Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/ 57 rows en-gb 60 A trip on the Abbey line http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1776810.html Here's a selection of pictures from a trip to have a look at the Abbey line, which is likely to e converted to a tram line in the near future. Wednesday 4 November 2009: Here's a selection of pictures from a trip to have a look at the Abbey line, which is likely to e converted to a tram line in the near future.

DG39196: 350119 at Euston befire working the 1204 to Tring DG39199: 313123 at Euston on a service to Watford Junction DG39204: 350109 heads to Euston from Watford Junction. DG39208: 377214 passes Watford Junction DG39214: 321410 heads South through Watford Junction DG39216: 313123 stands at Watford Junction DG39219: 390043 calls at Watford Junction en route to Euston. DG39221: 350237 stops at Watford Junction DG39223 a Euston bound Pendolino speeds South through Watford Junction DG39228: A passenger catches thAbbey line service at Watford Junction DG39230: The newly fitted platform hump at St Albans Abbey DG39235: 321413 waits to leave St Albans Abbey DG39238: Passengers leave and join an Abbey line service at Bricket Wood. DG39240: Sunlight catches the side of 321413 at Bricket Wood. DG39251: 321413 approaches Bricket Wood station on the Abbey line. The route is likely to be converted to a tram line in the near future. DG39255: 321413 calls at Bricket Wood. DG39257: Passengers leave the train at Bricket Wood. DG39262: 321413 leaves Bricket Wood. DG39270: 321413 heads South across the M25 DG39274: 321413 heads South across the M25 DG39282: 321413 leaves Bricket Wood. DG39286: 321413 heads towards St Albans at Bricket Wood. DG39293: 321413 calls at Bricket Wood whilst passengers shelter from the rain. DG39298: 321412 has been repainted into London Midland livery.

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]]> Wed Nov 4 2009 From the archives: 2005 http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1776163.html Having trawled through the 2004 archives - it's now the turn of 2005. Here's the first few... Monday 2 November 2009: Having trawled through the 2004 archives - it's now the turn of 2005. Here's the first few...

DG02304: Hull trains 170393 passes through Stratford on its way to Ilford for servicing. DG02364: 143604 in a coat of many colours at Newport. DG02439: 66245 heads West through Shenfield with a sand train. DG02596: FGE liveried 321338 was one of a number of 321/3s on hire to Silverlink in 2005. DG02662: 315848 and 315857 in Herts travel advertising livery at Bethnal Green. DG03018: The internal door handle on a MK1 'slammer' EMU. These were always likely to smash the kneecaps of the unwary when someone slammed the door behind them! DG03179: In the early days ATW had a plethora of liveries inherited from various TOCs. Here's 150279 at Crewe waiting to work a service to North Wales.

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]]> Mon Nov 2 2009 This weeks odds and sods http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1774633.html - captions and more pix to follow... Friday 30 October 2009: - captions and more pix to follow...

DG38500: 350119 and a 350/2 stand at Euston before working a service to Northampton DG38506: Passenegrs leave 390031 on arrival in the capital. DG38514: Class 321s are now a common sight at Kings Cross DG38521: 180105 forms the 1650 KX - Sunderland. DG38524: 166217 arrives at Guildford on a service to Reading DG38527: 444016 arrives at Guildford station on a service from Portsmouth to Waterloo DG38537: 444003 calls at Guildford whilst working a waterloo - Portsmouth service. DG38547: 8020 between turns a Guildford. DG38549: 5905 working a Waterloo - Guildford shuttle. DG38552: London bound passengers wait for their train at Guildford. DG39079: It's the weekend and HEx services are worked by single 332s. Here's 332003 at Paddington. DG39083: 165134 and (anonymous) 166203 rest in the stabling sidings at Oxford. DG39088: 165130 in the stabling sidings at Oxford. DG39093: Autumnal reflcections at Charlbury. 31st October 2009. DG39097: Charlbury station on the Cotswolds line. Soon this section will have double track reinstated and the station will once again have two platforms and a footbridge. DG39099: Charlbury has an attractive station building which was designed by Brunel. DG39110: Waiting for the train to Paddington. DG39114: 166220 arrives over 25 minutes late on the 1425 Charlbury - Paddington. The service had been delayed due to NR deciding to give a Northbound Sandite train priority on this single track section! DG39165: A Southbound Freightliner passes through Oxford station. 3rd November 2009.

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]]> Fri Oct 30 2009 From the archives: 2004 http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1773935.html I've been going through the archives to find pictures that haven't been added to the website before. Here's the first batch. These pictures were only taken five years ago, but they're a great illustration of how much has changed in that time. Wednesday 28 October 2009: I've been going through the archives to find pictures that haven't been added to the website before. Here's the first batch. These pictures were only taken five years ago, but they're a great illustration of how much has changed in that time.

DG00038: 87006 prepares to tow a failed HST led by 43084 away from Euston on the 20th February 2004. DG00039: 87006 coupled to 43084, ready to tow the errent HST away DG00069: 4-CEP 1533 speeds through Clapham Junction DG00071: SWTs 170392 at Waterloo. DG00080: 158839 Arriva Trains Wales had a limited service to London Waterloo. Here's 158839 at the terminus on the 25th February 2004. DG00085: Siemens Desiros had displaced Mk1 EMUs on nearly all SWT services. Here's 450016 at Waterloo. DG00089: The shape of things to come - Electrostar 375337 at Clapham Junction DG00108: 66155 waits inside Kings Cross with an engineers train. DG00110: 66155 waits inside Kings Cross with an engineers train. DD00115: An MPV with DR98975 trailing leaves London Bridge DG00118: Connex livery was still going strong in 2004. Here's 465020 wearing it at London Bridge DG00122: The 'slammers' were living on borrowed time but they could still be found at nearly all of their old haunts. Here's 3500 bringing up the rear of a service at London Bridge DG00148: FGE livery had been replaced that year after the launch of 'one' on the 1st April. 321337 calls at Chelmsford on the 8th March 2004. DG00150: DR77322 between duties at Shenfield. DG00171: NSE livery soldiered on in many areas. It was still carried by all WAGNs 365s. 365539 passes Harringay on the 15th March 2004. DG00202: 377160 calls at Clapham Junction on its way to the coast. DG00290: Former Silverlink 321448 was repainted in FGE colours and handed for transfer to Anglia services. It's seen here at Wolverton prior to moving. DG00292: 321432 speeds past Wolverton. DG00316: 456014 arrives at Clapham Junction from Victoria on the 31st March 2004 DG00370 and 82118 at Norwich on the day that the National Express 'one' franchise was launched. DG00398: MMLs 170112 at the stops in St Pancras shortly before the station closed for rebuilding. The 170s would soom be displaced on services to the capital by the 222s DG00436: How the roof at St Pancras used to look.... DG00465: 165028 and 165016 at Marylebone. This was one of the least changed major stations in London, but would soon have extra platforms added as part of Operation Evergreen. DG00512: MML were using the new Eastern platforms at St Pancras which has been opened to allow the Barlow trainshed to be closed later in the year. Here's 170108 in the new station DG00675: Engine and transmission rafts in storage at Washwood Heath. This would be the future of the site. DG00676: Alstom's Washwood Heath plant faced a bittersweet moment as the last Pendolinos were constructed. The plant ceased to build trains after the contract was finished. DG00680: Fitting out the last Pendolinos off the production line at Washwood Heath. DG00727: 56129 stored at Thornaby TMD. DG00731: 08655. 37680. 37673. 37055 and (oddly) 86416 stored at Thornaby depot on the 5th May 2004. DG00733: 60061 leaves Thornaby depot. DG00734: 66098 runs into Tees Yard past the control tower. DG00743: 66098 prepares to take a train out of Tees Yard. DG00756: 08495 passes stored 56129 at Thornaby depot. DG01045: March yard returned to the railway map in 2004. Here's CRs 08871 which was used to shunt the resurgent facility.

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]]> Wed Oct 28 2009 World travel: Asia - October 2009 http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1771621.html Here's the beginning of a gallery of travel pictures from this months trip back to Asia. I'll add many more over the weekend. Friday 23 October 2009: Here's the beginning of a gallery of travel pictures from this months trip back to Asia. I'll add many more over the weekend.

DG36316: A drummer beats up a frenzy at a Hindu temple in Singapore in the run-up to Diwali DG36340: The God is loaded into its chariot DG36347: Devotees wait for the God to be prepared before making their offerings. DG36849: A storm approaches Coral Bay on the Perhentian Islands. DG36861: It's nearly the end of the tourist time in the Perhentians as the monsoon season approaches - as this storm shows... DG36871: My room in the Perhentians. The season prices change from 280 rinngitt in the hight season to 90 rinngitt (£16) now. DG36899: The Khoo Kongsi is the most ornate of the many Chinese Clan houses to be found in Georgetown. DG36904: The Khoo Kongsi is the most ornate of the many Chinese Clan houses to be found in Georgetown. DG36911: The Khoo Kongsi is the most ornate of the many Chinese Clan houses to be found in Georgetown. DG36963: Preparing soup on one of the many street stalls in Lebuh Chulia, Georgetown DG37041: Love Lane in Georgetown

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]]> Fri Oct 23 2009 World railways: Thailand October 2009 http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1769614.html Here's the latest gallery from Thailand. I'm here on press trip to have a look at the new airport line, so expect more pictures over the next few days... Sunday 18 October 2009: Here's the latest gallery from Thailand. I'm here on press trip to have a look at the new airport line, so expect more pictures over the next few days...

DG37130: Construction work on the new SRT 'Red line' alongside the existing formation West of the Chao Praya river. DG37131: Construction work on the new SRT 'Red line' alongside the existing formation West of the Chao Praya river. DG37156: Construction work on the new SRT 'Red line' alongside the existing formation West of the Chao Praya river. s can be seen, this section will be elevated DG37167: Crossing the Chao Praya river. DG37177: Abandoned pillars at Bang Sue junction bear witness to previous attempts to modernise Bangkok's rail network. DG37181: Abandoned pillars at Bang Sue junction bear witness to previous attempts to modernise Bangkok's rail network. DG37182: Passing Bang Sue loco shed. DG37187: 4521 runs out to Bang Sue light engine DG37192: Passing DMU 2515 on the route into Hualamphong station DG37199: Sam Sen station on the route into Hualamphong station DG37202: Passing DMU 2517 on the route into Hualamphong station DG37211: Approaching Hualamphong station DG37215: 4550 stands at Bangkoks Hualamphong station after hauling the international train from \butterworth which it worked from Padang Besar DG37570: Siemens Execs and Project Directors gave a comprehensive briefing on and background to the company's projects in Thailand. DG37575: Lunch at the Banyan Tree after the briefing DG37594: Ticket gates at Lumphini MRT station. DG37597: Ticket gates on the Bangkok MRT DG37671: The MRT control centre DG37676: A spare cab front in storage at the MRT depot. DG37687: Siemens worker at the MRT depot checks the computerised tool inventory in the tool stores. DG37705: repairing the banknote receiving mechanism from an MRT ticket machine. DG37713: Testing a repaired ticket gate at the MRT depot. . DG37836: On the second night the group were treated to a dinner cruise on the Chao Praya river. DG37841: The group pose for a team picture on the river cruise DG37877: Morning commuters leave the skytrain network on their way to work. DG37878: Morning commuters leave the skytrain network on their way to work. DG37886: A BTS Skytrain service approaches Phaya Thai DG37888: Waiting for the Skytrain. DG37896: A BTS Skytrain servic stands at Phaya Thai DG37898: A BTS Skytrain service approaches Phaya Thai DG37899: A BTS Skytrain serice at Phaya Thai DG380134: Ticket machines await their first customers at Phaya Thai ARL DG38022: Airport Express No 04 waits at the start of the new airport line at Phaya Thai station DG38025: The end of the line! The master plan for transport in Bangkok envisaged an extension of the airport line further West beyond the present skytrain interchange. These plans have been put on hold for the foreseeable future and trains will continue to terminate at Phaya Thai. DG38041: The Desiro heritage of the airport line trains is clearly visible – both inside and out.. DG38047: Looking across the airport line platforms at Makkasan station. DG38064: Airport Express No 04 stands inside Makkasan station. DG38069: The City line concourse at Makkasan is ‘no frills’ – as is the fare. DG38075: The main concourse and passenger area at Makkasan station. Road access is to the right whilst the platforms are behind the glass tube to the left. The mid-floor area contains the check-in desks for airline passengers.

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]]> Sun Oct 18 2009 World railways: Malaysia 2009. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1763416.html Here's the beginning of a new gallery from Malaysia. I'm over in this part of the world for the next few weeks, so the gallery will expand every few days. I'm in Kuala Lumpur at the moment, and this gallery has been brought to you c/o the free wifi in the bar at the heritage station hotel. Saturday 3 October 2009: Here's the beginning of a new gallery from Malaysia. I'm over in this part of the world for the next few weeks, so the gallery will expand every few days. I'm in Kuala Lumpur at the moment, and this gallery has been brought to you c/o the free wifi in the bar at the heritage station hotel.

DG35687: The interior of on of the Airport Express trains, which were built by Siemens DG35692: The interior of on of the Airport Express trains, which were built by Siemens DG35693: KLIA platform at Kuala Lumpur Sentral. DG35695: Interior of one of the KTM Commuter EMUs used around Kuala Lumpur. DG35697: One of the corridors in the Kuala Lumpur heritage hotel which is inside the classic old Kula Lumpur station. The building is in need of some TLC but it has real atmosphere and radiates history. DG35701: Inside the KL station heritage Hotel. As well as being a hotel the building is often used to host exhibitions and as a backdrop for wedding and fashion photography. DG35704: The disused bar inside the heritage hotel commands a great view of KTN HQ across the road. It’s not difficult to imagine it in the colonial era with suited Brits sipping their G&Ts after a hard day at the office. DG35742: Kula Lumpur station at night, when the building seems at its best. DG36750: The headquarters of KTM (Malaysian Railways) at night, seen from the balcony of the former bar in the railway station hotel. DG35763: Guest have breakfast in the restaurant/bar at the Kuala Lumpur heritage station hotel, which oozes history. DG35768: The entrance to the heritage station hotel at Kuala Lumpur is from the main taxi rank/vehicle entrance at the front of the station. DG35770: The are few railfan groups who are lucky enough to have a clubhouse inside a station! DG35771: The deserted ticket hall at KL 'old' station, deserted now that the new Central station has opened. DG35773: The concourse of Kuala Lumpur station has been turned into a railway museum DG35775: The concourse of Kuala Lumpur station has been turned into a railway museum DG35783: Ex-Indian Railways YDM4 No 6697 works a Northbound passenger train at Kuala Lumpur. These locomotives have taken over the majority of medium and long-distance passenger services in Malaysia. DG35794: EMU 47 calls at the modern extension to the old station at Kuala Lumpur with a service to Port Klang. All the KTM Commuter services use the North end of island platform which is guarded by ticket gates. DG35797: EMU 11 pulls away from the new station tacked on to the heritage building at Kuala Lumpur DG35801: EMU 39 calls at Kuala Lumpur Sentral station whilst working a service to Port Klang. DG35805: Passengers join a train to Port Klang under the watchful eye of station staff DG35807: EMU 39 stands inside KL Sentral station. This is the main station for KL and the hub for intercity and local services including the metro lines. DG35812: EMU 26 stops at KL Sentral on a service to Seremban. DG35824: The main concourse at Kuala Lumpur Sentral station teems with passengers. Trains leave from several levels which makes the station feel a little like the new Berlin HBf. DG35833: 130 calls at Kula Lumpur Central on the high-level Kelana Jaya metro line platforms. DG35843: Inside one of the Kelana Jaya metro EMUs which were built by Bombardier. DG35847: 203 stands at the Northern end of the line at Terminal Putra. The exisiting two-car fleet is being strengthened by the addition of new four-car trains. DG35848: 106 in the sidings at Terminal Putra. Which is the Northern limit of the Kelana Jaya metro line. DG35853: Like the DLR in London, the Kelana Jaya trains are automatic and don’t require drivers. Most of the time anyway... DG35858: An Ampang line metro train passes buildings old and new along Jalan Tun Perak. Kuala Lumpur. DG35875: 29107 passes through Kuala Lumpur station light engine. DG35879: 29107 passes through Kuala Lumpur station light engine. DG35885: 25108 all ready to remove three loaded parcels vans from Kuala Lumpur station. DG35887: 25108 all ready to remove three loaded parcels vans from Kuala Lumpur station. DG35896: EMU 33 inside KL station with a train for Sentul. DG35908: 24110 sits at Kuala Lumpur before running round one of the EMU drags. DG35914: A Kelana Jaya line metro calls at the elevated Pasir Seni station before disappearing underground to travel North across the capital. DG35915: A Kelana Jaya line metro calls at the elevated Pasir Seni station before disappearing underground to travel North across the capital. DG35920: EMU 48 and generator flat sit in Kuala Lumpur station waiting for 24110 to run round the train. DG35925: This diminutive Plymouth petrol shunter is on display in Kuala Lumpur station. It was one of 5 former US Army Transportation Corps locos supplied by the Americans in September 1945 (with a 6th supplied shortly after). They were used for shunting at Singapore, Johor Baru and Sentul works in KL. Only 3 survived beyond 1947 and this one was taken out of service in the mid 1980s. DG35927: The works plate of the Plymouth shunter in the previous picture. DG35929: The builders plate on one of the South African EMUs DG35930: EMU 49 on a Rawang service at Kuala Lumpur. DG35932: EMU 48 and its generator vehicle sit inside KL station. DG35941: 29106 arrives at Kula Lumpur from Sentral with a service to Ipoh. DG35944: EMU 41 at Kuala Lumpur (old) station with a service to Rawang. DG35948: EMU 39 passes through Kula Lumpur station on a service to Sentul. DG35955: 29116 passes KL light engine. DG35959: 24102 waits at Shah Alam to drag EMU 49 on a service to KL Sentral. DG35961: 24102 at Shah Alam whilst working one of the EMU drags DG35964: EMU 11 pulls away from Shah Alam and heads for Kuala Lumpur.

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]]> Sat Oct 3 2009 This weeks odds and sods http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1761355.html This weeks odds and sods Monday 28 September 2009: This weeks odds and sods

DG35587: Out with the old and in with the new - 378016 passes 313115 pass at Caledonian Rd and Barnsbury.

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]]> Mon Sep 28 2009 ACoRP Community weekend in Carlisle http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1759516.html I'm up in Carlisle for the ACoRP awards and the Community Rail weekend at the moment. This will be a gallery of pictures from the event. First off was a special train to take guests from Carlisle to Whitehaven for a civic reception at the Beacon on the harbour which was hosted by the Mayor. The special train was provided by DRS who supplied the coaches plus 47802 and 37688 for the run there and back. Friday 25 September 2009: I'm up in Carlisle for the ACoRP awards and the Community Rail weekend at the moment. This will be a gallery of pictures from the event. First off was a special train to take guests from Carlisle to Whitehaven for a civic reception at the Beacon on the harbour which was hosted by the Mayor. The special train was provided by DRS who supplied the coaches plus 47802 and 37688 for the run there and back.

DG35031: 153378 in the bay at Lancaster DG35038: 156435s Saltire Cross livery DG35053: 47802 ready to take the ACoRP special to Whitehaven DG35047: 47802 looking smart in DRS livery. DG35048: 390036 passes 37688 which was bringing up the rear of the ACoRP special to Whitehaven. DG35052: 37688 on the rear of the ACoRP special DG35064: Guests aboard the ACoRP special DG35074: Some of the ACoRP team at Whitehaven. DG35082: The ACoRP special at Whitehaven DG35109: The Mayor welcomes people to the civic reception at The Beacon in Whitehaven DG35119: The civic reception at Whitehaven DG35131: Relaxing on the way back to Carlisle. DG35132: On the train back to Carlisle DG35259: The 2009 community rail awards were held in Carlisle. DG35299: Back with Hazel and Dawn - the 'ACoRP angels'... DG35327: Chris Austin OBE presented the awards. DG35410: The ACoRP award winners pose for a group shot at the end of the evening. DG35458: 57305 on display at the annual community rail festival DG35465: 37688 on display at the annual community rail festival DG35475: Visitors to the annual community rail festival got chance to explore 66415 DG35480: 47802 on display at the annual community rail festival DG35495: 156444 was named after Councillor Bill Cameron, a staunch supporter of the Settle and Carlisle line. DG35509: 156444 after being named 'Councillor Bill Cameron' DG35514: Lots of groups had stalls at Carlisle, this is Copelands DG35524: The Darjeeling Himalaya Railway Sociiety stall and staff at Carlisle DG35529: Youngsters take an interest in the Cumbrian Railways Association DG35530: Live steam - albeit not standard gauge...

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Fri Sep 25 2009 Oldham loopy http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1759003.html A friend and I visited the Oldham loop again today, so here's the first tranche of pictures. I'll add more (plus captions) tomorrow... Wednesday 23 September 2009: A friend and I visited the Oldham loop again today, so here's the first tranche of pictures. I'll add more (plus captions) tomorrow...

DG34838: 321417 and 390006 at Euston. DG34843: New tram track at Piccadilly Gardens DG34849: Rebuilding the tram stop at Piccadilly Gardens DG34856: Ripping up old tram track in Market St. DG34860: 142038 waits in the bay at Rochdale before forming the 1031 to Victoria via Oldham DG34864: Bufferstop lamp at Rochdale DG34865: I think someone lost something... DG34867: 150207 had worked a service from Victoria to Rochdale via Castleton. Now it waits to form a service via the Oldham loop. DG34869: 150207 calls at Oldham Mumps. DG34874: 142038 climbs the bank from Werneth to Mumps. DG34875: 142038 approaches Mumps station DG34880: 150145 departs Oldham Mumps for Manchester Victoria DG34883: Railings at Oldham Mumps DG34891: Having worked an express service 142054 returned from Victoria on a stopping train to Shaw. DG34897: 142054 disappers into Werneth Tunnel (471yds) DG34899: 150207 arrives at Oldham Werneth to pick up a solitary passenger. DG34902: 150207 calls at Oldham Werneth to pick up a solitary passenger. DG34908: Watching a 150 approach Werneth station through the 471 yard long tunnel of the same name. DG34911: Passenegrs wait for 142071 to arrive at Shaw and Crompton DG34916: 142071 at Shaw and Crompton with a train for Victoria DG34926: 142049 pulls away from Shaw and Crompton. DG34939: 150145 traverses the level crossing at Shaw. Impatient motorists are a constant headache for the signalman here. The box has even been shot at and has bullet holes in the windows! DG34942: 150145 stands at Shaw and Crompton. DG34946: 142036 heads for Manchester near Royton. DG34954: 142049 passes Royton heading for Shaw and Crompton DG34959: 142071 leaves Shaw and Crompton past Shaw's Down Main Distant signal. DG34971: 150145 passes Shaw's Down Main Distant signal. DG34988: 142036 comes off the Oldham loop at Thorpes Bridge Jn. Netwton Heath depot dominates the scene behind. DG34990: 142011 takes the Oldham loop at Thorpes Bridge Jn having passed under the flyover which will carry the new Metrolink line. DG35010: A Manchester bound train approaches Milnrow, where a solitary passenger waits... DG35023: 142011 approaches Milnrow on its way to Rochdale. DG35024: Homeward bound commuters leave 142011 at Milnrow. DG35028: 153359 brings up the rear of a trans-pennine service as it pulls away from Rochdale.

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]]> Wed Sep 23 2009 This weeks odds and sods http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1758208.html Here's the beginning of what should prove a wide mix... Monday 21 September 2009: Here's the beginning of what should prove a wide mix...

DG34385: 378007 is spare at Stratford. DG34399: 66527 arrives at Bow Olympic with more construction materials. DG34403: Ground staff talk to the driver of the latest arrival at the Olympic site. DG34110: 321362 passes the site of the Olympics - an event the railways will play a crucial part in. DG34415: DLR 11 puls away from Pudding Mill Lane with the Olympic site in the background DG34421: Stratford station and environs are unrecogniseable today. DG34427: Rebuilding Stratford station DG34432: 315806 waits to leave Liverpool St for Chingford. DG34435: 321438 climbs the bank at Bethnal Green DG34440: 317884 passes Bethnal Green. DG34465: 317649 drops down the bank at Bethnal Green DG34478: 317714 and 317732 pass at Bethnal Green DG34482: 321302 at Liverpool St. DG34507: The driver of 378016 prepares to leave Stratford. DG34513: DBS liveried 59206 passes through Stratford with a loaded sand train for the Olympic site. DG34522: 170207 passes through Stratford. Note the wheelchair sticker applied to the yellow end to aid staff when assisting disabled passengers. DG34524: 6650 hangs off the end of a Freightliner heading East hauled by 86501. DG34577: Class 378s are becoming a common sight on the North London Line. DG34611: 39006 emerges from the murk of the tunnels into Birmingham New St. DG34694: London Midland have retained a handful of 321s: Here's 321410 working the 17.49 Milton Keynes - Euston. DG34708: 221144 calls at Milton Keynes en-route to Euston. DG34732: 323216 sits at Birmingham New St as dusk gathers DG34734: Class leader 323201 at Birmingham New St. DG34752: The crew of 158841 wait for passenegrs at Birmingham New St DG34788: A Pendolino pulls into New St.

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]]> Mon Sep 21 2009 This weeks odds and sods http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1755862.html More bits and bobs.. Wednesday 16 September 2009: More bits and bobs..

DG32556: 155347 class at Wakefield Westgate on a Huddersfield service. DG32560: The Standard Class interior of one of the refurbished AXC HST trailers. DG32758: Passengers leave 170309 at Huddersfield. DG32793: A Northern 156 passes through the industrial tourist area of Castlefield in Manchester DG32985: Halifax station canopy is undergoing a repaint and brush-up. DG32991: Halifax station footbridge after the decorators have been in. DG33225: 91124 propels a NXEC service for Kings Cross out of Leeds. DG33743: 323224 and 142013 at Manchester Piccadilly. DG33746: 142013 at Journey's end in Manchester Piccadilly. DG33755: 390037 waits time at Crewe whilst working the 1355 Manchester Piccadilly - Euston. DG33756: 150217 waits its next turn at Crewe. DG33767: 377202 waits to return South at Milton Keynes. DG33779: A few front ends and a solitary enthusiast as Birmingham New St. DG33783: 153365 brings up the rear of a London Midland service at Birmingham New St. DG33829: A Pendolino snakes out of Birmingham New St. DG33840: Birmingham New St at night. DG33851: The 378s are becoming more common. Here's 378013 stabled at Euston. DG33856: 378007 and 57313 at Euston representing two very different era's of train design.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Wed Sep 16 2009 Alstom exhibit the X'TRAPOLIS at the Saatchi gallery tonight http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1755760.html Alstom exhibited their new UK EMU to the rail industry and guests at the Saatchi art gallery in London this evening. The X‘TRAPOLIS suburban EMU is a very different beast to conventional EMUs. The train would be the first in the UK to use bogie offset articulation, which lowers weight, energy consumption and life cycle costs. It also has other innovative design features. Amongst other things, the company estimate that the train weighs 28% less than contemporary designs. The innovative design of the doors in the 20m cars means that more are fitted compared to the comparable length of a conventional train. This is helped by the bogie layout, which also means the vehicles are 5cm wider than standard vehicles, so there's not so much 'mind the gap' at station platforms. I’ll add more details tomorrow, but here’s the start of a gallery from the event. Tuesday 15 September 2009: Alstom exhibited their new UK EMU to the rail industry and guests at the Saatchi art gallery in London this evening. The X_TRAPOLIS suburban EMU is a very different beast to conventional EMUs. The train would be the first in the UK to use bogie offset articulation, which lowers weight, energy consumption and life cycle costs. It also has other innovative design features. Amongst other things, the company estimate that the train weighs 28% less than contemporary designs. The innovative design of the doors in the 20m cars means that more are fitted compared to the comparable length of a conventional train. This is helped by the bogie layout, which also means the vehicles are 5cm wider than standard vehicles, so there's not so much 'mind the gap' at station platforms. I_ll add more details tomorrow, but here_s the start of a gallery from the event.

DG33270: A model of how the offset bogies work. DG33278: X'TRAPOLIS model showing the bogie layout DG33283: A model of the leading cars on the X'TRAPOLIS EMU at the Saatchi gallery DG33334: Trains at an exhibition DG33408: Guests admire a model of the new train. DG33426: Checking out the model... DG33500: Roger Ford of Modern Railways casts an inquisitive eye over the offset bogie model. DG33521: Alstom at the Saatchi...

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Tue Sep 15 2009 Neville Hill depot open day http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1754861.html Here's the start of a gallery from Neville Hill. I'm rather busy over the next few days, but I'll try and add more pictures as soon as I can. P Sunday 13 September 2009: Here's the start of a gallery from Neville Hill. I'm rather busy over the next few days, but I'll try and add more pictures as soon as I can. P

DG33022. Tim Shoveller looks on as David Maidment names 43082 'The Railway Children' after the charity at Neville Hill open day. DG33042: David Maidment poses with the 3rd nameplate in front of 43082. DG33043: 43082 resplendent in EMT livery now carries 'The Railway Children' name. DG33105: 08950 on display inside one of the sheds. DG33110: HSTs at rest for the weekend. DG33112; 43058 surrounded by other HSTs. DG33115: 08950 inside the HST shed. DG33117: 158856 and 43064 on display at Neville Hill DG33118: 43064 inside Neville Hill. DG33121: 41041 undergoes replating for corrosion damage before being put through the refresh programme. DG33131: The new Paxman VP185 which will be fitted to 43061 now that it's Valenta has burst. DG33133: 43061 and the Valenta engine from 43089. DG33135: 158790 and 144015 on display. DG33148: 144015 receiving attention to its wheelsets DG33151: One of 144015s wheelsets DG33153: One of 144015s wheelsets DG33162: Siemens staff explain the intricacies of a Class 333. DG33169: 321902 at rest inside the shed. DG33182: 43046 connected to a shore supply inside the depot. DG33184: 43082 keeps company with 41156. DG33193: The wheel lathe shunter. DG33195: En-route to the NYMR, 37901 popped in to join the open day at Neville Hill DG33199: 08724 on display by the wheel lathe DG33200: 55022 was a popular attraction DG33209: Brian (Barnsley) and Neil (Buxton) of ACoRP with their respective station names.

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]]> Sun Sep 13 2009 Sneak preview: EMTs HST refurbishment is shown off at Neville Hill http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1754767.html EMT gave a sneak preview of their HST refurbishment programme at Neville Hill today. Here's a few pictures of the new look for the fleet. 1st Class has had a makeover which includes the fitting of power sockets (and eventually wifi). Standard Class has also been refurbished. Once a few finishing touches have been added the set will be released into traffic. The whole fleet will be tackled in a £9 million project which will take 60 weeks from start to finish. Sunday 13 September 2009: EMT gave a sneak preview of their HST refurbishment programme at Neville Hill today. Here's a few pictures of the new look for the fleet. 1st Class has had a makeover which includes the fitting of power sockets (and eventually wifi). Standard Class has also been refurbished. Once a few finishing touches have been added the set will be released into traffic. The whole fleet will be tackled in a _9 million project which will take 60 weeks from start to finish.

DG33054: Looking through the 1st Class coach. DG33059: Standard Class, showing the mix of tables and airline seats DG33063: The refurbished vestibules DG33076: Standard Class DG33096: A 1st Class seating bay.

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]]> Sun Sep 13 2009 This weeks odds and sods http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1754123.html A few bits from the Pennines to start. TPE services are diverted via the Calder Valley over the next couple of weekends, which was worth a look... Saturday 12 September 2009: A few bits from the Pennines to start. TPE services are diverted via the Calder Valley over the next couple of weekends, which was worth a look...

DG32908: Free food at Todmorden station c/o 'Incredible Edibles' DG32910: The Standedge tunnel is closed for the next couple of weekends, which means that TPE services are diverted via the Calder Valley. 185113 passes Walsden with a service from Manchester Victoria.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sat Sep 12 2009 A look at EMT's new depot at Derby Etches Park http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1753309.html EMT unveiled their new wheel lathe at Derby Etches Park today. The £2 million investment will allow the company to turn wheelsets themselves rather than having to send their fleet off to Central Rivers. The trip also allowed visitors to have a look at progress on the new 3-road depot building. This is due to open in early 2010. The total value of the investment at the depot is £24 million. Thursday 10 September 2009: EMT unveiled their new wheel lathe at Derby Etches Park today. The _2 million investment will allow the company to turn wheelsets themselves rather than having to send their fleet off to Central Rivers. The trip also allowed visitors to have a look at progress on the new 3-road depot building. This is due to open in early 2010. The total value of the investment at the depot is _24 million.

DG32568: Inside the new wheel lathe at Etches Park. DG32596: Gettting ready to turn a wheel on 222015: Wonder what the spike is for? - have a look at the next picture. DG32603: The ram prepares to connect with the wheel to keep it balanced for turning. DG32623: Turning a wheelset on the new lathe. DG32647: Inside the new 3-road shed. The two roads nearest the camera are through roads, whilst the far road will be a dead end road equipped with jacks. DG32652: Looking along the new 3-road shed, which will be able to hold a complete 7-car Meridian set DG32664: Looking North in the new depot building. It's expected to open in early 2010. DG32674: The new depot building takes shape. DG32680: Wendy Robertson. EMT's Senior Project Manager who is in charge of the revamp of Etches Park. DG32694: Breaking the banner DG32711: Brian Souter and Tim Shoveller at the event. DG32714: The goat moves 222015 onto the wheel lathe. DG32721: Setting up the wheel lathe, which was supplied by Hegenscheidt. DG32725: Ready to roll...

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]]> Thu Sep 10 2009 Manchester moments. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1752936.html I'm knocking around the North-West again for the best part of the next week, so here's the first few pictures - with more to add yet... Wednesday 9 September 2009: I'm knocking around the North-West again for the best part of the next week, so here's the first few pictures - with more to add yet...

DG32459: A surprising Regional Railways survivor in Bolton. 9th September 2009. DG32510: An EMT service leaves Oxford Rd and crosses the busy streets of Manchester. DG32530: 66608 sits in the loop at Marsedn with a rake of empty hoppers. DG32839: 158774 calls at Manchester Oxford Rd. DG32898: 66530 hauls an intermodal service past new development in Manchester - which includes the site of the former Hacienda Club (in the background).

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]]> Wed Sep 9 2009 SWT summer soiree http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1752759.html I had to visit SWT territory for a client yesterday, so here's a few other shots from the day... Wednesday 9 September 2009: I had to visit SWT territory for a client yesterday, so here's a few other shots from the day...

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Wed Sep 9 2009 World Rail: Malaysia from the archives. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1749779.html I've been meaning to get around to scanning these old shots from 1992 and 1998... Thursday 3 September 2009: I've been meaning to get around to scanning these old shots from 1992 and 1998...

FR0162: Loco 24115 moves of Kuala Lumpur shed on the 8th May 1992. This site has disappeared and the land redeveloped. The magnificent Kuala Lumpur (old) station was designed by Arthur Hubback and completed in 1910. Its Indo-Saracenic style was very popular with colonial architects of the time. The station was displaced as the focus of the railways in KL when Central station was opened in 2001. These pictures were taken in May 1992, before the lines were electrified. The magnificent Kuala Lumpur (old) station was designed by Arthur Hubback and completed in 1910. Its Indo-Saracenic style was very popular with colonial architects of the time. The station was displaced as the focus of the railways in KL when Central station was opened in 2001. These pictures were taken in May 1992, before the lines were electrified.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Thu Sep 3 2009 Vectis variety. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1749123.html I popped over to the Isle of Wight with a couple of friends yesterday, so here's the start of a gallery from the island.. Wednesday 2 September 2009: I popped over to the Isle of Wight with a couple of friends yesterday, so here's the start of a gallery from the island..

DG31827. Units 008 and 009 arrive at Ryde Pier Head. DG31831: Passengers disembark at Ryde Pier Head. DG31835: The 1938 stock cars are still fitted with whistles. DG31838: The controls of the 1938 stock are pretty basic. DG31840: The interior of a 1938 car. DG31843: History of Southern coach 2416. DG31846: One of the compartments in coach 2416. DG31851: Despite it being the day after the bank holiday, passenger numbers were quite respectable on the steam railway. DG31855: Hunslet 0-6-0 No 198 'Royal Engineer' was the engine in steam during our visit. DG31857: The IOW steam railway has some wonderful coaches. This is a former LCDR 4-wheeler built in 1887. DG31859: 02 No W24 'Calbourne' under restoration. DG31863: Barclay 0-6-0T No W38 'Ajax' DG31866: A1X 'Terrier' 0-4-0T 'Freshwater' outside the shed at Haven St. DG31869: Ivatt 2-6-2T 41298 has moved to the line from Quainton Rd along with sister 41313 and 2-6-0 No 46447. DG31873: Ivatt 2-6-0 No 46447 sans boiler. DG31874: Ivatt 2-6-2T No 41313. DG31876: A1X 'Terrier' No 11 'Newport' is awaiting its new boiler. DG31880: Restoration work continues on 46447. DG31885: D2059 at the steam railways base at Haven St. DG31886: This Southern coach has needed a new underframe. DG31887: Restoring a Shark ballast plough at Haven St. DG31891: Barclay 0-4-0 No 235 at Haven St. DG31899: 008 and 009 approach Smallbrook Jn station from Ryde. DG31907: The interior of 1938 car No 229. DG31908: Shanklin station building. DG31912: Shanklin station buildings DG31915: 008 seen through the canopy at Shanklin. DG31918: 008 and 009 pull away from Sandown and head for Ryde. DG31290: Sandown station building. DG31924: Lunch in Sandown - pan fried sardines and a pint of Ringwood Ale. DG31928: 006 and 004 wait to pass a Shanklin service at Sandown. DG31931: 006 and 008 pass in the loop at Sandown. DG31937: 004 and 006 approach Sandown station from Shanklin. DG31498: 008 and 009 call at Ryde St Johns on the way to Shanklin. DG31950: One of the lines remaining SR semaphores at Ryde St Johns DG31954: Isle of Wight Railway Co lettering in thecanopy brackets at Ryde St Johns station. DG31955: A stack of bogie frames at Ryde Depot. DG31961: Lost in the past, Michael and Hassard are oblivious... DG31973: The Guard watches out as passengers join the train at Ryde St Johns. DG31979: The IOW is one of the few places left with commercial Hovercraft services. DG31985: 009 and 008 wait at the Pier Head. DG31987: The remains of the Ryde Pier tramway, which opened in 1864 and closed in 1969. DG31989: 009 leaves Ryde Pier head. passing the remains of the tramway in the foreground. DG32012: 004 arrives at Ryde Pier Head. DG32018: Passengers join the train at Ryde Pier Head. DG32024: The TM of a SWT service to London helps passengers at Portsmouth.

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]]> Wed Sep 2 2009 Bank holiday bits http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1748283.html I'm having a gentle amble around central London today, so here's a few shots, brought to you by the free wifi at St Pancras station whilst I enjoy a beer in the Betjeman Bar! Monday 31 August 2009: I'm having a gentle amble around central London today, so here's a few shots, brought to you by the free wifi at St Pancras station whilst I enjoy a beer in the Betjeman Bar!

DG31694: 319448 calls at West Hampstead Thameslink, where a new footbridge is under construction. DG31698: 222003 speeds through West Hampstead Thameslink, passing under the new footbridge which will provide an added entrance/exit from the station to ease congestion when 12-car trains are introduced. DG31699: Work has started on extending the platforms at West Hampstead to enable 12-car trains to be used. DG31702: 319003 passes under the new footbridge which is being installed at West Hampstead Thameslink. DG31705: 319003 stands at platform 1 in St Pancras. FCC services were being diverted into the EMT platforms due to the cross London route being closed for engineering work. DG31707: 222009 at St Pancras. DG31712: 319003 leaves St Pancras with a service to Beford. DG31716: 319435 arrives at St Pancras. DG31723: 319421 at St Pancras EMT platform 1 DG31725: 222009 and 222007 at St Pancras. DG31734: Passengers wait for a Westbound trains at Liverpool St underground station. DF31746: Mirror, mirror on the wall... DG31765: Reflections at Borough on the Northern line. DG31779: The interior of a Bakerloo line train. DG31790: Looking along the Northbound Victoria line platform at Euston. DG31804: Reflections at St Pancras.

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]]> Mon Aug 31 2009 Metropolitan musings http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1747296.html Here's a selection of shots taken over the past couple of days. Saturday 29 August 2009: Here's a selection of shots taken over the past couple of days.

DG31359: Oxford station has been enlarged over the decades, but its beginning to creak at the seams.. DG31367: Passengers ignore luggage trollies as they leave their trains at Paddington. DG31372: Trollies at Paddington. DG31541: 365502 waits at Kings Cross under a roof which will be refurbished shortly. DG31572: Jubilee line passengers join a train at Bond St DG31576: Baker Street has various murals celebrating its famous occupant. Here's one depecting the 'Hound of the Baskervilles' on the Jubilee line platform. DG31588: Baker Street has various murals celebrating its famous occupant. Here's one depecting the 'Hound of the Baskervilles' on the Jubilee line platform. DG31596: A Jubilee line tube calls at Swiss Cottage. DG31601: Mind the doors... DG31607: Rain bounces of a Jubilee line train at Willesden Green. DG31608: Well, it lives up to its name. DG31609: A city bound Jubilee line train arrives at Willesden Green. DG31617: A Jubilee line train calls at Willesden Green between showers. DG31623: Dollis Hill station on the Jubilee line. DG31630: A Jubilee line train arrives at Finchley Rd. DG31662: Homeward bound commuters wait for the doors to open on their train at Moorgate on the FCC lines. DG31671: A FCC service pulls away from Old St. DG31676: Symmetry in passenger tunnels at Old St. DG31687: A commuter joins one of the last trains of the evening on the FCC lines from Moorgate at Old St.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sat Aug 29 2009 Eurostars 100 millionth passenger travelled to Paris today. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1746799.html Eurostar celebrated another landmark this morning when they carried their 100 millionth passenger. The lucky person was David Kemp, a graphic designer from Highgate in London. He was travelling to Paris with his French wife Stéphanie and their 2-year old daughter Mia. To mark the occasion Eurostar CEO Richard Brown presented David with a free pass valid for a year and also made him 'Lord Kemp' of Eurostar. The Kemps were travelling to Paris, then by TGV to Lyon where they are attending a family wedding. Their Eurostar and TGV tickets were upgraded and they were presented with other treats and pampered onboard the train. Here's a selection of pictures from the event. Friday 28 August 2009: Eurostar celebrated another landmark this morning when they carried their 100 millionth passenger. The lucky person was David Kemp, a graphic designer from Highgate in London. He was travelling to Paris with his French wife St_phanie and their 2-year old daughter Mia. To mark the occasion Eurostar CEO Richard Brown presented David with a free pass valid for a year and also made him 'Lord Kemp' of Eurostar. The Kemps were travelling to Paris, then by TGV to Lyon where they are attending a family wedding. Their Eurostar and TGV tickets were upgraded and they were presented with other treats and pampered onboard the train. Here's a selection of pictures from the event.

DG31408: Eurostar CEO Richard Brown presents David with his title certificate and a free pass for a year. DG31425: 'Lord' Kemp shows off his title. DG31467: The media vie for pictures and interviews. DG31490: Stephanie Kemp is interviewed by the French media. DG31493: Richard Brown presents David with his title and tickets. DG31507: Eurostar CEO Richard Brown is interviewed by the media DG31514: David Kemp, his wife Stephanie and their daughter Mia before boarding the 0900 to Paris. DG31538: 3210 pulls out of St Pancras.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Fri Aug 28 2009 This weeks odds and sods http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1745453.html Here's the start of a new one which will contain a mix of old and new pictures. I've been spending the last few days sorting out stuff from the past few months, so there's a number of older shots to add yet. Tuesday 25 August 2009: Here's the start of a new one which will contain a mix of old and new pictures. I've been spending the last few days sorting out stuff from the past few months, so there's a number of older shots to add yet.

DG23043: 158810 heads North after calling at Chesterfield. DG31235: 144017 passes the remains of Hall Royd engineers sidings at Todmordon on a Manchester Victoria - Leeds service. DG31237: 144017 passes Hall Royd Jn at Todmordon. DG31240: 153342 passes Hall Royd Jn on its way to Manchester. DG31248: 158842 takes the line to Burnley at Hall Royd Jn whilst working a York - Blackpool North service. DG31252: 158842 rounds the tight curve at Hall Royd Jn as it heads for Burnley. DG31256: 158754 approaches Hall Royd Jn with a Blackpool North - York service. DG31258: 158754 prepares to join the main line to Hebden Bridge at Hall Royd Jn. DG31265: The duisused Stansfield Hall loco spur is the remains of the former link to Manchester off the Burnley line at Todmordon. This may yet be reinstated to allow loop services to run. DG31272: 158758 speeds past Eastwood with a York - Blackpool North service. DG31278: 158756 nears Eastwood. DG31283: 158756 passes Eastwood on a Blackpool North - York service. DG31286: 185105 waits at Manchester Piccadilly before heading for the Airport. DG31290: 142049 works the 1803 to Marple. DG31296: 142049 on the 1803 to Marple. DG31298: Nameplate of Pendolino 390039.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Tue Aug 25 2009 Grand Central lease more Adelantes. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1743428.html Grand Central held a small ceremony at Kings Cross today to celebrate the signing of a new lease for 5 Adelante 125mph DMUs with Angel Trains. The keys to the new units were handed over to GC Chairman Giles Fearnley by Kevin Tribley, Commercial Director of Angel Trains. The Class 180s being leased by Grand Central are 180101, 180105, 180107, 180112 and 180114. Two of the units are already with GC, with the fifth and final train expected to be handed over on 1st January 2010. This will allow crew training, reliability and refurbishment work to be carried out on the vehicles before the new ‘West Riding’ service begins. GC services from Bradford to Kings Cross via Halifax are expected to begin by May 2010, although the service may be phased in before that date. Thursday 20 August 2009: Grand Central held a small ceremony at Kings Cross today to celebrate the signing of a new lease for 5 Adelante 125mph DMUs with Angel Trains. The keys to the new units were handed over to GC Chairman Giles Fearnley by Kevin Tribley, Commercial Director of Angel Trains. The Class 180s being leased by Grand Central are 180101, 180105, 180107, 180112 and 180114. Two of the units are already with GC, with the fifth and final train expected to be handed over on 1st January 2010. This will allow crew training, reliability and refurbishment work to be carried out on the vehicles before the new _West Riding_ service begins. GC services from Bradford to Kings Cross via Halifax are expected to begin by May 2010, although the service may be phased in before that date.

Giles Fearnley, Chairman of Grand Central, accepts the keys to the three new Adelantes from Kevin Tribley, Angel Trains Commercial Director at Kings Cross yesterday.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Thu Aug 20 2009 Cumbria - four seasons in one day! http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1740487.html Here's a selection of pictures from a few days on the Cumbrian coast line after a visit to Carlisle. Friday 14 August 2009: Here's a selection of pictures from a few days on the Cumbrian coast line after a visit to Carlisle.

DG30748: 390008 calls at Carlisle, whilst 185113 waits on the opposite platform with a service to Manchester Airport. DG30764: Corby Gates Signalbox at Wetheral on the Tyne Valley line. DG30768: 142065 appraoches Wetheral in the Tyne Valley line. DG30775: 156469 approaches Workington on its way from Carlisle. DG30776: 156469 approaches Workington form Carlisle. DG30781: A Northern 156 crosses the Derwent Viaduct at Workington as it heads for Carlisle. DG30785: 156451 traverses the Cunbrian coast line near Nethertown on a blustery August afternoon. DG30804: 156448 passes signals guarding Kirkstanton level crossing near Millom in truly awful weather DG30812: The lady crossing keeper at Kirkstanton opens the gates for road traffic. DG30817: Silecroft signalbox. DG30824: Bootle signalbox DG30826: 156463 heads for Millom in appalling weather. The Fells beyond are completely hidden by low cloud and rain DG30831: 156463 heads for Millom in appalling weather. The Fells beyond are completely hidden by low cloud and rain DG30851: The Eskmeals viaduct was about the only thing that hadn't disappeared in the murk. But contrast this scene with the shots of the same place later on in the same day... DG30893: A Northern class 156 passes the beach by Nethertown station on the Cumbrian coast line. 15th August 2009. DG30925: A Northern 156 skirts the sea at Nethertown on the Cumbrian coast DG30946: The Cumbrian coast line hugs the sea at Nethertown. The view is looking North towards St Bees. DG30965: The last train of the day from Carlisle to Barrow approaches the Eskmeals viaduct. DG30967: The last train of the day from Carlisle to Barrow crosses the Eskmeals viaduct. DG30973: The last train of the day from Carlisle to Barrow crosses the Eskmeals viaduct. DG30985: Askam signalbox. An attractive Furness Railway design marred by a rather large satellite dish, DG30987: Askam station. DG30994: Park South Signalbox in Barrow. DG30998: Dalton Junction in Barrow. DG31000: A TPE 185 approaches Ulverston after crossing the Leven viaduct. DG31003: A TPE 185 Ulverston DG31025: A Northern 156 crosses the Leven viaduct near Ulverston. DG31033: With the Leven viaduct in the background, a Northern 156 approaches Ulverston. DG31041: A Northern 156 passes through Ulverston. DG31056: 185150 crosses the Kent Viaduct at Arnside. DG31066: 185150 crosses the Kent Viaduct at Arnside. DG31071: 185150 emits plumes of exhaust as it accelerates away from the Kent Viaduct. DG31085: 185128 crosses the Kent Viaduct at Arnside. DG31118: The attractive station at Silverdale. The building is now a private residence. DG31122: Silverdale station just outside Carnforth on the line to Barrow. DG31125: A group of lads join 153378 at Lancaster which was working a service to Barrow.

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]]> Fri Aug 14 2009 Cornish connections http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1738259.html I'm down in the Duchy at the moment having a look at some of the Cornish branches. Sadly as I arrived the good weather departed! I'll add more pictures over the next few days. 12th August: I've added what will probably be a final selection of pictures today, although I'll add captions tomorrow. I hope you enjoy them. Monday 10 August 2009: I'm down in the Duchy at the moment having a look at some of the Cornish branches. Sadly as I arrived the good weather departed! I'll add more pictures over the next few days. 12th August: I've added what will probably be a final selection of pictures today, although I'll add captions tomorrow. I hope you enjoy them.

DG30351: Another Southbound HST was just in front of us at Dawlish, which enabled me to get a shot of one train from another. Some of the work that has been done to pin the cliffs to prevent movement can be seen above the train. DG30358: The Train Manager gives us the off at Truro. DG30365: 150279 is on loan from ATW. It's seen here at Penzance. DG30371: The Down starter at St Erth DG30400: 150263 and 150279 arrive at St Ives. DG30426: 150279 and 150263 leave St Ives. DG30432: Mind the gap. Passengers leave a service from St Ives at the park and ride station at Lelant Saltings DG30440: St Erth station. DG30441: The GWR signalbox at St Erth DG30447: GWR bracket semaphore which guards the junction of the St Ives branch at St Erth DG30448: A GWR semaphore on the Down line at St Erth DG30458: 43016 arrives at St Erth at the head of a service to Penzance DG30461: It's the holiday season and there's no shortage of reservations... DG30467: Passengers get their first look at Penzance. DG30471: 150234 between turns at Penzance. DG30476: 153305 stabled in the station at Penzance. DG30484: 150221 leads a 153 on a aervice to Newton Abbott DG30490: Passengers join a service to Newton Abbott at Penzance. DG30495: 153368 brings up the rear of a Penzance - Newton Abbott service at Truro. DG30502: 43169 leads an HST from Paddington to Penzance at Truro. DG30506: Reunions at Truro. DG30512: If there was any doubt that 153382 is sat at Falmouth Harbour the massive shape behind it should soon dispel that idea! DG30521: 153382 uses the new loop at Penryn which has allowed services on the branch to double in frequency. DG30531: 153382 calls at Penryn on its way to Falmouth. DG30543: 153382 passes 153380 on the new loop on the Famouth branch at Penryn which has allowed the service to be run every half-hour. DG30545: 153382 heads for Falmouth Harbour from Falmouth Town. DG30549: 153382 arrives at Falmouth Town station DG30553: The pair of 153s working the new half-hourly service on the Falmouth branch pass on the newly installed loop at Penryn. DG30555: Follow the money - a sign at the rebuilt Penryn station tells the tale... DG30562: 153368 crosses the viaduct at Penryn. DG30568: 221126 calls at Truro. DG30572: 'It's a semaphore Jim - but not as we know it': A mutant GWR semaphore at Truro which has replaced an original signal. DG30573: The GWR sempahore which controls the Falmouth bay platform at Truro. DG30576: 43164 rounds the curve into Truro with a service to Paddington. DG30580: Passengers join a London bound HST at Truro. DG30591: 153373 leads a 150 on a service to Penzance at Truro. DG30593: 150232 pulls away from Truro whilst working to Penzance. DG30598: 153368 arrives at the bay platform at Truro whilst working the Falmouth branch. DG30602: Penmere is a very attractive station on the Falmouth branch which is looked after by an energetic local group. The gardens are immaculate. DG30608: 153382 arrives at the well kept station of Penmere on the Falmouth branch. DG30613: 153382 is dwarfed by a ship in Falmouth Docks. DG30622: 153382 crosses the viaduct outside Penryn on the Falmouth branch. DG30631: 150232 pulls out of Truro and heads East, DG30634: 43124 leads a Penzance bound HST as it arrives at Truro. DG30644: FGWs 153 fleet have had an internal refurbishment. Here's one on the Falmouth Branch. DG30645: 220033 pulls away from Truro. DG30657: And through the oblong window.... DG30666: A thumbs-up from the Train Managers as he escorts passengers onto his service to London Paddington DG30673: 153377 and 153318 wait for passengers at Par, where a young surfer joins this service to Newquay. DG30676: 66604 works 6C59 Burngullow - Hackney yard loaded bogie boxes through Par. The loco will work back later in the day to pick up the second portion of the train which has to be worked in two halves due to the severity of the Devon and Cornwall banks.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Mon Aug 10 2009 Manchester miscelleny http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1737195.html I'm up in the Manchester area for a couple of days, having a look at the Oldham loop before it closes for conversion to Metrolink. Here's the first few shots. Thursday 6 August 2009: I'm up in the Manchester area for a couple of days, having a look at the Oldham loop before it closes for conversion to Metrolink. Here's the first few shots.

DG30135: 142037 disappears into the tunnel to the East of Oldham Werneth station. DG30151: The coat of arms above the tunnel next to Oldham Werneth station. Does anyone know their origin or history? DG30158: 150133 rounds the curve before arriving at Oldhan Werneth from Manchester DG30161: A lone passenger waits at Oldham Werneth station as 150133 passes through. DG30173: 142048 emerges into the light between tunnels before arriving at Oldham Werneth DG30182: 142048 leaves Oldham Werneth for Manchester DG30183: Soon, all this will be swept away. Boarded up house await demolition to make way for a new estate, and the Class 142 will disappers to make way for Metrolink. DG30198: 150133 climbs the gradient between Werneth and Mumps stations in Oldham. DG30200: The wrong side of the motorway! A 142 arrives at Oldham Mumps. The existing station is seperated from the town by the dual carriageway behind. This area was once a maze of railway bridges which carried tracks into the parcels depot and yard next to the station. DG30206: Derelict buffers in the abandoned bay are testament to the decline of Oldham Mumps. DG30209: A passenger leaves a Rochdale train at Oldham Mumps. DG30215: 142013 calls at Oldham Mumps en-route to Manchester. DG30220: 142050 stands at Oldham Mumps. DG30229: Passengers leave a Shaw train at Oldham Mumps. DG30236: 150133 passes through Derker non-stop. DG30243: 142037 calls at the little-used Derker station. DG30261: 142050 waits in the bay at Rochdale before heading back along the Oldham loop. DG30268: 142037 calls at New Hey en-route to Rochdale. DG30274: Passengers catch a train to Manchester at New Hey. DG30286: 142051 passes through a rural scene at New Hey. DG30296: 150205 waits to work a service to Chester DG30297: 150223 and 323224 at Manchester Piccadilly. DG30301: It's going to be a crush! DG30306: 158847 leads another EMT unit on a Liverpool - Norwich service at Manchester Piccadilly. DG30312: Off on holiday... DG30322: A pigeon is the only user of the abandoned Mayfield station. DG30329: The contrast between dereliction at Mayfield and resurgent commercial buildings in Manchester. DG0332: 156470 calls at Manchester Piccadilly on its way to Liverpool. DG30334: The nameplate on 390009 DG30338: AXC passengers leave their train at Manchester Piccadilly.

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]]> Thu Aug 6 2009 North London line transformation http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1734174.html Here's a selection of shots from the North London line today. The route is undergoing a transformation as there's a huge amount of engineering work to upgrade the line - plus the introduction of new passenger trains. Here's a look at both. Friday 31 July 2009: Here's a selection of shots from the North London line today. The route is undergoing a transformation as there's a huge amount of engineering work to upgrade the line - plus the introduction of new passenger trains. Here's a look at both.

DG29804: 66423 heads West through Highbury and Islington station. DG29810: 66540 heads East past some of the work that is going on with the former 25kv electrified lines at Highbury and Islington. DG29818: 313105 pulls away from Caledonian Rd and Barnsbury with a service to Richmond. DG29819: Rebuilding work on the former 25kv electrified lines at Caledonian Rd and Barnsbury DG29823: 313115 calls at Caledonian Rd and Barnsbury en-route to Richmond. DG29827: Passengers at Caledonian Rd and Barnsbury DG29833: Looking along past the work to the electrified tracks from Cally Rd to Highbury and Islington. DG29836: 313115 heads for Highbury and Islington DG29841: Rail grinder DR79273/63 takes the Goblin at Gospel Oak. DG29844: 313106 stops at Gospel Oak on its way to Stratford. DG29852: 313119 arrives at Gospel Oak and crosses the Junction with the line to Barking DG29856: A scene that will disappear over the next year.. DG29864: The new order - 378007 approaches Gospel Oak on its first day in passenger service DG29868: The interior of one of the driving cars in 378007. There's plenty of room for bikes and prams. DG29870: Wide gangways have been a common feature on trains in other parts of the world for years. Now the idea has reached the UK. DG29873: Passengers on 378007. DG29875: 378007 calls at Highbury and Islington on its way to Richmond. DG29882: Homeward bound on the Victoria line.

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]]> Fri Jul 31 2009 A Grand (Central) day out... http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1733318.html GC launched their new fourth path to and from London - Sunderland today - using the first of their Class 180s. Here's a few pictures from the day (brought to you via GC's wifi service) - with more to follow. Wednesday 29 July 2009: GC launched their new fourth path to and from London - Sunderland today - using the first of their Class 180s. Here's a few pictures from the day (brought to you via GC's wifi service) - with more to follow.

DG29461 Hugh Bayley MP, flagged the train off at York DG29482: Serving guests in First Class DG29488: Enjoying the trip from London in 1st Class DG29520: Serving breakfast... DG29529: GC MD Tom Clift chats to the Revd Stephen Sorby, who is the Darlington railway Chaplain. DG29540: Guests chat on the return trip to York. DG29554: Modern Railways writer Alan Williams is briefed by Rupert Brennan Brown of RailPR... DG29562: The special menu. DG29757: GC staff and traincrew pose for a team picture. DG29573: Ian Ashton holds the third namplate which had been presented to him. Next to him is Driver Neville Oldfield. DG29613: 180112 rests at Kings Cross... DG29790: Alan Williams protests: DG29795: A look at the GC livery on one of the Driving Cars

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]]> Wed Jul 29 2009 This weeks odds and sods. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1732882.html A mix to start the week: firstly a few tube shots, then some pictures from two locations I was working at today. Tuesday 28 July 2009: A mix to start the week: firstly a few tube shots, then some pictures from two locations I was working at today.

DG29215: Paddington tube station on the Circle line. DG29218: A clockwise Circle line tube arrives at Paddington. DG29220: New tiles are gradually beginning to appear at Kings Cross St Pancras. DG29224: Passengers wait for a Northbound Victoria line tube. DG29229: A Southbound Northern line tube via Charing Cross arrives at Euston. DG29237: Police search people at Waterloo using a metal detector. DG29305: 350246 and 350129 stand in the bays at Northampton: Spot the difference. DG29325: 66113 heads South with a rake of Cargowaggons. DG29404: 60011 creates its own cloud as it heads therough Northampton with 6H50 Willesden - Tunstead cement empties. DG29407: 350265 heads South for Euston. DG29411: 92007 heads South with 4O10 Trafford Park - Southampton. DG29419: 92007 heads South with 4O10 Trafford Park - Southampton. DG29424: The interior of a London Midland Class 350/2. DG29426: Rugby station new ticket office and facilities.

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]]> Tue Jul 28 2009 Welsh valleys visit http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1730371.html After the excitement of the electrification announcement in Cardiff I took time off to pop up the valleys to Ebbw Vale, Aberdare and Pontypridd. Here's a selection of pictures from the trip. Friday 24 July 2009: After the excitement of the electrification announcement in Cardiff I took time off to pop up the valleys to Ebbw Vale, Aberdare and Pontypridd. Here's a selection of pictures from the trip.

DG28845: 57602 rest at Paddington after arriving with the Night Riviera from Penzance. DG28852: 57602 under the clock at Paddington after bringing the Night Riviera from Penzance. DG29088. 66844 disappears in the undergrowth at Cardiff Central. DG29098: 150227 stands at the end of the line - Ebbw Vale DG29092: The interior of 150227, one of ATWs refurbished sets. DG29142: 150251 arrives at Crosskeys on the Ebbw Vale branch. DG29129: 150240 takes the line towards Abercynon at Pontypridd Nth Junction. The former signalbox remains boarded up but still intact. DG29153: 150217 stands at Aberdare. DG29157: The conductor of 150217 keeps a watchful eye on the platform at Aberdare. DG29158: Almost time to go... DG29171: Crowds joing a Class 142 at Pontypridd. DG29179: 121032 - The Cardiff Bay bubble at Queen St. DG29183: 150208 is ready to leave Queen St for Coryton. DG29192: The concourse at Cardiff Central DG29198: Cardiff Central.

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]]> Fri Jul 24 2009 The Electrification announcement! http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1729963.html Here's a selection of pictures from today's announcement. It was made to the press by Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Lord Adonis at Paddington this morning. Following this up was a further announcement in Cardiff, which was being visited by the Cabinet. Thursday 23 July 2009: Here's a selection of pictures from today's announcement. It was made to the press by Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Lord Adonis at Paddington this morning. Following this up was a further announcement in Cardiff, which was being visited by the Cabinet.

DG28862: Lord Adonis chats to Mark Hopwood (MD of FGW) before the announcement. DG28885: Lord Andrew Adonis announced the electrification of the Great Western main line at Paddington this morning. DG28899: Lord Adonis breaks the electrification news to the BBC. DG28922: The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown MP and Lord Adonis join the rest of the cabinet to travel to Cardiff by train. DG28943: The Prime Minister and Lord Adonis chat to FGW staff before taking the train to Cardiff. DG28950: Under the spotlight – the PM talks to the BBC about the electrification announcement. DG28971: Under the spotlight – the PM talks to the BBC about the electrification announcement. DG28980: The Prime Minister, Rhodri Morgan (The First Minister of the Welsh Assembly) and Peter Hain (Secretary of State for Wales) talk at Cardiff Central. DG29033: The Welsh Secretary and the Transport Secretary chat at Cardiff Central.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Thu Jul 23 2009 This weeks odds and sods. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1729374.html Just one to start - the refurbished Virgin Mk 3 rake on its way into London in appalling light! Tuesday 21 July 2009: Just one to start - the refurbished Virgin Mk 3 rake on its way into London in appalling light!

DG28776: 390040 waits time at Coventry whilst working a service to Birmingham. DG23308: 321403 and 321401 head for Kings Cross through Alexandra Palace. DG28817: 180111 flies past Alexandra Palace on the 1850 Kings Cross - Hull - just as the Virgin Mk3 set was coming the other way! The refurbished Virgin Mk 3 rake heads South through Ally Pally this evening in atrocious light - but ho hum...It's due to enter service from Euston this Friday.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Tue Jul 21 2009 A tour of EMT territory http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1726050.html No clever titles for this gallery (yet). It'll be what it says on the tin - a look at routes covered by EMT over the rest of the week. Here's the start... Tuesday 14 July 2009: No clever titles for this gallery (yet). It'll be what it says on the tin - a look at routes covered by EMT over the rest of the week. Here's the start...

DG28261: 180111 in unchanged 'Barbie' livery working for Hull Trains. DG28269: Oddfellows. 43014 and 180111 at Kings Cross DG28270: OK, I admit - it's nowt to do with EMT (but I had to put it somewhere!). 43014 leads the NMT out of Kings Cross DG28282: 158780 leads a Skegness - Nottingham service into Bingham. DG28285: The refurbished interior of 158780. If only the rest of EMTs fleet looked like this. DG28286: 43050 leads a London service at Nottingham DG28288: NET tram 213 at the terminus next to Nottingam Midland station. DG28289: 158783 passes the EMT depot at Nottingham, where 158812 rest in the sidings DG28294: 170112 pays a short visit to the depot at Nottingham before returning to the station. DG28306: 170108 arrives at Nottingham DG28310: 222018 leaves Nottingham for London DG28322: 156415 arrives at Nottingham DG28327: 66101 passes through Nottingham with a rake of empty wagons. DG28335: The clocktower stop the former Nottinham Midland station. DG28341: The concourse at Nottingham. DG28347: The memorial to those who fell in WW1 at Nottingham Midland station. DG28349: 142026 pays a quick visit to the servicing shed at Sheffield. DG28354: 144023 stands at Sheffield. DG28357: Passengers wait for 185110 to arrive. DG28366: Passengers join a London-bound EMT service at Sheffield. DG28374: 144023 pulls out of Sheffield. DG28376: Bombardier products with two different TOCs DG28389: 144015 approaches Lockwood station on the Penistone line, seen through the 205yd long Lockwood tunnel DG28391: 144015 arrives at Lockwood from Huddersfield DG28396: 158799 and 158806 form a Liverpool Lime St to Norwich service at Sheffield. DG28403: 158806 prepares to part company with 158799. They'd woked a Liverpool Lime St - Norwich service as far as Nottingham, where the rear unit is taken off and the train goes forward as a 2-car. DG28405: 170521 shares a platform with 156408, which has just arrived to form a service to Mansfield Woodhouse. DG28409: 156408 sita at Nottingham before working to Mansfield Woodhouse. DG28414: 156408 sits under cover at Mansfield Woodhouse. The building was converted from a former goods shed. DG28416: 156408 waits at Mansfield Woodhouse before returning to Nottingham. DG28420: The former goods ahed at Mansfield Woodhouse has been given a new lease of life as the station building over the bay platform used by the shuttle service from Nottingham. DG28425: 156414 climbs the hill towards mansfield Woodhouse with a service to Worksop. DG28433: 156414 sits at Worksop before returning to Nottingham. DG28439: 66199 hauls empty coal hoppers towards Worksop Down sidings DG28450: 66080 puls a rake of empty coal hoppers away from Worksop Down sidings. DG28458: 142018 arives at Worksop with a Lincoln - Sheffield service. DG28463: 220026 heads North from Sheffield. DG28469: 142066 emerges from Broad St tunnel into Sheffield station DG28473: Where's my train? DG28479: 185111 arrives at Sheffield. DG28481: 222003 kills time at Sheffield before returning to London DG28483: 158851 arrives at Sheffield from the South and East Bank tunnel. DG28487: 222003 and 220031 cohabit at Sheffield. DG28495: The board tells it all.. DG28499: The refreshment room at Sowerby Bridge station is now open for business... DG28500: Chris and Andrew Wright have fought long and hard to open the refresment rooms at Sowerby Bridge. Their hard work has finally paid off and they opened on Saturday.. DG28511: The former 1st Class area in an ax-TPE 158 (158813) now used by EMT. DG28515: 66069 waits in the centre roads at Nottingahm with a pair of cranes. DG28517: DRP78215 - one of a pair of cranes being tripped between work sites. DG28519: 158846 waits to part company with 158813 at Nottingham. It'll continue on its own to Norwich.

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]]> Tue Jul 14 2009 This weeks odds and sods. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1725410.html Another week, another collection... Monday 13 July 2009: Another week, another collection...

DG27864: A Northbound Victoria line tube arrives at Kings Cross St Pancras. DG27879: Shop no more. 220012 has had the former shop area converted into luggage and bike space. DG27894: 220012 calls at Leamington Spa en-route to Bournemouth. DG27897: 221134 waits to leave Leamington Spa for Reading. DG27904: The shuttle to Nuneaton from Coventry has been strengthened to 2 cars. Here's 153334 and 153366 at Coventry. DG27916: 350233 pulls away from Birmingham International. DG27319: 390026 calls at Birmingham International. DG27928: Passenegrs board a London bound Pendolino at Birmingham International

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Mon Jul 13 2009 WSR wanderings http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1724066.html A small group of us visited the West Somerset railway yesterday. It was my first time at the railway and I must admit to being very impressed. Not only is it an interesting line with a lot to see, but it's also a very friendly place. Here's a selection of pictures from our visit. Thanks are due to Chris Austin for arranging our itinerary and acting as guide, and also WSR General Manager Paul Conibeare for showing us around the facilities at Minehead. You can learn more about the railway by following the link from the main page, or you can cut and paste this into your searchbar: www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk Friday 10 July 2009: A small group of us visited the West Somerset railway yesterday. It was my first time at the railway and I must admit to being very impressed. Not only is it an interesting line with a lot to see, but it's also a very friendly place. Here's a selection of pictures from our visit. Thanks are due to Chris Austin for arranging our itinerary and acting as guide, and also WSR General Manager Paul Conibeare for showing us around the facilities at Minehead. You can learn more about the railway by following the link from the main page, or you can cut and paste this into your searchbar: www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

DG27524: 57603 prepares to take the 'Night Riviera' stock to Old Oak Common. DG27540: S&DJR 2-8-0 No 88 waits to leave with the 10.30 to Minehead. DG27570: Rebuilding vehicles in the shed at Williton. The building came from Swindon works. DG27573: 4561 at Williton. DG27575: An ex-Manchester Ship Canal RR Sentinel at Williton. DG27584: The control desk of Hymek D7018 DG27593: The wonderful old ticket office at Williton DG27595: Heritage medical kit. DG27599: The GW lever frame in Williton box. DG27603: The diagram and block instruments in Williton box. DG27604: Williton signalbox. The sole surviving example of a Bristol & Exeter Railway design DG27608: Right away at Watchet. DG27614: banter between colleagues DG27622: DMU clag! DG27642: Odney Manor and a Class 116 vehicle undergo rebuilding at Minehead. DG27654: 73141 shows off its new name and livery at Minehead DG27663: 3850 was having its boiler washed out at Minehaed. DG27666: D2133 at Minehead. The lamp brackets give it away as a loco built for the WR. DG27671: D2271 at Minehead. DG27675: D7523 at Minehead. DG27686: Crowds wait to board a train at Minehead. DG27722: Peter catches the token at Blue Anchor. DG27749: Keeping a watchful eye on the road. DG27793: Peter fires 53808 - the ex-S&DJR 2-8-0 on the WSR. DG27830: The gang.

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]]> Fri Jul 10 2009 Another weeks odds and sods. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1722199.html Just a couple from Rugby to start.. Monday 6 July 2009: Just a couple from Rugby to start..

DG27162: 66571 waits at Rugby. There's not much sign of the old railway in this picture. DG27168: 350235 calls at Rugby on its way to Crewe. DG27185: 150260 kills time t Crewe. DG27189: 350232 heads South from Crewe. DG27198: 221111 arrives at Crewe just as 323239 leaves. DG27212: 158821 arrives at Chester from Wrexham. DG27214: 175004 leaves Chester with a service for the North Wales Coast. DG27222: 175104 passes Northgate locks in Chester as it heads for Holyhead. DG27227: An ATW service passes Northgate locks at Chester. DG27240: The exterior of Chester station has regained some of its former grandeur. DG27248: Passengers mix and mingle between trains at Chester DG27250: 175109 rubs shoulders with weeds and a Virgin Voyager. DG27264: The Conductor of an ATW service gets the tip. DG27270: Joining a Manchester train at Chester. DG27276: Passengers wait to board the shuttle from Crewe. DG27292: 57316 hauls the 'WAG' train into Chester on its way to Holyhead. DG27208: 221101 brings up the rear of a service from Euston. The two units will spilt here. The lead train will form the onward service to Wrexham, whilst 101 will form the 1935 back to Euston. DG27311: 221106 heads for Birmingham New St from Crewe. DG27316: 325015 leads a trio of units on 1A97 Warrington - Willesden mail. DG27321: 325001 brings up the rear of 1A97 Warrington - Willesden mail. DG27434: A Southbound Northern line service arrives at Moorgate DG27443: Passengers catch a Westbound Central line service at St Paul's DG27458: A Westbound Central line tube calls at Chancery Lane DG27465: Bakerloo line passengers join a Northbound service at Oxford Circus. DG27486: 319363 arrives at Farringdon to take commuters Northwards. DG27487: 319363 arrives at Farringdon on its way North. DG27490: 319007 disappears under the Circle line on its way to St Pancras. DG27501: 377209 pulls away from Farringdon and heads for the Thames.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Mon Jul 6 2009 This weeks odds and sods. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1720421.html There's a load of pictures to add. Here's a start... Thursday 2 July 2009: There's a load of pictures to add. Here's a start...

DG26833: The problem NXEC faced. This is the mostly empty 09.40 Leeds - KX on the day their franchise was officially brought to an end... DG26992: 60059 trundles South through Doncaster. 1st July 2009. DG27003: Time runs out for NXEC. York, 1st July 2009.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Thu Jul 2 2009 ECML delay.. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1720042.html - and the reason is... Wednesday 1 July 2009: - and the reason is...

DG27028: What police are treating as an RTA at Tempsford CCTV LC near Sandy. 1st July 2009. DG27043: What police are treating as an RTA at Tempsford CCTV LC near Sandy. 1st July 2009.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Wed Jul 1 2009 Virgin Trains unveil the Mk3 vehicles refurbishment http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1719883.html Virgin Trains unveiled the new look for their Mk3 set at Wabtec in Doncaster today. The first vehicles from the 9-car set were shown off to the press and charter operators – as Virgin have announced that the set will be available for hire. The complete set will be back in traffic from July 21st. It’s to be used as a strategic spare but it will see regular use as the set is diagrammed to work Fridays 18.46 Euston – Preston. As well as a mechanical overhaul the set has been refurbished internally with new carpets, lino and seat covers. Power points have also been fitted, along with wifi and laminated windows. Here’s a look at some of the first vehicles. Wednesday 1 July 2009: Virgin Trains unveiled the new look for their Mk3 set at Wabtec in Doncaster today. The first vehicles from the 9-car set were shown off to the press and charter operators _ as Virgin have announced that the set will be available for hire. The complete set will be back in traffic from July 21st. It_s to be used as a strategic spare but it will see regular use as the set is diagrammed to work Fridays 18.46 Euston _ Preston. As well as a mechanical overhaul the set has been refurbished internally with new carpets, lino and seat covers. Power points have also been fitted, along with wifi and laminated windows. Here_s a look at some of the first vehicles.

DG26862: The new look for DVT 82126. DG26866: 82126, 12011 and 10212 at Doncaster Wabtec. DG26872: 10212 shows off the new paint job. DG26885: DVT 82126. DG26894: The refurbished interior of 12011. DG26898: Power points have been fitted to the coaches - as well as wifi.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Wed Jul 1 2009 This weeks odds and sods. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1719638.html Here's the first few from this week.. Tuesday 30 June 2009: Here's the first few from this week..

DG26798: 158752 approaches Healy Mills yard. DG26803: Healey Mills yard still contains a number of locomotives who have only one journey left in them - to the scrapyard. DG26804: Stored locomotives at Healey Mills DG26811: 66090 leaves Healey Mills yard after a crew change. DG26820: 158759 approaches Healey Mills yard.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Tue Jun 30 2009 Cumbrian cornucopia http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1717508.html I've spent the past couple of days up on the Cumbrian coast line with a writer friend. These are the first results, with many more to follow over the next few days... Friday 26 June 2009: I've spent the past couple of days up on the Cumbrian coast line with a writer friend. These are the first results, with many more to follow over the next few days...

DG26464: The interior of a First Class coach (H) on a Virgin Pendolino DG26478: Grange Over Sands station. DG26479: The restored and refurbished waiting room on the London-bound platform at Grange Over Sands. DG26483: A Furness Railway lamp at Grange Over Sands. DG26499: 185134 calls at Grange Over Sands. DG26524: 153358 arrives at Parton from Whitehaven. DG26545: 156470 threads its way around the coast at Parton DG26572: 'River Irt' arrives at Ravenglass. DG26622: A trip on the 'Ratty' DG26638: 156448 crosses the viaduct at Ravenglass. DG26639: Micheal Williams takes his shot at Ravenglass. DG26657: The Conductor checks the doors at Millom. DG26662: Millom signalbox has been refurbished in recent years. DG26696: 57314 at that well known outpost of the ATW network. Err - Carlisle? DG26722: 390023 arrives at Carlisle from the South. DG26774: Not a good sign... DG26776: Rammed. A power failure in the Wembley area has caused chaos on the WCML. This is a declassified Coach G on a service on its way to Euston. DG26777: Standing room only in the 1st Class vestibules in 390037. DG26783: Anxious passengers wait to find out what train they can catch to get home after the power failure at Wembley today.

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]]> Fri Jun 26 2009 London lines http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1717090.html Here's a few bits from juice rail territory yesterday, plus a look at what Euston looks like at silly o' clock this morning! Thursday 25 June 2009: Here's a few bits from juice rail territory yesterday, plus a look at what Euston looks like at silly o' clock this morning!

DG26430: Travelling home on a Southern Electrostar DG26432: Clapham Junction is having lifts installed. DG26434: Passenegrs wait for their train at Clapham Junction. DG26436: 455829 arrives at Battersea Park, with familiar landmarks in the background. DG26437: 456002 brings up the rear of a Southern service at Battersea Park. DG26440: A SET Networker skirts the side of Battersea power station. DG26444: A SET Networker passes a famous London institution - Battersea Dogs Home. DG26447: Passengers join a Southern 455 at Battersea Park. DG26450: 508205 leads a trio of the units (210 and 203) on a move from Gillingham to Stewarts Lane. The trains are moved as part of their 'warm store' regime. DG26457: 508203 slopes off to Stewarts Lane DG26458: 375828 stands at London Victoria. DG26461: Euston concourse at 05.24 this morning...

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Thu Jun 25 2009 Lancashire lines http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1716287.html Lancashire lines Monday 22 June 2009: Lancashire lines

DG26257: Renewing track in the High St, looking towards Shudehill DG26261: Renewing tram tracks in Mosley St. DG26263: Replacing rails in Mosley St DG26267: Looking South along new rails in Mosley St. DG26269: Work carries on at Mosley St station. DG26274: Breaking out existing rails at Piccadilly Gardens. DG26279: A new crossing is installed by Piccadilly Gardens. DG26288: Breaking out the existing track at Piccadilly Gardens. DG26292: Breaking out the existing track at Piccadilly Gardens. DG26294: 150149 and 150218 stand at Manchester Victoria DG26295: Passengers leave 142004 at Manchester Victoria DG26301: 150218 and 150149 display the differences between the Class 150 sub-classes DG26302: 142007 stands at platform 2 in Manchester Victoria DG26303: 142007 surrounded by the remains of the old L&Y station. DG26306: 144014 stands at Manchester Victoria before working the 15.00 to Leeds. These units are regular visitors to the city nowadays. DG26307: 1440104 pulls away from Castleton, past one of the areas many semaphore signals. DG26315: 158752 speeds Eastwards through Castleton DG26318: 144019 works a Trans-Pennine service to Manchester at Castleton DG26322: 144019 pulls away from Castleton. DG26325: Few of these bracket semaphore remain, yet they were once a common sight on main lines. DG26328: 142036 passes the sidings at Castleton DG26331: Passengers disembark from 142036 at Castleton DG26335: A lovely example of tiled advertising on a pub in Castleton DG26337: 158752 speeds through Castleton DG26350: 142007 passes Salford West Jn. Back in the 1980s this would have been a maze of tracks. DG26356: 142054 leaves Salford Central past the (nowadays) ever-present Buddleia. DG26360: 156471 crawls along from Victoria to Salford Central on its way to Blackpool North. DG26361: Waiting for the Guard to release the doors at Salford Central. DG26362: A wildlife garden right in the middle of Salford. Flowers take over the abandoned platforms at Salford Central station. DG26365: 142004 calls at Salford Central. DG26375: 142053 stops at Ashton Under Lyme. DG26378: 142022 working a Huddersfield - Manchester Victoria service calls at Ashton Under Lyme. DG26392: Commuters wait for their train home. DG26393: 175115 calls at Piccadilly's platform 14. DG26394: 142090 looks tiny in Piccadilly DG26401: Only a minute to go now... DG26403: Sending one last text before catching the train.. DG26408: Returning commuters join 170301 DG26409: Homeward bound... DG26418: A Guard helps passengers during the evening rush. DG26421. 156490 seen through the door of the Bulls Head pub in Piccadilly, Manchester. 23rd June 2009. DG26424: Loading the trolley onto 185132 DG26428: The name carried by 390005.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Mon Jun 22 2009 Alstom launches pit stop maintenance regime http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1713691.html Here's a few pictures from today's launch which featured the Brazilian F1 driver Rubens Barrichello. Sadly, due to contractual arrangements, I can't show you any of the pictures of Rubens himself. But you can get an idea of what went on behind the scenes. Wednesday 17 June 2009: Here's a few pictures from today's launch which featured the Brazilian F1 driver Rubens Barrichello. Sadly, due to contractual arrangements, I can't show you any of the pictures of Rubens himself. But you can get an idea of what went on behind the scenes.

DG25463: The Virgin lovelies pose with 390052 which had been rebranded especially. DG25596: 390052 arrives in the revamped facility at Wembley DG25617: 390052 shows off the tilt..

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Wed Jun 17 2009 French interlude. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1711640.html We're currently enjoying a short break with friends in France. Here's a few pictures which may be of interest. Saturday 13 June 2009: We're currently enjoying a short break with friends in France. Here's a few pictures which may be of interest.

FDG24891; Looking across St Julian Du Puy to the house where we're staying (which is the house above and to the left of the church steeple. FDG24914: The traditional look in Albi. FDG24923: The gate to the Cathedral in Albi FDG24925: The fortified Cathedral in Albi is allegedly the largest brick building in the world. FDG24928: The interior of the Cathedral. FDG24931: The murals on the wall of the cathedral date from 1509-20. FDG24942: Looking along the cathedral to the 15th Century Choir screen FDG24958: Detail of the ornate 15th century Choir screen FDG24969: Looking across the cathedral gardens and the river. The thousand year old Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) is nearest the camera. FDG24972|> Looking across Albi from the Cathedral FDG24979: Don't give the HSE ideas.... FDG24984: Streets signs in Albi's old town are starting to appear in both French and Catalan, FDG25003: Hmm... Maybe it loses something in translation? FDG25031: 567616 and 461015 rest for the weekend at Albi FDG25033: 461015 is stabled for the weekend at Albi FDG25036: The lever frame which controls Albi station sits on the platform, where it's normally covered by shutters when not in use. FDG25040: Close-up of the levers at Albi station FDG25044: The exterior of the station at Albi FDG25054: Another hard day... FDG25110: Toys for the boys (and the ammunition too) FDG25135: It's a good job the firing range was in a barn, as a Uzi is barely accurate enough to hit one of its doors... FDG25140: Miles uses the Uzi. FDG25148: This pistol was designed to use the .30 caliber ammuntion which was used by the American WW2 M1 Carbine. FDG25191: Take aim and fire... FDG25192: Then wait for the recoil! FDG25252: Tazers are perfectly legal in France. FDG25298: CFTT No3 0-4-0 T Decauville (ex Forges d’Audincourt) built in 1947 (maker’s No. 1132) FDG25257: No 3 waits to leave Saint Lieux-lès-Lavaur on the CFTT in SW France. FDG25310: No3 passes the deoot and workshops at Saint Lieux-lès-Lavaur FDG25318: One of a number of DM locos owned by the CFTT FDG25320: As well as steam locomotives, the CFTT owns a large fleet of diesels FDG25321: CFTT has the facilities to carry out major restorations. FDG25338: A tiny DM owned by the CFTT FDG25350: CFTT No 1, 0-6-0 T Couillet (ex Sugar Factory de Maizy) built in 1910 (maker's No. 1576)

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sat Jun 13 2009 World Railways: Germany http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1707031.html I'm over in Germany at the moment exploring the Karlsruhe tram/train network and the lines into the Black Forest. This gallery will be updated later today. Wednesday 3 June 2009: I'm over in Germany at the moment exploring the Karlsruhe tram/train network and the lines into the Black Forest. This gallery will be updated later today.

FDG23782. ICE 3 No 4611 at Brussels before working International IC15 to Frankfurt (Main). FDG23790: 101 004 stands at Frankfurt Main with EC31 - 1620 to Linz Hbf FDG23801: 143 900 arrives at Stuttgart Hbf FDG23818: 111 047 arriving at Stuttgart Hbf FDG23841: 3144 calls at Stuttgart Hbf on the S-Bahn FDG23842: 3189 stops at Stuttgart Hbf on the S-bahn. FDG23850: 146 208 arrives at Stuttgart Hbf. FDG23855: Catching the train. FDG23865: A guard prepares paperwork for the driver. FDG23872: 143 627 arrives at Stuttgart Hbf FDG23877: 143 627 departs Stuttgart Hbf FDG23883: TGV 4405 stands at Stuttgart Hbf FDG23887: The interior of a Class 435 EMU FDG23888: The interior of a Class 435 EMU FDG23895: The interior of a Class 435 EMU. FDG23897: 876 sits ECS at Pforzheim FDG23900: 877 leaves Pforzheim with a route S6 service to Bad Wildblad. FDG23902: 101 038 stands at Pforzheim with a service for Karlsruhe FDG23907: 812 sits at Uhlandplatz FDG23913: 812 traverses the newer section of track South from the old station to the centre of Bad Wildblad. FDG23926: 812 heads back towards Pforzheim. Its calling at the old station and former terminus of the route. FDG23930: Bistro tram-train 846 at Bad Wildblad Uhlanplatz FDG23931: Bistro tram-train 846 at Bad Wildblad Uhlanplatz FDG23934: 846 (The Bistro tram-train) at the end of the line at Bad Wildblad. FDG23944: Tram-train interior. FDG23945: Differnt bells for different folks... FDG23951: Spot the difference. Tram 325 on the left. Tram/train 878 on the right. Karlsruhe. Germany. 2nd June 2009. FDG23956: 311 at Karlsruhe Hbf. FDG23957: 311 at Karlsruhe Hbf. FDG23964: 561 under the canopy at the terminus of the line to Bad Herrenalb. FDG23970: trams line up at KarlsrueAlbtalbf FDG23979: 551 and 228. Tram-train and tram side by side at Karlsruhe Hbf. FDG23985: The interior of a typical Karlsruhe tram-train. FDG23992: 878 at dusk. Pfrorzheim FDG23997: V270.06, is an ex-DB Class 221 bought from Greek Railways (OSE) and operated in Germany by EBW - Eisenbahnbewachungs GmbH who provide logistic services for track maintenance and building companies. The loco is pictured at Pforzeim. FDG24010: Clearing rubbish from the tracks at Pforzheim station. FDG24013: 101 043 at Karlsruhe Hbf FDG24019: 363 666: Karlsruhe station pilot. FDG24030: 574 at the terminus of the line from Karlsruhe to Ittersbach FDG24031: 574 at the terminus of the line from Karlsruhe to Ittersbach FDG24033: 574 at the terminus of the line from Karlsruhe to Ittersbach. Like many of the lines it ends in a loop as many of the tram-trains only have a drivers cab at one end. FDG24039: 573 calls at Ittersbach station. FDG24042: 568 under the trainshed at Ettlingen FDG24044: Passengers leave 571 at Ettlingen. FDG24048: 558 leaves Ettlingen and heads for Karlsruhe

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Wed Jun 3 2009 Eastleigh works open day http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1702058.html Here's the start of a gallery following my visit on Saturday Sunday 24 May 2009: Here's the start of a gallery following my visit on Saturday

DG23191: 20110 and 20314 on display with 20305. DG23196: 73006, 73109 and 73119 on display at Eastleigh. DG23198: 37411 on display in the yard. DG23201: 11030 in its new guise. DG23213: 59001 shows off its revised livery DG21215: 59206 - one of only two UK locomotives in DBS livery. DG23220: CIG abd VEP together again. DG23222: 50026 looks in tip-top condition at Eastleigh. A sight which is bound to court controversy: 50035 in Loadhaul livery.... DG23235: 20309 inside the works DG23241: Rail grinders for overhaul. DG23243: 20301 inside the works DG23249: NR have MPVs receiving attention. Here's DR98916 leading a line-up. DG23251: The event was busy but the crowds weren't overwhelming. D6515 receiving attention inside the works. ADB975976 receives attention along with other vehicles. DG23264: 37422 and 73136 inside the works. DG23266: 73136 and 143611 inside the works. DG23275: Let's hope this youngster keeps his interest into adulthood. DG23280: The beer stall did a steady trade... DG23289: Indulging in a spot of shopping? DG23295: WCRCs 37706 and 37516 on display in the yard DG23303: One of the model railways on display.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sun May 24 2009 World travel: Greece. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1683885.html I'm on the Greek Island of Naxos in the Cyclades at the moment, having got here by ferry from Athens (well, Piraeus really). It's Greek orthodox Easter and celebrations kick-off today. I'll add a selection of pictures when I can. Friday 17 April 2009: I'm on the Greek Island of Naxos in the Cyclades at the moment, having got here by ferry from Athens (well, Piraeus really). It's Greek orthodox Easter and celebrations kick-off today. I'll add a selection of pictures when I can.

TD12000: It's 0725 and the El Venizelo ferry basks in morning sunlight at Piraeus. TD12008: A line of ferries tied-up for the winter season. TD12013: Looking more like something military than civil, two fast catermaran ferries leave the port of Piraeus for the Greek islands. TD12017: The tanker CE Merapi at anchor outside Piraeus. TD12021: An older ferry makes its way from Piraeus. TD12024: The Express Scopolitis ferry (which plies the smaller Cyclades islands) calls at Naxos. TD12025: Freight ferries are a common sight. TD12034: Singers from the phalanx of the procession as it prepares to leave the church. TD12043: Carrying the bier from the church before the parade around town. TD12045: Leading the Easter procession TD12050: Carrying the icon in the parade TD12079: Crowds gather in the square before entering another church. TD12091: The Cafe Naxos is a cosy little bar in the backstreets. TD12097: Ferries contantly to and fro between the islands. TD12118: Christ has risen! Fireworks light up the sky above Naxos to celebrate midnight on Easter Saturday. TD12121: Huw and Joanne enjoy breakfast in bread. TD12123: Tsoureki - Traditional Easter bread (with an egg in it) TD12132: Greece in bloom... TD12139: Greece is gorgeous in spring as all the flowers are in bloom TD12147: carving the Easter lamb. TD12150: Kokoretsi is a traditional Easter sausage made with offal. TD12151: Kokoretsi is a traditional Easter sausage made with offal. TD12155: Carving the lamb. TD12169: A local family were celebrating Easter in the traditional fashion by having a lamb barbecue outside their house and invited us to join them. TD12173: Natasha and Kostos (centre) our family hosts at the traditional Easter spit roast pose with their relatives. TD12175: A Venetian family crest on one of the buildings in the Castro (old town). The Venetians established the Castro in 1207 and ruled the island until it was captured by the Turks in 1537. TD12179: Jo caught cycling to the beach. TD12184: This outcrop at Agia Anna is known as ‘shark rock’ – for obvious reasons... TD12189: The beach at Agia Anna has a couple of sections for nudists and this is one of them. Funnily enough it’s just beneath a little church. TD12191: Looking back at Hora (Naxos Town) from the road to Agia Anna. The Castro (old town) dominates the skyline. It’s been occupied since 1207 when the Venetians first built a castle atop it. The Turks captured the island in 1537 and ruled it until 1829 when it became part of Greece once more. TD12198: Looking across towards Hora (Naxos Town). The ruggedness of the island is obvious. TD12202: A close-up of the Castro. We’re lucky enough to be staying in the old house in the centre of the picture which is part of the Castro (just below and to the left of the tall tree). This has fabulous views across the town and harbour from the balcony. TD12276: The Citron distillery in Halki. TD12288: The temple of Demeter at Yiroulas. TD122299: The countryside around Yiroulas is alive with flowers. TD12313: Looking across Naxos to the nearby island of Paros. I wouldn’t fancy having to walk to this church every Sunday... TD12315: An old windmill sits atop a ridge near Moni. TD12319: The girls take a stroll through Koronos. TD12322: Greece lost a large chunk of its population after WW2 – as many an abandoned house testifies... TD12345: The coastal village of Appollon near the North tip of the island. TD12359: One of the islands marble quarries. Naxos is famous for the quality of its marble, which is used worldwide. TD12364: Naxos town harbour front at sunset. TD12383: Waste not want not – masonry is recycled in the Castro.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Fri Apr 17 2009 Colas rail http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1677666.html Bits that don't fit anywhere else. Saturday 16 February 2008: Bits that don't fit anywhere else.

DG21353: 47727 with 47739 leads 6Z48 Burton - Dollands Moor steel South through Oxford.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sat Feb 16 2008 A look at the Poulton to Fleetwood line http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1676908.html Here's a selection of pictures taken on the mothballed line from Poulton-Le-Fylde to Fleetwood. The route was last used in the 1990s when freight used to run to the ICI plant at Burn Naze. Since then the line has lain out of use, but there are plans to reopen it for passenger traffic. Here's a look at what remains today, plus one historic shot from 1991. There are plans to reopen the line and a preservation group are based at and lease Thornton station. If you'd like to learn more about this either follow the live link to the Poulton & Wyre Railway Society from the links section on the main page - or cut and paste this: http://www.pwrs.org/ Saturday 4 April 2009: Here's a selection of pictures taken on the mothballed line from Poulton-Le-Fylde to Fleetwood. The route was last used in the 1990s when freight used to run to the ICI plant at Burn Naze. Since then the line has lain out of use, but there are plans to reopen it for passenger traffic. Here's a look at what remains today, plus one historic shot from 1991. There are plans to reopen the line and a preservation group are based at and lease Thornton station. If you'd like to learn more about this either follow the live link to the Poulton & Wyre Railway Society from the links section on the main page - or cut and paste this: http://www.pwrs.org/

02172: Welcome back? The Fleetwood line has been mothballed since 1999 when the last train ran from the ICI factory at Burn Naze. On the 5th April 1991 an unidentified 47 takes the Fleetwood branch at Poulton-le-Fylde with a tanker train for Burn Naze. DG13229: Poulton Junction was relaid in 2007. DG21291: Looking towards Fleetwood at MP14.75 where the line becomes single track. DG21295: Looking South at MP14.75. The scrub beyond the signal covers the trackbed of the former curve towards Blackpool. DG21298: Another view of Poulton and the former curve to Blackpool, which was the site of Poulton Curve Halt. DG21302: Tarn Gate level crossing, loking towards Fleetwood. DG21311; Tarn Gate level crossing looking towards Poulton. The track in this area was relaid around 1990 and appears to be in good condition. DG21315: Tarn Gate level crossing and former crossing keeper's house. DG21316: Thornton for Cleveleys station. DG21317: The track at Thornton for Cleveleys station looking South. The condition of the track is still very good. DG21320: The platforms at Thornton for Cleveleys. DG21321: Signs of restoration at Thornton station. DG21322: Thornton station is looked after by the Poulton and Wyre railway society. DG21327: The view towards Fleetwod from the Jameson Rd bridge. The trackbed is severed at this point as the bridge has been filled in. DG21332: Looking South from Jameson Rd bridge.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sat Apr 4 2009 The last FCC passenger train from Moorgate http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1669838.html Here's a selection of shots from the last day of Thameslink trains to Moorgate - including the very last one - 2C18 to Kentish Town. FCC and enthusiasts gave the train a good send off - and raised money for the Railway Children charity at the same time. Friday 20 March 2009: Here's a selection of shots from the last day of Thameslink trains to Moorgate - including the very last one - 2C18 to Kentish Town. FCC and enthusiasts gave the train a good send off - and raised money for the Railway Children charity at the same time.

DG20765: 319376 and 319369 pass isnside Blackfriars. DG20787: 319364 arrives at Farringdon en-route to Moorgate. DG20795: Earlier in the evening 319455 leads the 1720 from Moorgate into Farringdon. DG20805: 319458 passes Barbican with a service from Moorgate. DG20816: A sight you won't see anymore. Platform staff get ready to dispatch a rush-hour service from Moorgate. DG20838. FCC MD Elaine Holt was present to sell tickets for the final train to raise money for the Railway Children charity. DG20853: The penultimate departure - the 1906... DG20929: 319364 stands at Moorgate before working the final train. DG20930: Enthusiasts get their shot of the last train. DG20987: Photographers line-up for that last shot.. DG21005: Elaine Holt and driver Kerrie Hamlin pose with the rear headboard on 319364. DG21060: The last one - FCC MD Elaine Holt poses with the farewell headboard on 319365 at Moorgate. DG21069: Even people from the industry turned up for the last train...

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Fri Mar 20 2009 World Travel 2009: Malaysia http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1654042.html Here's the first few pictures from Malaysia, where we saw both the Chinese New Year celebrations - and the Hindu Thaipusam festival. Here's the first few from Thaipusam - which are not for the squeamish... Sunday 15 February 2009: Here's the first few pictures from Malaysia, where we saw both the Chinese New Year celebrations - and the Hindu Thaipusam festival. Here's the first few from Thaipusam - which are not for the squeamish...

TD11171: The ferry from Butterworth to Georgetown is a popular way to get to the Island. TD11195: It's Chinese New Year, so the temples are packed with people offering prayers for a prosperous year. TD12022: Typical Malay breakfast: Roti Canai. TD12027: Hmm... TD12031. Choosing seafood at the night market in Georgetown. TD12045: There's a huge variety of food available on the night food market on Georgetown's seafront. TD12135: Our Chinese hosts took us out for this fabulous Dim Sum breakfast TD12148: A superb Dim Sum restaurant. TD12262: Looking across to Coral beach from the jetty TD12312: Coral beach on the Perhentian Islands - glorious! TD12327: It seems Scottish 'cuisine' has spread to Malaysia... TD12331: Our accomodation on the Perhentians. TD12339: Every night Mamas has a fresh fish barbecue... TD12402: In the evening Lebu Chulia hosts some excellent street food - such as this steamboat stall TD12434: A pierced devotee prepares to pull a chariot through the streets of Georgetown. TD12441: Devotees pull chariots bearing statues of the Gods by these hooks attached through their backs. TD12488: Many companies and organisations give out free food and drink. TD12495: One of the numerous sponsored stall which provide shelter and free refreshments along the route of the Thaipusam procession. TD12500: A Kavadi bearer on the route to the Hill temple. TD12505: A kavadi carrier. TD12508: A kavadi carrier gets into the spirit of things. TD12510: A kavadi carrier dances with the crowds. TD12525: This one seems ideal for a caption competition... TD12544: Kavadi carriers mingle with the crowds. TD12546: Some of the kavadis are extremely ornate. TD12555: Kavadi carrier TD12564: Kavadi carriers and ordinary pilgrims mingle at journey's end. TD12570: Devotees shave their heads and smear their scalps with sandalwood during the festival. TD12573: Ouch! TD12582: Four hours after leaving the temple in Little India, this pilgrim (who has towed a chariot attached to his body by hooks) arrives at the The Nattukkottai Chettiar Temple. TD12584: Shaven headed but happy. A group of women celebrate Thaipusam. TD12599: These devotees have small jars attached through the skin of their chests - and are pulling a chariot through hooks in their backs. TD12624: Devotees pull chariots bearing statues of the Gods by these hooks attached through their backs. TD12628. Thaipusam is a Hindu festival, but a growing number of Chinese are joining the festival - even carrying kavadi TD12664: Steamboat. You buy food on skewers, then cook it in the boiling water. TD12705: A young lady on a stall at Chinese New year TD12726. These ferries shuttle between Butterworth (on the mainland) and Georgetown on Penang.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sun Feb 15 2009 World Travel 2009: Malaysian railways http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1644476.html We're now in Malaysia, so there'll be chance to add a few pictures from this neck of the woods before we catch the train back to Bangkok from Butterworth next month. For now, here's an offfering from recent history... Tuesday 27 January 2009: We're now in Malaysia, so there'll be chance to add a few pictures from this neck of the woods before we catch the train back to Bangkok from Butterworth next month. For now, here's an offfering from recent history...

This notice (a hangover from the days when dubious looking travellers would have SHIT - Suspected Hippy In Transit stamped in their passports) is still displayed at the Malaysian border station of Padang Besar. The line from Butterworth to the Thai border is being double tracked in a massive project which will take until 2012. This Pacific is plinthed at Butterworth. There's a small museum at Butterworth where this 1951 Malayan Railways handbook is free to peruse. Having brought the Internation train from Padang Besar, 23111 departs for the depot. Ex-Indian Rlys YDM4 No 6699 waits to leave Butterworth with the International train to Bangkok. The lever frame at Alor Setar 29114 arrives at Alor Setar with a container train from Padang Besar to Butterworth. This section of line is being doubled and the semaphores will soon be swept away.

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Tue Jan 27 2009 Laos first passenger railway slumbers on. http://paulbigland.fotopic.net/c1639877.html The first passenger railway to reach Laos still lies dormant. The metre-gauge line from Nong Kai in Thailand was due to open in July 2008. Despite the line and station being complete, there's still no date set for it to open. Here's a selection of pictures of the new line, which is only about 3.5km long. Sunday 18 January 2009: The first passenger railway to reach Laos still lies dormant. The metre-gauge line from Nong Kai in Thailand was due to open in July 2008. Despite the line and station being complete, there's still no date set for it to open. Here's a selection of pictures of the new line, which is only about 3.5km long.

Thanaleng station waits for passengers (and trains!) Thanaleng station waits for passengers (and trains!) The obligatory commemorative stone. The booking office has yet to sell a ticket. Well, at least something was running: Two boys play on a trolley! Looking along the platform to the stops. Looking across the station from the level crossing

Published in Railway and travel photographs by Paul Bigland

]]> Sun Jan 18 2009