Dennis Lance's photo galleries http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/ 32 rows en-gb 60 Bristol Vintage Bus Group - 6th vintage bus rally & running day http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1741560.html Based at the Brislington Park and Ride, the BVBG rally and running day was held in fantastic weather and provided opportunities to see and travel on a selection of old buses. Sunday 9 August 2009: Based at the Brislington Park and Ride, the BVBG rally and running day was held in fantastic weather and provided opportunities to see and travel on a selection of old buses.

1949 vintage RTW 29, KGK 329 seen at Flowers Hill depot in Brislington Flowers Hill depot, Brislington, with 1945 Bristol K type FTT 704, the ECW low height body was fitted in 1955. This has been in preservation longer than it was in service! International VRs (well, nearly!); North Wales retiree BMA 520W meets 69788 ex Channel Islands? no welcome aboard here - retired bus awaits it's fate in a bus scrapyard ex Motherwell Mercedes 709D slowly rots in the Abus yard at Bristol, August 2009 luckily, this unidentified Bristol VR carried a donor card, it's engine probably being transplanted to a living example. Daniel O'Donnell looks apprehensive sitting in a Bristol bus scrapyard. B895 UAS, ex Highland Omnibus Alexander bodied Leyland Olympain soaks up the sun in it's retirement. B895 UAS cab, August 2009 UID foreigner residing with Abus of Bristol 1940 Bristol K5G GHT 154 carries Bristol Tramways colours and an advert making a dubious claim about Typhoo tea. Bus luggage racks seen outside a Bristol bus garage A leafy scene just yards away from Bristol Temple Meads station. Bristol VR lineup at the Brislington running day August 9 2009. Nearest the camera is XHK 221X, repainted by Abus into BCV centenary livery in March 2008. Another Abus vehicle featured at Brislington Park and Ride, OAE 954M, one of the very few active Bristol RE's left in service. VAE 499T in attractive City of Gloucester livery soaks up the summer sun at Brislington Park and Ride, on display during the 6th BVBG bus rally. The wide open expanses of Brislington Park and Ride allows plenty of room between exhibits, although on a wet and windy day is not so pleasant! Plaxton Paramount bodied Leyland Tiger FRU 675Y does little to add colour to the new bus station at Bath, visiting the city on 9th August 2009, running from a bus rally in Brislington. Seeing double at the Brislington bus rally, August 2009. Nearest the camera is OFV 621X, a 1982 vintage Leyland National 2. preserved Stockwood Faresaver liveried Abus VR EWS 739W at Bristol Park and Ride, August 2009. recently preserved MK1 Big Orange Metrobus SND 120X put in an appearance at the Brislington bus rally, 9th August 2009. 1950 built Bristol L5G halfcab KFM 7667 and JFM 575 gleam in the summer sun bestowed on the Brislington bus rally in August 2009 ex Shamrock Travel Veolia AIG 6554 looking slightly out of place at a vintage bus rally! HWO 323, one of 15 Leyland PS1 built by Lydney Coaches in 1950. ex Trent National 1 JHW 103P adds a splash of colour to the BVBG rally at Brislington, August 2009 Bristol RE's under blue sky.

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]]> Sun Aug 9 2009 Penzance railtours http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1719682.html Two railtours visited Penzance on 27th June 2009 for the Mazey day festivities, both originally scheduled for pairs of 37's. However, the Pathfinder tour saw 40145 called to action instead.... Saturday 27 June 2009: Two railtours visited Penzance on 27th June 2009 for the Mazey day festivities, both originally scheduled for pairs of 37's. However, the Pathfinder tour saw 40145 called to action instead....

record shot of 37401 leading Pathfinders Cornish Explorer railtour into Warminster on a misty June morning 1965 built 37401(originally D6968) heads the 'Cornish Explorer' into Warminster, 27th June 2009. This loco has seen over 220600 miles of passenger service! Rusty signal post at Westbury Westbury signals W102 and W402, June 2009 DRS 37194 and 37087 at Penzance having run around the stock of Spitfire's Kernow Growler railtour. UID FGW HST passes Long Rock depot at Penzance, 27th June 2009 DRS locos taking a wash at Long Rock depot along with stock from the Kernow Growler railtour 1962 built 37087 Split headcode 37087 with 37194 on shed at Penzance, June 2009. Despite both being over 45 years old, they have hauled less than forty thousand passenger miles between them. Long Rock depot viewed from the eastern end, June 2009 The Kernow Growler railtour departs Penzance, 27th June 2009 Not the normal class 40 associated with Penzance... UID Cross Country HST passes Long Rock depot as it approaches Penzance, June 2009.

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]]> Sat Jun 27 2009 Weymouth 20_06_09 http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1716229.html Usual Saturday trip to Weymouth and Portland.... Saturday 20 June 2009: Usual Saturday trip to Weymouth and Portland....

Shamrock Volvo Olympian OFV 14X (re-registered 3/4/09 from G645 BHP) lines up beside the open top 501 at Portland Bill A double decker for every occasion at Portland Bill - luxury travel, cram em in for school and open top for the 'harbour lights' A full range of facilities is available at Portland Bill... Bristol VR interior; MOD 571P soldiers on performing daily on the 501 route End of the line at Weymouth Quay; the view from the old station platform showing the truncated run around loop. Weymouth Quay station, 2009. Condor ferry terminal at Weymouth. The rusty tracks of the quay branch, not having seen a train for the best part of a decade, are now owned by the local council.

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]]> Sat Jun 20 2009 West Somerset Railway mixed traffic gala 2009 http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1714286.html The 2009 mixed traffic bash featured a variety of great traction with an emhasis on Maybach power plus the added attraction of Tornado. Visited on the Friday with the majority of the day bashing so just a few platform shots for the record. Friday 12 June 2009: The 2009 mixed traffic bash featured a variety of great traction with an emhasis on Maybach power plus the added attraction of Tornado. Visited on the Friday with the majority of the day bashing so just a few platform shots for the record.

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]]> Fri Jun 12 2009 Bristol Harbourside bus running day + other bits http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1701874.html The main feature of this collection is the 2009 Bristol Harbourside bus running day; great selection of vehicles although the weather was a bit variable. Also, record shots from the Conwy Valley Explorer and Cornish Parker Railtours. Sunday 17 May 2009: The main feature of this collection is the 2009 Bristol Harbourside bus running day; great selection of vehicles although the weather was a bit variable. Also, record shots from the Conwy Valley Explorer and Cornish Parker Railtours.

66186 at Bristol Parkway heading Pathfinders Conwy Valley Explorer tour, 4th May 2009 175011 escaping Llandudno Junction. The current station of that name was opened in October 1897, replacing a much smaller one about haf a mile to the west. Cheery bank holiday scene at Blaenau Ffestiniog on May 4th 2009 with 66186 heading Pathfinders Conwy Valley Explorer railtour. 37401 at Bristol Temple meads heading the Cornish Parker railtour, 16th May 2009 37670 on the Cornish Parker railtour. Heading back to it's former home for the day. Cornish Parker railtour at Bristol Temple meads. Clay loading point somewhere on the Parkandilack branch. Although clay trains do still operate, their frequency is very much reduced and much of the associated infrastructure is now redundant. Interest at Par, 16th May 2009 - the Cornish Parker railtour returning EE sounds to the clay branch. Looking east from the platform at Par sees 37670 about to head off to St Blazey with the Cornish Parker railtour stock. Railway heritage at Par, May 2009. Semaphore signals, English Electric traction and Mk IIs. FGW HST pulling into Par, May 2009. The line up of photters are awaiting a railtour, I expect the turnout will be much greater on the day of the final HST run! 17th May saw HSTs stopping at Lawrence Hill due to engineering work. The station was orginally opened in 1863 and expanded over the years to quadruple track before subsequently declining in the latter half of the 20th century. HST at Lawrence Hill, May 2009 Bristol LH AFB 952V at Sea Mills, May 17th 2009. Bristol Olympian A954 SAE, the last built Bristol bus poses at Sea Mills during the Bristol Harbourside bus 2009 running day. YHT 802J, 1970 ex Bath RESL6L; the RESL was a shorter version of the RE chassis. This example survived in service until 1991 with Lane of Tredegar.

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]]> Sun May 17 2009 Quantock Motor Services running day http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1692147.html Quantock Motor Services held their third running weekend around Minehead on 2/3 May 2009 featuring good running through some glorious countryside. As ever, big thanks to all who contributed to an enjoyable day out. Saturday 2 May 2009: Quantock Motor Services held their third running weekend around Minehead on 2/3 May 2009 featuring good running through some glorious countryside. As ever, big thanks to all who contributed to an enjoyable day out.

Minehead and the surrounding area played host to Quantock Motor Services running days on May 2nd and 3rd 2009. ex Hants & Dorset Bristol FLF DEL 893C stands at Doverhay (Porlock) 'The Inspector' at Minehead keeping an eye on things during the QMS running day at Minehead over the May bank holiday weekend. A big thanks must go to all the people involved in running events like this; without them, many weekends would be much duller! Quantock Motor Services Northern Counties Paladin bodied Dennis Dart N611 WND descends into Doverhay 2/5/09 rebodied as a lowbridge bus, WAL 782, ex Barton Leyland PS1 at Doverhay, May 2009. Willowbrook bodied Leyland PS1 on Minehead seafront during the 2009 Quantock Motor Services running day six decades worth of buses captured on Minehead seafront.

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]]> Sat May 2 2009 North Somerset Coaches 40th anniversary specials http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1687967.html This event was held to celebrate the 40th anniversary of North Somerset Coaches. Based in Nailsea, a great day of running through the lovely Somerset countryside was had. As always, big thanks to all who made it possible. Saturday 25 April 2009: This event was held to celebrate the 40th anniversary of North Somerset Coaches. Based in Nailsea, a great day of running through the lovely Somerset countryside was had. As always, big thanks to all who made it possible.

Nailsea provided the centre of operations for the North Somerset Coaches 40th birthday bash with two circular routes being operated plus excursions to Yatton(!) and running to Clevedon. One of the attractions was Southern National liveried Bristol VR AFJ 766T. 1979 built Bristol VRTSL3 AFJ 766T with the classic ECW body stands by the seafront at Clevedon. What a gret tree growing out the top! Bristol LH AFB 592V, the LH referring to light, horizontal engined, produced from 1967 to 1981. Many were of these small buses were withdrawn after a relatively short period in service to make way for deregulation minbuses. At the North Somerset Coaches 40th anniversary running day, ex Bath Bristol Lodekka 969 EHW,new in1965 raises an admiring glance from a young passer-by. LHT 911 ex Bristol Tramways Bristol L5G; another fine product to originate from the Bath Road works LHT 911 was originally built in 1948 with an ECW body but rebuilt in 1955 with the current Bristol body. Pictured at Clevedon, 25th April 2009 Vintage bus running day regular Bristol L5G is pictured in the scenic centre of Nailsea during the North Somerset Coaches 40th anniversary running day in April 2009. ex Bristol city centre circular regular 924 AHY is an example of a Bristol MW5G with ECW bodywork. Pictured at Nailsea on 25th April 2009 is Plaxton Verde bodied Dennis Lance L126 TFB. Over half of the Lances built were supplied with this body, this example being one of 63 ordered by Badgerline in 1993

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]]> Sat Apr 25 2009 openBVE bricks http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1614899.html An afternoon brick spotting on my local lines yielded these class 153s. Saturday 22 November 2008: An afternoon brick spotting on my local lines yielded these class 153s.

openBVE external view Delia Smith for openBVE Regional Railways variant featuring interior detail Illuminated 153 interior (still WIP, luggage racks required)

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]]> Sat Nov 22 2008 Warminster vintage bus running day 2008; a few more! http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1595194.html A few more shots from the 2008 running day! Sunday 12 October 2008: A few more shots from the 2008 running day!

AEC Regal 4, MXX 8, evoking memories of years gone by pauses outside Castle Place at Trowbridge en route to the 2008 Warminster vintage bus running day. KLJ 749, Bristol L type in the early morning mist at Warminster. Recently repainted out of the distinctive Badgerline livery, Bristol RELL DAE 511K waits time at Kingston Deverill during the 2008 Warminster VBRD. Now in a more traditional livery, DAE 511K forms the focal point of this traditional English 'village green' scene at Horningsham during the 2008 Warminster bus running day. Adding a splash of colour to the streets of Shrewton is Hants and Dorset NBC red Bristol VRTSL UFX 858S. New to this operator in 1977, later moving to Southern Vectis before being preserved in 2006. Contrasting with the traditional liveries on display at Warminster was this dreadful incarnation of the latest Wilts & Dorset livery seen at Amesbury bus station. Frome station, pretty in pink, the low late autumn sunshine bringing out the best of this GWR inspired colour scheme. interor shot of the lower saloon of Routemaster RML2735 (SMK 735F). The comfort levels of this bus exceed many more modern designs and it's easy to see why these remained in capital service for so long. As the 2008 Warminster vintage bus running day draws to a sucessful conclusion, the shadows lengthen and everyone gets ready to head home.

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]]> Sun Oct 12 2008 Warminster vintage bus running day 2008; the front 3/4 collection! http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1595180.html Billed as a midi event and featuring 19 vehicles, the 2008 event was held in glorious autumnal sunshine after some early fog. As always, gratitude to the organisers, owners and everyone else involved in making the day truly enjoyable. Sunday 12 October 2008: Billed as a midi event and featuring 19 vehicles, the 2008 event was held in glorious autumnal sunshine after some early fog. As always, gratitude to the organisers, owners and everyone else involved in making the day truly enjoyable.

A foggy October morning sees the unusual sight of a 1950's London bus in Trowbridge town centre. Originally ordered for Western National, Bristol RE DAE 511K was delivered new to Bristol Omnibus in 1972. After spending a number of years in Badgerline livery, it looks more at home in the countryside after it's recent repaint into the more traditional Tilling style dual purpose green and cream livery. KEL 405, Hants and Dorset liveried Bristol LL6B looking at home in the Wiltshire countryside at Kingston Deverill. Contrasting design philosophies at Mere - a triumph of function over form? A pair of Bristol REs pictured in Warminster during the 2008 vintage bus running day, recreating bus services of the 50s, 60s and 70s in the area. The RE was first introduced in 1962 with 4629 chassis being produced up to 1983, most with Eastern Coachworks bodies. Originally concieved in the mid 60's for urban one man operation, the National was jointly developed by NBC and Leyland and came to dominate many fleets from the mid 70's. This example was new to Thames Valley and Aldershot (later Alder Valley) in 1973. As usual, Bristol vehicles dominated proceedings during the 2008 Warminster vintage bus running day; UFX 858S adding colour to Shrewton. With the first prototypes being shown in 1966, the Bristol VR remains in revenue earning service, albeit in ever dwindling numbers, over four decades later, destined to outlast all of it's contempories. XHK 221X commemerates the centenery of the Bristol Tramway and Carriage company.

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]]> Sun Oct 12 2008 Great Yarmouth http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1590446.html Final run of the summer Saturday class 47 drags to Great Yarmouth, one of the very few remaining sheduled services to use class British diesel locomotives. Saturday 27 September 2008: Final run of the summer Saturday class 47 drags to Great Yarmouth, one of the very few remaining sheduled services to use class British diesel locomotives.

90014 'Norfolk and Norwich festival' makes it's only visit of the year to Great Yarmouth on 27th September 2008 class 90 90014 carries the name Norfolk and Norwich festival, previously carried by 86232. The events principle sponsor is National Express and offers a wide range of artistic events in the area. formerly Yarmouth Vauxhall, Great Yarmouth is now the only remaining station in the town. The other two were Yarmouth Beach (closed 1959) and Yarmouth South (closed 1970). 90014 about to be pulled up the Wherry Line to Norwich on the last day of the 2008 spoon drags. 47818 at Great Yarmouth, 27/9/08. The area to the right of the picture used to be part of the goods yard but now, as with many others, is the site of a superstore. 47818 'Emily' waits time at Great Yarmouth before heading back to Norwich with empty stock from the final 2008 summer Saturday drag. Yarmouth Vaux signalbox, September 2008.

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]]> Sat Sep 27 2008 The Chester explorer and other odd bits http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1578874.html Some buses in Weymouth, a couple from Suffolk and the Chester Explorer tour. Saturday 13 September 2008: Some buses in Weymouth, a couple from Suffolk and the Chester Explorer tour.

Still going strong in Weymouth after 26 years of public service is ex Bristol Roe bodied Olympian JHU 909X Volvo B6BLE V803 EFB with Red Line 1 branding is seen at Weymouth, outside Debenhams, on a sunny August 2008 afternoon. Caetano Nimbus bodied Dennis Dart SLF W809 VMA has travelled widely before ending up at Weymouth, previously working on Merseyside, the West Midlands and Bristol. Lifting bridge at Weymouth A visit was made to Suffolk on 3/9. 90041 leads 86627 through Ipswich. 66572 comes off the Felixstowe loop at Trimley with a well loaded train of containers. User worked crossing at Trimley on the Felixstowe branch. 66580 heads towards Ipswich. This was one of a batch of eight delivered in March 2005. 153314 scuttles towards Trimley, Septmeber 2008 With National Express branding in the white stripe, 90001 enters Ipswich with a London bound service, 3/9/08. 158958 sits in the sidings at Westbury on a misty September morning. The sight of class 59's at Trowbridge is common, but not on passenger duties. 59005 and 59104 lead the Chester Explorer pathfinder railtour out of the county town. 59005 at Crewe, having lead the Chester Explorer Pathfinder Railtour from Cranmore. 13th September 2008 saw class 59 power at Crewe having arrived from the Mendips with a Pathfinder tour. Virgin Trains thunderbird 57304 lurks in the gloom at Crewe, 13/9/08. Making a change from the normal GM fare at Crewe on 13/9/08 was Mendip based 59104, Village of Great Elm which worked a Pathfinder tour to the town.

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]]> Sat Sep 13 2008 Norwich - Great Yarmouth http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1567313.html The annual visit to Great Yarmouth for a spot of main line 47 action. Saturday 23 August 2008: The annual visit to Great Yarmouth for a spot of main line 47 action.

47818 was providing the days entertainment on the Norwich - Great Yarmouth drags. This loco was new in December 1965 as D1917. Cotswold rail 47818 'Emily' carrying debranded One Anglia livery at Norwich, 23/8/08. 47501 with DRS 'Compass' livery at Norwich, August 2008. This was renamed 'Crafsman' at the recent DRS Crewe (Gresty Bridge) open day, a name first applied in 1987. DVT 82139 approaching Norwich, no longer carrying a paint chart and with National Express branding in the white stripe. First class comfort NXEA style Causing delays was this incident near Brundall where the park rangers managed to demolish a crossing gate. Bi-directional warning sign on the approach to Great Yarmouth. 47818 'Emily' at Great Yarmouth heading up a summer service from London. The need for such services remains with good loadings seen on both runs of the day. Interest being taken in 90005 'Vice admiral Lord Nelson' in NXEA branded 'One' livery. August 2008; 158773 carries reminders of two former operators as it arrives at Norwich Late summer of 2008 provides a huge variety of unit liveries in East Anglia, including 156402 sporting 'Love shopping. Love Chapelfield'. This message was completely lost on the gallery awaiting the next drag. The new 'professional' windscreen cleaning buckets deployed at Norwich supplement the older unbranded equipment deployed mid platform. Another view of 47501 in Direct Rail Service livery. 170271 retains full Anglia Railways branding in August 2008. The disused carriage sidings at Great Yarmouth (Vauxhall) have been put up for sale having been surplus to requirements for many years. An attempt was made to sell these in 2000 but it was in use at the time for loading fertiliser trains. 47818 'Emily' at Great Yarmouth, August 2008. Making a change from my previous visits, the dragged stock was using platform 3 resulting in new line being bashed!! 47818 'Emily' bearing the scars from removal of the 'one' paint chart is pictured against the buffers at Great Yarmouth. NXEA won the 'best stick in a pot' award in the 2008 Britain in bloom contest for this prize specimen at Great Yarmouth.

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]]> Sat Aug 23 2008 The Rodwell Trail http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1559068.html The Rodwell trail, opened in 2000, gives access to a stretch of the former Weymouth and Portland Railway. Thanks to the efforts of the 'friends', a pleasant and educational stroll can be taken from Weymouth onto the island of Portland. Saturday 2 August 2008: The Rodwell trail, opened in 2000, gives access to a stretch of the former Weymouth and Portland Railway. Thanks to the efforts of the 'friends', a pleasant and educational stroll can be taken from Weymouth onto the island of Portland.

The Rodwell trail follows the line of the Weymouth and Portland Railway for two and a quarter miles between the Ferrybridge and Abbotsbury Road, Weymouth. The trail was formally opened in 2000 and is is enhanced by an active 'friends of' group. Starting The Rodwell Trail at the Ferrybridge, easily reached by buses on routes 1 or 501, views across Portland Harbour can be had. Perhaps not as interesting as when the Naval base was active! The Rodwell Trail looking towards Wyke Regis Halt. The route is very popular with cyclists and dog walkers, so the normal hazards of dog pooh and inconsiderate cyclists abound! In 1891 Robert Whitehead, the inventor of the deadly underwater torpedo, built his Whitehead Torpedo Manufactury at Ferrybridge. The factory was demolished in 1997 to make way for housing. This shot shows the underwater tracks used for torpedo test launching. In 1862 the new Weymouth and Portland Railway Company announced plans for a public railway to Portland. Progress was rapid, and by May 1863 piles were being driven for a viaduct across Smallmouth, parallel to the road bridge. The first train journey to the Island took place on the 25th May 1864, and the first scheduled service was on 9th October 1865. By 1950 the passenger trains to Portland were losing money, as more and more people preferred to use the bus service. The decision was eventually taken to end passenger trains to Portland. The last passenger train ran across Ferrybridge on the 1st March 1952, although goods trains ran on for another 13 years. Part of the route of the old railway now forms 'The Rodwell Trail'. the remains of Wyke Regis Halt. The platform was reconstructed in 1946 after originally opening in 1909. Wyke Regis Halt was built primarily to serve the Whitehead torpredo factory. Around Wyke Regis, the Rodwell trail actually follows the route of an adjacent military road rather than the railway trackbed. There are plenty of wild flowers to admire along the Rodwell Trail the ruins of Sandsfoot Castle. The castle was completed in 1539 to guard the sea lanes between Wymouth and Portland. Some of the stone possibly came from Bindon Abbey, near Wool, following Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries earlier in the year. The remains are now unsafe due to erosion by the sea. View from the Rodwell Trail over Sandsfoot Bay. The Weymouth and Portland Railway was jointly operated by the GWR and LSWR Sandsfoot Bay with the ruined Tudor castle and Portland Harbour breakwater in the background. Remains of Sandsfoot Castle Halt on the Rodwell Trail. The trail can easily be walked in about an hour and refreshments may be found just off the trail here. Opened in July 1909, it was part of a scheme that saw several halts opened on the GWR and other railways to counter road competition. Services were provided by Railmotors until closure of the line to passenger services in 1952. Road overbridge near Rodwell Rodwell Station, August 2008. Originally opened in June 1870 with a single platform, a passing loop was later added. The main station buildings at Rodwell were destroyed by bombing on 15th April 1941 Brick built platform at the long closed Rodwell station on the Weymouth and Portland line. The track was removed from this location in 1970. Looking towards the 58 yard long Rodwell tunnel Formation of the old Weymouth and Portland railway - the bridge over Newstead Road being removed many years ago. Lottery funding is being sought to provide a bridge at this location. Westham Halt in 2008 - the former Weymouth and Prtland trackbed is lost from this halt towards Melcombe Regis and Weymouth.

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]]> Sat Aug 2 2008 Weymouth vintage bus running day 22_06_08 http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1534204.html The second Weymouth vintage bus running day was held on 22nd June 2008, celebrating 30 years of Bristol VR buses in the town. Blessed with glorious weather and the fantastic route 22 to give the buses a good workout, a great day out was guaranteed. As always, thanks to all those who made it happen. Sunday 22 June 2008: The second Weymouth vintage bus running day was held on 22nd June 2008, celebrating 30 years of Bristol VR buses in the town. Blessed with glorious weather and the fantastic route 22 to give the buses a good workout, a great day out was guaranteed. As always, thanks to all those who made it happen.

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]]> Sun Jun 22 2008 Cranmore 150 http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1532268.html Celebrating 150 years of the original East Somerset Railway. With shuttles running between Westbury and Cranmore, guided tour of Merehead quarry and a 'depot' open day. Saturday 21 June 2008: Celebrating 150 years of the original East Somerset Railway. With shuttles running between Westbury and Cranmore, guided tour of Merehead quarry and a 'depot' open day.

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]]> Sat Jun 21 2008 Clarendon refresh http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1531014.html It's about 3 years since the release of 'Clarendon' for BVE - thought it was about time it underwent a 'refresh' so work is now in progress (at my normal slow rate!!); heres a couple of screenies from the refreshed route. Thursday 19 June 2008: It's about 3 years since the release of 'Clarendon' for BVE - thought it was about time it underwent a 'refresh' so work is now in progress (at my normal slow rate!!); heres a couple of screenies from the refreshed route.

Rebuilding Hampsford yard was started before the advent of openBVE so some detail was sacrificed in the textures. This scene at the yard end again reflects the BVE4 origins of the route although some higher detail vegetation is used here. Since the original release of the route, the area around Stonebury has undergone a complete rebuild, the only original feature remaining is the road texture. The external views available in openBVE make it worthwhile extending scenery away from the immediate track vicinity. View approaching Stonebury - note the improved tree textures; high levels of detail may be added in openBVE without an unacceptable loss of frame rates. Stonebury Church A new bridge just before Dorris tunnel replaces the two previous bland and unrealistic structures The new foot crossing at Dorris Junction would be an ideal location for a bit of fotting! Joining the high speed main line from the branch on a bend shows the effect of cant (superelevation). The road visible on the approach to Dorris Cross was going to become smoothly curved using the same principles as for rails....this scene would have looked a lot better with a short straight inserted where the direction changes. Example of a shaped shadow generated using a blackened, semi-transparent texture with transparent region.

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]]> Thu Jun 19 2008 Bits and pieces - May / June /July 2008 http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1520273.html Mainly Skips to Weymouth which First Great Western commenced running 24/5 for the Summer Saturdays. Saturday 31 May 2008: Mainly Skips to Weymouth which First Great Western commenced running 24/5 for the Summer Saturdays.

Reflections at Stratford station New upper quadrant signals are replacing the old GWR style lower quadrant signals at Yeovil Pen Mill First Great Western are running summer Saturday loco hauled services between Bristol and Weymouth for 14 weeks in 2008; 67001 stands at Maiden Newton where the main building has undergone recent refurbishment. Dorchester West, May 2008, with 67001 at the head of a summer Saturday service to Weymouth. In an effort to make the Skips more appealing to rail enthusiasts, EWS are fitting them with special 'clag chimneys' which can pop up out of the loco and emit clag at the push of a button. This is clearly seen on 67001 at Weymouth although to date, no clag has been recorded issuing from these fittings. A brace of 444's shot at Weymouth, May 31st 2008. After being de-roofed in service, Volvo Olympian N528 LHG works open top services between Weymouth and Portland Bill best seats in the house, MOD 571P - Bristol VR in use again on Weymouth - Portland Bill services in 2008. Rush hour at Castle Cary village station; 2 HST's and the Summer Saturdays loco hauled services in the space of 10mins.... Angular lines of Skip #19 7th June 2008 produced 67019 and 67020 on the Summer Saturday Weymouth service. 501 open top bus service at Portland Bill With the regular Bristol VR not in use, Leyland Olympian NTC 140Y took up the duty on 7th June 2008 NTC 140Y on Weymouth - Portland Bill service 501 Wilts & Dorset Optare Spectra L118 ALJ, Weymouth, 7th June 2008 C414 HJN , new to Eastern National in February 1986, waits time outside Debenhams at Weymouth, June 2008 Roe bodied Leyland Olympian JHU 909X continues in service at Weymouth 26 years into it's career Weymouth Quay station, June 2008 The 41m tall 'new' lighthouse at Portland Bill The lighthouse at Portland Bill The Pulpit Rock at Portland Bill Nine inch cheese and tomato pizza served up at the Pulpit Inn, Portland Bill, 5* rating given to this! Local mackeral and salad and fries as served up by the Pulpit Inn, Portland Bill Toffee lumpy bumpy pudding from the Pulpit Inn, Portland Bill The Pulpit Inn at Portland Bill provides a good reason to take the 501 open topped bus out of Weymouth Portland Bill, July 2007 Portland Bill, July 2007 Boat crane at Portland Bill - not far from where this photo was taken, remains of an old tramway are visible. May 24th saw the first of the 2008 summer Saturday loco hauled services from Bristol to Weymouth. 67023 at the bufferstops. Stock from the summer Saturday services spends the day in Jersey sidings and may be viewed from the footbridge.

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]]> Sat May 31 2008 Bristol centenary bus running day http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1514349.html Presenting a few shots from the annual Bristol Harbourside bus rally and running day which commemerated 100 years of Bristol built buses. Big up to all who made this such an enjoyable event. Sunday 18 May 2008: Presenting a few shots from the annual Bristol Harbourside bus rally and running day which commemerated 100 years of Bristol built buses. Big up to all who made this such an enjoyable event.

The 2008 Bristol bus running day brought 'foreign' visitors to the city, including RML2657, NML 657E In May 2008, MCW Metrobus B285 WUL sees out it career on the Bristol city sight seeing tour L227 AAB, ex Midland Red West Dennis Lance on a 359 service to Portishead, May 2008. Costing around Ł80,000 when new, these buses feature a Cummins 6CT 8.3 Litre turbo engine, producing 211BHP Dennis Dart N249 LHT sees little custom on a Sunday service from Bristol to Clevedon, May 2008 ex Henderson Travel (Strathclyde) Solo is now operated by Somerbus, the destination blind hinting at problems associated with free pensioners travel. Bristol Harbourside 2008 bus running day saw a large collection of buses on display in the ampitheatre in front of the Lloyds building. Thamesdown Transports ex Lothian Leyland Olympian K892 CSF on display during the 2008 Bristol Harbourside bus rally. Bristol VR EWS 751W on display during the 2008 Bristol bus centenary bus rally. New to Weston-Super-Mare in 1981 and transferred to Swindon two years later, this bus is now preserved after 23 years of service. Lineup of Bristols finest during the centenary bus running day held at Bristol Harbourside, 18th May 2008. ex London Bristol LH WYL 137 (ex OJD 49R) Bristol VR JOU 161P, the only remaining dual door VR was new to Cheltenham and District in October 1975 participated in the Bristol buses centenary event on the harbourside, May 2008 Returning to it's birthplace at Tramway Road is Bristol Olympian A680 KDV Bristol RELH JMA 413L on display alongside Leyland National JOX 506P at the 2008 Bristol bus running day. Leyland Olympian LWS 34Y joins the Bristol 100 celebrations on the harbourside View across the water towards the old industrial museum, now being converted to the Museum of Bristol. The Bristol bus centenary celebrations over, the ampitheatre is being returned to the local youth

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]]> Sun May 18 2008 Minehead Marauder HST http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1508439.html Raising money for 'The Railway Children' charity, First Great Western supported the running of an HST from Westbury to Minehead. Saturday 10 May 2008: Raising money for 'The Railway Children' charity, First Great Western supported the running of an HST from Westbury to Minehead.

OTP at Bristol 43132 Save the children nameplate 43132 at Bristol Temple Meads, heading the Minehead Marauder charity excursion. The Minehead Marauder at Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway, 10th May 2008 The Minehead Marauder at Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway, 10th May 2008 former test unit IRIS 2 now resides on the West Somerset Railway Magic Jayne, providing entertainment for all with her inflated creations.

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]]> Sat May 10 2008 A few from the West Midlands http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1504571.html A day out station bashing in the West Midlands, shots include a multitude of 323's, Turbostars and a few other units. Saturday 3 May 2008: A day out station bashing in the West Midlands, shots include a multitude of 323's, Turbostars and a few other units.

323218 at Redditch, the souther terminus of Birmingham's Cross City Services. The former Central Trains inherited a fleet of 26 units from British Rail, comprised of sets 323201-222 and 323240-243. In November 2007, these were passed on to London Midland and are currently being internally refreshed and reliveried. Class 323 at Redditch, the town taking it's name from the red clay found in the nearby River Arrow. The Birmingham Cross City line came into being in the late 1970s, and was formed out of the former Midland Railway line between Redditch and Birmingham via Selly Oak and the London and North Western Railway Line between Birmingham and Lichfield. It was opened on the 8 May 1978 and included the re-opening of Five Ways station and a new station to serve the University of Birmingham. The class 323 EMUs were built by Hunslet TPL (Leeds) and were the last built by this manufacturer. Delivery was completed in 1994 although initial reliability problems meant full entry into service was delayed until 1995. Alvechurch station on Birmingham Cross City line is unstaffed and has a bus stop style shelter. This shot was taken from a foot crossing at the southern end of the platform. 323214 at Barnt Green, May 2008. These units were built in 1992 – 1993 as Regional Railways’ answer to the Networker. They are 3 car units, but each vehicle is just over 23 metres long, so the unit length is almost 70 Metres, only 10 metres shorter than a 4-car Networker. Two GTO-Thyristor drive packages drive four Holec DMKT 52/24 motors, each delivering 146 kW. Good acceleration and top speed give the ability to operate commuter and long distance services, although currently 3 +2 seating is fitted for high density working. The centre vehicle is unpowered, being used for the transformer, pantograph, control equipment and the retention toilet. Retaining Central Trains green livery, debranded 170630 rushes through Barnt Green, May 2008. Unidentified Pendolino heading south through Tipton. 323210 approaching Tipton, May 2008. The gate turn off (GTO) thyristor control of these units gives them their distinctive gear changing sound, shared with 'networker' EMUs and some London Underground stock. Entrance to the northbound platform of Tipton station. The level crossing here is due to be replaced when the relief road opens in 2010, averting the frustration of local motorists who often have to wait at least 10 minutes at the crossing! London Midland liveried 170504 heading south through a rather murky Tipton, May 2008. The engineer James Watt built his first steam engine in or very near Tipton in the 1770s, which was used to pump water from the mines. Cross Country and debranded Virign liveried Voayger DEMU's head south throough Tipton. The town has retained a traditional horse-keeping culture; private horses are kept freely on public land, dDespite persistent council attempts to clear horses off public land, horses still appear in parks and on canal banks from time to time. retaining the now defunct Central Trains green livery, 170632 rolls into Telford Central station. Telford was designated a new town in the 1960's and was originally served by Oakengates and Wellington stations. The latter was known as 'Wellington - Telford West'. Central station was opened in 1986. The Turbostar was the first new train type to be introduced after the privatisation of British Rail, and is the most common type of post-privatisation diesel multiple unit. Two examples, 170632 and 170504 pass at Telford Central, May 2008. The recently introduced Marylebone - Wrexham service commenced on 28th April 2008. Carrying the WSMR livery, 67013 departs Telford Central with a short rake of Cargo-D mark III's in tow. The recently started WSMR service provides a direct link between Wrexham, Shropshire and London Marylebone and in May 2008 was pictured departing Telford with 67028 on the rear of a short formation of Mark 3's with 67013 at the head. Looking south from Telford Central. Although the station was built to accommodate inter-city trains to London Euston, these services no longer operate; British Rail services ceased in the early 1990s, and Virgin Trains withdrew a short-lived, trial, daily service between Shrewsbury and London in 2000. However a new company, Wrexham & Shropshire,has reintroduced express services but to London Marylebone on 28th April 2008. VWC thuderbird 57302 'Virgil Tracy' idles at Stafford, May 2008 Class 323 interior - awaiting refresh by London Midland, this (unrecorded) unit shows evidence of upgrades started by previous operator Central Trains.

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]]> Sat May 3 2008 SDR diesel gala http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1500639.html The South Devon Railway (aka Primrose Line) held a diesel gala over the weekend 26-27th April 2008. Here are a few shots from the Saturday... Saturday 26 April 2008: The South Devon Railway (aka Primrose Line) held a diesel gala over the weekend 26-27th April 2008. Here are a few shots from the Saturday...

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]]> Sat Apr 26 2008 Pacers in Devon http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1500621.html A day in Devon spent enjoying the class 142 pacers to Exmouth, Paignton and Barnstaple. Thursday 24 April 2008: A day in Devon spent enjoying the class 142 pacers to Exmouth, Paignton and Barnstaple.

Although the day was meant to be a Pacer bash, the opportunity was taken for a ride on 153369 before Wabtec firsticate it. Lympstone village station on the Avocat line, April 2008. The line is now marketed as the Avocet line, named after the pied avocets that are common on the Exe estuary. 153369, the Looe Valley liveried blue brother at Extton working the Avocet line. Exton station on a rather gloomy April 2008 morning. The station opened as Woodbury Halt in 1861, being renamed Exton in 1965. The low platform height has meant the use of wheelchair ramps is barred. Pacer 142004 approaches Exton on the Avocet line, April 2008. 142004 stands at Exmouth, terminus of the Avocet line, April 2008. Reminder for Tarka line drivers at Barnstaple that running onto the single line requires possession of the token. 142067 stands at the Tarka line terminus of Barnstaple. These ex Northern units are undergoing some refurbishment by First and were drafted in to provide much needed capacity on the Devon branches. 142064 pictured at Polsoe Bridge on the eastern fringes of Exeter, April 2008. This unit has undergone internal refurbishment and features FGW liveried seat covers, repainted panelling and new flooring. Polsoe Bridge station, 2.25 miles from Exeter St Davids, was opened in 1907 and gained the concrete platforms in 1927. The line was singled in 1973. 142068 at Exeter St Davids. Evidence of internal refurbishment can be seen although externally, apart frompink doors and FGW branding, little has changed from Northern days. Contrasts at Paignton - Cross Country Voyager or Devon Donkey; it would be fair to say that both of these trains have their critics.... Unidentified Cross Country liveried Voyager approaching Paignton. Shed by a shed at Exeter St Davids. The shed on the left is pulling a train of scrap to the Midlands, the one on the right undergoing repairs after years of neglect. Interior shot of 150121, another refugee roaming the Wessex region. Silverlink liveried 150121 at Trowbridge, April 2008.

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]]> Thu Apr 24 2008 Chippenham skips http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1482236.html FGW ran an hourly Bristol Temple Meads - Chippenham shuttle using two sets of MkII carriages powered by top and tailed class 67's. Decent enough bank holiday entertainment. Monday 24 March 2008: FGW ran an hourly Bristol Temple Meads - Chippenham shuttle using two sets of MkII carriages powered by top and tailed class 67's. Decent enough bank holiday entertainment.

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]]> Mon Mar 24 2008 A few from the archives (2002 / 03) http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1468137.html A random selection of images from a few years back; a reminder of just how quickly things can change. Sunday 2 March 2008: A random selection of images from a few years back; a reminder of just how quickly things can change.

Fragonset 33's were used a relatively short period of time as thunderbirds with SoutWest Trains and could often be seen stabled at Woking. GB rail's 170203 formed the Norwich - Basingstoke service on 30/8/2002, the SRA putting an end to this useful open access service within a few months. 458007, one of the new-fangled JOPs recieves an admiring gaze shortly after introduction onto Alton services in August 2002. Day Aggregates liveried (BR/SR shunter) 12049 on the mid-Hants railway, August 2003. Hastings in 2003; Connex livery, slammers, semaphores and NSE red lamp posts, all representing different eras in the history of the railways. Nearing the end of the line...the Uckfield thumpers were still hanging on in August 2003; 205001 about to depart Hastings. Five years later on, the branding on the 'visit Bristol' liveried Wessex 143's still survives, albeit very faded. This example was pictured at Westbury in August 2003. Busy scene at Swanage station during the summer of 2003 Valley Lines green and red liveried 142081 at Barry Island 25/8/2003 Hood Road, Barry Island Railway, 25/8/03, with the restored goods shed in the background. Barry Island forms the terminus for Valley line services, the Barry Island Railway operating on the through line seen here on the right. Barry Island station, August 2003. Class 37's provided loco haulage in the valleys and also to Fishguard in the summer of 2003. A near immaculate 37410 stands in Cardiff Central, 25/8/03. Caerphilly (IIRC), 27/8/03 WSR, 1/9/03 Busy scene at Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway, 1/9/03 Rhymney, 37417 running around on a cold and dull 30/12/03. The class 180 Treherbert (IIRC!), August 2003

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]]> Sun Mar 2 2008 Medway Valley line; Maidstone to Strood http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1463810.html Continuing the journey up the Medway valley, heading north of Maidstone. Unfortunately, the morning sunshine disappeared but an enjoyable afternoon nevertheless; certainly worth a return visit. Tuesday 19 February 2008: Continuing the journey up the Medway valley, heading north of Maidstone. Unfortunately, the morning sunshine disappeared but an enjoyable afternoon nevertheless; certainly worth a return visit.

North of Maidstone, the Medway Valley line is not as rural in nature as the southern section - New Hythe station being dominated by the Aylesford Newsprint paper mill New Hythe station was opened by the Souther Railway as a timber halt in 1929. The current station, which is now unstaffed, was opened in 1936, three years before electrication. The paper mill dominates the scene at New Hythe atation. Services are mostly formed of 2 car Networker units, 466010 being seen here on a southbound service. Aylesford paper mill viewed from New Hythe station. The paper mill was constructed in 1920 and was rail connected from the outset. The connection remains in place, entry being controlled by colour light signal which replaced semaphores in 2005. Class 466 Networker units at Snodland. Evidence of significant track renewal can be seen in early 2008. 466021 departs Snodland towards Maidstone West. Snodland crossing; semaphore signals were replaced by colour lights in 2005 Many of the Medway Valley stations, including Snodland, feature level crossings operated by manual gates. Level crossing at Snodland framing All Saints church; the church was orignally built in Norman times using remains from an adjacent Roman Villa although the building was substantially reconstructed over the following centuries. The final station visited on the Medway Valley line was Cuxton. This shot is of the disused station entrance which leads around the back of the station building onto the northbound platform. Cuxton is within site of 'high speed 1', the renamed Channel Tunnel Rail link and is enjoys a half hourly service to Strood and Maidstone. Cuxton station building is situated on the Strood platform, built in 1858 to a unique mock-tudor design. Cuxton station, looking towards Strood; the bus stop style shelter having recently undergone refurbishment. Crossing gate detail at Cuxton - the barriers are manually worked by the crossing keeper, a common feature of Medway Valley line stations. The SER designed clapboard signal box at Cuxton survives. Built in 1892, this controlled semaphore signals until October 2005 when replaced by colour lights controlled from a switch panel. The disused mock-tudor station building at Cuxton. Surprisingly, this area is readily accessible from the platform.

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]]> Tue Feb 19 2008 Medway valley line; Paddock Wood to Maidstone http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1463361.html Took a trip up the Medway Valley line for line coverage and station bashing purposes (and a good excuse to get out into the sunshine). Here are a selection of images from the southern half of the route. Tuesday 19 February 2008: Took a trip up the Medway Valley line for line coverage and station bashing purposes (and a good excuse to get out into the sunshine). Here are a selection of images from the southern half of the route.

The Medway Vallery line runs from Paddock Wood in the south to Strood. The southern end covered in this collection is mostly rural in nature with the line closely following the Medway River. Westward view over a misty Paddock Wood station. This station was named Maidstone Road when opened by the SER in 1842, being changed to Paddock Wood in 1844 when the branch to Maidstone West opened. recently refurbished class 508 waits at Paddock Wood. Medway Valley line services normally use the bay platform 3, adjacent to the former goods yard. 508211 at Paddock Wood. These units were built by BREL at York between 1979 - 1980. Interior shot of South Eastern Trains 508211 after refurbishment by Wabtec in 2008. Platform canopy at Paddock Wood. East Farleigh station on the Medway Valley line, used by over 18,000 passengers per year is about 50metres from the River Medway, which is crossed by a Mediaeval bridge. The village is served by one train per hour in each direction off peak. 508211 heads north from East Farleigh on the Medway valley line. Station 'bus shelters' were originally provided in the late eighties and nineties on the Medway Valley line and have recently been refurbished by SET and lighting also upgraded. View south down the River Medway at East Farleigh. From here, a footpath runs along the river to Yalding in the south and Maidtone to the north; the river and railway are in close proximity at several locations. Manually operated gated crossing a East Farleigh - such crossings feature at many of the stations along the Medway Valley line. 466206 approaches East Farleigh with a service to Paddock Wood. Most trains on the branch are now formed of these two car units, replacing the older three car 508 units. The fine frade 2 listed SER building at Wateringbury station on the Medway Valley line, serving a village of less than 3000 View north from the platform at Wateringbury. Signalling was upgraded from Semaphores in 2005; the old signals being donated to a local school. retired Dennis Dart NDZ 3170, ex London and more recently Bristol, was parked up at Wateringbury station, February 2008 Common with many of the Medway Valley stations, Wateringbury features a manually operated gated crossing. This view, taken from the bridge over the river looks over the crossing towards the Railway public house. Wateringbury station viewed from the crossing. The old goods shed at Wateringbury survives. Networker 466026 at Maidstone West. 43 of these two car units were built at the Metro-Cammell Washwood Heath plant between 1993-1994.

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]]> Tue Feb 19 2008 Thamesdown Fleetline farewell http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1460056.html 16th February 2008 saw the final running of Thamesdown's Fleetline buses. Although withdrawn from frontline duties some time ago, a small number lingered on as student buses, but not any more... Saturday 16 February 2008: 16th February 2008 saw the final running of Thamesdown's Fleetline buses. Although withdrawn from frontline duties some time ago, a small number lingered on as student buses, but not any more...

16th February 2008 saw the end of regular service for Thamesdown's 'Fleetline' buses. The type was built between 1960 and 1980, Swindon receiving it's first in 1968. To mark the final day of Thamesdown Fleetline operations, a special serive was run on route 12, Haydon Wick Asda - Eldene via Fleming Way. UMR199T, Thamesdown Fleetline 299 at Fleming Way on the last day of Fleetline operation. The hoarding behind the bus features many different scenes from Swindons history and includes an image of Fleetlines. Interior signage from the lower saloon of Thamesdown Fleetline 299 Fleetlines have operated in the borough of Thamesdown for forty years; 299 is pictured here at Eldene Centre. Another view from the final day of Daimler Fleetline running in Swindon, 299 at Eldene. Cab view of 299 ECW bodied Thamesdown Leyland Fleetline 299 UMR 199T at Haydon Wick on the final running day, with route 12 being operated free with collections for Prospect Hospice. 299 departing Haydon Wick on the final day of service for Fleetlines in Thamesdown. The distinctive Fleetline rear end. Thamesdown's ex Bournemouth 264 GRU 164V pictured at Eldene. Fleetline operation ceased in Swindon in February 2008 although they have been restricted to schools contracts for the last eight years. The 'student bus' livery carried by Thamesdowns Alexander bodied Fleetline GRU 164V is in near authentic Bournemouth Bus yellow livery. Also out on route 12 was 263, GRU 163V, another ex Bournemouth Leyland Fleetline FE30AGR, new in 1980 - the final year of Fleetline production. Long shadows are cast upon 263 on it's farewell running day, this bus now being deemed to old to continue ferrying students around. Advertising liquers on a student bus? Thamesdown's yellow 'student bus' liveried Leyland Fleetline 263 stands at Haydon Wick on the final running day of the type. Thamesdown is one of the few remaining municipal operators in the country, the yellow wx Bournemouth fleetline GRU 163V reflects that of one that has recently passed into history. Back to Barnfield depot after the final run to Haydon Wick on the Thamesdown Fleetline farewell running day.

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]]> Sat Feb 16 2008 February fiascos http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1460040.html Wall to wall sunshine forecast, loco hauled sets and diverted HSTs and freight, a day around Westbury and Trowbridge on the bike photting seemed a good idea. But having fluffed up or missed most of the shots in the morning, the day out was curtailed leaving this rather lame collection. Another day perhaps... Saturday 9 February 2008: Wall to wall sunshine forecast, loco hauled sets and diverted HSTs and freight, a day around Westbury and Trowbridge on the bike photting seemed a good idea. But having fluffed up or missed most of the shots in the morning, the day out was curtailed leaving this rather lame collection. Another day perhaps...

Wrong bridge for this shot of a diverted HST coming off the Trowbridge line 66604 pulls up to the signal at Hawkeridge Junction before continuing with it's rake if hoppers up the Berks and Hants A colourful ex Wessex Trains 150 and TPE 158 accelerate past with a Cardiff bound service 158778 slows for Westbury The pair of 'royal' skips top and tailed the 10.30 Westbury - Cardiff rugex, the bush obscuring the front of the train being typical of the days results. And the rear of the rugex, again featuring plant life. 60054, still with petroleum sector decals, trundles around the curve at Hawkeridge. 60054 'Charles Babbage' about to arrive at Westbury with a returning engineers train, retaining it's petroleum sector two tone grey livery into 2008 Another view of the engineers train showing the recovered track panels. On the rear was 66207

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]]> Sat Feb 9 2008 Few from January http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1448819.html Just a few from the Midland Metro and around Trowbridge - the lovely sunshine enticing me out for a wander around. Sunday 27 January 2008: Just a few from the Midland Metro and around Trowbridge - the lovely sunshine enticing me out for a wander around.

Chiltern Trains 168 Clubman unit interior shot - this provided the ride from Paddington to Birmingham Snow Hill Passing through flooded countryside around Bicester Midland Metro operates 16 T69 trams built by Ansaldo in Naples (Italy). Tram 14, named Jim Eames after the former Lord Mayor of Birmingham. Tram 14 'Jim Eames' is passed by un-named tram 4. The T69 trams provide a regular service between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton, a distance of just over 12 miles. Midland Metro tram number 2. Around West Bromwich, the trackbed is shared with a footpath from which these shots were taken. Tidland Metro tram 11, 'Theresa Stewart' Midlan Metro tram 8 'Joseph Chamberlain', the father of future prime minister Neville Chamberlain, started his working life at a Birmingham screw factory, becoming mayor of the city in 1873. Midland Metro tram 15 'Agenoria', presumably named after one of the very first steam locomotives to haul a passenger service (the original was built in 1829 by Foster Rastrick & Company in Stourbridge for service on the Earl of Dudley's Shutt End Colliery Railway in Kingswinford, Staffordshire.) The Midland Metro trams are soon to lose their original livery in favour of a new Network West Midlands livery (Network West Midlands is a brand name of Centro, the transport authority), comprising a silver body, magenta skirt, magenta area of the cab window and blue doors. Trowbridge on a sunny January afternoon sees 150239, still in former Wessex colours, about to call with a Weymouth bound service. Busy Sunday afternnon scene at Trowbridge with Wessex liveried 150239 and Alphaline branded 158749 in view. Cross Country diversions are a regular feature of weekends at Trowbridge Nearly two years into the franchise, the streetlamps at Trowbridge station are being 'Firsticated', the one nearest the camera carrying the final colour scheme Refurbishment of the First Great Western high speed trainsets is now just about complete, all powercars fitted with MTU engines and carriages refitted. The West Country local fleet is also now starting to recieve attention, former Trans-Pennine 158761 being one of the first to be treated. 158747 carrying vinyls celebrating Richard Trevithicks pioneering activities in 1804 heads north into Trowbridge in January 2008.

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]]> Sun Jan 27 2008 Cool wall http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1432780.html The D&E train cool wall is here! Might be a few omissions though; mostly locos/unit types I've never sampled. Monday 31 December 2007: The D&E train cool wall is here! Might be a few omissions though; mostly locos/unit types I've never sampled.

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]]> Mon Dec 31 2007 Wiltshire skips http://dennis-lance.fotopic.net/c1424428.html First Great Western are attempting to overcome problems with overcrowding by using hired in locos and coaches. A commendable move; even if class 67's are not my personal favourites, at least it's loco haulage so worth a bash. Saturday 15 December 2007: First Great Western are attempting to overcome problems with overcrowding by using hired in locos and coaches. A commendable move; even if class 67's are not my personal favourites, at least it's loco haulage so worth a bash.

24th November saw FGW run an dditional loco hauled service from Westbury to Cardiff due to rugby; the stock is seen here shortly after arriving at Westbury. The closure of Basingstoke saw freight diverted through Westbury on 24/11/05 OTP stabled at Westbury 67012 was partnered by 67025 'Western Star' for the Rugex on 24/11/07. Saturday 15th December saw FGW running two sets of LHCS on Bristol-Chippenham shuttles, the GWML being subjected to an engineering blockade between Chippenham and Swindon. Virgin liveried stock at Chippenham - a rare sight! 47839 'Pegasus' stabled at Beirut. Red brick 153373 stabled at Bristol Temple Meads, complete with 'L' plate. Local basher Jim seems suitably impressed by the haulage. Interior of one of the ex Anglia MkII FOs A visit to Severn Beach in 100% dull December weather hardly makes for inspiring shots; fiddling about with Photoshop helps brighten things up a bit.

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]]> Sat Dec 15 2007