Branch Line Video Memories

Ref: BL253D

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Midhurst was the focal point for three separate branch lines, none of which served the town particulary well since they failed to provide the town with a much needed link to London resulting in their early demise. However each line had an individual character and this is explored and examined in detail.

Although passenger services were withdrawn between Chichester and Midhurst as early as 1935, and from Pulborough to Petersfield via Midhurst in 1955, this video has a wealth of excellent black and white archive cine film footage from the Southern Railway era and early 1950s depicting the steam operated push and pull rail motor services on the two surviving passenger lines.

Goods trains continued from Pulborough to Midhurst until the 1960s and these are shown in detail. Colour cine film shows a brake van ride behind steam and includes scenes of shunting at Midhurst, Petworth and Selham. Alos included is a trip working to the aggregate terminal at Lavant on the truncated Chichester line as well as scenes showing special excusion trains run to Midhurst after passenger services ceased.

A brief history, station survey and "then and now" sequence is complemented by the reminiscences of former railway folk whose fond memories bring colour and charm to life on the Midhurst branches.

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Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
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Ref: BL251D

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Introduced in 1961, the English Electric 3,300hp Deltic locomotive was a true thoroughbred - an all-powerful performer that transformed Britain's East Coast Main Line between London and Edinburgh from the early 1960's to the 1980's. Hauling Anlo-Scottish express trains, these impressive locos are seen in the heyday of their 'blue period' as BR's Class 55's from 1976 until 1981. Using rare and previously unpublished archive film, the programme includes footage of each member of the class, numbering 22 in all. Cine-enthusiast Chris Wright captured the Deltics in a wide variety of locations including King's Cross, Doncaster, York, Darlington, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Edinburgh. Whether it was storming out of King's Cross, dominating the skyline with their silhouette on top of a viaduct or gliding gracefully into York's magnificent station, the era of the Deltic is a never-to-be-forgotten chapter in Britain's glorious railway heritage. Highlights include many unusual workings, with Deltics operating in tandem and with other loco types, on freight turns and in the depths of winter. With a comprehensive archive of original Deltic recordings to add impact to the images, the superb synchronisation of sound and vision captures the atmosphere of the period to prefection.

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Ref: BL275D

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Includes the Hawkhurst Branch, Westerham Branch, All Hallows on Sea Branch & the workings on the narrow gauge system at Bowaters paper mill at Sittingbourne. Each branch is looked at using archive cine-film and photographs plus a look at what remains to day.

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Ref: BL271D

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The counties of Hampshire and Dorset have a rich railway history and here we chart the rise and fall of four classic lines.

Section 1 takes a look at the Brockenhurst to Lymington Branch Line. A brief history of the branch is followed by over 8 minutes of cine film including scenes of M7s working push pull services in the early 1960s through to the final days of steam working with BR Standards when the branch became famous as the last steam worked branch in the country.

Section 2 follows the "Old Road" from Brockenhurst through Ringwood and Wimbourne to Broadstone. Again a brief history is followed by 7 minutes of superb archive cine fine showing each of the stations and the rich diversity of traffic that used the line before its closure to passenger traffic in 1964.

Section 3 looks at the line from West Moors to Salisbury. This little known line followed the River Avon for most of its route passing through pretty stations at Verwood, Daggons Road, Fordingbridge, Breamore and Downton. Filmed in 1964, the last days of the line are captured before we take a look at Salisbury and its amazing variety of traffic.

Section 4 takes a look at the southern end of the Somerset and Dorset from Broadstone to Templecombe. Over 18 minutes of archive film shows each of the stations and halts on the line. The milk traffic at Bailey Gate is shown in detail and sets the tone as most of the traffic seen on the S & D JR comprises goods trains

In all there is over 40 minutes of colour archive cine film brought to life by a full commentary and the reminiscences of locos crews who worked the line.

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Cover photo: Ted Woolard, John Langford. Sound by Barry Sullivan
Narrated by: Grenville Sockett. Script by: Colin Adams
First published on DVD: 2007
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R
Origination: 8mm cine-film

Running Time: 60-mins (1hr 0min) , Colour
.

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Ref: BL248D

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A look at ex-GWR branch lines in the West Country centred on Tiverton in Devon during their steam operated days in the 1960s.

The Exe Valley Railway from Exeter St.Davids to Dulverton with its push-pull Autotrains was a typical Western branch linking local stations and village halts with main line services at Exeter. Using archive cine-film to retrace a journey along the line, we capture the atmosphere and character of this much loved rural byway. Highlights include scenes at Tiverton, Bampton and Dulverton, the latter showing connecting services with the Taunton to Barnstaple line in steam days.

From Tiverton, the "Tivvy Bumper" as it was known to locals, is filmed on its four and a half mile branch from the main line at Tiverton Junction. Propelled by regular 14xx Class locomotive, the single coach autotrain is seen at Tiverton and Halberton Halt, the only intermediate stop on the line.

At Tiverton Junction, we travel to Hemyock on the Culm Valley Light Railway, seven and a half miles long, meandering through glorious Devon countryside at 15mp! Scenes of the train crew dismounting to open and shut the crossing gates on the line capture its idyllic charm. Mixed traffic was a regular feature on the branch with milk tankers to and from the dairy at Hemyock.

The programme features over 40 minues of archive cine-film, together with a survey of the principal features at each station. Other highlights include film of "The Westcountryman" rail tour of the lines in 1963 with scenes of the train en route to and from Exeter hauled by 60022 "Mallard" starkly contrasted with grain hoppers being shunted at Thorverton Nills sidings by tractor power!.

Finally a "Then and Now" sequence shows what remains of the railway today, including many hsitorical utems on view at Tiverton's Museum of Mid-Devon Life. Together with reminiscences of railway folk who worked the lines, plus an informative commentary.

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People who bought this item also bought:

1. The Ivo Peters' Collection Vol.13: Steam in 1964 (Ref: IP013D)

2. Memories of the Somerset & Dorset (60-mins) (Ref: BL394D)

3. Memories of the Cheddar Valley Branch (Ref: BL268D)

4. Images of the Culm Valley Light Railway (and the Tiverton Branch) (Ref: AR115D)

Ref: BL276D

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Isle of Wight Electric Dawn is the sequel to Isle of Wight Sunset and charts the years 1966 & 1967 with the final demise of steam and and the change over to electric traction.

1966 also saw the closure of the Cowes line as well as the section from Shanklin to Ventnor and it is with these sad events that the DVD starts. In this section are many poignant views of the closed stations taken some months after closure. Rusting rails and silent signal posts stand guard over weed strewn platforms whilst paint peels from the rotting woodwork.

We then take a closer look at the remaining section of line between Ryde Pier Head and Shanklin. The final summer of steam haulage could still boast the frantic activity that had taken place for so many years and the locomotives and rolling stock were well cared for and clean.

With the end of the summer timetable Ryde Pier closed to all traffic for a complete overhaul ready for the introduction of electric services. Scenes of steam cranes working on the pier as well as steam hauled works trains, makes for some fascinating viewing. !!<

As 1966 drew to a close more and more signs of electrification began to appear and many sequences show such rare scenes as No. 24 "Calbourne" with the first electric coach at Sandown on gauge tests, as well as topping & tailing between St.Johns and the Esplanade.

The DVD documents the last day of steam services before looking at the rush to finish the electrification work ready for the new services to commence in March 1967. he final section of the DVD takes a fascinating look at the new electric service during its first summer of operation.

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Cover photo: E A Woolard
Written by: Script by Colin Aston
Edited by: Produced by Ian Heys
Sound: ASV Transacord
First published on DVD: 2007
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R
Origination: cine-film

Running Time: 60-mins (1hr 0min) , Colour
.

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Ref: BL277D

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By the summer of 1956 the map of the Island's railways had changed considerably with the loss of the branches to Ventnor West, Bembridge and Freshwater as well as the through route between Newport and Sandown. Although only the lines to Cowes and Ventnor remained open, the charm and amazing density of summer traffic were to remain strong for another 10 years, serving both the holiday maker and local alike.

In "Isle of Wight Steam Sunset" we take a ride along both the remaining lines during this last golden age of steam on the islands railways. We take a long look at the working on Ryde Pier with the trams and heavy summer Saturday trains before setting off on a journey to Ventnor. Whilst at the terminus we see this fascinating station and its workings not only from the platform but also from the superb vantage point high up on St. Boniface Down.

We return to Ryde Pier Head to take a trip down the Cowes Line. Highlights include an in-depth look at Newport station with shunting in progress both in the carriage sidings as well as along the remains of the old Freshwater line.

The DVD is 100% archive cine film and includes such gems as Newchurch and Alverstone stations some years after closure but with the tracks and level crossing gates still in place.

We also take a look at the shipping that served the island including the Paddle Steamers Ryde and Sandown on the Portsmouth route before we catch the Red Funnel Boats working between Cowes and Southampton. Finally we take a brief look at Lymington Pier which served the ferries on the Yarmouth route.

The DVD shows the Ventnor and Cowes lines as most people will remember them. Platforms crowded with holiday makers and clean 02s hauling rakes of green and red pre-grouping carriages through the beautiful island countryside.

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Cover photo: Roy Couch
Narrated by: Greville Sockett
Written by: Colin Aston
Edited by: Produced by Ian Heys
Sound: ASV Transacord
First published on DVD: 2007
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 60-mins (1hr 0min) , Colour
.

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Ref: BL391D

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Memories of Southern Region Main Line Steam takes a look at the last main line in the country to use steam locomotives on express passenger diagrams. A superb collection of cine film has been drawn together and includes such varied scenes as Waterloo, Nine Elms shed and Clapham Junction with some scenes dating from 1927 through to the famous Upwey Bank between Dorchester and Weymouth.

The main archive film action comes from the cameras of Edward Griffith and S.A. Peerless. Edward Griffith visited Basingstoke in 1965 and captured various types of locomotive from both the Southern and Western Region. The excellent camera work of Edward Griffith shows the steam locomotives to perfection from the lowly goods train through to the express trains heading for Bournemouth and Exeter.

All this is complemented by the work of S.A. Peerless who made a memorable record of the main line between Wareham and Weymouth in 1964 including the peculiar reversal at Dorchester South, boat trains from the Channel Island Ferries as well as steam engines hard at work on the fierce climb up to Bincombe Tunnel. To finish the journey from Waterloo we have cine film from the collection of Ivo Peters and C.R.L. Coles that shows the boat trains working along the Weymouth Quay branch as well as the Channel Island Ferries at rest in the harbour. The cine film which lasts for over 50 minutes was all taken on 16mm and the results are truly memorable. All the grime, and the glory of main line steam's final stand is here. The archive cine film is complemented by brief views of modem motive power at work on the old Southern Region as well as various main line steam specials and Southern Region steam at work on various preserved lines around the country. Finally we have drawn together many of the men who worked on the steam engines during steam's final stand to give their account of what life was like on the footplate during the final years. The film is a magnificent tribute to Southern Region main line motive power past and present and is sure to appeal to all lovers of steam.

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Ref: BL252D

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The Barnstaple to Ilfracombe line was the final 14 miles of the Southern's main line from Waterloo, and the route of the famous "Atlantic Coast Express". With a gradient profile to challenge the most experienced of engine crews (nearly 5 miles at 1 in 40, up the bank to Mortehoe, then 3 miles at 1 in 36 down to the precipitous station at Ilfracombe) the line saw its heaviest traffic in the holiday season with a continuous stream of trains on Summer Saturdays being banked over the summit at Mortehoe. This truly exhilarating spectacle is captured in 35 minutes of archive cinefilm. Southern and Western Region trains are seen pounding up the banks behind West Country, N Class and Mogul locomotives. Highlights include an early journey on the line c.1898 showing the original Barnstaple Quay station, rare footage of the "Devon Belle" shot in the 1950's with views from the Pullman observation car, the "Exmoor Ranger" and the "Exeter Flyer" special excursion trains between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe during the final days of steam plus a driver's eye view of the line after DMU's took over the passenger service in 1964. The video includes a brief history of the line from its earliest days until its closure in 1970, together with "Then and Now" scenes and reminiscences of former local railwaymen whose memories bear witness to the challenging nature of one of the Southern's most spectacular lines in the West Country.

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Ref: BL267D

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Opened as late as 1925 the North Devon and Cornwall Junction Light Railway existed in a world entirely of its own exerting a powerful charm on those lucky enough to travel on it.

The railway was linked at its northern end with the Torrington to Barnstaple line which wound its way through the beautiful Devon countryside before emerging on the banks of the Torridge to give the traveller some superb river views.

One person who fell under the magical spell of the line was Ian Pringle who set out to capture on cine film the last days of steam hauled passenger workings over the branch. Later he returned to capture the diesel hauled workings to the clay pits at Meeth and Marland and the milk and fertilizer traffic at Torrington.

Ian’s memories of his first visit to Watergate Halt perfectly capture the. charm of this country railway. "It was one of those moments you always remember - a first glimpse, caught through the dappled sunlight of a woodland glade. Deep within the heart of North Devon, I came across this tiny wayside halt, no longer than a single carriage length.".

With over 40 minutes of superb cine film, the video explores the history and fortunes of these two independent branch lines. Highlights include scenes shot in the final days of steam, the last passenger services over the line and a cab ride to Meeth in the late 1970’s, as well as the steam cranes at work on Fremington Quay.

The video is complemented by a history of both lines as well as then and now views allowing us to see how much has survived in the years since closure. The charm and character of the two lines is captured through the reminicenses of local railwaymen. Their fond memories add colour and humour to the life of the lines and help re-create the special atmosphere that existed on the railway linking North Devon and Cornwall - now sadly lost to the pages of history.

2012: NEW 20 Minutes BONUS FOOTAGE!

• 1. Return Journey from Barnstaple Junction to Torrington.
• 2. Exmoor Ranger Railtour from Halwill Junction to Barnstaple Junction

DVD-1: Introduction, Early Days, Stations and Halts, Bonus Footage

DVD-2: Memories, The Railway Heritage

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Cover photo: Peter Gray & R.C.Riley
Filmed by/when: produced by: Ian Heys
Narrated by: George Griffin
Written by: Ian Pringle
First published on DVD: 2007
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 2 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 110-mins (1hr 50min) , Colour
.

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1. Vol.173- Along Southern Lines Part 5 - The Withered Arm Part 2 (Ref: BR173D)

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Ref: BL396D

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FEATURING THE WENFORD BRIDGE MINERAL LINE

It is 30th.September 1834. An event is taking place in the county of Cornwall that will shape the destiny of Britain's future. It must have been a momentus occasion when the first steam hauled train ran between Wadebridge and Bodmin, one of the earliest railways in the country.

Driven by a true pioneering spirit, the story of this remarkable railway, which lasted alomost 150 years, is as fascinating today as it must have been at its outset.

With a stunning collection of over 45 minutes of rare archive cine film, this DVD chronicles the life of one of Britain's most famous local lines from its inception, when the concept of a station was still unknown, through its early years, passing at first "illegally" to the LSWR, then to the Southern Railway in 1923 and finally with British Railways through the post-war years to eventual closure in 1983.

Major highlights include cine-film featuring the famous Beattie Well Tanks working goods trains on the Wenford Bridge Branch, shunting china clay wagons at the "Dries" plus sequences at Boscarne Junction and Wadebridge. Passenger services, steam and diesel, are captured netween Bodmin North and Padstow, including the Boscarne Exchange Platform to Bodmin North railbus link introduced in 1964. Finally, special Brake Van trains between Wadebridge and Wenford Bridge are seen winding their way up the densely wood ed and beautiful Camel Valley.

With an in-depth history of the railway, station survey, including the halts and "wharves", plus some wonderful memories caught through the fond reminiscences of former railway staff and a "Then and Now" sequence, the programme offers the definitive story of a truly unique railway that has won a well earned place in the hearts of many local people and railway enthusiasts.

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Ref: BL238D

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In the mid-nineteenth century the landscape of Britain was changed by the coming of the railways. Cities and towns were transformed overnight bringing a new prosperity to communities as the industrial revolution took hold.

A few places, however were less fortunate in the lottery of railway expansion. After numerous attempts had failed to link Bridport in the county of Dorset, with the emerging railway network, the leading citizens of the town took up the challenge to build their own railway.

Linked to the Great Western Railway at Maiden Newton, the Bridport Railway was opened in 1857 - at nine and a quarter miles long, a branch line of modest but independent means which survived for 118 years.

With over 40 minutes of previously unpublished and rare archive film footage from the early 1960's through to its closure in 1975, this film documents the lines history from its days as an independent company, through GWR ownership, to its final demise under British Rail.

Included are sequences filmed on railway enthusiast's special excursions, among them the infamous Bndport Belle in January 1967, the last steam-hauled train on the line, which stalled on its way back to Maiden Newton.

A detailed station survey, including the West Bay extension, plus Then and Now scenes presented by railway historian Paul Atterbury, is complemented by the reminiscences of former railway staff who worked on the line.

Whilst never linked directly to the local centres of population in West Dorset, the Bndport branch was a remarkable survivor which, given a few more years of life, might still have been part of today's railway network.

Availability: WHILE STOCKS LAST
First published on DVD: November 2008
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 2 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 79-mins (1hr 19min)

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People who bought this item also bought:

1. The Ivo Peter's Collection Vol.11: Steam in 1963 (Ref: IP011D)

Ref: BL268D

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UPDATED APRIL 2013

The Great Western Railway's branch from Witham to Yatton passed through some of the West Country's most beautiful scenery. The railway passed through the rolling countryside around the villages of Wanstrow and Cranmore before crossing over the Somerset & Dorset at Shepton Mallet.

The line then skirted around the south side of the Mendip Hills passing through the cathedral city of Wells. As well as explaining the city's complicated railway history, some excellent cine film shows the Market Place and Cathedral in the late 1950s.

The line then passed through the dramatic and beautiful scenery around Wookey, Cheddar and Axbridge before dipping down to join up with the Great Western's Bristol to Exeter main line at Yatton. Again some superb cine film shows Cheddar Gorge with a wealth of ancient buses struggling up the gradient as well as the centre of the pretty village of Axbridge.

Railway highlights from the 25 minutes of archive film include a trip from Shepton Mallet to Whitham filmed in the late 1950s and a journey from Whitham along the length of the branch to Yatton filmed during 1963. Scenes taken after the line's closure show one of the last Strawberry Specials loading up at Draycott and a trip down the remaining stub of the branch to Cheddar on the RCTS Railtour in 1969.

The cine film is complemented by numerous archive black and white photographs which give a comprehensive look st the line's history. Modern film shows what is left of the branch today including scenes inside Foster Yeoman's quarry at Merehead and the East Somerset Railway at Cranmore.

A full commentary as well as the memories of the men who worked the branch complements the film.

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Cover photo: Hugh Ballantyne
Narrated by: George Griffin & Colin Skevington
Written by: Derek Phillips
Edited by: Ian Heys
Sound: Mono, AVS Transacord
First published on DVD: 2013
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 60-mins (1hr 0min)

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People who bought this item also bought:

1. Memories of the Somerset & Dorset (60-mins) (Ref: BL394D)

2. Classic Western Region Vol.1: Exe Valley Railway, Culm Valley Light Railway, Tiverton Branch (60-mins) (Ref: BL248D)

Ref: BL232D

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While its neighbour the Bluebell Railway has survived to become one of Britain's foremost preserved railways, the "Cuckoo Line" between Polegate and Eridge in East Sussex succumbed to the Beeching Axe in the mid 1960s. Many railway enthusiasts might argue this rural route to be equally worthy of preservation since it wound its way across the picturesque Wealden landscape and possessed several impressive mock-Tudor stations, typical of the style built by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) in the 1880s. Sadly such an outcome became an impossible dream.

Nevertheless, as this DVD reveals, a rich legacy of cine-film and still images has survived to enable us to enjoy and cherish the memory of a much loved single line branch, once a through route between London and the South Coast and the haunt of a variety of locomotive types.

Drawing on a wealth of excellent archive cine-film and still photographs, the film includes journeys over the Cuckoo Line behind steam in both directions reliving the timeless events at each station along the way. Scenes are also captured over the last weekend of passenger services on scheduled trains and "The Wealdsman", an enthusiast's special excursion run by the LCGB. Latterly the truncated DEMU shuttle between Polegate and Hailsham is seen before it too was withdrawn in the autumn of 1968.

A brief history explains the line's complex developement, followed by a detailed station survey revealing the handsome "Wealden" style of achitecture employed on many buildings. In addition, the living memories of former railway employees are captured, giving a fascinating insight into the day to day life of the line.

In conclusion, a "Then and Now" sequence shows us what is left of the Cuckoo Line in the 21st Centrury, some 45 years after the last passenger train made its final journey from Eridge to Polegate.

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Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
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Customer Reviews

Ref: BL393D

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The Hayling Island Branch was one of the Southern Railway's most famous due to the use of London, Brighton & South Coast Railway Terriers as its motive power right through to the closure of the line in 1963.

It was the timber bridge across Langstone Harbour and its associated weight restriction that necessitated the use of these diminutive yet much loved locomotives.

Although the branch provided a lifeline for the residents on the island it also carried generations of holiday makers to the seaside and is fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to travel on the line.

To try and recapture the lost charm of this delightful line, Branch Line Video have brought together over 20 minutes of high quality archive cine film, much of it shot on 16mm and almost all of it in colour, allowing us a highly detailed look at this fascinating branch.

Each of the stations at Havant, Langstone, North Hayling, and Hayling Island are explored in depth including many poignant then and now views.

Coupled to this we have photographs from the famous collection of A.A.F. Bell.

Alan's vast knowledge of the line allows us to see not only the railway but allows us a unique insight into the people who worked on the branch.

We have visited all the important locations on the branch and filmed what remains today, including a visit inside Havant Signal Box.

As the Terriers returned to their home shed at Fratton each night we also explore what remains of the site today.

Whilst filming at Fratton we capture Merchant Navy Pacific, Clan Line, the first steam locomotive to reach Portsmouth for over 20 years.

We gained a unique access to the trackside to record this historic event.

Finally we have memories from many of the men who worked the line during its life, and the whole film makes for an absorbing and sometimes amusing insight into this greatly missed branch.

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Narrated by: Greville Sockett
Written by: Ian Heys
First published on DVD: 2007
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R


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Ref: BL383D

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The railways of the Isle of Wight have always had a special charm with memories of long hot summer days, golden beaches and deep blue skies. An 02 tank at the Pier Head with her Westinghouse brake pump panting impatiently, waiting to take the holiday maker to Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor.

For the more intrepid traveller such exotic locations as Yarmouth. Freshwater, Merstone Junction and Ventnor West beckoned. Now that only a small stub remains of this once extensive network. Branch Line Video have brought together a unique collection of cine film, archive photographs, memories of railwaymen who worked the system during steam days as well as modern footage in order that you can relive some of that old magic.

Each of the lines, both open and closed are explored in turn as we travel from Ryde Pier Head through to Ventnor including a look at the Brading branch. From Ryde St Johns we take the line to Newport and Cowes before a gentle meander takes us down the delightful route to Yarmouth and Freshwater.

On our return to Newport we follow the line to Merstone Junction and Sandown before we take our final trip down the much loved branch to Ventnor West. Using either cine film or archive photographs each station is seen in its heyday and then compared with the scene today.

We have drawn together a collection of over 20 minutes of cine film some of which dates from the 1920s and most of which has not been seen in public before. The film is accompanied by a full commentary giving the details and history of each line and is sure to rekindle the charm of the Islands railways in the viewers heart.

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Cover photo: Colour Rail: A Class 02 0-4-4T at Ventnor.
Narrated by: Greville Sockett
Edited by: Produced by Ian Heys
Sound: Janeen Holbrow
First published on DVD: 2007
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 60-mins (1hr 0min) , Colour and B&W
.

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Ref: BL390D

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The railway from Axminster to Lyme Regis with its light curves, steep gradients and beautiful scenery was probably the Southern Railways most memorable branch line. To add to the route's unique charm the branch also played host to the elegant Adams Radial tanks for over 40 years. The line faithfully served the local people as well as the many thousands of holiday makers for just over 62 years and although closed in 1965 its memory remains strong amongst those whose life was touched by the Lyme Billy either through work or pleasure.

Our unique collection of cine film (over 15 minutes) starts with scenes taken at Lyme Regis in 1943. During a family holiday Vic Mitchell (Middleton Press) persuaded his father to use their last reel of cine film on the elderly Radial tanks rather than the usual beach scenes. The results give us a vivid impression of the station during its last years in Southern Railway hands. From the collection of S.A. Peerless we have a marvellous piece of colour film which shows the entire length of the branch in detail with the Ivatt 2MT tanks in charge. To give the complete story of the branch we also have scenes of the Radial tanks in their final days on the line before the story is concluded with footage of the DMUs working the route just before closure.

To complement this marvellous collection of cine film we have a wealth of photographs with many then and now views of Axminster, Combpyne and Lyme Regis along with well known features along the line such as Cannington Viaduct and Trill Woods. Old railwaymen recall their days working on the branch, whilst Ron While (Colour Rail) and others recall what it was like to use the line either as part of every day life or as part of a trip to the seaside. The film is accompanied by a full commentary giving the detail and history of the branch and is sure to convey the charm and beauty of the line to the viewer.

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Ref: BL395D

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The Southern Region branch line from Seaton Junction to Seaton is perhaps best remembered for the thousands of holidaymakers who used the branch to reach the pretty seaside resort up until the line's closure in 1966. However the branch had much to offer the discerning traveller. The line clung to the slopes of the surrounding hills with only the occasional farmhouse for company, before entering the valley of the River Coly at Colyton. The beautiful rolling hills give way to Colyford as the valley broadens out and joins forces with the River Axe. With over 25 minutes of archive film we take a look at this pretty line and the people and places it served.

The main action, from the familiar camera of Stan Peerless, captures the M7 0-4-4Ts working the branch in 1962 and takes us on a journey from Seaton to Seaton Junction. Here we see a dazzling array of Southern Region express motive power on the London Waterloo to Exeter Main Line both at the station and on Honiton Bank. There are also scenes of ex-GWR Pannier tanks at work on the branch as well as the DMUs in the final year of the line.

When the branch closed in 1966 much of the trackbed was subsequently rescued and today plays host to the marvellous Seaton & District Tramway. Through some wonderful vintage cine film taken by Gordon Langford, we can trace the fascinating history of the tramway from its earliest days at Eastbourne and its subsequent removal to Seaton in 1970. Modern views of the line enable us to see how far the tramway has progressed including its new "Victorian Terminus" at Seaton, whilst a wealth of Black and White photographs help to create many poignant then and now views. The DVD is accompanied by memories of those who worked on or travelled over this fascinating little branch.

Narrated by Greville Sockett.

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Ref: BL246D

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Released on *two* DVDs. The seaside resorts of East Devon sotted along the coastline between Lyme Bay and the Exe estuary have long been a popular holiday destination. For many years the railway played an important role in developing the towns of Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton, both connected by branch lines from the Southern's main line between London Waterloo and Exeter.

An independent railway until the 1023 grouping, the Sidmouth branch also served the rural communities of Ottery St.Mary and Tipton St.Johns. By 1903 a branch line from the latter to Exmouth via Budleigh Salterton completed the East Devon railway map.

This unique documentary includes over 40-minutes of rare archive cine film, much of it never shown before, and follows the history of both lines from their earliest days until closure in 1967. In the summer of 1963 we take a journey from Sidmouth Junction to Sidmouth in steam days with scenes at Ottery St.Mary and Tipton St.Johns. BR Standard Tank and M7 locomotives are seen in action. The DMU era during the mid-1960s is well covered on a trip from Sidmouth to the junction where main line activity is in evidence. Plus a journey from Tipton St.Johns to Exmouth via Budleigh Salterton.

Highlights include a detailed station survey showing each location as well as lineside views; passenger connections being made at Tipton St.Johns, scenes at Exmouth's former SR station and the local ferry to Starcross and a nostalgic ride on the 1965 LCGB East Devon Railtour behind steam on both branches.

A lively narrative describes the typical daily workings of each line and is complimented by the reminiscences of former local railwaymen whose fond memories bring to life the atmosphere and character of the two branches - a chapter of history now sadly missed by many enthusiasts and East Devon folk.

And finally, a "Then and Now" sequence takes a fascinating look at the two branches almost 40 years after closure.

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Few railways could rival the character and charm of the Somerset & Dorset. From the climb out of Bath Green Park to the fierce gradients of the Mendip Hills around Midsomer Norton and Shepton Mallet where locomotives struggled with heavy trains packed with holidays makers. From the mysterious Somerset Levels around Glastonbury and Highbridge, through to the beautiful rolling countryside close to Blandford Forum and Templecombe the S & D has rightly grown to be one of the country's most famous lines.

This DVD contains 60-minutes of superb archive cine film and allows us once again to relive the delights of a journey over this most famous of railway lines. The DVD takes a look at the whole line starting at Bournemouth West. We then progress towards Bath taking a look at each of the stations with lineside action in between. Highlights include some very rare shots of the remains of the original S & D line from Corfe Mullen to Wimborne and an elderly 3F shunting at Shillingstone and Stalbridge. Templecombe is looked at in depth with views not only of the peculiar reversal undertaken by S & D trains but also at workings on the Southern region main line and some marvellous shots of the Motive Power Depot.

At Cole we see where the line crossed the Western Region before we arrive at Evercreech Junction. Here the camera of Stan Peerless takes the timeless journey down the branch to Glastonbury and Highbridge. Highlights of this section include footage of a goods train on the level crossing at Highbridge before we see the locomotive being turned inside Highbridge Works. We also catch scenes of the Saturdays only passenger working to Burnham-on-Sea before we return to Evercreech Junction.

As we carry north we catch scenes of trains passing over the summit of the line at Masbury and through the beautiful countryside around Midford and so into Bath Green Park. Accompanying the film there are interviews with some of the men who worked on the S & D as well as people who travelled the line. Their reminiscences help to bring back many treasured memories of the Somerset & Dorset.

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People who bought this item also bought:

1. Memories of the Cheddar Valley Branch (Ref: BL268D)

2. Classic Western Region Vol.1: Exe Valley Railway, Culm Valley Light Railway, Tiverton Branch (60-mins) (Ref: BL248D)

Customer Reviews

Ref: BL392D

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The Swanage branch meandered gently from the main line at Worgret Junction to the terminus at the pleasant seaside resort some 10 miles distant. The traveller was entertained with views of water meadows fed by the rivers Piddle and Frome before crossing the heath land made famous by its deposits of china clay and the narrow gauge railway system that was built to serve the pits. But it was the gap in the Purbeck Hills that forced the line so close to Corfe Castle that made the journey so much more enjoyable.

We start with a brief history of the branch and the varied motive power that was associated with it during its lifetime before we turn to the familiar camera of Stan Peerless for a trip down the branch in 1965. Over 15 minutes of superb archive cine film starts at Wareham with steam locomotives working on the main line as well as providing the motive power for the branch. At both Worgret Junction and Furzebrook we catch Standard Tanks on china clay trains before we reach the intermediate station at Corfe Castle. Numerous scenes show this most photogenic of locations before the cine film concludes with scenes taken at Swanage.

The second part of the video examines what remains of the branch today and we start with a look at the preserved railway. Filmed during the latter part of 1995 it includes the new section from Harmans Cross through to Corfe Castle and on to the new station at Norden. Appropriately we have both the M7 30053 and Bullied Pacific 34072, "257 Squadron" working the service trains.

We carry on travelling north to take a look at the Railtrack section from Furzebrook through to Wareham and the B.P. gas trains that operate daily to Avonmouth Docks. As well as looking at Wareham Station we take a look inside the signal box which has seen little change since the days of steam. As usual a wealth of archive photographs provide some fascinating then and now views and this coupled with the memories from the men who worked the line make this a truly memorable record of a much loved branch.

UPDATED: The DVD has been updated with scenes taken in September 2008 at Swanage, Harmans Cross, Corfe Castle and Norden with Bulleid Pacifics "Manston" and "Eddystone" working the service trains.

Narrated by Greville Sockett/Colin Skevington.

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Ref: BL245D

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Memories of Yeovil Junction and the Yeovil to Taunton Branch is based on three films made by Stan Peerless during the 1960s. The first concentrates on Yeovil Junction and shows the fascinating variety of passenger and goods traffic that used to work through this busy station. Express trains thunder through on their way to London, or westward to the holiday resorts of Devon, whilst locals from Salisbury and Exeter stop to collect passengers, many of whom will have travelled to the junction station on the branch train which shuttled between Yeovil town, Yeovil Pen Mill and Yeovil Junction. This fascinating service formed the second of Stan's films and provides a wonderful record of a service that no longer exists, though the line between the Junction and Pen Mill remains open for freight traffic. The Taunton Branch started at Yeovil Pen Mill, and although the station remains virtually unaltered from the days of steam, today it is about the only reminder of the branch left in the Yeovil area. Most traces of the Town station and the branch have totally disappeared since closure in the 1960s, making Stan's record of the branch all the more interesting. Each station on the branch is covered along with the varied pattern of services that used the line. Views of Cogload Junction and Taunton Station include Western Region steam as well as Diesel Hydraulics. To complement the 40 minutes of superb archive cine film we have interviewed many of the men who worked in the area, and indeed the commentary is written by Derek Phillips who worked as a fireman from Yeovil Town Shed for many years. The final part of the DVD looks at what remains of Yeovil's railways today and through black and white photographs creates many poignant then and now views.

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Ref: BL263D

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In 1965 Gordon Dando had the rare opportunity of taking a footplate ride over the Somerset & Dorset from Bath Green Park to Templecombe & back. The cine film he took during the journey is here coupled with views taken from the carriage window and numerous lineside shots to provide a unique picture f the northern sections of the S & D.

Despite the imminent closure of the Somerset & Dorset a wide variety of locomotives is seen working both passenger and goods trains.

Having completed the journey the DVD then takes a look at the branch from Evercreech Junction to Highbridge. Each of the stations on the line is featured whilst some poignant shots at the end of the end show recently abandoned track bed at Burnham on Sea.

The DVD is accompanied by a brief commentary giving details of the trains and locations seen. With over 45 minutes of superb colour cine film and authentic sound from the archives of Peter Handford, this is as close to experiencing a journey over the S & D as you are likely to get over 40 years after the closure of the line.

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Ref: BL239D

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From pre-Dunkirk to post D-Day. Original, unissued official film, of high quality mad when photography was restricted. Unique views of many historical events that have only previously been recorded in print. A totally silent film with the original brief titles.

(The numbers relate to the relevant page in the book "War on the Line"by Middleston Press)

Evacuation - Children destined to the country (32)

Precaution - Defence of tunnels (149)

Communication - Messengers by motor cycle to Dorking (141)

Blackout - Blue bulbs. Window and lamp masking (151)

Information - Emergency sign writing (153)

Conscript transport - Departure from Waterloo

BEF - British Expeditionary Force leaves for France

Embarkation - Men and materials at Southampton

Canadian Troops - Arrival at Farnborough

Leave Trains - More demands on Victoria (53, 131)

Recreation - Canteens at London termini

Nature's War - Landslide at Folkestone Warren

All Clear - Speed limit on the relaid track

Dunkirk Evacuation - Dover Marine - landing and loading, Margate, LNER stock, Allied troops

Redhill, feeding and refreshing (7-3 1)

Hospital ships - The SR Cross Channel Packets (8, 12)

Civilian Casualities - Hospital trains at Windsor (32, 36)

France capitulates - More foreign troops on the SR

Refugees & prisoners - The 5th column at Waterloo

Station Signs - Removal and obliteration (152)

Front Lines - SR Local Defence Volunteers parade (194)

Chief Officer helps - Home Guard formed from LDV (197)

Cooperation with Army - Firearm training for staff. Gallantry of railwaymen

Enemy Action - Track and stock damage Clapham Junction (55-107), Portsmouth Harbour platforms (104)

Works War Production - Boats and Pontoons (156), Landing craft, Wagon kits for Russia (160)

Waterloo & City - New stock and the Armstrong Lift in action. Removal of 1898 coaches

New Locomotives - Naming of 21C1 Channel Packet (157)

Women at War - A multitude of tasks undertaken (172)

American Army - New traffic demands again

DDay - Preparations and after

Troop Ships - A new role for SR ferries (8)

WD Locos shipped - The 1000th recorded at Dover (129)

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