing Obridge viaduct during the 1970's/1980's. The 13 coach train is in complete contrast to today's 7 and 8 coach services to and from London! (Photo: Colin J Marsden)

THEN

On the 23rd January 2007, Clasds 58 No. 59101 is seen on the approach to Obridge with the 7C28 12:26 Exeter Riverside - Westbury stone empties. (Photo: Darren Harris)

NOW

BR Blue HST Set No.43143 and No.43015 pass under the semephore signals at Obridge (Taunton East Junction) on the 1st July 1985 operating a Plymouth - Paddington diagram. (Photo: Dave Jones)

Taken on an unknown date in the 1980's powercar No.43027 leads a Plymouth - Paddington service away from Taunton at Obridge heading for London. (Photo: Taunon Trains Collection)

THEN

Taken on an unknown date during the 1980's, BR Large Logo liveried Class 50 No.50027 'Lion' arrives into Taunton passing the two sets of semaphore signals located at Taunton East Junction. (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

On the 25th June 2008, EWS liveried Class 67 No.67022 & No.67026 arrive into Taunton with a 'Top and Tailed' service from Castle Cary to Taunton, as part of the Glastonbury Festival Shuttles. (Photo: Wayland Smith)

NOW

Freightliner Class 66/5 No.66515 is pictured at Taunton East Junction on the 7th February 2015 during an engineering blockade to replace Taunton East Junction at Obridge. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

50039 arrives into Taunton at Obridge (Taunton East Jn) On the 10th May 1989 with a four coach local stopping service from Bristol Temple Meads. (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

Freightliner Class 66/5 No.66515 is pictured at Taunton East Junction on the 7th February 2015 during an engineering blockade. The obvious vegetation growth now hides the majority of the trains approaching Taunton. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

Taunton Station

THEN

GWR Castle No.7036 'Taunton Castle' arrives into Taunton on the 20th August 1960 with an express from Paddington. (Photo: Derek Slater).

THEN

BR Class 50 No.50037 storms through Taunton on the 25th June 1978. (Photo: Alan Randle)

NOW

HST powercars No.43138 & No.43035 pass through Taunton on the 9th February 2008 working the 0Z77 St Phillips Marsh - Laira stock positioning move. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

Small Prairie Tank No.4951 is pictured departs ing Taunton on the 31st August 1963 hauling the 09:45 Taunton - Yeovil stopping service (Photo: Russell Leitch)

THEN

Class 42 Warship D820 'Grenville' stands at Taunton ready to depart with the 1A59 Paignton - Paddington service (Photo: Roger Geach)

NOW

First Great Western HST powercar No.43186 waits to depart Taunton on the 23rd February 2013 with the 1A15 09:18 Paignton - Paddington operating via Bristol Temple Meads (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

On the 29th April 1972 BR two tone green Class 47 No.D1933 passes through the centre road at Taunton with a lengthy rake of clay slurry tanks in tow. The Class 47 went on to lead a long life, becoming 47255, 47596 & 47740 in its lifetime. The loco now enjoys retirement at 47596 based on the Mid Norfolk Railway and is currently painted in one of the Stratford Blue schemes.This image was located via Ebay. (Photo: Modern Image Slides)

THEN

Class 37 No.37521 passes Taunton on the 3rd April 1994 hauling 1Z37 Bristol Temple Meads to Calstock charter with Pathfinder Railtours charter. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

DRS Class 47 No.47712 & Class 57 No.57009 pass through Taunton on the 21st February 2011 hauling the 5Z50 Crewe - Sellafield Nuclear Flask. (Photo: Sam Felce)

THEN

On an unknown date Class 35 Hymek No.D7001 is pcitured at Taunton on a north bound parcels service (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection)

THEN

Trainload Coal liveried Class 60 No.60092 passes Tanton in June 1994 with the 6B19 Exeter City Basin to Cardiff Tidal Scrap train (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

66616 is seen working the 6M37 Moorswater - Earles empty cement tanks up through Taunton station on the 13th May 2004. Taken from the North end of Plat 5 at Taunton as the train returns to Earles Sidings in Derbyshire (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

On a wet day in 1988 British Rail HST No.253001 stands on the centre Platform at Taunton, passing a parcels train in the opposite platform. The use of the centre platform was limited during this time as it was officially closed (Photo: I T Langhorn)

THEN

Taken in July 1991 Two Intercity services are pictured at Taunton from the centre platform. The centre platform had been opened to allow passengers to disembark from the service. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

EWS liveried Class 66 No.66135 stands at Taunton on the rear of the 2D04 07:28 Taunton - Bristol Parkway stopping service for First Great Western. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

On the 12th February 1976 Class 52 Western No.D1072 'Western Glory' stands at Taunton Station with the 14:40 Penzance - Paddington service. (Photo: Paul Townsend)

THEN

Cotswold Rail Class 47/8 No.47813 was hired by First Great Western on the 25th January to haul the 1A40 Penzance - Paddington 'Sleeper' service. The train is pictured at Taunton in the early hours (Photo: Sam Felce)

NOW

Pictured on the 14th November 2006 FGW HST No.43133 & 43151 stand at Taunton with the evening 1A96 Penzance - Paddington service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

On an unknown date in the 1980's BR Blue liveried Class 33 No.33028 is pictured at Taunton having arrived with a stopping service from Bristol Temple Meads. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

NOW

On the 17th December 2009, Virgin Trains liveried Class 57/3 No.57303 stands at Taunton having arrived with the 2C89 19:00 Cardiff - Taunton service which was operated by GBRf at the time of this image. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

Taken on an unknown date in the 1990's mainline liveried Class 37 No.37222 is pictured stabled on the rear lines behind Platform 1 at Taunton. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

THEN

The remains of Taunton Shed is pictured in a partially dismantled state on the 1st September 2012. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

Pictured on the 21st November 2014, Colas Rail Tamper No. DR73921 is pictured stabled on the new stabling sidings behind Taunton Station. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

On an unknown date BR Large Logo Class 50 No.50044 'Exeter' is pictured arriving int Taunton on a south bound passenger service. Note the adjacent BR Class 101 DMU. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

The 21st July 2012 saw a Class 50 re-enter Devon for the first time in many years. In comparison to the adjacent photo the very same locomotive Class 50 No.50044 'Exeter' was used as part of the GBRf Staff Day out from Cardiff to Paignton. Once at Paignton the company provided a trip to Plymouth (via Newton Abbot) for 'pay on the day' Enthusiasts to enjoy, taking the Class 50 back over its former stomping ground. The charter raised over £4000 for charity and over £100 on the raffle during the day. Accompanying the train was GBRf's Class 66 No.66720 which is painted in the colourful (if somewhat garish) 'Night and Day' scheme. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

Taken on an unknown date in the 1980's a British Rail Class 47 is pictured at Taunton while working the Ince Fertilzer service. (Photo: Chris Perkins)

THEN

EWS liveried Class 66 No.66095 is pictured paused at Taunton on the 25th January 2006 with the 6B99 St Blazey to Cardiff Tidal scrap train. (Photo: Sam Felce).

NOW

Shot no longer possible due to fences erected at the ends of the station in line with the canopies by Network Rail/ First Great Western

THEN

In 1965 No.1028 'County of Warwick' is seen paused at Taunton station ready to head South. Another steam locomotive can also be seen on Taunton Shed behind. (Photo: Nick Hyberd)

NOW

17th August 2003 and almost the same scene is recreated at Taunton with 5051 'Earl Bathurst' working 'The Torbay Express' during a booked stop at Taunton. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

The 9th and 10th May saw both Vintage Trains and Pathfinder Railtours mark the 50th Anniversary of GWR Castle No.7029 'Clun Castle' reaching 96mph while descending Wellington Bank while itself hauling a charter commemorating the 60th anniversary of the, unofficial, 100mph run by GWR 3700 class 4-4-0 No. 3440 'City of Truro'. The above image shows GWR Castle No.7025 'Sudeley Castle' at Taunton with the Ian Allan tour on 9th May 1964 - 7025 had taken over the down leg at Taunton from Hall No.6999 which had itself replaced the failed GWR Castle No.4079 Pendennis Castle at Westbury, (Photo: Mike Pollard)

NOW

The above image shows No.5029 'Nunney Castle' passing Taunton on the 9th May 2014 and No.5043 'Earl of Mount Edgcumbe' passing Taunton on the 10th May. (Photo: Mike Pollard)

THEN

In comparison to the above image, this shot features No.7025 'Sudeley Castle' passing Taunton are speed with the return Ian Allen steam charter on the 9th May 1964. (Photo: Mike Pollard)

NOW

GWR Castle No.5043 'Earl of Mount Edgcumbe' passes the same location on the 10th May 2014 returning north. (Photo: Mike Pollard)

THEN

D804 is seen at Taunton in 1963 on a north bound passenger service to London Paddington. (Photo: Nick Kyberd)

NOW

Another of Colas Rail Freight's Class 70's visited Taunton on the 11th April with a driver training run from Westbury to Taunton. The loco reversed direction in Platform 3 at Taunton before returning to Westbury. No.70804 is pictured waiting for the adjacent Paddington bound First Great Western services to depart before following behind. (Photo: Paul Finnimore)

Then

In June 1964 Class 52 Western No.D1005 'Western Venturer' stands at Taunton with a southbound 1C45 down Cornish Riviera which formed the 10:30 from London Padddington to Penzance. This photo was supplied to Taunton Trains by Andrew French upon scanning his fathers collection, he came accross several from the Taunton area. (Photo: G S French)

Then

Pictureed in September 2002 Porterbrooks pioneer Class 57 No.57601 is seen at Taunton on a test run from Old Oak Common.The loco was to be used by First Great Western on its daytime passenger services. (Photo: Paul Finnimore)

Now

First Great Western Class 43 No.43145 stands at Taunton on the 31st July 2008 having arrived a terminating service from London Paddington. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

BR Blue Western No.D1016 'Western Gladiator' waits for the road at Taunton on the 15th March 1976. (Photo: Stephen Burdett)

THEN

BR Blue Class 33 No.33005 stands at Taunton in the snow on the 15th January 1987 light engine. (Photo: Darren Harris)

NOW

Freightliner Heavy Haul 'celebrity' Class 66/5 No.66522 passes Taunton light engine on the 10th November 2005, working crew training diagram. The 0Z27 from Westbury to Exeter. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

THEN

NOW

The left image was recently purchased from Ebay showing a simple station scene from Taunton without any trains in the image, however the scene was too good to let slip, the original photographer is untraceable but upon scanning it was noticed the slide carried the date 31st May 1969, and the clock on the station read 15:00.

So it seemed fitting that 48 years later at exactly 15:00 on the 31st May 2017, we would be able to repeat the same photo. It proves that Taunton has changed very little of the years in overall appearance. It's clear there's far more clutter and signage on the station now than back in the day, but the same core victorian features of the station still stand out. We would also like to extend our thanks to Paul Clarke who very kindly took time out of his day to make sure he was in position at 15:00 today to take this comparison image!

40 Steps, Taunton

THEN

BR Large Logo Class 50 No.50025 is seen passing 40 Steps in the 1980's. The impressive signal gantry was still in place, and BR ownership was very noticeable. (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

EWS liveried Class 67 No.67026 passes 40 Steps on the 25th September 2010 with the 1Z76 Kettering to Kingswear special charter service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

'The Cathedrals Express' visited Minehead on the 16th August 2014 with West Coast Railways providing locomotives and stock for the charter. Class 47/0 No.47237 lead the charter in both directions while Class 37/7 No.37706 was on the rear of the set. The 1Z47 0725 Southend East to Minehead is pictured passing 40 Steps, Taunton. (Photo; Jeff Treece)

BR Maroon Western No.D1065 'Western Consort' arrives into Taunton on the 14th August 1966 with the 1A62 Plymouth - Paddington service. (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection) *Originator unknown

BR Large Logo Class 47 No.47612 is pictured arriving at Taunton on the 26th July 1986 with a northbound passenger service formed of BR Blue and Grey Mk1 coaching stock. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

Cross Country HST No.43366 and No.43301 arrive int Taunton on the 6th November 2011 with a Plymouth - Gloucester service where road replacement services would then provide road transport to Birmingham. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

BR Hall No.4932 'Hatherton Hall' is pictured using the 'Taunton Avoider Line' with a lengthy mixed freight passing 40 Steps, Taunton in 1964. (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection)

THEN

BR Blue Class 46 No.46018 uses the Taunton Avoider between Taunton East and West yards on the 26th February 1977, hauling a rake of emtpy clay wagons. (Photo: Russell Watkins)

NOW

EWS liveried Class 66 No.66117 & No.66099 pass through 40 Steps on the Mainline on the 8th November 2014. The old avoider now completely removed and will become part of the Taunton NIDR road scheme. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

BR Blue Class 33 No.33027 'Earl Mountbatten of Burma' is seen on the Fairwater Head shunt (Ex Taunton avoider) on the 8th March 1988 seen shunting a large amount of engineering wagons from Fairwater Yard. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

THEN

18th July 2007, Freightliner Heavy Haul Class 66/6 No.66623 can be seen shunting the Network Rail HOBC from Fairwater Yard to form the 6Y11 departure to Lavington later that evening. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

THEN

This is an undated shot from around 1986 of a Class 45 piloting a possible failed Class 50 around the Taunton Station avoided. This line linked Taunton East Yard with Fairwater Yard which gave a way of routing freight away from Taunton Station without disrupting passenger train movements. (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

Freightliner Class 66/6 No.66616 is pictured shunting the Network Raill HOBC set on the 9th May 2013. Adjacent is the new alignment of the head shunt, which has been created to make way for the Taunton NIDR Road. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

NOW

THEN

29th April 1970 shows D7033 departing from Fairwater Yard using the 'Taunton Avoider' which swung behind Taunton Station, over Station Road and linked with Taunton East Yard. This rare photo is also dated by the vehicles in the foreground as well as the locomotive! (Photo: Bernard Mills)

THEN

This is the shot taken in 2007, 66611 is seen using the newly extended head shunt to Fairwater Yard, laid on the previous track bed of the old Taunton Avoider. The extensive tree growth shows how well maintained the vegetation used to be under BR (Photo: Jeff Treece)

NOW

With the Berks and Hants route closed for two weeks allowing Network Rail to carry out a series of drainage and flooding repairs, a large amount of engineering trains visited the Taunton area. On the 9th October, Colas Rail Freight provided this colorful movement moving locomotives back to Westbury from Exeter. Colas Class 70 No.70803 hauls Class 66/8's No.66850, 66848 & 66846 on the 11:00 Exeter Riverside - Westbury Yard via Bath. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

Freightliner Heavy Haul Class 666 No.66603 passes 40 Steps on the 13th March 2011 with the Network Rail HOBC set. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

Freightliner Heavy Haul Class 66/6 No.66603 stands in the same position on the 10th November 2013 as the main span of 40 Steps has now been removed (Photo: Jeff Treece)

Showing just how slow the Taunton NIDR project has been, although 40 Steps has been open for since 2014 the NIDR was still not open by the 15th May 2017. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

This was the view of the original 40 Steps taken on the 15th July 2012. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

This is the new '40 Steps' installed to replace the previous bridge taken on the 8th November 2014 (Photo: Brian Garrett)

BR Blue liveried Class 33 No.33203 passes with a lengthy rake of TT fuel tanks on an unknown date during the 1980's. (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection)

Class 37 No.37521 passes Taunton on the 3rd April 1994 hauling 1Z37 Bristol Temple Meads to Calstock charter with Pathfinder Railtours charter. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

Colas Rail Freight Class 57 No.56105 passes Staplegrove Road on the 9th July 2014 working the 05:35 Chirk - Teigngrace empty logs. Construction of the NIDR road will eventually open this photographic shot further. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

Fairwater Yard & Silk Mills

THEN

The view of Fairwater Yard in 1985 taken from the Staplegrove Road bridge. (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

Taken on the 11th January 2007, 66581 and 66551 can be seen in Fairwater Yard shunting wagons for the Network Rail South West Track renewal program (Photo: Jeff Treece)

NOW

Colas Rail Freight wasted no time in grabbing the headlines for the start of January 2014, when the company provided a pair of their refurbished Class 56's to haul a a single YJA DR78831 from Burton on Trent to Fairwater Yard. The YJA is part of the Network Rail Track Replacment Train. The TRT has been arriving in sections to be based back at Taunton for local track renewal work. With 6500HP on tap Class 56 No.56302 (fromerly 56124) & 56094 are pictured arriving into Taunton (where 40 Steps Bridge once stood!). (Photo: Jeff Treece)

THEN

A View taken in the 1980's at Silk Mills Crossing, At the time of this photo the Signal Box was still in place next to the crossing, The Austin Metro also dates the shot nicley (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

April 2007 the alignment of the old road can be seen, gated access still remains to allow Network Rail to load road/ rail vehicles during engineering works in the local area. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

Another view taken in the 1980's at Silk Mills with cars waiting for a train to pass by. Little did we know at this point how much this crossing area would change in 2005/2006. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

April 2007, The new road bridge can been seen on the left, the and alignment of the old Silk Mills Road has almost disappeared. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

31st July 1976, 47078 powers away from Taunton with 23:00 Stirling - Newton Abbot passenger service. It's seen passing the South end of Fairwater Yard about to cross Silk Mills road crossing heading south. (Photo: Chris Perkins)

NOW

The nearest equivalent image pictured Class 47/8 No.47853 and No.47847 on the 14th April 2007, working the 1Z41 Preston - Minehead charter.

THEN

Pictured on the 11th June 1970 Class 35 Hymek No.D7007 passes Silk Mills on the approach to Taunton. (Photo: Paul Clarke)

THEN

31st July 1976, 47088 approaches Silk Mills crossing with the 08:20 Plymouth - Leeds service. (Photo: Chris Perkins)

NOW

The nearest equivilent image pitcutes Class 66/6 No.66601 'The Hope Valley' on an engineering blockade at Silk Mills on the 4th February 2014. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

10th May 1975. Class 52 Western No.D1034 'Western Dragoon' passes Silk Mills with a Penzance - Cardiff service. Note the Silk Mills Signal Box on the right. (Photo: Chris Perkins)

NOW

26th March 2005, This is the equivalent shot taken when the Silk Mills bridge was in construction. On April the 2nd the bridge, lifted into place over the tracks. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

Norton Fitzwarren

THEN

A Fleet of brand new ERF Lorry Tractor Units sit in number order at Taunton Cider works in 1991. Loaded wagons can be seen in the adjacent sidings ready for dispatch (Photo: Dave Jones).

THEN

This image was taken on the 11th August 2007 with the last remains of Taunton Cider still in place, the link track into the works was still in place at this point. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

4th September 2016, First Great Western liveried HST set No.43133 and No.43018 pass the former Taunton Cider complex working the 1C05 07:57 London Paddington to Penzance service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

25th June 1983 a BR Blue HST passes Norton Fitzwarren heading south having just departed Taunton. (Photo: Paul Clarke)

NOW

4th September 2016, a First Great Western (GWR) liveried HST passes Norton Fizwarren working the 1C01 07:57 London Paddington to Penzance service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

11th August 2007, clearance of the former Taunton Cider site, with the former rail link into the plant still in place. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

4th September 2016, the former Taunton Cider Works now mid way through construction having been turned into town housing the former cider works now gone. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

13th May 2017 building work continues on the former Taunton Cider site at Norton Fitzwarren. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

Railfreight Construction Class 56 No.56056 passes through Norton Fitzwarren light engine during September 1993. Note the Mercedes Unimog which was used by Taunton Cider to move wagons within the complex. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

EWS liveried Class 67 No.67025 passes Norton Fitzwarren on the 18th July 2006 (Photo: Mike Rowland)

THEN

Civil Engineers Liveried Class 37/1 No.37174 passes Norton Fitzwarren during September 1991 with HST powercar transfer move to Laira Depot. (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

16th September 2005, 66091 passes Norton Fitzwarren with the 6V62 Fawley - Tavistock Jn Fuel. Note the derelict site from the Ex Taunton Cider factory. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

LNER A1 Pacific No.60163 'Tornado' powers away from Taunton on the 9th March 2013 with the 1Z60 Paddington - Plymouth charter. Note the height of the undergrowth compared to the first image taken in 1991. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

37185-18-09-93-WALSALL-MINEHEAD-THE SILVER JUBILEE-NORTON-DJ

THEN

47847-47839-10-03-07-0Z48-BL-DERBY-NORTON

NOW

THEN

In September 1996, an Intercity HST leaves the West Somerset Railway at Norton Fitzwarren having visited on an excursion. Ordinarily HST's would never venture onto the line in normal operational service. (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

The 24th December 2009, saw 66844 attached to the rear of the 5Z57 15:38 Bishops Lydeard - Eastleigh stock move. This gave the opportunity to duplicate the shot as a comparison some 13 years later than the original. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

13th May 2017 GWR liveried HST No.43093 leads the GWR 'Somerset Explorer' emtpy coaching stock move through Norton Fitzwarren operating the 14:30 from Taunton to Bishops Lydeard. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

The 28th May 1984 saw another rare Class 40 foray into the South West, L.L.S./ T & N Railtours operated 'The Devonian' utilizing a pair of Class 40's. No.40057 and No.40135 make a rare appearance heading South at Taunton storming past Norton Fitzwarren complete with 'The Devonian' headboard (Photo: Paul Clarke)

THEN

1st November 2006, Network Rail contractors began to clear vegetation growth ahead of track renewal and the impending housing development, following the closure of the Taunton Cider site many years before. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

NOW

It's certainly rare to have a Sunday evening freight working in the Taunton area, perhaps even rarer for it to be formed of a Mendip Rail Class 59. On the 11th August 2013, No.59101 'Village of Whatley' hauled the 7Z26 Westbury - Burngullow (formed of empty hoppers) through Taunton. It's seen passing Norton Fitzwarren in the evening light. The train was booked to load with aggregate at Burngullow before returning to Westbury on the evening of the 12th. (Photo: Quentin Hawkes)

THEN

6th April 1994, Hunslet Barclay Class 20's pass through Norton Fitzwarren with the Weedkiller Train formed of Class 20 No.20904 leading and No.20901 on the rear. (Photo: Jeff Treece)

THEN

1st November 2006, Network Rail contractors begin to clear vegetation growth ahead of track renewal and the impending housing development, following the closure of the Taunton Cider site. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

NOW

Saturday 13th August 2016 provided the first ever visit of LMS Jubilee No.45699 'Galatea' to Taunton. The locomotive was used by The Railway Touring Company on their 'West Somerset Express' charter to Minehead from London Paddington. The locomotive arrived onto the West Somerset Railway at Norton Fitzwarren at 12:40 with the 1Z46 08:08 from London Paddington. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

BR Blue Class 37 No.37131 passes Norton Fitzwarren in 1990 returning from Exmouth Junction with empty coal wagons. (Photo: Dave Jones)

Mainline liveried Class 37 No.37055 leads a UID Class 37 through Norton Fitzwarren during June 1996. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

Thursday 28th January 2016 saw a bright and breeze winters morning dawn on the Taunton area. The conditions provided an excellent opportunity to capture the pair of Direct Rail Services Class 37's return from Keyham minus their flask wagon. Ex Works Class 37/0 No.37069 with No.37609 double head back through Norton Fitzwarren with the 5Z40 08:20 Keyham - Crewe move conveying the two DRS barrier/ crew vehicles Mk2a BSO 9419 andMk2a BSO 9428. (Photo: Sclub)

50017 'Royal Oak' passes Norton Fitzwarren on the 2nd April 1981 with a mixed rake of Railfreight wagons heading North. (Photo: Alan Randle)

Civil Engineers 'Dutch' liveried Class 37/10 No.37010 passes Norton Fitzwarren on the 2nd May 1993 with a small ballast train from Meldon to Westbury (Photo: Jeff Treece)

BISHOPS LYDEARD

THEN

NOW

We are always on the look out of comparison photos to add to our 'Then and Now' gallery, during June a complete conincidence occoured. We had purcashed a 35mm slide from Ebay a couple of years ago which got added into a folder but not scanned, recently while looking for some other images we came across this image of BR Green Western No.D1010 'Western Campaigner' at Bishops Lydeard (at the time it was operating as D1035 'Western Yeoman'). The image was taken in 1992 by an unknown photographer. Keeping in mind this image was purchased from a random photogrpaher, on the internet and then stored in a folder for nearly two years, imagine our shock upon scanning this image in to find welll known Taunton Trains contributor and Rail Enthusiast Phil Izzard was captured at Bishops Lydeard looking over his shoulder. It was too much of a coincidence not to try and recreate. It just so happened that D1010 'Western Campaigner' would be operating the Maybach Memories services the following weekend. So on the 25th June 2017 some 25 years after the first image was taken, we were able to recreate the same image at Bishoops Lydeard Station, posed in the same position for the comparison shot. (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection/ Brian Garrett

VICTORY CROSSING

THEN

A unidentified split headcode Class 45 passes over Victory Crossing on an unknown date and working. (Photo: Taunton Trains Collection)

THEN

EWS liveried Class 37 No.37669 passes Victory Crossing during July 1998 with the 6M72 St Blazey - Newport ADJ 'Enterprise' service. (Photo: Dave Jones)

NOW

GBRF Class 66/7 No.66715 passes Victory Crossing on the 9th June 2006, operating the 5Z98 Laira - Illford stock move. (Photo: Jon Gill)

EAST NYNEHEAD (POOLE)

BR Blue liveried Class 46 No.46039 storms through East Nynehead (Poole) on the 30th July 1981 heading south with a passenger service into Devon. (Photo: Russell Watkins)

BR Large Logo Class 37 No.37425 passes Freightliner Class 66 No.66581 on the 11th May 2006 while working the 6Z11 Cardiff Tidal - Exeter Riverside, conveying wagons for long term storage. (Photo: Dave Jones)

Taken on the 18th May 20014, Freightliner Class 66/6 No.66614 and No.66602 pass East Nynehead working light engine from Exeter Riverside. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

WHITEBALL

On the 1st August 2006 66132 passes Beam Bridge with the late running 6V41 Irvine - Burngullow 'Silver Bullets' with bushes clearly blocking the photo. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

On the 6th January 2009, the extensive clearance work carried out by Network Rail can clearly be seen as 66194 passes with the 6C51 Westury - Meldon (Photo: Steve Yarde)

On the 16th October 2014 Colas Rail Freight's Class 56 No.56094 climbs through Beambridge with the 6Z52 Chirk - Teigngrace empties heading to Devon for loading (Photo: Adam Snow)

THEN

14th August 2004, 220004+221124 (Out of Sight) are seen heading out of Whiteball Tunnel working a 1Z74 Penzance - Glasgow service for Virgin Trains (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

9th July 2005, 220010+221140 work a North bound Virgin Trains service a year later. A vegetation clearance scheme by Network Rail now allows Whiteball Tunnel to be seen (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

EWS liveried Class 67 No.67024 leads the 1Z69 Plymouth - Taunton VSOE out of Whiteball Tunnel on the 12th April 2008 (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

14th August 2004. A GNER HST on Hire to Virgin Trains formed of 43114 and 43006 is seen heading North at speed through Marlands with a Summer Saturday 1E34 Newquay - Edinburgh service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

9th July 2005, A GNER HST on Hire to Virgin Trains formed of 43107+43108 is seen working 1E33 Paignton - Newcastle service North through Marlands. Note the cutting back allowing a much improved photo! (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

First Great Western HST No.43133 descends Whiteball at Marlands on the 29th June 2013, working the 1A76 06:55 Plymouth - Paddington service. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

4th June 2004, 66190 is seen climbing to Whiteball Tunnel passing Beam Bridge with the evening 6V70 Cliffe Vale - St Blazey. Vegitation was such only the loco could be included in this shot. (Photo: Mike Rowland)

NOW

5th May 2006, 66047 is seen climbing to Whiteball Tunnel at Beam Bridge with the 6V62 Fawley - Tavistock Jn fuel. Note the Vegetation Clearance completed by Network Rail opening up the shot to include the whole train (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

30th May 2005, EWS liveried No.66187 works the 6O92 Exeter Riverside - Dollands Moor up to Whiteball Tunnel. Note the tree growth on the left forcing a more head on shot (Photo: Brian Garrett)

NOW

EWS liveried Class 67 No.67030 leads the 1Z27 Plymouth - Taunton VSOE up Whiteball Bank on the 25th April 2009. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

NOW

BR Blue Class 47s No.47075 and No.47047 climbe Whiteball on the 18th April 1979 with a rake of polybulk china clay wagons. No.47047 was later renumbered to No.47569 and then No.47727 (It is still in service with Colas Rail Freight), No.47075 became 47645 and was cut up in 1992. (Photo: Late Kieth Holt, with thanks to Alistair, KDH Archive)

Taken during September 1996 RFD Class 47's No.47287 leads 47XXX up to Whiteball Tunnel from Exeter with the 6O92 10:30 Exeter Riverside - Dollands Moor (Photo: Dave Jones)

Colas Rail Freight Class 66 No.66846 climbs to Whiteball Tunnel on the 10th February 2014 while working the 10:55 Exeter Riverside to Westbury engineers. (Photo: Peter Slater)

BR Blue Class 31 No.31128 climbs Whiteball on the 18th April 1979 with a mixed freight in tow, included several British Rail Vans being delivered to the Western Reigon. (Photo: Late Kieth Holt, with thanks to Alistair, KDH Archive)

Having spent the weekend stabled at Taunton, DCR's Class 31 No.31190 made a rare foray into into Cornwall on the 9th December 2013 to collect the Network Rail 'Swedish Rail Vac' from Par. The loco then returned the mobile industrial hoover from Par to Eastleigh, despite running nearly 90 minutes early the loco was held in Tiverton Loop until its booked departure time, before heading north. (Photo: Brian Garrett)

THEN

September 1996, Dutch Class 37 No.37254 leads Ex Works No.37416 over Whiteball and descends towards Tiverton on a small engineers train including Ex Works wagons (Photo: Dave Jones)

THEN

30th May 2005, EWS liveried Class 67 No. 67019 works a special charter service for Ex Rover Plant workers in Birmingham. The charter was ran for several days as the 1Z97 Longbridge - Paignton (Photo: Brian Garrett)