Recent Public Posts - [guest]
| Re: Keighley and Worth Valley Railway (KWVR) In "Heritage railways, Railtours, buses, canals, steamships and other public transport based attractions" [374712/31462/47] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 16:28, 3rd May 2026 |      |
From the BBC:
Heritage railway buys its volunteers' favourite pub
The Royal Oak has been a regular meeting place for staff and volunteers of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway - Image © Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
A pub which closed suddenly two years ago has reopened after a nearby heritage railway bought it.
The Royal Oak in Haworth has long been popular with visitors to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and other Bronte Country attractions. It was a popular meeting place for enthusiasts who volunteer on the line, and they have now taken over its running.
Sam MacDougall, one of the volunteers, said: "We were all dismayed when it closed so suddenly. Ever since our railway reopened in 1968, The Royal Oak was a favourite watering hole."
The downstairs bar has been decorated with a railway theme - Image © Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
Under its previous ownership, the pub's snug was decorated with railway memorabilia and photographs, and the reopened Royal Oak will have a railway-themed downstairs bar.
MacDougall added: "We see our railway as part of Haworth and the wider Worth Valley community, so reopening The Royal Oak as a community pub is a way of giving something back to the village, without whose support we would not be here."
The pub was once tied to Websters Brewery of Halifax and passed into private hands before shutting in 2024.
Volunteers behind the takeover said the building has always been "more than a pub" for the railway community.
Volunteers from the neighbouring Keighley and Worth Valley Railway have taken over trade - Image © Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
The upper floor, which was formerly used as living accommodation, has now become office space for the railway.
The line, which runs between Keighley and Oxenhope, closed as a main route in 1962, before it was taken over by a preservation society in 1968.
"Haworth village and the railway have really missed it, so this is a really exciting project. It does mean an awful lot."
The Royal Oak has been a regular meeting place for staff and volunteers of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway - Image © Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
A pub which closed suddenly two years ago has reopened after a nearby heritage railway bought it.
The Royal Oak in Haworth has long been popular with visitors to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and other Bronte Country attractions. It was a popular meeting place for enthusiasts who volunteer on the line, and they have now taken over its running.
Sam MacDougall, one of the volunteers, said: "We were all dismayed when it closed so suddenly. Ever since our railway reopened in 1968, The Royal Oak was a favourite watering hole."
The downstairs bar has been decorated with a railway theme - Image © Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
Under its previous ownership, the pub's snug was decorated with railway memorabilia and photographs, and the reopened Royal Oak will have a railway-themed downstairs bar.
MacDougall added: "We see our railway as part of Haworth and the wider Worth Valley community, so reopening The Royal Oak as a community pub is a way of giving something back to the village, without whose support we would not be here."
The pub was once tied to Websters Brewery of Halifax and passed into private hands before shutting in 2024.
Volunteers behind the takeover said the building has always been "more than a pub" for the railway community.
Volunteers from the neighbouring Keighley and Worth Valley Railway have taken over trade - Image © Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
The upper floor, which was formerly used as living accommodation, has now become office space for the railway.
The line, which runs between Keighley and Oxenhope, closed as a main route in 1962, before it was taken over by a preservation society in 1968.
"Haworth village and the railway have really missed it, so this is a really exciting project. It does mean an awful lot."
| Re: North Yorkshire Moors Railway - heritage line, based in Pickering (merged posts) In "Heritage railways, Railtours, buses, canals, steamships and other public transport based attractions" [374710/10842/47] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 15:03, 3rd May 2026 | |
From the BBC:
Grade II-listed bridge to reopen after repairs
The bridge supports more than 10,000 locomotive movements every year - Image © NYMR
A Grade II-listed bridge on a heritage railway line is due to reopen after essential restoration work to its stonework and arches.
Bridge 42, at Grosmont, is North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR)'s "hardest working" structure and supports around 10,000 locomotive movement every year, the company said.
The bridge, built in around 1846, will reopen on 23 May, with the full line from Pickering to Whitby opening for the season from 1 June, it has been announced.
A NYMR spokesperson said: "After 180 years of faithful service, Bridge 42 now needs urgent repairs to keep trains running safely into the future."
The bridge's reopening date had to be pushed back from the May bank holiday weekend after the train company discovered more work needed to be done.
Laura Strangeway, CEO of the NYMR, added: "Work to prop Bridge 42 continues at pace and substantial progress has been made. However, initial excavation work and test results have shown that further work is needed than initially anticipated, which has extended the programme of works."
A full repair programme will take place over the closed season during the winter of 2026/27, which will restore the bridge to its "long-term structural integrity and ensure its preservation for future generations", Strangeway said.
The new reopening date for the bridge is 23 May - Image © NYMR
As a registered charity, the NYMR said it relied on its supporters to fund projects of the scale that require specialist materials, skilled contractors, and careful working in a sensitive environment.
Strangeway added: "The NYMR is much more than a tourist attraction - it is a vital heritage, economic, and community asset that boosts the regional economy, protects railway heritage, and supports local livelihoods."
The bridge supports more than 10,000 locomotive movements every year - Image © NYMR
A Grade II-listed bridge on a heritage railway line is due to reopen after essential restoration work to its stonework and arches.
Bridge 42, at Grosmont, is North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR)'s "hardest working" structure and supports around 10,000 locomotive movement every year, the company said.
The bridge, built in around 1846, will reopen on 23 May, with the full line from Pickering to Whitby opening for the season from 1 June, it has been announced.
A NYMR spokesperson said: "After 180 years of faithful service, Bridge 42 now needs urgent repairs to keep trains running safely into the future."
The bridge's reopening date had to be pushed back from the May bank holiday weekend after the train company discovered more work needed to be done.
Laura Strangeway, CEO of the NYMR, added: "Work to prop Bridge 42 continues at pace and substantial progress has been made. However, initial excavation work and test results have shown that further work is needed than initially anticipated, which has extended the programme of works."
A full repair programme will take place over the closed season during the winter of 2026/27, which will restore the bridge to its "long-term structural integrity and ensure its preservation for future generations", Strangeway said.
The new reopening date for the bridge is 23 May - Image © NYMR
As a registered charity, the NYMR said it relied on its supporters to fund projects of the scale that require specialist materials, skilled contractors, and careful working in a sensitive environment.
Strangeway added: "The NYMR is much more than a tourist attraction - it is a vital heritage, economic, and community asset that boosts the regional economy, protects railway heritage, and supports local livelihoods."
| Re: Paddington bear on a bench: they are vandalised and repaired In "The West - but NOT trains in the West" [374709/29972/31] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 13:26, 3rd May 2026 | |
An update, from the BBC:
Police escort for Paddington statue dumped in Southampton park
Paddington was "given a police escort" after he was found in the park, said officers - Image © Hampshire Constabulary
A statue of Paddington bear that was targeted by vandals has been taken from his bench again, days after being reinstalled.
The sculpture of the children's character was temporarily removed from Southampton's Guildhall Square in April, when the bench it had been sitting on was destroyed, before being put back in place last week. But in the early hours of Sunday, police were called to assist after it was reported missing.
Hampshire Constabulary said officers found Paddington abandoned but intact, in nearby East Park.
In a Facebook post, Southampton police said: "He was recovered safely and, as you can see, was given a police escort while arrangements were made for his return. Thankfully, he was found in one piece - and he certainly needed a marmalade sandwich after his ordeal.
"While we know Paddington is a much-loved character and this may raise a smile, damage to public property is a serious offence. The statue brings joy to residents, visitors, families and businesses in the city centre, and it is disappointing to see him targeted again so soon after recent repairs. Please look after Paddington. He is a bear of very good standing in our city."
(BBC article continues)
Paddington was "given a police escort" after he was found in the park, said officers - Image © Hampshire Constabulary
A statue of Paddington bear that was targeted by vandals has been taken from his bench again, days after being reinstalled.
The sculpture of the children's character was temporarily removed from Southampton's Guildhall Square in April, when the bench it had been sitting on was destroyed, before being put back in place last week. But in the early hours of Sunday, police were called to assist after it was reported missing.
Hampshire Constabulary said officers found Paddington abandoned but intact, in nearby East Park.
In a Facebook post, Southampton police said: "He was recovered safely and, as you can see, was given a police escort while arrangements were made for his return. Thankfully, he was found in one piece - and he certainly needed a marmalade sandwich after his ordeal.
"While we know Paddington is a much-loved character and this may raise a smile, damage to public property is a serious offence. The statue brings joy to residents, visitors, families and businesses in the city centre, and it is disappointing to see him targeted again so soon after recent repairs. Please look after Paddington. He is a bear of very good standing in our city."
(BBC article continues)
| Re: Swindon <-> Westbury service updates and amendments, ongoing discussion - 2026 In "TransWilts line" [374708/31359/18] Posted by grahame at 12:32, 3rd May 2026 | |
10:38 Weymouth to Swindon due 12:57
13:32 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:45
Facilities on the 13:32 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:45.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
13:32 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:45
Facilities on the 13:32 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:45.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
| Liverpool Lime Street closed over Sunday and bank holiday - May 2026 In "The Wider Picture in the United Kingdom" [374707/31968/51] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 09:34, 3rd May 2026 | |
From the BBC:
Why is Liverpool Lime Street closed over bank holiday?
Overground train services will not run into or out of the station - Image © Network Rail
No trains are going to run in and out of Liverpool Lime Street station on Sunday and bank Hholiday Monday due to repair work, Network Rail has said.
It said: "Liverpool Lime Street will be closed to overground services on Sunday 3 May and the morning of Monday 4 May for journey-improving upgrades."
The transport company added: "Engineering teams will be replacing ageing signalling infrastructure in the Edge Hill area with modern equipment, as well as maintenance of overhead power lines and track points."
Passengers travelling into the city will have access to replacement bus services, and Merseyrail trains will be running as normal.
Paul Owen, Liverpool area director for Network Rail, said: "We would like to thank passengers for their patience while this vital work takes place. Replacing older signalling infrastructure with new equipment will reduce disruption on the railway and create smoother, more reliable journeys."
He urged people who were planning on travelling to or from Liverpool during the closure, to check with their train operators or on the National Rail Enquiries website for the latest information.
The station was closed for two months eight years ago for a full refurbishment.
Overground train services will not run into or out of the station - Image © Network Rail
No trains are going to run in and out of Liverpool Lime Street station on Sunday and bank Hholiday Monday due to repair work, Network Rail has said.
It said: "Liverpool Lime Street will be closed to overground services on Sunday 3 May and the morning of Monday 4 May for journey-improving upgrades."
The transport company added: "Engineering teams will be replacing ageing signalling infrastructure in the Edge Hill area with modern equipment, as well as maintenance of overhead power lines and track points."
Passengers travelling into the city will have access to replacement bus services, and Merseyrail trains will be running as normal.
Paul Owen, Liverpool area director for Network Rail, said: "We would like to thank passengers for their patience while this vital work takes place. Replacing older signalling infrastructure with new equipment will reduce disruption on the railway and create smoother, more reliable journeys."
He urged people who were planning on travelling to or from Liverpool during the closure, to check with their train operators or on the National Rail Enquiries website for the latest information.
The station was closed for two months eight years ago for a full refurbishment.
| Re: Where have you lived / stayed / visited / passed? In "The Lighter Side" [374706/31967/30] Posted by rogerpatenall at 09:16, 3rd May 2026 Already liked by Chris from Nailsea, Mark A | |
When I was working, I visited 45 countries. That's counting the UK as one, and Zanzibar as being part of Tanzania, but Nuie as being independent of New Zealand. Although I visited Indonesia 2 or 3 times, my records suggest I never stayed overnight there.
I can think of only three further countries that I have visited other than for work.
As my wife was able to travel with me occasionally, we have Christmassed or seen in the new year in New Zealand, Sydney, Niue, Durban and Dubai.
But I did miss one birthday, leaving the US on July 22nd and arriving in Auckland on the 24th. So I am not really 80 yet . . .
I have been so lucky. The chairman of the company (of 130,000 employees) always said he had the second best job in the company - after mine.
| Re: East - West Rail update (Oxford to Bedford) - ongoing discussion In "Campaigns for new and improved services" [374705/1219/28] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 09:15, 3rd May 2026 | |
An item dated 1 April 2026 from the BBC:
Winslow residents form action group to get station open
Winslow station remains fenced off despite it being handed over to the operator Chiltern Railways more than a year ago - Image © Amy Holmes/BBC
Campaigners pushing for the opening of a new railway station that was completed more than a year ago have started an action group to get it up and running.
Winslow lies on the East West Rail (EWR) line between Oxford and Milton Keynes, but passenger services are yet to start, despite Chiltern Railways being appointed to run them in March 2025.
Sue North, who owns The Farm Deli in the town, said: "People have got to be held to account", adding: "If I was running my business this way, I couldn't survive."
A spokesperson for Chiltern Railways said: "There is work to finish to prepare the trains, on Winslow station and the operating arrangements for the route." They added: "We will provide updates as soon as we are able to."
Passenger trains were scheduled to run between Oxford and Milton Keynes for the first time in nearly 60 years by the end of December 2025, but there was currently no official timeline for when that will happen.
One reason for the delay is a standoff between the operator and the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) over how many staff will be on the trains. The RMT, which has been approached for comment, said Chiltern Railways wanted drivers to open and close the doors at stations, without guards, but the union cited safety concerns for wanting two members of staff on board.
But Diana Blamires, of the new action group, said: "We are seeing a row of fences and the station behind it that we cannot access. We hear freight trains rumbling through the night so people are wondering why they cannot do the same with passenger services."
The station's ticket machines are fully functioning, and a Chiltern Railways spokesperson said: "Since being announced as operator of the first stage of EWR we have been working at pace to get everything ready for services to begin. Significant progress has been made, including hiring and training 44 train drivers, the creation of a new facility (for staff) at Bletchley, and the fit out of a new modern station with step-free access at Winslow."
But deli owner Sue North said: "To have invested that amount of money and then not open, it just would not be feasible for me and my business."
East West Rail also said platforms would now have to be extended at the station due to demand generated by the Universal theme park being built just 20 miles away in Bedford, which would see a need for five-car trains instead of four.
Natalie Wheble, the EWR director of external affairs, said: "We absolutely understand the frustration people in Winslow feel about the delay. Chiltern Railways has been working hard alongside the Department of Transport and industry colleagues to finalise arrangements so passenger services can begin as soon as possible."
Kam Gupta, who runs Chutney Jacks restaurant, says businesses in the town have been excited about the station opening. However, he said the lorries used during its development had "broken all the roads and we deliver curries but had many bust tyres because of the potholes". He added: "If the station was open everything would be forgotten and everybody hunky-dory again."
Bradley Cooper, who runs the Legends cafe, said he was concerned the station was still costing money, despite being unopened. "When you drive past overnight and see how much light and electricity is being used it really is annoying even though lots of people say it is solar power," he said. "Too much money has been spent on it for it not to open, but it would not surprise me if they flattened it and put houses there."
Winslow's new station is still not open despite its completion a year ago - Image © Andy Dyke
Winslow station remains fenced off despite it being handed over to the operator Chiltern Railways more than a year ago - Image © Amy Holmes/BBC
Campaigners pushing for the opening of a new railway station that was completed more than a year ago have started an action group to get it up and running.
Winslow lies on the East West Rail (EWR) line between Oxford and Milton Keynes, but passenger services are yet to start, despite Chiltern Railways being appointed to run them in March 2025.
Sue North, who owns The Farm Deli in the town, said: "People have got to be held to account", adding: "If I was running my business this way, I couldn't survive."
A spokesperson for Chiltern Railways said: "There is work to finish to prepare the trains, on Winslow station and the operating arrangements for the route." They added: "We will provide updates as soon as we are able to."
Passenger trains were scheduled to run between Oxford and Milton Keynes for the first time in nearly 60 years by the end of December 2025, but there was currently no official timeline for when that will happen.
One reason for the delay is a standoff between the operator and the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) over how many staff will be on the trains. The RMT, which has been approached for comment, said Chiltern Railways wanted drivers to open and close the doors at stations, without guards, but the union cited safety concerns for wanting two members of staff on board.
But Diana Blamires, of the new action group, said: "We are seeing a row of fences and the station behind it that we cannot access. We hear freight trains rumbling through the night so people are wondering why they cannot do the same with passenger services."
The station's ticket machines are fully functioning, and a Chiltern Railways spokesperson said: "Since being announced as operator of the first stage of EWR we have been working at pace to get everything ready for services to begin. Significant progress has been made, including hiring and training 44 train drivers, the creation of a new facility (for staff) at Bletchley, and the fit out of a new modern station with step-free access at Winslow."
But deli owner Sue North said: "To have invested that amount of money and then not open, it just would not be feasible for me and my business."
East West Rail also said platforms would now have to be extended at the station due to demand generated by the Universal theme park being built just 20 miles away in Bedford, which would see a need for five-car trains instead of four.
Natalie Wheble, the EWR director of external affairs, said: "We absolutely understand the frustration people in Winslow feel about the delay. Chiltern Railways has been working hard alongside the Department of Transport and industry colleagues to finalise arrangements so passenger services can begin as soon as possible."
Kam Gupta, who runs Chutney Jacks restaurant, says businesses in the town have been excited about the station opening. However, he said the lorries used during its development had "broken all the roads and we deliver curries but had many bust tyres because of the potholes". He added: "If the station was open everything would be forgotten and everybody hunky-dory again."
Bradley Cooper, who runs the Legends cafe, said he was concerned the station was still costing money, despite being unopened. "When you drive past overnight and see how much light and electricity is being used it really is annoying even though lots of people say it is solar power," he said. "Too much money has been spent on it for it not to open, but it would not surprise me if they flattened it and put houses there."
Winslow's new station is still not open despite its completion a year ago - Image © Andy Dyke
I can find no credible source to support the claim that the line will be open "from May 18th", this year or indeed any other year.
CfN.
| Re: This Friday - Claire Perry in Melksham In "Diary - what's happening when?" [374704/14447/34] Posted by grahame at 02:26, 3rd May 2026 | |
Whilst I obviously get and wouldn't disagree with your point about the TransWilts being a line that meets a natural travel flow, I wouldn't want it to be misread as "build it and they will automatically come".
Having gained a lot of experience (both as part of my day job and as a CRP volunteer) going door to door talking to residents along the TransWilts corridor and trying to persuade them to use public transport, I can tell you that, while there is obviously a huge amount of goodwill regarding what we are all collectively trying to achieve, it can be a battle in certain areas (predominantly parts of Chippenham & Trowbridge but also certain areas of the mainly-benign Melksham too) where people have become so used to using their cars as a default option.
This is where I would tend to agree with Claire Perry - due in no small part to our collective graft on the ground, we have manage to persuade an impressive number of people who are not by nature inclined towards public transport to honour us with their trust and patronage over the first year. However, the real challenge will be for both us and the service itself to prove worthy of retaining that trust and patronage, and continuing to attract & keep more passengers on that basis, over the medium to long term.
Anyone reading this should be in no doubt whatsoever of our determination to make it so - There is certainly no complacency here.
Having gained a lot of experience (both as part of my day job and as a CRP volunteer) going door to door talking to residents along the TransWilts corridor and trying to persuade them to use public transport, I can tell you that, while there is obviously a huge amount of goodwill regarding what we are all collectively trying to achieve, it can be a battle in certain areas (predominantly parts of Chippenham & Trowbridge but also certain areas of the mainly-benign Melksham too) where people have become so used to using their cars as a default option.
This is where I would tend to agree with Claire Perry - due in no small part to our collective graft on the ground, we have manage to persuade an impressive number of people who are not by nature inclined towards public transport to honour us with their trust and patronage over the first year. However, the real challenge will be for both us and the service itself to prove worthy of retaining that trust and patronage, and continuing to attract & keep more passengers on that basis, over the medium to long term.
Anyone reading this should be in no doubt whatsoever of our determination to make it so - There is certainly no complacency here.
So where do we stand 10 years later? Now in that "medium term".
There is - certainly - no complacency here. We always expected the most work in the campaign to be the ongoing work and promotion, and once the spotlight moved on to GWR's next projects ... to Okehampton, to Newquay, to Portishead, there was and is a natural easing up of useful attention. But mind you, the TransWilts line through Melksham no longer has passenger numbers so low that provide a foundation against which others can measure themselves favourably. We're in with the pack.
Some elements of what has been done have been successful, some less so. I have written some of this up as we look forward to next phases here for the town, helping to inform new team players in a self analysing way so that lessons may be learned. See https://grahamellis.uk/blog1948.html. I hope enough water has passed under the bridge for them to be read dis-passionatley. Certainly we are coming up for 12 years later ...
| Where have you lived / stayed / visited / passed? In "The Lighter Side" [374703/31967/30] Posted by grahame at 01:19, 3rd May 2026 | |
I see so many "The Average American has only been to five of these" posts on my social media feed. I feel double fortunate at having been to - typically - between 20 and 25 of the 30 places listed, and in not being American or at least not living there at present - but I should not get political!
Something different - from https://smstone0.github.io
An interactive map to visualise travel within the UK, allowing users to mark areas as lived, stayed, visited, stopped, passed through, or never been. The selected areas are filled with corresponding colours, and the UK 'level' is dynamically updated. The map supports persistence via local storage and offers the option to download and share with others.
The Outer Isles and Hebrides remain on my bucket list, and I would love to visit (London)Derry at some time and head on into County Donegal too. Alas, the Burtonport Extension closed many years ago and the cruise we had booked that called at Killybegs has been changed. I expect on those dates to send you a "where is this" quiz.
I have been fortunate to travel far and wide in the UK in the course of my work, staying a few days up to a week in many beautiful places, with occasional evening opportunities to get a feel for the neighbourhood. Missing or just-yellow areas are typically closer to home where I've commuted to work. Score of 332 is, suspect, rather higher than most members will achieve though I know you're a well travelled bunch.
| Re: Paddington <-> Bristol: service updates and amendments - ongoing discussion In "London to Swindon and Bristol" [374702/18525/10] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 00:07, 3rd May 2026 | |
Without inflicting too much information on you here, I have now got my shorts out.
In the sense that I have found them, at the back of the wardrobe, and moved them to the front - ready to be worn at, just for example, any GWR Sunday BBQ to which I might possibly be invited.
| Re: Squirrels - red, grey or albino, on the railways or otherwise - ongoing discussion In "The Lighter Side" [374701/5560/30] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 23:42, 2nd May 2026 Already liked by bradshaw, broadgage | |
My solution to any grey squirrel (bearing in mind their destructive antics on the roof of our previous house in Nailsea, which nearly cost us the sale) would involve a 12-bore.
Apparently, though, that's illegal.
| Re: Squirrels - red, grey or albino, on the railways or otherwise - ongoing discussion In "The Lighter Side" [374700/5560/30] Posted by Red Squirrel at 22:11, 2nd May 2026 | |
…and yet…
There’s some interesting work going on with pine martens, including in the Forest of Dean. They eat greys, but can’t catch reds!
https://www.gwct.org.uk/policy/position-statements/re-introduction-of-pine-marten-in-england/
| Re: Wider than Swanage - Looking after preserved stuff so that it really IS preserved In "Heritage railways, Railtours, buses, canals, steamships and other public transport based attractions" [374699/24876/47] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 21:08, 2nd May 2026 | |
As is so often the case, I stumbled across this historic topic, while I was actually looking for something else, and thought it was worth updating the heading and giving it something of a topical 'bump'.
I used to have a strut from the original garden gate of the Station Master's House at Congresbury (Strawberry Line), and the metal finial of a telegraph pole at Trouble House Halt, on the Kemble - Cirencester Line, both collected while we were out walking our dog at that time.
I'll have a dig around in the garage here, but I rather suspect I will find that my daughter somewhat ruthlessly 'got rid of them', when we downsized house a couple of years ago.
CfN.
| Re: Thames Valley infrastructure problems causing disruption elsewhere - 2026 In "Across the West" [374698/31163/26] Posted by NickB at 20:37, 2nd May 2026 | |
And now, trespassers.
| Teams compete in World Pilot Gig Championships - Isles of Scilly, May 2026 In "The West - but NOT trains in the West" [374697/31966/31] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 19:20, 2nd May 2026 | |
From the BBC:
Teams compete in veteran gig rowing championships
The second day of the World Pilot Gig Championships took place on Saturday - Image © Cornish Pilot Gig Association
The second day of the World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly has seen the finals of the ladies and men's veteran and super veterans' races.
Some 481 crews of six rowers and a cox are registered to compete until Sunday.
Falmouth in Fury led in the Women's Vets category, followed by Mounts Bay in Ictis and Caradon in An Showrlann in third. The Women's Super Vets saw the newly-formed Helford River crew win against last year's winners Teign in Teign Spirit and Salcombe in Bolt.
In the Open Vets race, Devon celebrated success after Appledore in Whitford took first place, with Caradon in An Dhowrlann second, followed by Dart in Smudger in third and Bude in Summerleaze in fourth place.
Mel Williams from Helford River Super Vets said it was "really tough." She said: "We came into this race as the underdogs. We're quite a new crew, so we didn't really know where we were going to be."
Williams said to be at the front with Teign at the beginning was "amazing", and "they were well ahead of us at the start line". She said: "We literally just crawled up and up. It was an absolute mental game. We just had to believe we could do it."
On Saturday, Falmouth Gig Club won the Women's Veteran's World Title, while Salcombe Gig Club win multiple medals at World Championships including bronze in Women's Super Vets and silver in Women's Masters.
The berths and results can be found on the World Pilot Gig Championships' website.
(BBC article continues)
The second day of the World Pilot Gig Championships took place on Saturday - Image © Cornish Pilot Gig Association
The second day of the World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly has seen the finals of the ladies and men's veteran and super veterans' races.
Some 481 crews of six rowers and a cox are registered to compete until Sunday.
Falmouth in Fury led in the Women's Vets category, followed by Mounts Bay in Ictis and Caradon in An Showrlann in third. The Women's Super Vets saw the newly-formed Helford River crew win against last year's winners Teign in Teign Spirit and Salcombe in Bolt.
In the Open Vets race, Devon celebrated success after Appledore in Whitford took first place, with Caradon in An Dhowrlann second, followed by Dart in Smudger in third and Bude in Summerleaze in fourth place.
Mel Williams from Helford River Super Vets said it was "really tough." She said: "We came into this race as the underdogs. We're quite a new crew, so we didn't really know where we were going to be."
Williams said to be at the front with Teign at the beginning was "amazing", and "they were well ahead of us at the start line". She said: "We literally just crawled up and up. It was an absolute mental game. We just had to believe we could do it."
On Saturday, Falmouth Gig Club won the Women's Veteran's World Title, while Salcombe Gig Club win multiple medals at World Championships including bronze in Women's Super Vets and silver in Women's Masters.
The berths and results can be found on the World Pilot Gig Championships' website.
(BBC article continues)
Well done, Salcombe! CfN.
| Re: Personal - Coffee Shop update and review / 2nd May 2026 In "News, Help and Assistance" [374696/31964/29] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 18:16, 2nd May 2026 Already liked by eXPassenger, PhilWakely, Western Pathfinder, JohnM, rogerw | |
I have known grahame personally for about 18 of those nearly 20 years of the Coffee Shop forum's ongoing life.
He has been an inspiration, mentor and great friend over those years: thank you, grahame, for everything.
Chris from Nailsea.
| Largest cream tea world record attempt for Cornwall Hospice - 19 Sep 2026 In "The West - but NOT trains in the West" [374695/31965/31] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 17:55, 2nd May 2026 | |
From the BBC:
Largest cream tea world record attempt for charity
Comedian Josh Widdicombe has launched the world record attempt - Image © Cornwall Hospice
A charity is hoping to host the world's largest cream tea party while raising funds for people with terminal illness.
Cornwall Hospice is inviting people to help break the Guinness World Record at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge on Saturday 19 September.
The current record for the largest cream tea party held in one place stands at 1,088 people, achieved by Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service in Xiamen, China in November 2019.
Comedian Josh Widdicombe launched the event which director of income generation Frazer Hopkins said would mark the charity's 45th year with "something fun, ambitious and memorable that the whole community can be part of".
Hopkins said: "The Great Cornish Cream Tea is about celebrating community. Cream teas are such a cherished part of our culture and we wanted to create something that honours that tradition while making a real difference for our Mount Edgcumbe and St Julia's Hospices."
Cornwall Hospice provided specialist care, advice and support to thousands of patients and families.
To be counted towards the Guinness World Records attempt, participants must consume their entire portion of scone, jam and cream, and drink all of the tea in their cup.
Ellie Smith, the charity's events and challenges partner, said: "Let's fill the hall, raise our scones, and show the world what Cornwall can do."
Comedian Josh Widdicombe has launched the world record attempt - Image © Cornwall Hospice
A charity is hoping to host the world's largest cream tea party while raising funds for people with terminal illness.
Cornwall Hospice is inviting people to help break the Guinness World Record at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge on Saturday 19 September.
The current record for the largest cream tea party held in one place stands at 1,088 people, achieved by Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service in Xiamen, China in November 2019.
Comedian Josh Widdicombe launched the event which director of income generation Frazer Hopkins said would mark the charity's 45th year with "something fun, ambitious and memorable that the whole community can be part of".
Hopkins said: "The Great Cornish Cream Tea is about celebrating community. Cream teas are such a cherished part of our culture and we wanted to create something that honours that tradition while making a real difference for our Mount Edgcumbe and St Julia's Hospices."
Cornwall Hospice provided specialist care, advice and support to thousands of patients and families.
To be counted towards the Guinness World Records attempt, participants must consume their entire portion of scone, jam and cream, and drink all of the tea in their cup.
Ellie Smith, the charity's events and challenges partner, said: "Let's fill the hall, raise our scones, and show the world what Cornwall can do."
In the good old days, of course, you could have got to Wadebridge by train ...
| Personal - Coffee Shop update and review / 2nd May 2026 In "News, Help and Assistance" [374694/31964/29] Posted by grahame at 17:22, 2nd May 2026 Already liked by eightonedee, FarWestJohn, Oxonhutch, PhilWakely, TonyN, Mark A, Red Squirrel, Western Pathfinder, Fourbee, JohnM, rogerw, Richard Fairhurst | |
Written for a long standing friend with whom I was catching up the other day.
I never expected as a co-founder and technical lead of the "First Great Western Coffee Shop" forum in January 2007 - "by passengers - for passengers of First Great Western" that we would still be running in 2026 and looking forward to our 20th Birthday. But here we are, May 2026, still running. 150 active members have been logged in this year - half of them in the last 24 hours. Around 4,300 messages posted so far this year out of an absurdly high total of 371,604 as I write!
If you asked me when I set the forum up if it would still be around 20 months later, I would have given it a slim chance - but here we are now in our 20th year. The Coffee Shop HAS changed.
* We started off as something of a protest group; my local station had just been reduced to two trains each way per day "too early and too late" was the sick joke. In subsequent years, we moved very much to partnering rather than protesting, though always retaining our independence and being critical friends. Sadly, I'm finding the pendulum has swung back a little in the last couple of years; long term colleagues and friends have retired, with a team of professional PR staff masking the newer industry experts on board who aren't always fully aware of the needs and desires of the communities they serve. Talking about an individual station last month (not Melksham) I was disappointed to learn that the professional expert making significant service decisions has never actually visited the station to see for herself. We have a fine line to balance here, especially as the First Group's tenure of the service operation will be outlasted by the Coffee Shop, and positions and careers in a "re-integrated" railway must be of personal concern to those in roles that have the potential of being duplicated.
* We started off in the days of hideous unreliability and protest groups like "more train less strain" and blogs like "Worst Great Western" and "First Late Western". Most of them are no more with us as we have seen so many improvements over the years - though there is so much more that could be done and we have seen steps backwards as well as forward. Our county town of Trowbridge no longer has a through train from London, for example, though it does now have up to 3 trains per hour to Bristol and they are popular. Online information and ticket booking is so much better, and social media such as Facebook and Twitter/X provide a further enquiry window into the train operators, which very much replaces and so it should - our own question enquiry functions. JourneyCheck and a multitude of other web sources eliminate the need on many occasions for knowledgeable passengers to have to even enquire of a human, and the majority of ticket booking is now done without human interaction.
* Internet and personal information security has hugely changed. The Coffee Shop has never collected personal information nor taken payments, nor have we ever carried material which is knowingly illegal in any way - abusive, against copyright, etc. We have always had a strong team of moderators who pick up the rare issues we have very fast indeed, and that team has developed as things like GDBR, Online Safety and cookie laws have changes - in most cases only reflecting what in any case has been our good practise; we have adjusted how we monitor / log our watching over such things, so that we can provide proof if ever asked for it.
* Part of the changes in the "security" field has been the move from the http to the https protocol - Hypertext Transfer Protocol and the "S" means secure. As we only really carry public board traffic, the need for "S" was more to re-assure people (sure, personal messages could have been intercepted if anyone was interested at our WSP!). Technical issues on the move were significant, with our original software being so out of date that it won't upgrade easily - a problem shared with other forums, we note. They have gone so far as to restart with fresh databases and a clear history; we have wrapped our "worker" server in a "receptionist shell which handles the secure layer, provides a lot of cached responses, and filters out the vast noise of unwelcome automata that crawl sites while letting through the welcome ones. Our "Receptionist / worker" model is working well - looking at yesterday, our receptionist got 440,000 requests of which 217,000 were passed on to our worker system.
* We have moved from minicomputers to tablets and phones, and from browsers that display data to much more intelligent apps, but on much smaller screens. A problem for our old worker software, but we have added a reader's layer on the receptionist; far from ideal at present but something that could be developed into the future.
* These days, we have a long-established regular membership and we're much more a club of people we know well, meet online and share interests. We digress into wider areas - travel and transport outside the (F)GW(R) area, and away from trains into buses, cycling and ferries and we have a "heritage" interest too. In very early days, we had an exuberant membership of younger railway enthusiasts who, however, moved on to other more specialist fora which had their train enthusiasm, rather than the general traveller's interests, in their hearts. Some of them found our level of questions and knowledge frustrating low, and at times that level, and our team's insistence that discussions and members at any level were welcome, and they moved on - in a couple of cases being obliged to do so when they let their frustration get the better of them. Also looking back 20 years, all of the members who joined in the first years are now nearly 20 years older. Life changes, and many of them are no longer regular train users. Sadly, some have passed away and it's the nature of a forum such as this that we tend not to hear when a member is no longer around. On the other hand, no fewer than 58 members who joined us over 15 years ago are among the 150 who have been logged in this year.
* As well as members, guests visit us and are welcome. I estimate that over 90% of our posts are public. Whilst it's difficult to separate out the human guest browsers from the automata traffic at times, our Google Analytics suggests around 600 visits in the last week from different real guests in the UK. That number makes sense - we have such a database of information these days that when I search the world wide web for a "rail in the south west" type topic, I often find myself recommenced to (or quoted from) an old Coffee Shop thread.
* As I write, our servers are running sweetly (famous last words!), with the worker running 40 days without a pause, and the receptionist for 161 days. I do keep an eye on disc storage and take frequent backups local to the servers, and download copies from time to time. That's not a 100% guarantee against failures; a configuration change at our WSP put us offline for 4 hours in March, and looking back to March last year a server crashed (a power failure at our WSP while I was away) enforced a rebuild that took 36 hours to fully restore. By nature, things like this, more clever denial of service attacks, and other things changes to data feeds that we use to provide dynamic reports will come out of the blue, and by Murphy's law at the worst possible time too. We also had one of our WSPs sell off their hosting business and while we were able to transfer, I'm nervous at some elements of the technical support that the new team provides.
* The Coffee Shop is a members forum. It's here for the members and guests and would not be here without you. All members are friends too - and amongst those friends are the moderator and admins team A big ongoing "thank you" to all. Without you, the Coffee shop would indeed have been that 20 week project in 2007.
And so - what for coming years? Well - I look forward to the next decade here. By the end of that time, I'll be in my 80s, with a project that I started at age 52 - and the rest of the team has similarly matured too. We do have some newer members and moderators but the software is way up the garden path (it was never intended to last this long!) and would be difficult for others to pick up. I have lived with it (and similar software) for so long that my years of intimate knowledge means I can nip an issue in 5 minutes that other would need a length study into - and we do not have a funded / paid admin team who can be re-reimbursed to study and retain the knowledge ahead of time. Mentally, I remain AOK; medically some issues have surfaced over the last five weeks, but nothing that's, as yet, a terminal diagnosis and I DO look forward to all those years ahead. Much else has been given up as I wind down but the Coffee Shop remains - well - I am reminded of the words or W H Auden - "... my North, my South, my East and West, my working week and my Sunday rest, my noon, my midnight, my talk, my song".
This time next week, I will be in Belgium. In two weeks, I will be in Denmark. I will have my new "baby" Duckworth with me - minimalist Mac Neo that'll help ensure that I'm online anywhere from Aalborg to Zwolle and places between as usual. "Steady as she goes" with the Coffee Shop. Further forward - a flurry of projects once my travels are over (and there's more after Denmark).
Thank you for reading (if you have, rather than just skipping to the conclusion). Writing has helped me set a "checkpoint" - noting where we are, why we are here and thinking forward though not putting fully into words where we may be in the future.
Edits - various typo correction in what may turn out to be a piece I keep referring back to - grahame
| Re: Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) - merged posts In "The West - but NOT trains in the West" [374693/9998/31] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 17:09, 2nd May 2026 | |
From the BBC:
Eight-year-old child among four paddleboarders rescued at Llandanwg Beach, south of Harlech, Gwynedd
An eight-year-old child was among four people blown offshore on Thursday - Image © RNLI
Four paddleboarders, including an eight-year-old child, have been rescued at sea after being blown offshore by the wind.
Two teenagers, one adult and the child were using two paddleboards when they were blown offshore at Llandanwg Beach, south of Harlech, Gwynedd, on Thursday.
RNLI said volunteers were called to the "rapidly evolving situation" at 16:15 BST, after a family member on the shore became concerned.
One paddleboarder was found in the water "suffering severely from the effects of the cold", while the others were holding onto one of the paddleboards some distance offshore. All four paddleboarders were rescued, as well as a member of the public who entered the sea to try and help.
Criccieth RNLI launched its Atlantic 85 lifeboat, The Frank Townley, in order to reach the distressed paddleboarders. A Coastguard rescue helicopter from Caernarfon was also scrambled.
Owing to the tide, the lifeboat landed on a sandbank on its return, and the casualties were walked ashore - with one of the five carried on a paddleboard owing to their "weakened condition".
Holyhead Coastguards and the RNLI said it highlighted how quickly conditions can change at sea, particularly with offshore winds. It comes as the lifeboat charity issued a general warning about cold water and tidal dangers ahead of the bank holiday weekend.
The RNLI cautioned that while it may feel warm outside, the sea temperature remains cold enough to cause cold water shock. "Anything below 15C is defined as cold water and can seriously affect breathing and movement," said Ross Macleod, RNLI water safety manager.
There was also a warning about spring tides - which are currently occurring across the UK. A spring tide means at high tide, the water comes in further and can move faster than on smaller tides, increasing the risk of becoming stranded.
Macleod urged those visiting the coast to check tide times with a trusted source such as the Met Office, before they travel, "and to be aware that the high and low water may change quickly and very differently to what may be expected".
An eight-year-old child was among four people blown offshore on Thursday - Image © RNLI
Four paddleboarders, including an eight-year-old child, have been rescued at sea after being blown offshore by the wind.
Two teenagers, one adult and the child were using two paddleboards when they were blown offshore at Llandanwg Beach, south of Harlech, Gwynedd, on Thursday.
RNLI said volunteers were called to the "rapidly evolving situation" at 16:15 BST, after a family member on the shore became concerned.
One paddleboarder was found in the water "suffering severely from the effects of the cold", while the others were holding onto one of the paddleboards some distance offshore. All four paddleboarders were rescued, as well as a member of the public who entered the sea to try and help.
Criccieth RNLI launched its Atlantic 85 lifeboat, The Frank Townley, in order to reach the distressed paddleboarders. A Coastguard rescue helicopter from Caernarfon was also scrambled.
Owing to the tide, the lifeboat landed on a sandbank on its return, and the casualties were walked ashore - with one of the five carried on a paddleboard owing to their "weakened condition".
Holyhead Coastguards and the RNLI said it highlighted how quickly conditions can change at sea, particularly with offshore winds. It comes as the lifeboat charity issued a general warning about cold water and tidal dangers ahead of the bank holiday weekend.
The RNLI cautioned that while it may feel warm outside, the sea temperature remains cold enough to cause cold water shock. "Anything below 15C is defined as cold water and can seriously affect breathing and movement," said Ross Macleod, RNLI water safety manager.
There was also a warning about spring tides - which are currently occurring across the UK. A spring tide means at high tide, the water comes in further and can move faster than on smaller tides, increasing the risk of becoming stranded.
Macleod urged those visiting the coast to check tide times with a trusted source such as the Met Office, before they travel, "and to be aware that the high and low water may change quickly and very differently to what may be expected".
| Re: Squirrels - red, grey or albino, on the railways or otherwise - ongoing discussion In "The Lighter Side" [374692/5560/30] Posted by Chris from Nailsea at 16:50, 2nd May 2026 | |
From the BBC:
Red squirrels 'close to extinction' in England
A petition calling for urgent action has attracted more than 75,000 signatures - Image © Save Our Reds
England's red squirrels are close to extinction and the government needs to do more to protect them, an animal welfare group said.
A petition set up by Save Our Reds, has attracted more than 75,000 signatures, urging more action. Founder of the campaign Marie Carter-Robb, said: "We have a series of urgent actions that need to be brought together into one joined-up national plan."
A spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), said the government was protecting endangered red squirrels by tackling the threat of non-native grey squirrels.
Combining data from a number of wildlife organisations, the group said the endangered species, which "still clings on" across Cumbria, Northumberland and the North Pennines, could disappear within 25 years. It also said only 120,000 to 160,000 remained, with as few as 15,000 in England.
According to Natural England causes for the decline include the introduction of grey squirrels from the USA and Canada from 1876 spreading the squirrelpox virus, which is fatal to the red squirrels only.
The group said habitat loss and weak enforcement of existing protections were adding to the problem.
Carter-Robb, said: "The map is shocking. It makes the reality impossible to ignore. This is not theoretical, without action we will lose our red squirrels." She said the "urgent actions that need to be brought together" were "fragmented" and "we are simply managing decline".
The campaign called for a national plan to humanely manage grey squirrel populations and urgent investment in squirrelpox vaccine development. It also wants support for fertility control research and deployment, and protection and enforcement of red squirrel habitat.
"We need government, conservation bodies, landowners, scientists and campaigners around the same table. The tools exist or are being developed. What is missing is coordination, funding and urgency," Carter-Robb added.
The organisation suggested that while it was illegal to kill red squirrels, their habitats were being destroyed.
Grey squirrels, native to North America, carry a virus which is deadly to red squirrels - Image © PA Media
A Defra spokesperson said: "Working alongside landowners and conservation partners, we are supporting promising research into fertility control so that we can manage grey squirrel populations and help our iconic red squirrels and native wildlife flourish.
"We support red squirrel populations in Cumbria and Northumberland by monitoring them and controlling the grey squirrel population. We also manage forest and woodland habitats to enable red squirrels to thrive. We work with and support partner organisations and volunteer red squirrel groups as part of our conservation activity."
They also said Forestry England managed the nation's forests, following "world-class, independently certified, sustainable forest and land management standards" to ensure they thrive and provide vital sustainably produced timber.
The group's map shows the collapse of the native red squirrel population over the past 150 years - Image © Save Our Reds
A petition calling for urgent action has attracted more than 75,000 signatures - Image © Save Our Reds
England's red squirrels are close to extinction and the government needs to do more to protect them, an animal welfare group said.
A petition set up by Save Our Reds, has attracted more than 75,000 signatures, urging more action. Founder of the campaign Marie Carter-Robb, said: "We have a series of urgent actions that need to be brought together into one joined-up national plan."
A spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), said the government was protecting endangered red squirrels by tackling the threat of non-native grey squirrels.
Combining data from a number of wildlife organisations, the group said the endangered species, which "still clings on" across Cumbria, Northumberland and the North Pennines, could disappear within 25 years. It also said only 120,000 to 160,000 remained, with as few as 15,000 in England.
According to Natural England causes for the decline include the introduction of grey squirrels from the USA and Canada from 1876 spreading the squirrelpox virus, which is fatal to the red squirrels only.
The group said habitat loss and weak enforcement of existing protections were adding to the problem.
Carter-Robb, said: "The map is shocking. It makes the reality impossible to ignore. This is not theoretical, without action we will lose our red squirrels." She said the "urgent actions that need to be brought together" were "fragmented" and "we are simply managing decline".
The campaign called for a national plan to humanely manage grey squirrel populations and urgent investment in squirrelpox vaccine development. It also wants support for fertility control research and deployment, and protection and enforcement of red squirrel habitat.
"We need government, conservation bodies, landowners, scientists and campaigners around the same table. The tools exist or are being developed. What is missing is coordination, funding and urgency," Carter-Robb added.
The organisation suggested that while it was illegal to kill red squirrels, their habitats were being destroyed.
Grey squirrels, native to North America, carry a virus which is deadly to red squirrels - Image © PA Media
A Defra spokesperson said: "Working alongside landowners and conservation partners, we are supporting promising research into fertility control so that we can manage grey squirrel populations and help our iconic red squirrels and native wildlife flourish.
"We support red squirrel populations in Cumbria and Northumberland by monitoring them and controlling the grey squirrel population. We also manage forest and woodland habitats to enable red squirrels to thrive. We work with and support partner organisations and volunteer red squirrel groups as part of our conservation activity."
They also said Forestry England managed the nation's forests, following "world-class, independently certified, sustainable forest and land management standards" to ensure they thrive and provide vital sustainably produced timber.
The group's map shows the collapse of the native red squirrel population over the past 150 years - Image © Save Our Reds
| Re: Project Churchward - future regional fleet for the West, new rolling stock to replace DMUs In "Looking forward - the next 2, 5, 10 and 20 years" [374691/27482/40] Posted by IndustryInsider at 16:47, 2nd May 2026 | |
Is it just me, or does it seem to anyone else also think, that any new trains will not be in 2020s, and could be (at least) half a decade away
Yes, I would expect the early 2030s. Which to be fair does tie in nicely with the expected life cycle of many of the trains which will be replaced, like the 150s/158s/165s and 166s GWR operate.
| Re: Portishead Line reopening for passengers - ongoing discussion In "Campaigns for new and improved services" [374690/231/28] Posted by Mark A at 15:54, 2nd May 2026 Already liked by grahame | |
"Locomotive Services Limited’s preserved Class 142 No 142003" (from Modern Railway magazine.)
Mark
| Re: Portishead Line reopening for passengers - ongoing discussion In "Campaigns for new and improved services" [374689/231/28] Posted by ChrisB at 15:34, 2nd May 2026 Already liked by anthony215 | |
Inside an [img tag
[Right click on photo original, copy the photo url link, paste inside the [img brackets]
| Re: Portishead Line reopening for passengers - ongoing discussion In "Campaigns for new and improved services" [374688/231/28] Posted by WSW Frome at 15:27, 2nd May 2026 | |
Where did they find the orange Class 14x, presumably mainline certified? Why did GWR not (attempt) to provide the rolling stock, especially since Mark Hopwood was present?
| Re: Thames Valley infrastructure problems causing disruption elsewhere - 2026 In "Across the West" [374687/31163/26] Posted by TaplowGreen at 11:43, 2nd May 2026 | |
Cancellations to services between London and Reading
Due to a broken down train between London Paddington and Reading some lines are blocked.
Train services running to and from these stations may be cancelled, delayed by up to 15 minutes or revised. Disruption is expected until 14:00 02/05.
| Re: Manvers Street, Bath, disrupted for reconstruction works for 6 months from May. In "Buses and other ways to travel" [374686/31887/5] Posted by Mark A at 11:39, 2nd May 2026 | |
May 2nd. Checking the bus company web sites, Faresaver, yes. Other bus company sites, with regards to this major work, still tumbleweed.
On the plus side, though I've not checked if they've been installed: there was a delivery of new seating to the bus station, hopefully to replace the seating that was removed/broke. Most of the missing seating is at the end served by buses to the hospital, which turned it into a bit of a tough environment for people unable to stand for long, not ideal.
Mark
| Re: East - West Rail update (Oxford to Bedford) - ongoing discussion In "Campaigns for new and improved services" [374685/1219/28] Posted by Mark A at 11:20, 2nd May 2026 | |
Article in the Guardian on the indefinite pause to the start of passenger services.
Mark
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/may/02/east-west-rail-oxford-milton-keynes-chiltern-railways-delays
| Re: Delay due to congestion In "North Downs Line" [374684/31963/16] Posted by Fourbee at 11:08, 2nd May 2026 | |
From what I can work out from RealTimeTrains, a Didcot - Paddington train was terminated in Platform 15. IIRC that train to Gatwick usually comes off the depot into Platform 15, so had to navigate other trains when it was altered into Platform 14 (at Reading).
| Re: Swindon <-> Westbury service updates and amendments, ongoing discussion - 2026 In "TransWilts line" [374683/31359/18] Posted by grahame at 10:44, 2nd May 2026 | |
07:45 Westbury to Swindon due 08:28
07:45 Westbury to Swindon due 08:28 is being delayed at Chippenham.
This is due to congestion.
07:45 Westbury to Swindon due 08:28 is being delayed at Chippenham.
This is due to congestion.
The main line from Bristol to London via Bath is closed this weekend between Bath and Chippenham, and a London express that was due to start from Chippenham was delayed there and started 22 minutes late (no reason given that I could see), holding up the train from Westbury.
08:44 Swindon to Westbury due 09:25
08:44 Swindon to Westbury due 09:25 will be starting late from Swindon.
This is due to congestion.
08:44 Swindon to Westbury due 09:25 will be starting late from Swindon.
This is due to congestion.
Most of the time made up - that ran within 5 minutes of plan
