Oakwood Video Library

Ref: OP110D

Price:£14.95

Inspired by City of Truro's triumphal return to steam to mark the centenary of the historic high speed Ocean Mails run from Plymouth to Bristol on 9th May 1904, this programme also celebrates the return of G.J.Churchward's legendary 4-4-0 to the West Country mainline after a break of 43 years.

The question, "Did City of Truro really achieve 100 mph?", is still contentious, so, as the railtours retraced past glories, the extensive lineside action is complemented by photographs and press extracts from 1904, notably by Charles Rous-Marten, the GWR choosing to embargo his claim that 102.3 mph was achieved down Whiteball Bank for fear that knowledge of such a speed would scare its passengers!

Footage includes the Gloucestershire-Warwickshire launch, main line tests, whilst comprehensive coverage of the 'Ocean Mails 100' weekend from Bristol to Kingswear and return includes the Centenary Day trips from Paignton.

Thereafter, the brief return 'home' for the NRM Railfest Bicentennial celebrations, trips to Scarborough, Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon and double-heading with Rood Ashton Hall to Didcot are all covered before the Edwardian 4-4-0 attacked the heavily graded Bodmin & Wenford Railway.

But perhaps the best was saved until last? Upon completion of re-doubling the Cornish mainline between Burngullow Junction and Truro, Network Rail employed City of Truro for a VIP train to Truro; the locomotive last steamed into it's 'spiritual home' in 1957! Extensive coverage of the positioning runs between Birmingham and Plymouth includes the fastest ascent of Dainton by any steam locomotive in preservation, the long climb of 'Rattery' setting the scene for the day City of Truro steamed across Brunel's Royal Albert Bridge back into Cornwall. More fierce gradients make for a noisy 'homecoming' whilst 'tracking' footage from the Network Rail helicopter shows the double-framer on the new double track section. Scenes of two 'City of Truros' in their namesake's station precede the concluding West Country run, from Plymouth to Bristol, the best chance yet to relive the route of the 'up' Ocean Mails - stirring stuff!

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R


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Ref: OP147D

Price:£12.95

No. 6024, King Edward I, was one of thirty King class locomotives built by the Great Western Railway to provide superpower for its crack expresses. Named after the Kings of England the most powerful and heaviest 4-6-0s ever built in Britain ruled until 1962 . . . but for No. 6024 the story was certainly not over, since 1990 King Edward I has become one of the most prolific steam locomotives out on Britain's main lines.

This programme is a lineside appreciation, a 'snapshot' of some of the more interesting 'Royal appointments' as King Edward I steamed towards 1.6 million miles of service. For example, this DVD includes extensive coverage of the Wessex Royale train as it follows a winding route from Stratford-upon-Avon to Weymouth, a glimpse of the King "under the wires" on the East Coast main line and passing through Melton Mowbray, whilst more familiar lines such as the Welsh Marches and those through Oxford, Kemble and to Worcester also feature.

But it is 'homeground' for the King in the West Country with shots on the sea wall, spectacular climbs over Dainton, Rattery, towards Churston and through Torre, and a rare visit into Cornwall that sets the seal on this presentation.

The narrative provides the story line, but if the King demands to be heard the narrator isn't talking, so there is little to intrude upon your enjoyment of the sights and sounds as King Edward I makes a splendid Royal progress.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R


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Ref: OP150D

Price:£14.95

As 1967 began BR steam still had a wide geographic spread, but within 12 months it would be confined to north-west England, the year notable for the last mile-a-minute timetabled steam, the last (unofficial) 100mph+ steam expresses, the end of pre-Grouping steam, and the elimination of all Scottish, North Eastern and Southern steam. Cine film illustrates the following types in the last full year of BR standard gauge steam, Bulleid Pacifics, Fowler 2-6-4T, Ivatt Mogul, Stanier ‘Black Five’ and ‘8F’, as well as ‘B1’, ‘J27’, ‘K1’, ‘Q6’, WD 2-8-0 and ‘J94’ 0-6-0ST, and a range of BR Standards.

Goodbye to the Great Western – The steam operation between Shrewsbury and Birkenhead ended with the withdrawal of through Paddington services, this milestone being commemorated by a number of special trains – preserved ‘Castles’ join various BR Standards in a last tribute weekend to an ex-GWR main line.

Austerity au revoir – The last enthusiasts’ specials on the steeply graded Cromford & High Peak line.

Auld Lang Syne – Scottish steam was finally eliminated in the late spring/early summer of 1967. Scenes included from the last months embrace Thornton Junction, Beattock, Longtown, and Dunblane.

Southern surrender – The electrification of the Bournemouth main line heralded the end of steam on the Southern Region, main line footage being complemented by scenes of the last steam-worked branch line, to Lymington Pier.

North Eastern finale – Coverage of the last stronghold of pre-Grouping steam includes classic views of ex-North Eastern Railway locomotives, complimented by ‘Austerity’ 2-8-0s, ‘K1’ No 62005 on the ‘Three Dales Railtour’, and ‘Jubilee’ No 45562 Alberta visiting Tees-side.

West Riding withdrawal – Normanton and Bradford scenes precede a trip up the Settle & Carlisle line with Holbeck-based ‘Jubilees’.

Steam’s last stand – North-west England in 1967, featuring freight on the S&C line, West Coast main line action from Crewe, and over Shap to Carlisle, including banking to Shap summit.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: Brian Stephenson, "West Country" Pacifics Nos 34023 "Blackmore Vale" and 34108 "Wincanton" approach Bincombe Tunnel with the RCTS "Farewell to Southern Steam" Railtour, 18th.June 1967.
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 55-mins (0hr 55min) , Colour/B & W
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Ref: OP151D

Price:£14.95

Covering the last eight months of BR main line steam, when increasing diesel availability led to less and less work for BR’s run-down steam locomotives, by now all operating from London Midland Region sheds in North-West England while electrics were in charge on the southern reaches of the West Coast Main Line..

The story begins on New Year’s Day 1968 with a motive power survey and steam depot directory.

Bygone Buxton – Classic archive of the last week of steam at Buxton, one of just 13 depots to retain a steam allocation into 1968, finds Stanier ‘8F’ 2-8-0s in the snow, bathed in sunshine!

Daily duties – Some of the more interesting duties include Manchester’s last regular steam-hauled express, the ‘Belfast Boat Express’ between Heysham and Manchester (Victoria). Also featured is freight around Carnforth, ‘Black Fives’ and ‘8Fs’ on a variety of traffic, and other locations include Preston, Bolton, Lostock Hall, and Manchester.

Rose Grove in retrospect – A tribute to Rose Grove shed in Burnley, including reminiscences from Desmond Melia (Running Shift Foreman) and Jim Walker (the last fireman on a Rose Grove engine). Archive of Rose Grove duties includes the Padiham trip, the Wyre Dock coal trains, steam on shed, and scenes from the cab of an ‘8F’ as it powers towards Copy Pit summit, all complimented by then & now views.

1968 – a special year – As booked freight and passenger services declined, the railtour programme increased, preserved ‘A3’ Flying Scotsman on the East Coast main line contrasting with the BR railtour scene. Star attraction in this section is the last Pacific in BR ownership, No 70013 Oliver Cromwell, but also included is the last named ‘Black Five’, BR Standard 4-6-0s, and a score of double-headed tours on the penultimate weekend.

The end of an era – at fifteen guineas – On 11 August 1968 Nos 45110, 44781, 44871 and 70013 Oliver Cromwell were chosen for the last BR steam railtour, the ‘Fifteen Guinea Special’ from Liverpool (Lime Street) to Carlisle via Manchester (Victoria), Blackburn, and the Settle & Carlisle route, and return. This brought down the final curtain on BR-owned standard gauge steam. Classic British Transport Films archive complements amateur lineside action.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: Brian Stephenson, Stanier 9F 2-8-0 No.48322 round the curve to Woodley with coal empties for Godley Junction, 6th.April 1968.
Screen aspect ratio: 4:3 SD
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 59-mins (0hr 59min) , Colour/B & W
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Ref: OP148D

Price:£19.90

Traditional Values – Britain’s railways were in a perilous state after World War II and so on 1 January 1948 the ‘Big Four’ were merged as ‘British Railways’, but the new nationalised company had much to do to get the rail network into shape. After reviewing the state of the railways and locomotives under construction, British Railways introduced its own Standard designs, including the 9F.

The 1955 Blind Alley – In 1955 the Modernisation Plan was announced to solve BR’s problems; efficient marshalling yards were favoured to speed up the movement of wagonload freight. On the locomotive front, each region was developing its own traction, sometimes with disastrous results – the Metrovick Co-Bos, NBL Type 2s and the Claytons fell by the wayside at an early stage. Steam was doomed, yet the construction of BR Standards continued for another five years. A modern railway was to be a steamless railway – thirteen years and counting . . .

Retrenchment and the Fight against Roads – As investment in Britain’s new motorway system developed apace, BR struggled to retain its status in the movement of freight. The story of containerisation, the development of the abandoned Roadrailer, early Freightliners, the arrival of successful diesels such as the English Electric Type 3, and the end of steam traction on BR; and with it many banking duties. But as the Beeching axe fell, freight had to operate on a smaller network.

‘Seventies’ – The Brakes go on! – Speedlink was born in an effort to streamline wagonload freight, while the MGR operation of air-braked coal workings was proving successful and things were looking up as a corporate image was now taking over. In 1977 BR received the first delivery of the Romanian built Class 56s, but in 1981 the Woodhead route was axed. The traditional railway still existed, but not for long . . .

Sectorisation – Making Freight Pay? – In 1982 British Rail was split into sectors, whilst 1987 saw Railfreight split into sub-sectors and a new livery was born. The freight scene was changing rapidly . . . news of imported coal, imported locomotives for Yeoman and ARC, the elimination of Speedlink, Trainferry, the Class 60 saga, Charterail, and Tiger-rail all took BR to the brink of privatisation.

1994 – The End or a New Beginning? 46 years on, as the BR era drew to a close new Class 59 and 92 locomotives were delivered for National Power’s coal trains and Channel Tunnel traffic respectively – so what is down the line for freight after Railtrack?

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 68-mins (1hr 8min) , Colour/B&W
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Ref: OP149D

Price:£19.90

An inherited Railway – Four into one doesn’t go, but the new British Railways Board had to make it happen, and Standard designs were developed from the findings of the locomotive trails in 1948. Soon BR was developing new traction, both steam and diesel, early diesel developments starting with 10000 and 10201.

Modernisation Plans – From 1955 a clearer policy developed, diesels and electrics were the way forward, but GT3 combined modern and traditional theory, the ‘Southern’ electrification plans were reborn and the Eastern Region was also electrifying. Warship diesel-hydraulics were entering service on the Western Region, while the Eastern was receiving new English Electric Type 4s, and branch lines were losing steam everywhere as DMUs continued to be introduced.

Transition from Steam – Between 1960 and 1968 the railways of Britain changed radically, steam was eliminated from every region, electrification continued with speed on the West Coast Main line, to Bournemouth, and suburban Glasgow went AC as the ‘Blue Train’ arrived, but curiously the DC suburban lines on Tyneside were dieselised. Dr. Beeching was wielding his axe, with the Somerset & Dorset and Great Central lines among notable casualties. BR found a new business in railtour trade from railway enthusiasts, and then promptly banned steam, so even the youthful BR Standards were destined for scrap yards such as Barry, along with some diesels!

The Corporate era – Rail blue epitomises the stagnant years of BR, and even the Vale of Rheidol narrow gauge stock had the new double-arrow image. Investment for the HST and gas turbine APT dominated the news, but it also saw the end for the Blue Pullman (now rail grey), the Westerns, Hymeks, Warships, and Deltics. However, the inauguration of the Carlisle to Glasgow electrification showed the way forward.

A Revitalised Railway – During the early 1980s new liveries signalled a new era where locomotives were soon to become a thing of the past, ‘Sprinterisation and Sectorisation’ would change the railway beyond belief – Inter-City, Network South East, Provincial, and Parcels operations were launched – there was closer co-operation with local authorities, and then came the first signs of privatisation . . . Stagecoach.

1994 – The End or a New Beginning? – Then came the tunnel, and Eurostars, but controversy still raged over the route for the new Continental Main line, France could do it, BR couldn’t . . . postponed for privatisation

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 81mins (1hr 21min) , Colour/B & W
.

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Ref: OP117D

Price:£19.90

Inspired by the archive of Stuart Sellar the first volume of our comprehensive study of the railways of Scotland covers former Caledonian Railway metals between Aberdeen and Perth, our bid to offer as complete a coverage as possible leading to the inclusion of extracts from a staggering 27 cine collections.

One of the few mainlines in Britain to have completely closed the Strathmore route, between Stanley Junction and Kinnaber Junction, gained legendary status as the last stamping ground of Sir Nigel Gresley's A4 Pacifics on the Glasgow - Aberdeen three-hour expresses. With the exception of Forfar, the line passed through little civilisation a fast direct route being chosen as the final section of the ‘West Coast Mainline’ to Aberdeen. The branch lines built to serve towns in the foothills and on the coast offer a complete contrast to the high speed runs on the mainline.

After a brief introduction to the Caledonian Railway, our programme starts at Aberdeen, the Northern outpost of the 'Caley'. Scenes from the 1930s, 1950s and 1960s include action at the Joint station and on shed at Ferryhill, where A4 and V2 preparation is undertaken.

We continue south along the coast through Stonehaven and Kinnaber Junction to Bridge of Dun, now the Eastern terminus of the 'Caledonian Railway'. Scenes are principally from the 1960s, in colour and black & white, lineside footage is inter-cut with an A4 cab ride. Maps, an informed narration, and ‘then and now’ scenes combine with the archive to enrich the coverage. The regular J37 worked Brechin freight and the last train to the City are included as we visit the branches to Brechin, Edzell and Montrose.

We rejoin the mainline to Forfar pausing en route at Glasterlaw to view the last down passenger train in 1967. 1960s scenes on Forfar shed are followed by 1930s views, including a 4-4-0 still in Caledonian livery. In 1980 we pass through the station on one of the last passenger trains to visit Forfar before complete closure of the then truncated Strathmore line.

We continue to Arbroath, along the D & A Joint and back to Forfar via Kingsmuir. A classic sequence of a Lambie 4-4-0T shunting at Arbroath as a NB Reid Atlantic passes is among the highlights. Freight action at Kingsmuir with a B1 and in the snow at Forfar in 1961 continues with a cab ride in a Pickersgill 4-4-0 on the truncated Forfar - Brechin route as far as Careston. A4s, a Royal Scot, Black 5 and a Standard 5 combine to illustrate everyday services in the 1960s before we continue to Perth along the mainline, diverging with each of the branches en route. Locations include, Kirriemuir Junction, Kirriemuir, Glamis, Eassie, Alyth Junction, Newtyle (Old), Meigle, Alyth, Coupar Angus, Rosemount, Blairgowrie, Cargill, Stanley Junction, Strathord, Bankfoot, Luncarty and Perth.

Caledonian locomotive types illustrated include Drummond Class 80, Lambie 4-4-0T, 'Oban Bogie', McIntosh Class 439 0-4-4T, Class 782 0-6-0T, 'Jumbo' 0-6-0 and Pickersgill 4-4-0s, a Dunalastair IV and 'Caley Bogie'. LMS motive power is represented by examples of 4F, Ivatt 2MT mogul, Black 5, Royal Scot and Jubilee. NB/LNER types include an Atlantic, B1, A2, A3, A4, J37, N15 and V2. Later types shown are WD 2-8-0, BR Standard Class 4 mogul, Class 5 4-6-0 and Britannia Pacific. Notable diesels illustrated are NB Type 2, Classes 25 and 27 and DMU. Finally, City of Aberdeen, an 0-4-0ST represents the Scottish Gas Board in Aberdeen.

Archive film - John Blacklaws, Brechin Railway Preservation Society, W.A. Camwell, Ron Goult, Richard Greenwood, Michael Grieves, Roy Hamilton, R.P. Hendry, Jack Herd, Peter Hutchinson, Roger Joanes, Andrew Kennedy, Jonathan Marsh, John McCann, Neil McFarlane, Roger Nicholas, Norrie Pollock, Alan Sangster, Stuart Sellar, Peter Sharpe, Walter Simms, John Smallwood, Bob Smith, Mike Smith, George Taylor, Geoff Todd, Andrew Webster.

The DVD features two audio options. View the programme with narration by Stuart Sellar, then watch it again and lose yourself in the past with uninterrupted archive sound.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: John Edginton, "Caley" Goods 0-6-0 No.57441 pauses at Kirriemuir on the RCTS/SLS 1960 Scottish Railtour, 16th.June 1960.
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 83mins (1hr 23min) , Colour/B & W
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Ref: OP125D

Price:£19.90

This programme follows on from Volume One (Aberdeen to Perth) to complete the route of the legendary Aberdeen to Glasgow three-hour expresses. Cine footage from 25 collections offers comprehensive coverage of the route in the mid 1960s.

A brief look at Perth today continues with 1960s station and shed scenes. Patriot class 4-6-0 Planet on the 2.45pm Carstairs vans begins our 'typical' afternoon, the feature including class 5s on Dundee duties, B1 hauled freights, Kingfisher on the 'Grampian' and Golden Eagle on the West Coast TPO. Sir Nigel Gresley departs with the 'Granite City' to begin our trip south over the former 'Caley' mainline; the archive includes a wealth of A4 footage.

The route is covered in detail, including scenes at the closed intermediate stations to Gleneagles and onwards through Blackford, Greenloaning, Dunblane and Bridge of Allan to Stirling, where busy station scenes and shed footage is included. We continue through Bannockburn and Plean Junction, pausing briefly to consider local colliery operations, before reaching Larbert, where we again diverge from the main line. Top link motive power contrasts with Wemyss No.20 heading for preservation at the SRPS at Falkirk after the end of BR steam! 'Then and Nows', historic photographs and maps enhance coverage of the Alloa, Grangemouth and Denny branches.

North British and 'Caley' rivalry in the Alloa area is illustrated with 'celebrities' on railtours and a Director on a Queen Street service at Throsk. The complete Alloa branch is traversed behind a brace of J37s in 1966. Alloa freight activity precedes a trip over the swing bridge on an Alloa to Larbert DMU service. Access to the Caledonian's port at Grangemouth is gained via Larbert Junction (from the North) or Carmuirs West Junction (from the South); passenger duties are supplemented with a WD 2-10-0 and 1990s branch activity. The short but steep Greenhill to Bonnybridge Canal branch is also included, a 'Caley Bogie' visited and is shown in May 1960 before traversing the Denny branch, both lines closed to passengers in 1930.

We resume our trip to Glasgow from nearby Greenhill, locations include Castlecary, Cumbernauld Glen and station, Greenfaulds, Greenfoot, Glenboig, Garnqueen, Gartcosh and through Balornock into Glasgow (Buchanan Street).

Pre-Grouping locomotives illustrated include 'Caley 123', Class 439 0-4-4T, Class 782 0-6-0T, Drummond Standard Goods, 'Caley Bogie', NB Glen, Class C15 4-4-2T and 0-6-0 Classes J35 and J37. Princess Coronation, Patriot, Black 5 and Jubilee Classes represent the LMS era and contrast with LNER Classes A2, A4, B1, D11/2 Director, J38 and V2. WD 2-8-0 and 2-10-0, BR 4MT Mogul, Standard Class 5 4-6-0 and Caprotti 5, Class 6 Clan, Class 7 Britannia and WPR No.20 make up the steam variety. 'Modern' types include English Electric Type 1 and Type 4, NB Type 2, BRC&W Type 2 (later Classes 26 and 27), Brush Type 4, Type 4 'Peak' and 350hp 0-6-0DE.

Archive film - Eric Aitchison, Bob Berry, Peter Bryce, Alan Carlaw, W.A. Camwell, H.J. Campbell Cornwell, Ron Goult, Richard Greenwood, Michael Grieves, Roy Hamilton, Hamilton House Collection, Mike Hudson, Peter Hutchinson, Ian Johnstone, Alan Kirk, Ed Lund, Ken Mackay, Norrie Pollock, Stuart Sellar, Peter Sharpe, John Smallwood, George Taylor, Bob Todd, Geoff Todd, Richard Willis.

The DVD features two audio options. View the programme with narration by Stuart Sellar, then watch it again and lose yourself in the past with uninterrupted archive sound.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: Ken Falconer, A4 Pacific No.60034 "Lord Faringdon" heads south through Gleneagles, 30th.May 1966.
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 99mins (1hr 39min) , Colour/B&W
.

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Ref: OP145D

Price:£19.90

Stirling to Crianlarich and the Killin Branch.

The Callander & Oban was the pioneer railway of the West Highlands, a trip along the fertile Teith Valley into Callander contrasting with spectacular climbs ahead where the rugged mountains squeezed the railway into narrow passes and alongside countless lochs to reach the West Coast of Scotland. This is the first of two programmes covering Caledonian interests in the area, a 'pair' inspired by the cine of Alan Kirk, his love of the region intertwined with that for the C&O and particularly the oasis of steam that survived on the Killin Branch.

Alan's cine and that of our regular Scottish photographers combine to illustrate all stations and even the Oban mainline's isolated passing loops as well as its associated branches to Killin and Ballachulish. In the sparsely populated areas the inclusion of cine film from two tourists, swept along by the scenic splendour, enables this volume to offer a complete picture of the 'lost' section of the Oban mainline.

After an overview of railway development in the West Highlands we examine the everyday interaction between the former 'Caley' routes and shipping, bus and postal services of the region. Thereafter, we concentrate on the now 'lost' 40 mile section of line between Dunblane and Crianlarich Junction. Diverging from the Aberdeen mainline the Dunblane, Doune & Callander Railway provided the springboard for the Callander & Oban Railway, 'Caley 123' on an afternoon run from Glasgow (Buchanan St) in October 1964 taking us through to Callander.

Coverage of the single-wheeler's visit, including a cab ride, is complemented by another unusual visitor, a V2! Everyday scenes include a BRCW Sulzer type 2 passing 80061 as it terminates on a service from Stirling, whilst Black 5s work the regular steam hauled services between Callander, Edinburgh and Glasgow; trains in Glasgow, Stirling and Dunblane supplement the lineside footage.

After considering the initial stage of the C&O, as far as Glenoglehead, we progress through the Pass of Leny, Strathyre, Kingshouse, Balquhidder and up Glen Ogle. The Observation saloon, Pullman coach, tours of the Trossachs and surrounding area are illustrated with photographs, cine and publicity material, showing how the 'Caley', and its successors, promoted this land of Rob Roy McGregor and the Waverley novels.

The mainline bypassed Killin, so the locals built their own railway, a 5 mile branch to the shore of Loch Tay; 1930s scenes of the associated steamer to Kenmore follow clips at Killin Junction. 1960s scenes depict the BR standard 2-6-4 tanks and the former CR and LMS class 439 0-4-4Ts that preceded them. The Killin interlude includes mixed trains, the gravity shunt, camping coach and the classic snowbound tour of 'Caley 123'.

One of the regular DMU operated 'Six Lochs Land Cruise' excursions is seen before our journey resumes to Crianlarich, the complex operations of the Killin school train concluding this volume. Maps, ephemera, photographs, cine and modern scenes are used throughout to enhance the fascinating history, operational quirks and diversity of these lines.

Pre-grouping locomotive types include a 'Caley Jumbo', 439 class 0-4-4Ts, and both the 'Caley single' and Glen Douglas on railtour duties. More modern power includes LMS Black 5s, a Fairburn 4MT tank, LNER A4, B1 and V2 classes as well as BR Standard class 4 tanks, Sulzer and North British type 2s.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: Ken Falconer, "Caley No.123" Single at Callander, October 1964.
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 91mins (1hr 31min) , Colour/B & W
.

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Ref: OP146D

Price:£19.90

Crianlarich to Oban and the Ballachulish Branch

The 'Caley’ West Highland story continues with coverage of the surviving section of mainline, the rise and fall of the Ballachulish branch, the use of the Crianlarich link to integrate former rival routes under British Railways and ultimately its role in the reshaping of the West Highland railway map. We conclude with the elimination of 73 miles of former 'Caley' lines in the area, a rock fall in Glen Ogle accelerating the truncation of the Oban mainline and its isolation from the rest of the erstwhile Caledonian Railway empire.

Modern scenes of Oban and Mallaig services ‘splitting’ at Crianlarich, and a trip down the spur to the C&O, set the scene for 1960s archive as under British Railways the spur saw unprecedented activity. One of the last clockwise 'Six Lochs’ DMU land-cruises takes us to Killin where the Television Train, massive by Killin standards, causes a shunting conundrum in August 1963. The two mainline diesels and regular branch engine all get involved before we revisit Crianlarich where a brace of Black 5s haul another excursion up from the C&O to enter Crianlarich Upper in 1957.

From Crianlarich Lower we resume our mainline journey through Tyndrum, Dalmally, Loch Awe, Taynuilt and Achnacloich to Connel Ferry. Our overview of local railway development concludes with the complex history of the Ballachulish branch before we continue to Oban. B.R. connections with MacBrayne shipping services to Mull and the Outer Hebrides are illustrated with cine of the Claymore, Lochearn, Lochnevis, Lochdunvegan and King George V.

The Oban interlude continues with station scenes and shunting at the upper yard and MPD before we travel to Ballachulish in the last years of the 'Caley' tanks, a journey enriched with lineside action. Beyond Ballachulish we view the neighbouring slate quarry, Kinlochleven and its electric railway and Glencoe.

On 12th May 1962 an SLS railtour bade an enthusiasts farewell to C&O steam using ‘Caley 123’ and Glen Douglas; ‘on train’ footage is interwoven with shots at Crianlarich, Tyndrum and Oban, before the return trip is seen at Balquhidder, Strathyre, Callander, Doune and Stirling.

On the same day, the ‘steam oasis’ branches to Killin and Ballachulish employed 80092 and 78052 respectively, but it was steam’s ‘last knockings’ at the latter. Thereafter, the implementation of Beeching Report recommendations drives the story, albeit with unexpected twists such as a reprieve for Ballachulish in 1964 and the Glen Ogle rock-fall. 1st November 1965 was to see closure for the mainline between Dunblane to Crianlarich and the Killin branch, but beyond Callander the enforced isolation saw BR pull the plug overnight, some five weeks early. Scenes of D5351 on the last day for the Ballachulish branch, 26th March 1966, precede a review of the next forty years.

The varied conclusion embraces ScotRail initiatives, signalling and motive power changes as well as luxury and steam hauled excursions; a B1 and K1 doubleheader bring down the curtain as they assault the 1 in 49 west from Tyndrum. Maps, ephemera, photographs, cine and modern scenes are used throughout as we conclude the fascinating history of the C&O and its two branch lines.

Locomotive types include 'Caley' 0-4-4T, 0-6-0 and 4-2-2, NBR Glen, LMS Black 5 and Ivatt 2-6-0, LNER B1, BR Standard class 3 mogul and class 4, 2-6-4T, English Electric Type 1, BRCW Type 2, Brush Type 4 and class 37.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: Keith Pirt, courtesy Book Law Publications, "Caley" 0-4-4T No.55200 pauses at Kentallen on a Ballachulish to Oban service, July 1959.
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 102mins (1hr 42min) , Colour/B&W
.

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Ref: OP142D

Price:£19.90

In the last days of loco-hauled travel Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street and onwards to Bournemouth.

XC Class 47 Stop - September 2001- The ongoing modernisation of Virgin's Cross-Country operation would bring about the end of daily Nationwide traditional loco-hauled service trains in Britain. Soon the entire fleet inherited from British Rail would be replaced by Virgin Voyagers, with only a handful of HSTs soldiering on from the Nationalised era. But with the sun still rising on the New Dawn another tradition fell victim to ‘modern-thinking’; all Virgin trains were to become anonymous, as Virgin denamed its titled trains as a precursor to a new interval timetable. Pre- Voyager, most were HST-operated, but the ‘Sussex Scot' ‘Midland Scot' and most notably the ‘Pines Express' were all loco-hauled and had a certain kudos and heritage. The last era of the locomotive-hauled ‘Pines' would officially end on 30th September 2001 . . . with this in mind Virgin Trains allowed Oakwood to adorn the ‘Pines Express' with its traditional headboard for the first time since 1965! This is the memento of that event.

After a brief resume of ‘Pines History’ we start at Manchester Piccadilly on 12th September 2001, where 47843 Vulcan received the famous headboard, and we join driver Ken Cossey aboard the 1O09, 08.09 for Bournemouth.

The view forward is complemented by in cab scenes and lineside shots of Vulcan, and other class-mates; notably the ‘BT Police’, ‘rail blue’ and ‘XP64’ celebrities. Departing Manchester on ex-LNWR metals we pass Longsight, Stockport and Cheadle Hulme as we head for Macclesfield, thereafter joining the principal route of the erstwhile North Staffordshire Railway. North Rode viaduct is crossed as we pass through the Potteries, call at Stoke and see the numerous now closed manual signal boxes of this West Coast artery. The ‘West Coast’ proper is joined at Norton Bridge for the run to Stafford, thence to Wolverhampton and into Birmingham. After a crew change, highlights of the run to the south coast conclude with Vulcan’s arrival in Bournemouth.

A map with full route details and booked timings is printed on the inner cover.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 162mins (2hr 42min)

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Ref: OP152D

Price:£19.90

Narrated by Diesel Traction Group Chairman ‘Tom’ Sawyer

and produced by Oakwood Visuals in association with the DTG.

“We could have picked any period to open our doors, but leaving our signature livery behind in favour of a fresh coat of maroon small-yellow was a milestone for us, so that is where we begin.”

Together since their teens and to some extent seen as reclusive, thirty years on the collective that is the Diesel Traction Group at last allows diesel-hydraulic fans unprecedented access to their world, engineers Chris Hatton, Paul Koch, Andy Venn, Steve Vial, Steve Wainwright, Trevor Walton, and Richard Williams being at the heart of the Maybach Music.

Captured during behind the scenes moments at Old Oak Common, and on the road with D1015 Western Champion to Penzance, Minehead, and Swanage, the Golden Ochre era is left behind and a new front man takes the stage as the Group enters its Maroon phase. Much anticipated, ‘Champion’ has not been seen in this guise since May 1968, so the resumption of touring recalls the days of 1965 when Maroon was the fresh colour from West London to the West of England. That year, The Who, released ‘My Generation’, so, inspired by the music of that era, our Old Oak Common based ‘Thousand’ relives those glorious days.

D1015’s pair of MD655 Maybach engines is ready to unleash 2,700hp, so brace yourself for a 90mph ride!

DO YOU WISH IT COULD BE 1965 AGAIN?

More than just a DVD

In addition to taking you behind the scenes, this DVD also includes a 16-page booklet that is packed with information about D1015’s workings from its repaint into Maroon through to the loco’s final departure from the Factory at Old Oak Common. The log includes dates for all workings – light engine, ECS, freight operations and a handful of runs on preserved lines – as well as miles & chains, engine hours (main line and on preserved lines), and other notes.

DTG – Providing a Maybach Music soundtrack for the 21st Century

Although there is a big story to tell, Western Champion is more than capable of doing the talking, so once the railtours start, a switch to the second audio track offers more of the Maybach Music and just the odd introduction as an alternative way to enjoy the programme.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 129mins (2hr 9min)

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Ref: OP153D

Price:£18.95

Climbing from Aberystwyth to 680ft above sea level at Devil’s Bridge, VoR passengers enjoy grand views across the Afon Rheidol as they travel the near 12-mile route to a destination rich in folklore, this DVD taking a trip along the line as well as through its history. Photographs date back to 1902, while a rich vein of cine film from 1939 through to the 1980s underpins the changing story of the Edwardian narrow gauge railway that went on to experience the ‘real end of British Railways steam’, and then thrived in preservation.

An overview of the story prior to opening, through Cambrian Railways and Great Western Railway ownership, and into the BR corporate blue era in 1968 precedes a trip up the line, complete with a section of cab ride along the 1 in 50 beyond Aberffrwd. Three different Aberystwyth termini, as well as a Harbour branch and two engine sheds, are all covered, while the oil firing method used on locomotives from the mid-1970s until 2013 is explained prior to departure. En route we call at Llanbadarn, cross the Rheidol, visit all the other halts and even see the pre-war charm of Felin Newydd Falls near Aberffrwd, since remodelled as part of a hydro-electric power scheme. Classic VoR territory includes Oliver Veltom's Curve, the ‘Stag’, the Horseshoe, Quarry Cutting, and Devil’s Bridge.

The concluding sections track the last decade of the Nationalised VoR, including the visit of Mountaineer from the Ffestiniog Railway, and the first 25 years of privatisation. On 5 November 1988 Owain Glyndwr and Llywelyn carried black flags as British Rail prepared to sell off the line, the management of the Brecon Mountain Railway taking over from March 1989. The VoR had entered a new era of massive investment, as explained by Tony Hills, while 1996 saw the railway become wholly owned by the Phyllis Rampton Narrow Gauge Railway Trust.

Taking the VoR back to its pre-war prime, the Trust has built on BMR improvements, reinstating semaphore signalling, the passing loop, sidings and rolling stock shed at Capel Bangor, and providing buildings at intermediate stations. In addition, the creation of a workshop capable of major overhauls comes with grand plans for a new museum to display a fleet of locomotives from around the world.

Availability: NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Cover photo: Front:- "Prince of Wales" near Devil's Bridge in 2012 (Karl Heath); Inset Front: No.8 in Aberystwyth in August 1939 (L.T.Catchpole); Rear:- Two views of No.8, near the Horseshoe (Ben Duncan) and in GWR days at Aberffrwd (Oakwood Press)
Published by: Oakwood Visuals
Filmed by/when: L.T.Catchpole
First published on DVD: 2016
Region: Free
Classification: Exempt
Number of discs: 1 DVD-R
Media Format: DVD-R

Running Time: 90-mins (1hr 30min) , Colour and B & W
.

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