B & R Video Productions

B & R Video Productions specialises in high-quality railway archive films, focusing on the steam era of British Railways. Their extensive catalogue, spanning hundreds of volumes, features carefully restored 8mm and 16mm cine footage captured by railway enthusiasts during the transition from steam to diesel. With meticulous attention to colour correction, sound authenticity, and historical accuracy, their films provide immersive journeys into the past, free from modern-day filler.

brvideos.co.uk

Correct as of 24/02/26 – loads still missing though!

Vol.DescriptionCollection
3802 Restored
This programme tells the restoration story of Great Western Railway 2-8-0 heavy freight locomotive No. 3802, a Collett-built variant of Churchward’s 1903 design. One of a fleet of 167 engines, No. 3802 last worked in 1965 before being withdrawn and sent to Woodham Brothers scrapyard in Barry.
Rescued in 1984, the locomotive was moved initially to the Plym Valley Railway and later to Bodmin, where restoration work began. In April 2002, 3802 was transferred to the Llangollen Railway for completion of her overhaul, including all boiler work. She returned to steam at the end of 2005.
The film documents the locomotive’s entire restoration journey, showing detailed work at Bodmin and Llangollen and the effort required to return 70 tons of locomotive and 40 tons of tender to operational condition. Scenes include trial steamings and her first workings in traffic at Llangollen.
Released: 2006
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
Building A Grange: 6880 “Betton Grange”
A detailed examination of the Great Western Railway Grange Class 4-6-0 locomotives. None of the class survived into preservation, despite being highly regarded by both enthusiasts and locomotive crews. This programme documents the development of the class and the ongoing construction of a new member, 6880 Betton Grange.
The film includes extensive archive footage of 29 identified Grange locomotives in service during the 1960s, along with additional examples of uncertain identity. It also follows progress on the new build up to 2007, with coverage of the engineering and fabrication work involved.
The programme concludes with scenes from the Llangollen Railway Steam Gala in April 2007, held to support the 6880 Society and its efforts to recreate a much-missed class.
Released: 2007
Running time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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19Steam On The Cambrian
This programme presents the Cambrian system and surrounding routes as filmed in the early 1960s by Bill Cross, a Shrewsbury-based enthusiast with a passion for the region. Using a 16mm camera, Cross captured scenes across the Cambrian and Mid-Wales lines during the final years of steam, offering a rare and atmospheric record of a network now largely lost.
The journey begins at Whitchurch and heads west to Aberystwyth, with stops at Barmouth, Dovey Junction and Borth. Local workings and the “Cambrian Coast Express” feature prominently. Further coverage includes the Mid-Wales line from Moat Lane Junction through Llanidloes, Rhayader, Three Cocks Junction, Pantydwr and Builth Wells. Oswestry, once headquarters of the Cambrian Railways, is shown in detail, along with Gobowen, Tinkers Green and the Ellesmere to Whitchurch line via Fenns Bank.
Motive power includes Standard and Ivatt classes, along with no fewer than six different Manor class locomotives. Specials such as the Talyllyn Railway excursion hauled by 7827 and 4555 in GWR livery are also included.
The programme concludes with footage of now-lost services including the Caernarvon branch and a DMU journey from Wolverhampton to Birmingham Snow Hill. Bill Cross also filmed the Isle of Wight in 1966 and 1967, and a short sequence from these visits is included. A particular highlight is what is believed to be the only known film of the Corris Railway in the 1920s. The Vale of Rheidol Railway also features, filmed when its terminus was still near the river in Aberystwyth.
Narration is by Bill Cross himself.
Running time: 1 hour
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24Cambrian Borders Steam
This programme revisits the Cambrian lines with a look at steam operations along the Welsh Borders, filmed between 1960 and 1967.
It begins at Chester in March 1967, with scenes of visiting Castles 4079 and 7029, mixed with regular steam workings by Standard Class 5s (both conventional and Caprotti), LMS Black 5s, and Crosti-boilered 9F 92026.
South of Ruabon, there are scenes at Llangollen Line Junction featuring Castle, Hall, 73xxx, Pannier Tank and 2251 classes, followed by a journey to Corwen behind a Standard Class 4.
The ex-Cambrian main line from Ellesmere to Whitchurch is covered in detail, including stops at Welshampton, Bettisfield, and Fenns Bank, with GWR Manor haulage throughout. A return trip on a freight hauled by 43034 is also included.
Further south, we visit the Blodwell Quarries with 75004, and then explore rural branch operations on the Llanfyllin Branch from Llanymynech, featuring Ivatt 2-6-0s. There is also coverage of Castle, County, Manor and Standard classes at Shrewsbury and Wellington.
The film concludes with ten minutes of evocative footage along the Cambrian main line from Machynlleth to Welshpool in 1963.
An informative commentary and authentic soundtrack accompany this nostalgic journey through the steam era on the Welsh Borders.
Released: January 2000
Running time: 1 hour
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34Cambrian Coast Steam Holiday
A nostalgic journey through the Cambrian system of the Western Region in the early 1960s, capturing the atmosphere of summer holidays when steam still reigned across the scenic Welsh coast.
The film begins with the journey to Aberystwyth from Paddington via Reading, Shrewsbury and the Talerdigg Bank. In 1962, Manor Class locomotives still dominated here and the line to Carmarthen remained open. The Vale of Rheidol Railway is shown operating from its original terminus by the harbour, with Brunswick green locomotives and chocolate and cream carriages.
From Bow Street to Dovey Junction and on to Tywyn, the film features passing traffic including Manors, BR Standards, 43xx Moguls and 2251 0-6-0s. Aberdovey is seen, including a rare glimpse of the harbour branch. The Talyllyn Railway is visited, with No. 4 running with a Giesl ejector at the time.
Continuing north via Friog to Barmouth, where Fairbourne still used a different gauge, Pannier tanks are seen working to Ruabon. The journey proceeds through Harlech to Portmadog, with an obligatory stop at the Ffestiniog Railway during the early preservation years. Bill Hoole is seen driving at Tan-y-Bwlch, and there are also scenes of steam in the nearby slate quarries.
Much of the footage comes from the collection of Jim Oatway, whose work also featured in Volume 32, Southern Pride. This is an evocative film for anyone with fond memories of steam on the Cambrian Coast.
Released: 2003
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
35Southern Steam Finale No.1 – January to March 1966
This first volume in the Southern Steam Finale series documents the final eighteen months of steam traction on the Southern Region, beginning with the opening weeks of 1966. The programme features archive footage captured at the time, with no modern scenes or re-enactments, offering a detailed historical record of Southern steam in its twilight.
Fifteen different locomotive classes are shown in action, ranging from Southern main line work to operations on the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway during its final weeks. Featured events include the S15 tour with No.30837 in snowy conditions to Bordon, the Maunsell mogul’s run to Gosport, the final operations on the Cowes line, and regular service trains running between Waterloo and Weymouth.
This is a self-contained volume, but it also forms the opening part of a wider series chronicling the decline of Southern steam in depth. All footage is in colour and was filmed by nine cameramen during early 1966, from mid-winter to spring. An authentic soundtrack, derived from original location recordings, accompanies the scenes.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
40Setting the Standards
This programme tells the story of the British Railways Standard Classes introduced from 1951 onwards, culminating in the final steam locomotive built by BR, 9F No.92220 Evening Star, which emerged from Swindon Works in 1960. A total of 999 locomotives were produced, across 12 different classes and six wheel arrangements, forming the backbone of Britain’s final era of main line steam.
The film draws on a wide-ranging archive of pre-1968 footage, with the sole exception of scenes of 71000 Duke of Gloucester at Crewe in the early 1960s. Otherwise, all classes are depicted in authentic period operation, showcasing the full range of liveries, detail differences, and tender types.
More than 90 individual locomotives are featured in action from Scotland to Weymouth, and from West Wales to Tyne Dock. This is a national portrait of the Standard Classes in use across British Railways, offering a contrast to regional or route-based programmes. Although some scenes have appeared in earlier titles or will appear in future releases, here they are assembled in a fresh and comprehensive narrative dedicated to the Standards themselves.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
Wishlist
41Southern Steam Finale Part 2
This second instalment in the Southern Steam Finale series covers events across the Southern Region during March and April 1966, capturing 17 different BR and Southern locomotive classes in action.
Main line workings between Waterloo and Weymouth feature prominently, with extensive lineside and station footage from locations such as Clapham Junction, West Byfleet, Basingstoke, Eastleigh, Southampton, and Bournemouth. Three enthusiast railtours are also included: the New Forester, which visited Gosport, Fawley and Lymington behind U, Q1 and USA tanks; the visit of A4 Kingfisher for a weekend of special trains to Weymouth and Exeter; and the Wilts and Hants, which saw U and N class moguls and included the final run of a Bulleid Q1, No. 33006, from Salisbury.
The programme also includes a look at steam operations in Kent, focusing on Ashford Wagon Works, where C Class 0-6-0s and departmental USA tanks remained in use, and at Southampton Docks where similar locomotives were still active.
A wide-ranging view of the Southern Region’s final years of steam, filmed in colour with authentic sound and a detailed commentary.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
42Railways of the East Midlands No.1
This programme examines the routes of the three main companies that operated in the East Midlands: the Midland Railway, the LNWR, and the Great Central Railway. Filmed between 1959 and 1967, it explores the main lines, branches and industrial systems that once defined the region.
The Great Central route is followed from Marylebone to Nottingham, including scenes from 1964 featuring B1s, Halls, Jubilees and 9Fs, plus one of the final appearances of Stanier Black 5s — including a notable failure of 44936 at Brackley.
Branch lines featured include the Newport Pagnell branch and the Leighton Buzzard to Luton line. Luton is covered in some detail before a journey is taken along the Midland’s original route to London, from Hitchin to Bedford, where 3Fs were still working freight. Other sequences include Northampton to Peterborough East, the Seaton to Stamford push-pull services (filmed from the lineside, on the footplate and onboard), and the Wirksworth branch.
A detailed section covers ironstone mining operations and BR’s involvement in transporting the ore, offering a rare look at this once-major industry.
Visits are also made to Derby Works and shed. Motive power includes LMS classes such as 0F, 2F, 3F, 4F, Black 5, Jubilee, Super D, Scot and Duchess. Seven B1s are seen, along with a GW Hall and Castle, a Merchant Navy Pacific (35030), an A1 Pacific, and a variety of BR Standards. Early-liveried diesels also appear, including DP2 and the Blue Pullman.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
43An Appreciation of Steam
This programme is a personal tribute to the final decade of steam traction on British Railways, covering the period from 1958 to 1968.
Filmed by Douglas Cartmel, a dedicated steam enthusiast, the footage spans locations across England and showcases an extensive variety of locomotive classes. His work captures the fast-disappearing world of steam through both colour and black-and-white film, providing a unique and often atmospheric view of the era.
Southern Region highlights include Lord Nelsons, King Arthurs, Schools, 700 Class Black Motors, and tank engines such as the H, E4 and Terriers. From the Western Region, Kings, Castles, Halls, Counties, and 28xx Classes appear alongside a wide range of tank engines.
Living in the Stockport area, Cartmel was particularly well-placed to document London Midland Region activity, including Duchesses, Scots, Jubilees, Black 5s, Crabs and various 2-8-0s. Locations featured include Eastbourne, Tonbridge, Woking, Guildford, Salisbury, Paddington, Didcot, Weymouth, Wrexham, Saltney, Rowsley, Blackburn, and Stockport. Shed visits to Edgeley, Newton Heath, and Heaton Mersey are included, along with rare views of four North West industrial sites.
In total, 50 locomotive classes and over 100 individual engines appear, all filmed with a keen eye for detail and composition. This is a heartfelt visual archive from someone who truly appreciated the steam age in Britain.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
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46Steam Routes West (The Western Way)
This programme offers a journey from Paddington to Saltash, though not by the most direct route. Instead, it explores lesser-covered lines and branches across the Western Region, capturing the true spirit of GWR territory during the final years of steam.
The route begins at Paddington, reaching Gloucester via Reading, before turning to the Chalfont auto service along the Golden Valley. At Bristol Temple Meads, the journey resumes to Tiverton Junction, where in 1963 a railtour hauled by LNER Pacific No. 60022 Mallard allowed passengers to travel from Exeter via Cadleigh behind two 45xx Prairie tanks. The Hemyock branch, worked by 14xx auto tanks, follows in a strong theme of rural Western branch lines.
Further coverage includes the Teign Valley line from Newton Abbot to Exeter via Heathfield, filmed in 1958, along with a memorable trip to Moretonhampstead, also in 1958—racing the local bus in scenes reminiscent of The Titfield Thunderbolt. The Ashburton branch from Totnes, which would later become part of the preserved Dart Valley Railway, is featured in depth, filmed in 1958 before preservation had even begun. Locomotives such as 6998, 1363, and 1466 are seen stored or steamed at Totnes Quay.
Westwards from Rattery, we visit Plymouth, including a shed tour of Laira, and cross the Saltash Bridge by auto train. Steam action into and out of Cornwall is seen with Castle, County, and Grange classes at the helm.
The journey concludes with a return to Paddington, where Burton Agnes Hall, City of Truro, the last County No. 1011, and Castle class engines are joined by early diesel-hydraulics at Iver. No. 7025 Sudeley Castle arrives under Brunel’s great train shed, evoking the steam era at its finest.
Twenty-five classes of steam are featured, most of them ex-GWR, with colour film bringing to life the branch line atmosphere of a bygone age. Includes some exceptionally rare footage.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
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50The G.W.R. Recalled
A comprehensive look at the Western Region of British Railways from 1958 to 1965, focusing on all the major classes of ex-GWR steam locomotives. Paddington is seen in full steam glory with Kings, Castles, Halls and pannier tanks. It also serves as the departure point for a unique 1963 railtour to Swindon Works, hauled by 72006 Clan Mackenzie. The tour footage includes detailed views of Swindon while still overhauling steam, along with a visit to the shed.
Lineside scenes at Westbourne Park in 1962 showcase more Kings, Castles, County class and 4704, the ultimate GWR 2-8-0. Heading west via Southall to Maidenhead, the film features a nostalgic look at the Marlow branch and its famous auto train known as the “donkey”.
At Reading in 1963, more Castle action is seen along with two Southern Region engines passing through to Moreton Yards. The station pilot is 7817 Garsington Manor. Didcot adds another County class and the last Castle built, Great Western. Chalford auto trains are filmed at Sapperton, followed by scenes on the Birmingham route at Hatton. A rare treat is the sight of Bulleid Pacifics on football specials at Handsworth & Smethwick.
The programme bids farewell to the Kings with 6018 to Swindon, then visits Oxford and captures the final steam train to Fishguard, hauled by 6859. Back in London, the Brentford and Windsor branches are shown before 7029 Clun Castle‘s last farewell tour.
Expect plenty of copper-capped chimneys and lower quadrant signals throughout this richly nostalgic film.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
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53Southern Steam Finale Part 4
The fourth volume in the Southern Steam Finale series covers August and September 1966, the final full summer of Southern steam. Fine weather allowed for high-quality footage, and this programme selects some of the best scenes to represent both general Southern Region operations and several significant railtours.
Two notable tours saw Bulleid Pacifics reach Nottingham via the Great Central. One of these trains ran as far north as Penistone with Bulleid stock hauled by an EM1 electric locomotive. In return, two LNER Pacifics — 60532 Blue Peter and 4472 Flying Scotsman — were filmed operating over Southern metals.
A broader theme covered in this volume is the story of Southern Region boat trains, including services for passengers, freight, and even gold bullion. Meanwhile, O2 class locomotives continued to operate on the Isle of Wight. Visiting LMS Black 5s made their final appearances in the region at the close of the summer timetable.
The Swanage branch is featured in detail before the withdrawal of its regular steam service in September 1966. Across the entire programme, 15 different classes are seen in action. Footage is filmed by skilled cameramen using high-grade equipment, forming a detailed and evocative record of steam’s final summer on the Southern.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
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56Severn to Dee Part 1
A film tracing the steam-era railways between Bristol, where the River Severn meets the sea, and Wrexham, close to the River Dee.
The journey follows the Midland route from Bristol to Gloucester, including a visit to Berkeley Road where a 14xx operates on the Sharpness branch. Steam freight at Gloucester is featured alongside a visit by 3440 City of Truro in 1985. From Ashchurch, 1420 and 6435 head to Worcester, where the shed and works are seen in 1965.
The route then diverts via Birmingham and Wolverhampton, along the Great Western line to the north. Footage includes a Duchess Pacific at speed through Winson Green. Further north, scenes from Madeley Junction and Upton Magna (closed in 1964) show more steam operations.
Shrewsbury, firmly on the Severn, is covered in detail. Highlights include a Royal train, a diesel crash into a signal box, and a Duchess working a running-in turn from Crewe in 1962. Regular steam working is shown up to March 1967.
North of Shrewsbury, the route passes Gobowen and Oswestry. Weston Rhyn is shown during the days of loops, a signal box, and the exchange yard for Ifton Colliery, where industrial locos worked the branch. In 1966, steam is seen crossing into Wales over the River Dee viaduct at Newbridge. At Ruabon, County Class 1011 is featured, and Black 5s lead the way to Wrexham.
A few scenes from 1970s steam railtours are included, filmed while the infrastructure of semaphore signalling and gated crossings remained largely unchanged from steam days.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hourSouthern Steam Finale Part 5
This fifth volume in the acclaimed Southern Steam Finale series continues the definitive story of the end of steam on the Southern Region. Covering the months of October to December 1966 and into January 1967, this instalment draws on the work of sixteen cameramen to tell a thorough and compelling story of a pivotal period in British railway history.
Although this release stands on its own as a vivid portrayal of Southern steam, it fits squarely within the larger narrative. It includes extensive coverage of regular steam operations on the South Western main line between Waterloo and Weymouth, set against the backdrop of a network entering its final phase of steam traction.
The programme explores significant rail tours from the closing months of 1966. The RCTS Four Counties tour is documented, featuring a visit to the Tooting branch with Guildford shed’s pilot engine No. 30072. The Dorset and Hants tour follows, using two unrebuilt Bulleid Pacifics on a journey covering the remains of the Somerset and Dorset line to Blandford, the remnants of the Ringwood branch, and the Hamworthy Goods branch.
Further highlights include the visit of Merchant Navy class No. 35026 to Newcastle, Doncaster, and York. Another notable tour sees Clun Castle and Britannia No. 70004 hauling Southern Region Bulleid stock to Stratford-upon-Avon and Stourbridge Junction. The final weeks of Isle of Wight steam are captured in detail, culminating in the last day of operation on 31 December 1966 from Ryde Esplanade to Shanklin. Also featured is full coverage of the tour to the Bridport branch via Salisbury, Westbury, and Maiden Newton, which encountered numerous operating challenges, and the very last steam run to Exeter.
Filmed entirely in colour using high-quality cine equipment, this programme includes an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary. It continues to build a historical record of Southern Region steam’s final months and is essential viewing for enthusiasts and historians alike.
Released on: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
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59Southern Steam Finale Part 5
This fifth volume in the acclaimed Southern Steam Finale series continues the definitive story of the end of steam on the Southern Region. Covering the months of October to December 1966 and into January 1967, this instalment draws on the work of sixteen cameramen to tell a thorough and compelling story of a pivotal period in British railway history.
Although this release stands on its own as a vivid portrayal of Southern steam, it fits squarely within the larger narrative. It includes extensive coverage of regular steam operations on the South Western main line between Waterloo and Weymouth, set against the backdrop of a network entering its final phase of steam traction.
The programme explores significant rail tours from the closing months of 1966. The RCTS Four Counties tour is documented, featuring a visit to the Tooting branch with Guildford shed’s pilot engine No. 30072. The Dorset and Hants tour follows, using two unrebuilt Bulleid Pacifics on a journey covering the remains of the Somerset and Dorset line to Blandford, the remnants of the Ringwood branch, and the Hamworthy Goods branch.
Further highlights include the visit of Merchant Navy class No. 35026 to Newcastle, Doncaster, and York. Another notable tour sees Clun Castle and Britannia No. 70004 hauling Southern Region Bulleid stock to Stratford-upon-Avon and Stourbridge Junction. The final weeks of Isle of Wight steam are captured in detail, culminating in the last day of operation on 31 December 1966 from Ryde Esplanade to Shanklin. Also featured is full coverage of the tour to the Bridport branch via Salisbury, Westbury, and Maiden Newton, which encountered numerous operating challenges, and the very last steam run to Exeter.
Filmed entirely in colour using high-quality cine equipment, this programme includes an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary. It continues to build a historical record of Southern Region steam’s final months and is essential viewing for enthusiasts and historians alike.
Released on: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
60Engine on Shed Part 1
With the demise of steam on Britain’s railways came the disappearance of the engine shed – once the backbone of daily operations. Maintaining a steam locomotive required immense manual labour, and the work was relentless, dirty, and essential. This documentary delves deep into the life and labour of steam depot operations across all five British Railways regions.
Drawing on an extensive archive built over years of enthusiast filmmaking, this is perhaps the most comprehensive documentary on engine shed activity ever produced. Although some footage has featured in earlier releases, this volume brings it together with previously unseen material, creating a coherent and thorough account of life at the sheds. There are no main line running scenes here – this is purely the behind-the-scenes workhorses of the steam age.
Part 1 focuses on the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the shed environment, from roundhouses to straight sheds. Smoke and steam fill the air as engines arrive and crews begin the arduous tasks of fire cleaning or dropping – a process that often looked volcanic in its intensity. Ash pits feature prominently, as do the dirtiest jobs in the business: smokebox emptying and boiler tube cleaning.
The documentary also covers the essential work of replenishing coal and water – operations that took many forms and occasionally led to amusing mishaps. In busier depots, fast turnarounds were vital and not always achieved by strictly following the rules.
This film is a tribute to the unsung heroes of steam – the men who kept the wheels turning behind the scenes. It presents an unvarnished, authentic portrayal of everyday shed work, captured in vivid archive footage.
Released on: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
66Southern Steam Finale Part 6
This sixth instalment in the authoritative Southern Steam Finale series continues the story of the last eighteen months of steam traction on the Southern Region. Focusing on the period from January to March 1967, the programme captures the closing winter months with remarkable attention to detail and historical context.
Although steam operations were diminishing following the January timetable change, this volume diligently tracks remaining services across the network from Waterloo to Weymouth. As ever, the emphasis is on both routine and extraordinary events, preserving a comprehensive account of Southern steam in its twilight.
This period was notable for several special workings and railtours. Despite the general decline, enthusiasts were treated to steam-hauled journeys over routes where it had already become rare. Among these, the LCGB’s 100th railtour is a highlight – a success that contrasted sharply with the 99th tour shown in Part 5. This centenary run visited Chessington, Shepperton, Windsor, and Reading Central Goods, providing enthusiasts a rich itinerary of varied Southern territory.
Another notable railtour, the Surrey Downsman, traversed through Oxted, Redhill and Kensington Olympia, ultimately concluding at a steamless London Bridge. The programme explores these operations with insightful commentary and context, revealing both the logistical complexities and the spirit of the time.
A unique focus is given to Ron Cover’s efforts to celebrate and dignify the last days of steam, fabricating ornate numberplates that bestowed a sense of pride and ceremony to locomotives nearing withdrawal. His craftsmanship is explored with appropriate respect.
Elsewhere, the preserved locomotive No. 3442 The Great Marquess made a high-profile visit to the Southern Region, captured in footage of its run from Victoria to Brighton, Chichester and Southampton. The Isle of Wight also features – the first electric trains began running while the last of the venerable O2 class steam locomotives were dismantled at Newport. One of the final Bulleid Pacific tours reached Eastbourne, providing a poignant close to a diminishing era.
Presented with an informative and well-researched narration and supported by high-quality cine film footage, this programme captures a critical phase in Southern Region history with accuracy, warmth and clarity.
Released on: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
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69The Withered Arm
This third volume in the Jim Clemens Collection captures an evocative and richly detailed exploration of North Devon and Cornwall in the early 1960s, travelling deep into the Southern Region’s fabled “Withered Arm” — the remote and often single-track network west of Exeter. Filmed extensively in colour during steam’s final years, this programme is a nostalgic journey aboard and alongside the famed Atlantic Coast Express, with remarkable footage at nearly every station.
The journey begins at London Waterloo and proceeds via Basingstoke, Salisbury, and Sidmouth Junction to Exeter Central, before continuing into the heart of the Withered Arm. The route north to Barnstaple Junction and Ilfracombe is shown in full, followed by the run back south to Instow, Bideford and Torrington, where O2s and Ivatt tanks are seen in action.
From Torrington the journey proceeds via Halwill Junction to the Bude branch, including the rare harbour line, still served by T9s in 1961. The route continues through Launceston to Wadebridge, where iconic Beattie Well tanks and T9s feature on workings to Padstow. Both Bodmin General and Bodmin North are visited, with the return leg taking in Bere Alston, Gunnislake, Okehampton and Exeter once more.
Further highlights include a visit to Penzance with a Bulleid Pacific and rare footage of steam at Barnstaple Victoria Road. With comprehensive coverage and atmospheric footage throughout, this is the definitive film record of Southern steam in Devon and Cornwall.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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73Southern Steam Finale Part 7: March to April 1967
The seventh instalment in the definitive chronicle of Southern Region steam’s final eighteen months covers March and April 1967. Although new diesel and electric diagrams were being introduced, steam remained in regular use, particularly when covering traction failures. This volume examines these workings in detail, especially in the suburbs of London.
The main focus then shifts to the Southampton area and the New Forest, where steam operation remained strong. USA tanks are seen working a railtour along the Fawley branch, continuing along the truncated Somerset & Dorset route to Blandford Forum and then to the Swanage branch.
One of the key changes of the period was the loss of steam on the Lymington branch, which is thoroughly documented in its final week of operation in April 1967. The Hampshire Branch Line Tour is also featured, covering routes via Salisbury and Ramsey. The programme concludes with the “Kenny Belle” service to Olympia, a short but notable steam operation in the capital.
Filmed entirely in colour and using high-quality cine footage, this volume continues to document the Southern Region’s last days of steam with informed commentary and an authentic soundtrack.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 60 minutes
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76The Midland Around Worcestershire
Part of the Jim Clemens Collection (No. 5), this film focuses on the Midland lines and branches in and around Worcestershire and South Birmingham. With a wealth of original footage taken in the early 1960s, this is a richly detailed look at a region once bustling with steam activity.
The Lickey Incline is featured extensively, with sequences from both the lineside and the footplate. These scenes offer a rare insight into the operation of steam locomotives on the steep 1 in 37 gradient, including heavy freight and passenger traffic. The film also explores the alternative Midland route through Redditch and Evesham, showcasing motive power such as Jubilee, 4F, and Fowler tank engines.
Typical of the Jim Clemens archive, the footage is captured with a keen eye for railway detail, making this volume a valuable historical document of the region’s steam operations in their final years.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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78Memories on the Somerset & Dorset
This evocative archive film recalls the final two years of the Somerset and Dorset line, which closed in 1966. It was filmed by local enthusiast and railwayman Terry Nicholls, whose still photography appeared in Steam Railway magazine’s The Glorious Years. The footage captures the S&D in its last working days and provides a unique and personal record of a much-loved railway.
Unlike many other films on the S&D, this one begins with coverage of the northern section from Bristol to Bath via Mangotsfield before heading south through the main line to Templecombe. The Highbridge branch from Evercreech is also included. Regular services and special trains are featured right up to the final day, with locomotives including 4Fs, 8Fs and West Country Pacifics.
This is a heartfelt visual record of the line’s final years, filmed from the lineside and in stations across the route.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
79North Wales Steam Line
This programme follows a circular journey around North Wales, beginning and ending at Chester, and covering a wide-ranging selection of lines in the region. The route includes Llangollen, Bala, Barmouth, Pwllheli, Caernarvon, Holyhead, Bangor, and Llandudno.
From the Dee Valley line via Llangollen—with all stations and halts shown prior to closure—the journey continues through Bala Junction, including Bala Town and the Blaenau route, before heading on through Dolgellau and Penmaenpool to Morfa Mawddach. The coastal leg north through Barmouth, Portmadoc, and Afon Wen is well represented, with a brief stop at Pwllheli.
The journey continues to Caernarvon via Ynys, before running from Bangor to Holyhead and including a return trip on the Amlwch branch. Further scenes cover the Penrhyn narrow gauge railway and the Llandudno Junction to Blaenau Ffestiniog branch. Additional footage includes the Corwen–Ruthin–Denbigh line by DMU and archive film of the renowned Land Cruise train via Afon Wen and Corwen.
Motive power includes BR Standard Class 75xxx 4-6-0s, GWR 63xx Moguls, and Pannier tanks, with a wide variety of ex-GWR and BR types seen throughout.
Filmed mainly in colour between 1959 and 1966, the programme captures a broad and memorable picture of steam operations across North Wales during the final years of steam.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
80Southern Steam Finale Part 8
The eighth volume in the definitive Southern Steam Finale series covers the months of May and June 1967. By this point, the remaining steam fleet on the Southern Region was rapidly diminishing, but what remained was still of exceptional interest. Filmed with precision and care at numerous locations between Waterloo and Weymouth, this volume captures the drama and atmosphere of steam in its twilight.
Two significant railtours are featured in this period. One involved West Country class locomotive No. 34023 hauling a train to Swanage, with memorable runpasts at Corfe Castle. The tour is documented in detail from multiple vantage points, with cameramen stationed at key lineside locations and on board the train.
A further highlight is the visit of LNER A4 Pacific No. 4498 Sir Nigel Gresley to the Southern Region. During its two-day tour, it reached Salisbury and Weymouth, and its progress is shown in fine detail, reflecting the excitement generated by this iconic locomotive’s appearance in the South.
This is another essential chapter in the chronicle of the last days of Southern Region steam. The programme includes a carefully matched soundtrack and informative commentary to complete the story.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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84Railways Around Bristol
This volume presents a detailed portrait of railway operations around Bristol, filmed by local railwayman and cameraman Terry Nicholls. With his experience working for British Railways, Terry captured scenes from the best vantage points across the city and surrounding routes during the final years of steam.
The film opens at Bedminster and Clifton Bridge, where steam still worked the busy Wapping Wharf docks. From there, we return to Bristol Temple Meads and explore Bath Road depot and the route east to Bath via East Depot. The focus then shifts north along the Midland line to Wickwar and Mangotsfield, following a visit to Barrow Road shed.
The journey continues along the South Wales main line towards Pilning, filmed from Stapleton Road in 1964. A wide variety of locomotives are shown throughout the film, with many LMS and GWR types, including Castles and Jubilees. There are also appearances by Southern and LNER locomotives, reflecting the diverse traction that passed through Bristol in the steam era. A few early diesel classes, such as the Blue Pullman and Hymeks, make brief appearances, though the focus remains firmly on steam in its final years.
Filmed in colour, this programme provides a nostalgic and atmospheric look at a major railway hub during a pivotal era of transition.
Released: Unknown
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
85Steam Routes West (The Southern Way)
Back in Volume 46 we explored the Western Region’s journey to Plymouth, but this companion volume takes the Southern route instead. Following the lines of the Southern Railway from London Waterloo to Plymouth, this video provides a nostalgic and detailed look at a route once rich in character, now significantly altered or lost.
The programme covers various branches and main line sections, beginning with the Ludgershall and Bulford branches. From there, it continues to Salisbury, pausing to enjoy the lively atmosphere of a summer Saturday before the arrival of diesel traction changed the iconic Atlantic Coast Express forever. The journey proceeds to Exeter Central, with diversions to the Seaton and Sidmouth branches along the way.
From Exeter, the route follows the famed Withered Arm through Barnstaple to Ilfracombe, offering evocative footage of a line that once served remote communities in North Devon. A highlight is the extended sequence from Wadebridge to Wenfordbridge, where a Beattie Well Tank handles freight duties even after the arrival of the 1366 Class tanks. There is also a brief look at the Callington branch before arriving in Plymouth.
Bulleid Pacifics dominate the motive power, but many other classes are featured, creating a broad and rich portrait of Southern steam in the West Country. The entire programme is filmed in colour and includes archive footage from multiple cameramen, making this a real treat for enthusiasts of Southern steam and West Country railways.
Released: January 2002
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
86Along LMS Lines Part 3
The third instalment in this series departs from the sequential journey format of the previous volumes to present a broader picture of the former LMS network. Instead of continuing directly north from Manchester, this volume offers a sweeping view of LMS operations across several key regions, drawing on the extensive Ray Webb film collection.
The route begins between Derby and Manchester before heading to the scenic grandeur of the Settle and Carlisle line. The programme also visits the Cheshire Lines Committee (CLC) route around Northwich, captures the constant motion of Crewe, and follows the West Coast Main Line all the way to Carlisle.
Filmed in 1962, this volume features a rich mix of steam power including Coronation Pacifics, Royal Scots, Jubilees, Patriots, 4Fs, Super Ds, 1Fs, Black 5s, and 8Fs. Adding to the variety are numerous visiting locomotives, providing a more complete portrait of the Midland Region’s diversity. The tragic final chapter of Jubilee class No. 45669 Minotaur, which crashed near Altrincham, is also featured.
Packed with evocative footage and brimming with atmosphere, this release is recommended viewing for anyone with an interest in the LMS and the steam era across the Midland Region.
Released: March 2002
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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88Southern Recollections
A richly evocative journey through the Southern Region of British Railways, filmed by enthusiast Terry Nicholls between 1964 and 1967. This archive compilation captures the tail end of Southern steam across the south and west of England, with a focus on long-vanished routes and summer mainline bustle.
The programme begins in the far west with a trip to Plymouth and a journey over the Withered Arm via Bere Alston, the Callington branch, Tavistock, Okehampton and Bude. Rare footage of a 1964 railtour along the Wenfordbridge branch features 0-6-0 pannier tank No. 1369. The Exmoor Ranger tour is also covered, running from Exeter to Okehampton, Halwill, Torrington, Barnstaple, and Ilfracombe.
At Exeter Central, a 1964 Summer Saturday brings Bulleid Pacifics to life in vivid colour. The film then heads east via Salisbury to Basingstoke, capturing another Summer Saturday in 1965, when inter-regional trains were still in the hands of GWR Halls and LMS Black 5s. At Shawford, similar high-season traffic is recorded.
From the mainland, the programme crosses to the Isle of Wight for views at Ryde, Newport and Ventnor in the twilight of Island steam. The film concludes with evocative scenes at Weymouth and on Bincombe Bank, before a run back via Bournemouth to end at Southampton.
This is a compelling portrait of a region in transition, filmed by someone with a strong eye for location and timing.
Released: June 2002
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
89Along GWR Lines Part 3 – Cardiff to Penzance
The third instalment in the Along GWR Lines series charts a scenic and nostalgic journey from South Wales to Penzance, beginning with a brief introduction at Paddington to set the scene. This volume focuses on the twilight years of Great Western steam in 1965, capturing both main line and local workings in their authentic operational settings.
Opening in Cardiff and Newport, the programme shows steam-hauled freight in action, including small pannier tanks and larger Western Region motive power. From here, we follow steam tackling the gradients of Pilning Bank after exiting the Severn Tunnel, including views of the car ferry train. At Bristol, we witness operations on the Stapleton Road bank and revisit Staple Hill bank on the former Midland line, which was by then under Western Region control.
A highlight at Bristol is the rare sight of GWR Castle class No. 4079 Pendennis Castle being loaded onto a ship bound for Australia. It was a poignant moment, especially knowing that the locomotive would eventually return home.
The journey continues west through Taunton and Exeter, following the famed sea wall to Plymouth, with sequences of steam and diesel-hydraulics in equal measure. In Cornwall, the programme explores branches and main line workings all the way to Penzance.
This volume presents a rich mixture of steam and early diesel power in vivid colour, capturing a railway scene now lost to time. All the footage shown is irreplaceable and steeped in atmosphere.
Released: August 2002
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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91Somerset Steam Railways
Jim Clemens Collection No.9
In the 1960s, Somerset was home to a rich tapestry of interconnected rural railways, most of which have since vanished. This programme, compiled from the work of railway enthusiast and filmmaker Jim Clemens, captures those lines before closure, offering an irreplaceable record of the county’s lost railways.
The film opens with exceptionally rare 1930s footage of the Weston, Clevedon and Portishead Railway, followed by scenes on the Clevedon Miniature Railway. The journey then follows the full length of the Cheddar Valley and East Somerset line from Yatton to Witham.
A highlight of the programme is a comprehensive look at the much-lamented Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway, from Bath to Templecombe. Viewers will see 2-8-0s and 4Fs at work alongside Standard and Ivatt tanks, filmed in daily operation. The Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea branch is then explored in its entirety, showcasing its journey to the sea.
Next, the focus shifts to Taunton and the route south to Chard, before heading east to cover Yeovil Junction, Yeovil Town and Yeovil Pen Mill. The route back to Taunton via Martock and Athelney is featured in full, capturing all intermediate stations.
A Summer Saturday at Norton Fitzwarren in 1959 provides a lively interlude, followed by a journey over the Minehead branch by DMU before closure and eventual preservation. The final sequence is a run with GWR moguls on the line from Taunton to Dulverton, bringing this deeply nostalgic portrait of Somerset’s railways to a fitting close.
Released: November 2002
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
92Steam Still At Work (after August 1968) Part 1
This first volume in the “Steam Still At Work” series (originally titled “Return to Steam”) documents the “Wilderness Years” between the official end of British Railways steam in August 1968 and the gradual re-emergence of preserved and industrial steam into the public eye. Despite the mainline ban, steam traction never truly disappeared.
The story opens on 11 August 1968 with the last British Rail steam-hauled service: 70013 Oliver Cromwell heads over the Settle and Carlisle line before 45110 takes the final leg into Liverpool. These are among the last images of BR steam in regular service. Later, Oliver Cromwell is seen running light to Norwich. Earlier that year, 92203 is seen en route to preservation at Longmoor, along with 75029 – the first steam seen again on the Southern Region since July 1967.
A visit to Barry scrapyard shows rows of engines awaiting preservation, while scenes at Cashmores and Cohen’s Yard in Kettering reveal the brutal reality of scrapping. Amid the gloom, life remained in the industrial sector – 0-6-0STs are seen fly-shunting at Hadley Colliery, the unique Beyer-Garratt William Francis is captured in action, and ex-BR locomotives like 3F 47745 and ex-GWR Pannier Tanks continue work at collieries and on London Transport.
The story also includes steam in Northern Ireland, where Jeep 2-6-4Ts are seen hauling both passenger trains and motorway construction trains.
Overseas, destinations like Calais and Boulogne still featured Pacifics hauling prestigious services like the Golden Arrow, while further afield, steam was still widespread in Germany, across Europe, and in South Africa – where mainline Garratt-hauled services continued well into the 1970s.
Back in the UK, the earliest years of railway preservation are explored with rare colour footage from the Bluebell, Keighley, Middleton, Severn Valley and Dart Valley railways, as well as scenes from the Lochty Private Railway with 60009 and a matching Beaver Tail observation car.
Also featured are early scenes on the Vale of Rheidol (painted BR blue), the Talyllyn with Dolgoch, and the Ffestiniog with Prince. Despite the ban, 4472 Flying Scotsman remained active on the main line, and other preserved engines occasionally ventured onto BR metals – if you knew where to look.
The programme closes with the “Return to Steam” in October 1971, as 6000 King George V hauls the Bulmers Pullman train, and 4472 departs from King’s Cross – alongside a final glimpse of 45110 from August 1968.
All footage is in colour, with an extensively researched commentary and authentic soundtrack, offering a unique insight into a remarkable and often overlooked period in British steam history.
Released: January 2003
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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95Settle & Carlisle Remembered
A comprehensive look at the Settle and Carlisle route, beginning at Keighley and heading north. Highlights include the final 3F-hauled passenger train up the Worth Valley in 1962, and scenes of main line steam in Airedale. Also featured is the alternative route to Skipton via Ilkley and Embsay, as well as the Grassington branch, including a steam-hauled excursion to Wharfedale.
A wide variety of workings through Skipton are covered, including the Barnoldswick branch. The journey continues through Bell Busk to Hellifield, with additional footage of steam operations from Wilpshire to Hellifield.
The film follows the full length of the Settle and Carlisle line to Carlisle, taking in Settle, Horton, Ribblehead, Blea Moor, Dent, Garsdale and Ais Gill. Motive power from 1962 to 1968 includes Jubilees, Scots, Britannias, Staniers, 4Fs, 9Fs and WDs, along with appearances by visiting A4 and Castle classes. West Coast diversions featuring Class 40s and Peak diesels are also shown.
Filmed competently in all weather conditions, from sunshine to snow, mist and rain, this DVD captures the Settle and Carlisle line at its finest.
Released: June 2003
Running Time: 1 hour
(Collection)
96Southern Steam Finale No.9
This concluding volume in the Southern Steam Finale series offers an in-depth look at the final weeks of steam on the Southern Region during June and July 1967. As the era came to a close, this programme captures not only the iconic locomotives and railtours but also the atmosphere, emotion, and operational detail of a railway in transition.
The main line between Waterloo and Weymouth is well represented, with the dwindling fleet of Bulleid Pacifics and BR Standards in their last days of revenue operation. Extensive footage from Nine Elms and Weymouth sheds reveals locomotives being prepared for final duties and in some cases, their last ever turns.
A number of railtours are covered in detail. The visit of LNER A4 No. 4498 Sir Nigel Gresley to the Southern Region for a tour to Weymouth is shown from nine different camera positions, providing comprehensive coverage of the event. Two British Rail specials are seen hauled by Merchant Navy class locomotives, and two society-organised tours include visits to Haslemere Bank and the Swanage branch with moments of dramatic double heading.
As steam approached its final curtain, everyday services continued with moments of high drama and intensity. One standout moment includes footplate coverage of a train reaching 97 miles per hour. The period also saw failures and hastily rearranged rosters, all faithfully captured here.
On the last day of steam, this film shows the final up train hauled by steam from Weymouth and scenes of other locomotives making their final journeys to withdrawal points such as Salisbury. This is not just a film of runpasts. It is a carefully observed, fully immersive record of the final days, focusing on both spectacle and operational detail.
Released: July 2003
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
97The Western Around Worcestershire
Jim Clemens Collection No.11. This film presents the steam era on the route from Hereford to Worcester and then through Campden to Moreton-in-the-Marsh. It features the final Class 1 service on the Western Region to be worked by steam, primarily using Castle Class locomotives from Worcester shed. Alongside these are appearances from other classic Western types including Halls, Granges, Prairies, and Panniers.
There are occasional visits from LMS locomotives, and even an LNER A1 makes a surprising appearance at Worcester. Several branch lines are included for added historical depth, notably the Bromyard branch. This line features a Collett 0-6-0 on a special working for enthusiasts, and a memorable pair of decorated locomotives heading an excursion to Blackpool on the final day of service in 1964.
Also featured is the little-known Shipston branch with scenes of the daily freight workings. The filming spans the early 1960s and offers evocative scenes at locations including Malvern, Worcester, Pershore, Honeybourne, Evesham, and the steep gradients of Campden Bank. The route was famously used by the Cathedrals Express, often made up of Brunswick Green locomotives and chocolate and cream coaching stock.
This programme is compiled entirely from the work of local Worcester enthusiast Jim Clemens and provides a wealth of nostalgic content for anyone interested in the Western Region and its operations during the final years of steam.
Released: August 2003
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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99Herefordshire Byways
Jim Clemens Collection No.12. This film explores three rural branch lines in Herefordshire, captured in evocative archive footage from the Jim Clemens Collection. Shot between 1959 and 1964, the film provides an atmospheric record of working steam railways in a part of Britain where the railway was once central to rural life.
Featured routes include the line from Leominster to Kington and Presteigne, the secondary line from Hereford to Gloucester via Ross-on-Wye, and the final steam freight operations from Ross-on-Wye to Lydbrook Junction. Also included is coverage of the Ledbury to Gloucester route, now long closed.
Motive power featured includes Pannier tanks, Prairie tanks, Auto tanks, and Collett 0-6-0s, along with a GWR Diesel railcar. These rural lines served their communities faithfully before succumbing to closure, and this film captures the last years of their operation in remarkable detail.
Most of the footage is in colour, with an authentic soundtrack created from original audio recordings made at the time. The scenes are supported by an informative commentary that provides both historical context and technical insight into these lost lines.
Released: November 2003
Running time: 60 minutes
Collection
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103Steam along the Welsh Marches
This programme features a wide-ranging look at steam operations along the Welsh Marches and into the heart of Mid Wales, with scenes filmed between the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The journey begins at Hereford, with snow-covered views of the line to Three Cocks, Builth Road and Brecon at the end of services in 1962. From there, the route continues north via Llanidloes and includes coverage of the Hereford to Shrewsbury line when it remained open as a through route via the Severn Valley.
Branch lines are well represented: the Much Wenlock branch is featured, along with journeys from Welshpool to Machynlleth and return, and from Welshpool to Oswestry via Llanfyllin and the rarely-filmed Llanrhaeadr branch. The programme concludes with the Llangollen line to Bala, offering views from the Wye to the Dee.
This film provides a valuable record of several now-lost rural routes and branch lines in the border counties, supported by an informative commentary and authentic soundtrack.
Released: April 2004
Running time: 1 hour
Wishlist
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108Cambrian Landcruise Part 1
This programme offers a nostalgic look at the railway between Barmouth and Shrewsbury via Dovey Junction, filmed throughout the 1960s. Virtually every station and halt along the route is featured, capturing the scenic grandeur of the Cambrian Coast and inland sections in a variety of weather conditions.
Particular attention is given to steam operations on the challenging climbs at Friog and Talerddig. The Talerddig ascent is a highlight, with Manors, Standard Classes and Ivatt Moguls seen tackling the steep 1-in-52 gradient. One memorable scene shows a Standard class locomotive stalling on the bank, then restarting with difficulty—causing visible damage to the track.
The journey continues through the Severn Valley from Moat Lane via Newtown and Welshpool to Shrewsbury, with views of classic semaphore signalling.
Motive power includes GWR Manor Class 4-6-0s (in both clean and work-stained condition), BR Standard tender and tank engines, and Ivatt Class 2 Moguls.
The programme also features brief visits to the Fairbourne, Talyllyn, and Welshpool & Llanfair narrow gauge lines as they appeared in the 1960s.
Released: January 2005
Running time: 1 hour
Collection
109Cambrian Landcruise Part 2
This volume continues the journey through the Cambrian Mountains from Shrewsbury to Barmouth, travelling via Ruabon, Llangollen, Bala and Dolgellau. Filmed primarily during the early 1960s, it documents both the main and secondary routes through this scenic region, with a few comparative shots from the preserved Llangollen Railway in the 1980s and 1990s.
Extensive scenes at Shrewsbury show operations at the station and Coleham shed, where LMS and GWR locomotives such as Panniers, Black 5s, Manors, and Granges were in service. Freight workings behind 28xx, Manors and Halls are also included. The journey continues via Leaton, Baschurch and Gobowen, with diversions to Whitchurch and Oswestry, plus visits to Ifton Colliery and Chirk.
Further highlights include the junction at Llangollen, a run down the Dee Valley, and historical footage at Bala and Dolgellau in 1964. The programme concludes at Morfa Mawddach and Barmouth, including views of track recovery trains following the closure of the Dee Valley line in 1965.
Motive power includes GWR Manors, Granges, Halls, 28xx, 2251, 43xx and Panniers, as well as LMS Black 5s, Jubilees, 8Fs and 2MTs. BR Standards also feature. Some material dates back to 1959, with one clip from as early as 1930.
Released: January 2005
Running time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Collection
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111Four Ways to Brecon
This programme explores the four railway routes that once served the town of Brecon in Mid-Wales, all of which closed by 1967. Filmed by Jim Clemens between 1960 and 1964, the footage provides a detailed record of operations in the final years of steam.
The lines covered include:
– The Brecon to Newport route over the Brecon Beacons via Torpantau, reaching over 1,300 feet above sea level
– The 33-mile Vale of Neath line approaching Brecon from the west
– The Hereford route via Hay-on-Wye, connecting Brecon to the Midlands
– The Mid-Wales Railway route from the north, via Builth Wells and the Cambrian Mountains to Llanidloes and Moat Lane Junction
Much of the filming took place during the last months of operation in 1962, including footage of the severe winter weather. The final steam working into Brecon in 1964—an enthusiasts’ special from Cardiff—is also included.
Motive power includes GWR 5700 Class pannier tanks and LMS Ivatt Class 2 2-6-0 moguls. The film is in colour, supported by an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary.
Released: March 2005
Running time: 58 minutes
Wishlist
122Cambrian Coast Route Part 2
This programme covers the stretch of the Cambrian Coast Express route from Shrewsbury to Welshpool, with detailed coverage of Shrewsbury station and motive power depot during the final years of steam.
A wide range of Western and Midland Region locomotives is seen, including Castle, County, Hall and Manor classes, alongside Duchess, Jubilee, Black 5 and 8F types. Ivatt and BR Standard classes are particularly prominent in material from 1966.
Diesel scenes include several rarities: a Class 45 ‘Peak’ on the Hookagate line, Class 08s on oil trains to Abbey Foregate, the Fisons weed-killing train, and a short-lived visit by a Class 33 Crompton. The preserved King 6000 “King George V” is seen hauling the GWR Centenary dining car set in 1979, while LMS Jubilee 5596 ‘Bahamas’ visits Hookagate yard.
Also included are scenes of the Severn Valley line while it was still connected to Shrewsbury, and the long single-track route to Welshpool via the Minsterley branch. Footage features Standard Class 4s, Manor 4-6-0s, and Talyllyn Railway specials with Dukedogs.
Filmed mostly in colour, the film is supported by an authentic soundtrack and a well-researched commentary.
Released: June 2006
Running time: 1 hour
Wishlist
128Cambrian Coast Route Part 3
This third instalment in the Cambrian Coast Express series focuses on the section of route west of Shrewsbury, climbing through the hills of Mid Wales over the summit at Talerddig.
Drawing on archive material from the 1960s, the film captures the steam era in depth, with occasional diesel footage – including the first recorded visit of a High Speed Train (HST) to the route in 1983. Welshpool features extensively, with remarkable scenes of the Welshpool & Llanfair line during its pre-1956 freight operations.
The journey continues over Talerddig summit with GWR Manor Class and BR Standard locomotives, supplemented by footage from later return-to-steam specials. Machynlleth is covered in detail, with material dating from the 1950s and showcasing ex-GWR types such as Dukedogs, right through to the arrival of BR Standard classes in the final years of steam up to 1967.
From Aberystwyth, the route is traced through Bow Street, Glandyfi, and Borth, concluding with scenes on the Vale of Rheidol Railway at a time when it still used its original terminus station.
Filmed predominantly in colour, with some earlier black & white sequences, the programme presents a nostalgic and richly detailed portrait of this scenic and much-loved railway route. The film is accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and a well-researched commentary.
Released: March 2007
Running time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Wishlist
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135Steam In The Valleys Part 1(Collection)
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138Cambrian Coast Route Part 4
This programme covers the final section of the Cambrian Coast Express route from Aberystwyth to Pwllheli, with scenes filmed between the 1950s and the 1980s.
In addition to main line operations, the programme features four narrow gauge lines: the Vale of Rheidol, Talyllyn, Welsh Highland (in 1964), and Ffestiniog railways. Also included are the Fairbourne and Butlins Pwllheli miniature railways, along with the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway.
The coastal route is shown in both steam and early diesel eras, though the focus is on steam traction. Motive power includes BR Standard Classes 4MT 4-6-0, 2MT and 3MT 2-6-2Ts, and 4MT 2-6-4Ts, along with GWR 43xx Moguls, Manor 4-6-0s, Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0s, and Class 4s. Later years are represented by the reopening of Barmouth Bridge in 1986 and the appearance of Class 37s on passenger services.
The film includes a range of archive footage capturing this popular Cardigan Bay coastal route and its associated railways, supported by an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary.
Released: June 2008
Running time: 1 hour
(Collection)
144Steam in Wales & The Borders – Part 1
This programme focuses on the northern area of Wales and its borderlands, tracing a route from the North Wales coast through Chester to Gobowen. Filmed mostly during the 1960s, it captures both main lines and branches during the final years of steam.
Branch lines featured include the scenic Conway Valley line to Blaenau Ffestiniog and, via a railtour, the Wrexham, Mold and Connahs Quay route, concluding at Wrexham.
There’s detailed coverage of the final years of steam at Chester in 1967, alongside footage of preserved mainline locomotives visiting the city some 40 years later. From there, we follow the route over Gresford Bank to Wrexham, with a visit to Croes Newydd shed and steam activity at Ruabon.
The Dee Valley line is followed through Corwen to Barmouth, with additional footage at Portmadoc and early scenes on the revived Ffestiniog Railway. Returning along the Dee Valley, the route passes through Ruabon, Chirk and the Ifton colliery sidings at Weston Rhyn before reaching Gobowen.
Motive power includes a wide variety of ex-GWR types—from Dukedogs to Castles—alongside ex-LMS Black 5s and Jubilees.
The film is supported by an informative commentary and an authentic soundtrack.
Released: March 2009
Running time: 1 hour
(Collection)
152Steam in Wales & The Borders Part 2
Part two begins at Gobowen on the Shrewsbury to Chester main line, covering the branch to Oswestry and the Cambrian line south to Llanymynech and Llanfyllin prior to closure in 1965.
Returning to Gobowen with a stone train, the journey continues to Shrewsbury, where steam lasted until 1967. A rare sighting of the Blue Pullman is featured alongside Black 5s. From here, the Cambrian route is followed west through Machynlleth to Aberystwyth, with motive power including ex-GWR Manors and BR Standards.
Scenes also include the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway, both pre- and post-preservation, and the Vale of Rheidol line during its original use of the Aberystwyth terminus. The return journey over Talerddig Incline captures both original steam workings and later steam return specials. The programme also includes black and white footage of the former Corris Railway.
Motive power includes ex-GWR Manor, Hall, Dukedog and Pannier classes, LMS Black 5s and Ivatt 2-6-0s, and BR Standard Classes.
The majority of the archive film is in colour, with an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary throughout.
Released: April 2010
Running time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Wishlist
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155North Of Shrewsbury, Part 1
This DVD covers the route from Shrewsbury to Crewe as far as Willaston via Whitchurch, the Shrewsbury–Gobowen line, and the branch from Gobowen to Oswestry and Blodwell.
Archive film shows steam traction at work on these routes, featuring ex-GWR locomotives alongside BR Standard classes. There is also coverage of main line steam-hauled tours of the 1970s.
Signal boxes at Shrewsbury, Leaton, Whittington and Gobowen are visited, with scenes of both steam and early diesel operations during the 1960s and early 1970s. From Gobowen, steam-era footage continues south to Llanymynech, including the Shropshire & Montgomery line and its final steam-hauled tour.
The programme also includes extensive cab and lineside views of the diesel stone trains from Gobowen to Blodwell Quarry, traffic that continued until 1989.
All material is in colour, except for the Shropshire & Montgomery scenes. An authentic soundtrack and well-researched commentary accompany the film.
Released:
Running time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Collection
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157Settle & Carlisle Remembered Part 2
The second archive film in the series covering the Settle and Carlisle route over the Pennines.
The film opens with an introduction to the route, including a 1964 rail tour from London St Pancras to Carlisle, hauled by a Jubilee locomotive and ex-LNER V2 and A3 classes. There are scenes from the Leeds to Settle Junction section and views at Skipton.
It also includes coverage of the “Little North Western” line to Wennington, highlighting the Midland Railway’s first attempt to reach Carlisle in the 19th century. The focus then returns to Settle Junction for a detailed journey north along the Settle and Carlisle line. This includes the climb through Settle, Horton, Ribblehead, Dent, Garsdale and Ais Gill, followed by the descent through Appleby, Culgaith, Armathwaite, Cumwhinton and on to Carlisle.
A wide variety of steam motive power is featured, including ex-LMS Jubilees, Black 5s, Stanier 8Fs, Midland 0-6-0s, BR Standards, Princess Coronation Pacifics, and ex-LNER A1 and A4 classes. Brief sequences of “Return to Steam” workings are included for context, and the film concludes with scenes of steam operations at Carlisle.
With a running time of 85 minutes, this film presents restored footage of high quality, accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and an extensively researched, informative commentary. All material is in colour.
Released: September 2010
Running Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
(Collection)
171Along GWR Lines Part 4 – South Wales
The fourth instalment in the Along GWR Lines series focuses on South Wales in the early 1960s, with brief opening footage at Towyn on the Cambrian. Scenes include double-headed coal trains at Pilning, extensive coverage around Cardiff, and the 1964 SLS “Farewell to Brecon” tour from Abercynon via Merthyr and Pontsticill to Brecon and return via Dowlais.
Footage of the last Western diesel-hydraulic railtours to the Valleys in 1977 is included, before returning to the steam era with visits to NCB collieries at Maerdy, Merthyr Vale and Mountain Ash—featuring Pannier tanks including 9600 and 7754. Scrap scenes at Cashmore’s also feature.
Further South Wales main line coverage includes Cardiff, Ebbw Junction, Newport, Severn Tunnel Junction and Gloucester. The Vale of Neath line is covered extensively, including Pontypool Road, Hafodyrynys mine, the Crumlin Viaduct (including its demolition in 1967), and stations en route to Neath.
Other sequences include Duffryn Yard, Swansea, the last steam special to Fishguard and Milford Haven (hauled by 6859 “Yiewsley Grange”), and the Tenby branch in 1960. The volume concludes with film at Cardiff Canton shed shortly before closure.
Motive power includes ex-GWR 0-6-2Ts, Panniers, Prairies, Castles, 2-8-0Ts and 9Fs, plus LMS 8Fs and Hunslet saddle tanks.
Filmed mostly in colour with an authentic soundtrack and researched commentary.
Released: September 2012
Running time: 1 hour
Wishlist
172Scottish Railways Remembered – Part 5: The Highlands
This volume focuses on the scenic Highland railway lines of Scotland, featuring extensive steam-era footage up to 1967, along with a selection of diesel scenes from the 1960s through to the 1980s.
The programme begins with a journey along the Highland Main Line, followed by a railtour with a B1 locomotive along the Waverley Route to Hawick, where a V2, A4s and Black 5s are seen in action. At Gleneagles, A4s appear on Glasgow to Aberdeen expresses, followed by shed scenes at Polmadie, which include Britannias, Standard Class 5s, Standard 2-6-4Ts and a green Claydon.
At Dunblane, A4s are seen working passing expresses before the focus shifts to the Callander and Oban line. This scenic route is shown with both steam and Type 2 diesel traction. The journey passes through Doune and Callander, where a variety of station scenes are included, then continues through Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Killin Junction (with views of the Killin branch train), Crianlarich Upper, Connel Ferry and finally Oban. There is much activity at the station, shed and harbour, with Caledonian Railway tanks shunting in the yards.
From Connel Ferry, the film follows a rare Ivatt 2-6-0-hauled return trip along the Ballachullish branch, crossing the iconic road-rail bridge and continuing through Creaghan, Appin, Kentallen and Ballachullish Ferry, with scenes of the ferry itself, before arriving at Ballachullish.
The West Highland Line is then explored with footage from Tyndrum, Crianlarich, Rannoch and the original Fort William harbour station in steam days, featuring ex-LNER and LMS engines. This is followed by a visit to the Mallaig branch during the 1960s, showing both steam and early diesel workings, and later 1980s steam specials with ex-NBR 0-6-0 “Maude” and Black 5s. Scenes at Glenfinnan Viaduct, Arisaig and Mallaig capture both railway operations and ferry activity in the harbour.
The journey continues north to the Kyle of Lochalsh line, including views of the Skye ferry at Kyle and ships being loaded. Station scenes include shunting with a Class 26 and service trains featuring Pullman observation coaches. The return trip includes stops at Stromferry, Garve and Dingwall, before moving on to the Far North Line with footage from Invergordon, Golspie, Kildonan, Georgemas Junction, and Thurso and Wick.
The programme concludes with scenes at Perth, Stonehaven and Glasgow Buchanan Street, including appearances by green A4s “Bittern” and “Sir Nigel Gresley”.
All archive footage is presented mainly in colour, accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and a well-researched, informative commentary.
Released: October 2012
Running Time: 1 hour
Wishlist
189North of Shrewsbury Part 2
This second volume focusing on the area north of Shrewsbury to Chester explores the region’s railway operations in the steam and early diesel eras, with particular attention paid to industrial and main line activity.
The programme begins at Gobowen, including a visit to the signal box, before moving on to Weston Rhyn where a branch once connected to the NCB’s Ifton Colliery. The colliery is covered in detail, with tank engines Unity, Spider and Hornet seen at work in the years up to its closure in 1968.
Returning to Weston Rhyn, we see further steam activity on the main line and visit the signal box again—this time as it is dismantled for reinstallation on the preserved Llangollen Railway.
From here, we proceed over Chirk Viaduct and through Chirk to witness the 50th anniversary commemorations of the closure of the Glyn Valley Tramway. After crossing Cefn Viaduct, the film continues with extensive steam scenes around Ruabon and the junction for the Llangollen line.
Other highlights include visits to the collieries at Bersham, Hafod and Gresford, and coverage of diesel-hauled steel workings from Brymbo at Croes Newydd. The former engine shed at Croes Newydd is also visited.
Steam workings are shown tackling Gresford Bank, with additional coverage from Rossett at the base of the climb. The programme concludes at Chester, where more steam scenes are featured.
Locomotive classes include former GWR, LMS and BR Standard types. The first working of 4472 Flying Scotsman in private ownership in 1963 is also included. Preservation-era main line tours and a few diesel scenes round off this historical overview.
The archive footage is mostly in colour, with a few sequences in black and white. An authentic soundtrack and well-researched commentary complete this nostalgic journey.
Released: November 2014
Running time: 1 hour
Wishlist
190
191Diesel Electric Heyday – Part 1
The first volume in a series focusing on British Rail’s diesel-electric traction. This programme concentrates on the lower-powered Type 1 and Type 2 locomotives, with scenes covering both the early green liveries and later BR corporate blue.
The film begins with brief appearances by English Electric Type 4s, Deltics (including rare footage of the prototype in blue on the East Coast Main Line), and a Metrovick Co-Bo. Southern Region DEMUs are also featured, including the narrow-bodied units built specifically for the Hastings line.
A short sequence at Crewe Works leads into coverage of English Electric Type 1s, seen working at Bescot, Loggerheads, on the West Coast Main Line, and at various collieries. The less successful centre-cab Clayton Type 1s appear at Shotts, Millerhill, Pelaw, and Hest Bank.
Brush Type 2s, introduced in 1957, are seen in numerous locations including Harringay, Hadley Wood, Cambridge (on the Royal Train), Paddington, Wennington, Instow on the Bideford branch, and operating the final train on the Dunstable branch, known as “The Skimpot Flyer”.
The film then heads to Scotland, where the short-lived North British Type 2s are shown at Elgin, Perth, Inverurie, Gleneagles and Stirling.
The BR Sulzer Type 2s, used extensively across the UK, feature heavily. They are seen on Tyne Dock iron ore trains, crossing the Tay Bridge, and at Kyle of Lochalsh, Thurso, Ais Gill, Manchester, North Wales and Dawlish. On the Cambrian, they appear at Llynclys; elsewhere, they work milk trains at Torrington, china clay at Bodmin, and freights at Bredbury Junction, banked by a Stanier 8F. One highlight includes a pair triple-heading with a BRCW Type 2 on the Royal Highlander.
The BRCW Type 2s are also seen on commuter services at Luton, and later working on the Kyle line. Rare footage is included of D6547 hauling Schools Class Repton and M7 30053 en route to Canada. Additional scenes show these locomotives piloting Bulleid Pacifics up Bincombe Bank, and working around Shrewsbury during refurbishment at Crewe station.
All archive footage is in colour, accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and a well-researched, informative commentary.
Released: February 2015
Running Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Collection
199Great Western Steam Miscellany No. 1
This is the first volume in the “Miscellanies” series showcasing Great Western steam, compiled from previously unused and largely unseen archive cine film. Much of this footage was never released before—either because its locations were unidentified or it didn’t fit the themes of other volumes. The result is a rich and varied look at GWR steam in the early 1960s.
The first 20 minutes focus on the light pannier tanks: 54xx, 64xx, and 74xx classes. The remainder of the programme features a wide range of much-loved GWR locomotives, including the 4-6-0 Kings, Castles, Counties, Halls, Granges, and Manors, along with the 28xx and 72xx classes, 57xx and 94xx pannier tanks, 45xx and 41xx Prairies, and the compact 14xx 0-4-2Ts. A few non-GWR interlopers also appear, such as dock tank No. 41525.
The footage is presented in the order it runs off the original cine reels, and although there’s no narrative structure, the locations are varied and often rarely seen on film. Areas featured in greater detail include the Golden Valley push-pull to Stroud and Gloucester, the route from Pontypool Road to Neath, Swansea Victoria to Craven Arms, and the Exe Valley and Culm Valley branches.
Other locations include:
Yeovil Town to Yeovil Junction, Dymock, Cinderford, Coleford, the Dursley and Aberayron branches, Barmouth, Hatton Bank, Oxford, Paddington, Langley, Slough, Worcester, Hereford, Carmarthen to Aberystwyth, Torquay, Birmingham Snow Hill, and Chester.
Filmed mostly between 1960 and 1965, the archive material is a mix of colour and black & white, supported by an authentic soundtrack and an informative commentary.
Released: November 2015
Running time: 1 hour 20 minutes
(Collection)
200
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202Great Western Steam Miscellany No. 2(Collection)
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208Great Western Steam Miscellany No. 3
Jim Clemens Collection No. 33. The third volume in the Miscellany series to cover Great Western steam, compiled from the Jim Clemens Collection. Much of the footage has not been previously seen, and it has been assembled in the original order of the cine reels. The focus is on lines around Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and the Cambrian network in Wales.
The programme begins with extensive coverage of the Worcester to Bromyard branch, followed by visits to:
– Tyseley shed (1961)
– Tenbury Wells
– The Severn Valley branch from Kidderminster to Buildwas with a GWR railcar (1961)
– Buildwas to Much Wenlock (1961)
– Kidlington, Wolvercot Junction, Oxford and Radley (1965)
– Didcot (1963) and Basingstoke (1965)
Further coverage includes:
– The Gloucester to Hereford line
– The Gloucester to Stroud and Chalford push-pull in detail
– Kemble, Trowbridge and Westbury (1962)
– Bristol, Swindon Works and Crumlin Viaduct (1963)
The Cambrian lines are then explored from Shrewsbury through Welshpool, Montgomery, Newtown, Carno and Talerddig Bank, continuing to Machynlleth, Aberystwyth, Fairbourne, Barmouth Bridge, Barmouth, Llanbedr & Pensarn, Llandanwg, Harlech, Pont Briwet and Portmadoc.
The film returns to the Cotswolds with visits to Wotton Wawen, Stratford-upon-Avon, Long Marston, Honeybourne, Broadway, Laverton and Cheltenham (including the final local passenger service in March 1960). Additional scenes include Leominster, Titley Junction, Kington, Presteigne (with its final inbound freight in 1964), Worcester Shed, Worcester, Pershore, Evesham, Littleton & Badsey, Honeybourne, Chipping Campden Bank, Moreton-in-Marsh, Ascott-under-Wychwood and Charlbury.
Motive power includes:
– ex-GWR: Kings, Castles, Counties, Halls, Granges, Manors, 28xx, 2251, 72xx, 45xx, 41xx, 66xx, 57xx, 94xx, 16xx, 14xx and GWR railcars
– BR Standard: 9Fs, Britannia Pacifics, Class 4 4-6-0s
Filmed mainly in the 1950s and 1960s, the archive footage is in both colour and black and white. An authentic soundtrack and informative commentary accompany this wide-ranging and nostalgic look at the final years of Great Western steam.
Released: April 2017
Running Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
(Collection)(Collection)
210London Midland Steam Miscellany No.4
The fourth instalment in the London Midland Miscellany series, featuring a broad range of archive material—much of it previously unseen—filmed between 1963 and 1968. The footage is largely presented in the sequence it runs off the original cine reels, offering a wide geographical spread across the London Midland Region.
Coverage begins in the North West, with scenes at Crewe South Shed, Crewe Station, and Crewe Works—where Western diesel-hydraulics are under construction—followed by Stoke-on-Trent Shed, Moore water troughs, Warrington Bank Quay, and Arpley. A brake van tour around Warrington and Widnes behind Standard Class 2 No.76077 includes rarely seen locations such as Daresbury refuge siding and the rail flat crossing near Widnes No.4 Signal Box.
Steam workings are also featured at Winwick Junction, Wigan North Western and Wallgate, Leyland, Farington Junction, Pleasington, and Preston. Further north, film includes Carlisle Kingmoor Shed and Citadel Station.
Heading south, locations include Chester, Gresford Bank, Llangollen Junction (Ruabon), and Hooton in March 1967, coinciding with the final days of the Paddington–Birkenhead service. Further south still are views from 1964 at the Bletchley flyover, Aynho water troughs, Gloucester, Banbury, and the Lickey Incline—with a long freight train climbing the gradient—and summer Saturday holiday trains in the Birmingham area.
The final section includes offcuts from Colin White featuring Shap, Tebay Shed, Dillicar troughs, Oxenholme, Carnforth, Hest Bank, Heaton Mersey, and Warrington.
Motive power includes Black 5s (including experimental variants and one with a self-weighing tender), Jinties, 2-6-4Ts, 4Fs, Jubilees, Rebuilt Patriots, 8Fs, Princess and Coronation Pacifics, and a variety of BR Standard Classes including Britannias, Clans, 73xxx, 75xxx, 76xxx and 9Fs (including an ex-Crosti boilered example).
Footage is a mix of colour and black & white, accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary.
Released: July 2017
Running time: 1 hour 21 minutes
Wishlist
211A Miscellany of Electric and Diesel Power No.3
In this volume we continue our “Classic Traction” theme covering many of the different classes of locomotives that were in operation across all regions of the network during the 1970s and 1980s. Most of the clips selected have not been previously seen. As before with we have simply compiled the film clips in no particular order and thus a few surprises will be in store as you enjoy the video.
Starting with the Southern, we see Class 33s in action and then over on the Western we see Class 52s and Class 50s in and around the Paddington area. At Old Oak Common Depot a number of Hymeks and other types are stabled around the last of the four round-house turntables. Class 47s are seen all over the network hauling all manner of trains. Several Hymeks are seen working, including D7017 emblazoned with the D & EG signs after purchase by the Group.
On the East Coast Main Line, the famous Deltics are in action (including a glimpse of the first ever Deltic visit to Inverness) and we visit King’s Cross, Brookmans Park, Welwyn Viaduct, Hitchin, Cadwell, York plus several other locations. In Scotland we see class 26s on the Kyle line.
Class 20s were well known for working pairs and we see these on MGR coal trains at locations such as Warrington for the Fiddlers Ferry Power Station. At Tinsley Yard we see one of three class 13s stabled. These were a development from the class 08 and especially built for the yard. Most unusual are the scenes from the old Burry Port and Gwendraeth Railway with triple-headed 03s, working on the restricted height line, which in its early days was actually a canal!
More freight action includes parcels traffic, steel coil, fuel & chemical tank trains and Presflow wagon workings. A few scenes of London Underground units are followed by BR DMUs and EMUs on the Southern, Watford and Southport lines. A rarely seen Motor Parcels van is captured hauling two baggage vans out of Paddington. A German built railbus is also spotted meandering around Kemble. Plus a few shots taken around the South Wales Collieries.
On the West Coast Main Line we see class 85 & 86 electrics followed by a pair of EM1 Bo-Bos on the Woodhead route. Other locations include Churchdown, Banbury, Didcot, Bishops Stortford, (where we see a special guards-van railtour) as well as Barnetby and Chester. Harlow Mill features several stone trains arriving and departing with a variety of 37s, 47s, 56s, 58s, a 59 and 60s providing the power. We also visit High Wycombe, Bletchley, Cheltenham and Shrewsbury areas. Plus a couple of scenes from Wennington and the Settle & Carlisle.
With such a diverse range of locomotives there is an equally diverse range of liveries, from original green two-tone, BR Corporate Blue, Large-Logo, Railfreight sector variants, Inter-City and more including special ‘one-offs’ such as the ‘Yellow Peril’ No.47803. We also see the Crewe Test Train in action plus a couple of passing Motorail services.
Released on 2 September 2017.
Running time is 1 hour and 23.
Wishlist
212
213Welsh Steam Miscellany
An instalment in the Miscellany series focusing on steam operations throughout Wales, featuring mostly previously unseen archive footage, compiled largely in the order it was filmed on the original cine reels.
The programme opens at Llangollen and continues along the line through Berwyn (with Dukedog 4-4-0s and a Bulldog 4-4-0), Glyndyfrdwy, Llandderfel, Bala Junction, Bala and Garnneddwen loop. The steeply graded Pontypool Road to Neath route is explored next, with scenes at Crumlin Viaduct, Hengoed Viaduct, Nelson & Llancaiach, the Cwmbargoed branch, Dowlais Cae Harris, Quakers Yard High Level and Aberdare High Level.
In North Wales, locations include Bangor and, on Anglesey, Llanfair PG, Gaerwen and Amlwch. The Central Wales line is seen during the descent from Sugar Loaf Summit to Llandovery. The Shrewsbury to Chester line forms the eastern extent of coverage, with film at Chirk, Cefn Viaduct, Ruabon, Croes Newydd, Gresford Bank, and a snowy Brymbo Branch.
The Cambrian main line is well represented with footage at Welshpool, Talerddig Bank, Machynlleth, Dovey Junction, Borth and Aberystwyth. The coastal section includes Gogarth Halt, Towyn, Fairbourne and Barmouth.
Returning to South Wales, the programme includes steam activity at Cardiff, Newport (with a visit to Cashmore’s scrapyard), Severn Tunnel Junction and Torpantau. The final section features freight workings down the Rhondda Fach from Maerdy and heavy trains on Llanvihangel Bank with banking assistance.
Motive power includes:
– ex-GWR: 94xx, 74xx, 16xx, 57xx, 56xx, 41xx, 61xx, 42xx, 72xx, 2251, 43xx, 28xx, Dukedog, Bulldog, Castle, Hall, Grange, Manor
– ex-LMS: Ivatt 2-6-2Ts and 2-6-0s, Black 5s, 4F 0-6-0s, 8Fs, Coronation Pacifics
– BR Standard: Britannias, Class 5 and Class 4 4-6-0s, Class 4 2-6-4Ts, Class 3 2-6-2Ts
The footage is a mix of colour and black and white, with an authentic soundtrack and informative commentary providing context to this comprehensive look at Welsh steam.
Released: November 2017
Running Time: 1 hour, 17 minutes
Collection
214
215Great Western Steam Miscellany No.4
This is the fourth volume in our Great Western Steam Miscellany series, compiled from largely unseen archive film sourced from private collections, including material from Jim Clemens, Harry Ashby, Alan Blencowe, and David Cooper. The film has been assembled in sequence from the original cine reels.
The programme begins at Bromsgrove and the Lickey Incline, where Western Region influence was increasingly felt in later years despite the location being on London Midland territory. Scenes continue along the main line and branches to Ashchurch, Bredon, and Tewkesbury.
Further coverage includes the route from Wellington to Wolverhampton, with views at Hollinswood Junction, Madeley Junction, Cosford, Wolverhampton Low Level, and Birmingham Snow Hill. Bristol Temple Meads is featured, along with a visit to St. Philips Marsh shed. Extensive footage of Gloucester includes Horton Road shed, the Golden Valley auto-trains, Standish Junction, Stonehouse, Grange Court Junction, Woolaston, and Aylburton.
The all-steam scene at Hereford is shown before the film moves to Banbury. A journey begins at Worcester and continues up the Severn Valley line to Bewdley and the colliery sidings at Alveley.
Oxford is covered in depth, with additional views at Wolvercote and Kennington, local workings to the Princes Risborough branch, and visits to Eynsham and Fairford. There is also film from Reading, West Drayton, Iver, and Paddington. Welsh locations include Carmarthen, Bronwydd Arms, Llandilo, Pontardulais, and Aberystwyth.
In the South West, scenes include Shepton Mallet, Washford, Montacute, Tavistock, Brent, Saltash, and Wadebridge.
The majority of footage dates from 1961 onwards. Motive power includes almost all the major ex-GWR classes: King, County, Castle, Hall, Grange, Manor, 28xx, 43xx, 2251, 42xx, 45xx, 41xx, 66xx, 1366, 64xx, 57xx, 94xx, and 14xx. BR Standard types are also well represented, including Britannia Pacifics, Class 5 (73xxx), Class 4 (75xxx), and Class 2 (78xxx) 2-6-0s. An ex-LNER B1 even makes an appearance.
Most of the film is in colour, with authentic sound and informative commentary providing a nostalgic insight into the final years of Great Western steam.
Released: March 2018
Running time: 1 hour 21 minutes
Collection
224Southern Steam Miscellany No. 4
This programme is the fourth volume in the Southern Steam Miscellany series, compiled from largely unseen archive film drawn from several private collections. The footage is presented in the order it runs from the original cine reels.
The film begins at London Waterloo before travelling through Vauxhall, Clapham Junction, Nine Elms shed, and Woking, then onward to Guildford and its shed. Further locations include Chertsey, Virginia Water, Ascot, North Camp, and Alton. Basingstoke is extensively covered, showing the transition from early 1960s operations through to the end of steam. As well as the expected Bulleid Pacifics and BR Standards, viewers will see Schools 4-4-0s and King Arthur 4-6-0s at work.
In Sussex, locations include Rowfant, Rotherfield, Hellingly, Keymer Junction, Hassocks, Clayton Tunnel, Slinfold, and Newhaven. A complete journey is shown from Horsham to Brighton behind an E4 tank engine.
At Winchester, both stations are included before a visit to Eastleigh works and shed. At Southampton in 1963, the extensive docks system is seen in detail, including the Ocean Terminal. Double-headed USA tanks are shown working the branch to Fawley from Southampton Terminus. Brief scenes follow from the Isle of Wight in 1961 and the Hayling Island branch in 1963. M7 tanks at Brockenhurst and Lymington are featured, followed by visits to Christchurch, Bournemouth, Wareham, the Swanage branch, and Weymouth. The Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway also makes a brief appearance.
In the far west, Z class 0-8-0Ts are seen banking at Exeter. The line between Braunton and Ilfracombe is shown, as well as Beattie well tanks at Wadebridge and Boscarne Junction. Southern Region locomotives operating further afield are included at Reading, Oxford, Wellingborough, Stratford-upon-Avon, Leamington, Rugby, and Banbury.
Motive power includes Bulleid Pacifics, Q1, U, N, H, S15, USA, M7, AIX, B4, C, E4, E6, K, N15, O2, LN, V, H16, Z, 0298, and BR Standard classes 73xxx, 75xxx, 76xxx, 412xx, 80xxx, and 82xxx.
Most of the film was shot in colour between 1961 and 1967. An authentic soundtrack and informative commentary accompany this nostalgic look at the final years of Southern steam.
Released: April 2019
Running time: 1 hour 30 minutes
(Collection)
231Great Western Steam Miscellany No.6
The sixth volume in the “Miscellany” series presents another wide-ranging selection of Great Western steam scenes, compiled from mostly previously unseen material, with footage arranged in the order it runs on the original cine reels.
The programme opens at Shrewsbury, with scenes at the station, Coton Hill Yards, Shrewsbury Shed, Sutton Bridge Junction, and Hookagate. Further locations include a weed-killing train at Llangollen Junction and Ruabon, along with visits to Brymbo, Wellington (Salop), and Whitchurch.
The Midlands are represented with scenes at Worcester, Norton Junction, Gloucester, Ross-on-Wye, Stroud, Bromyard, Hereford, Birmingham Snow Hill, Bordesley, Hatton, Wolverhampton Oxley shed, and the Lickey Incline. Further south, film includes Oxford, Didcot, Langley (Bucks), and Paddington.
In the South-West, there is extensive coverage of Tiverton Junction, the Culm Valley branch to Hemyock, the Exe Valley branch to Exeter, the line to Ilfracombe via Braunton, Barnstaple Junction, and Dulverton. There are also visits to the Cheddar Valley line and Glastonbury & Street on the former Somerset & Dorset line.
Scenes in South and West Wales include Cardiff General, Cardiff Queen Street, Abercynon, Merthyr, Woodham’s scrapyard, Letterston Junction, Tenby, Carmarthen, Duffryn Yard shed, Newport, Pontypool Road, Aberdare High Level, Crumlin, Quakers Yard, Dowlais Cae Harris, Nelson & Llancaiach, and Hengoed High Level. There is even a brief visit to Portsmouth & Southsea.
Filmed mainly between 1961 and 1966, motive power includes a wide variety of ex-GWR types—King, Castle, County, Hall, Modified Hall, Grange, Manor, 14xx, 15xx, 16xx, 2251, 28xx, 41xx, 42xx, 43xx, 45xx, 47xx, 56xx, 57xx, 64xx, 72xx, and 94xx—along with occasional BR Standard and ex-LMS locomotives.
The film is mostly in colour and includes an authentic soundtrack with informative commentary.
Released: May 2020
Running time: 1 hour 28 minutes
Wishlist
235Cambrian Steam Miscellany No. 1
The first title in the Miscellany series to focus on the Cambrian Coast routes, compiled largely from previously unseen material held in the B & R Video archive.
The journey begins along the scenic coastal line with visits to Pwllheli, Penychain, Afon Wen, Criccieth, Portmadoc, Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth and Harlech. At Barmouth, scenes include the up bay platform opened by the GWR in 1923, the rebuilt Old Chapel Viaduct, and sweeping views of the iconic Barmouth Viaduct across the Mawddach Estuary.
Heading south, the film continues through Morfa Mawddach, Fairbourne, Friog Rocks and Llwyngwril, with a short stop at Towyn before following the Dovey Estuary inland.
Extended coverage at Aberystwyth shows extensive Manor class activity, before the journey continues through Bow Street (including a token exchange), Borth, Ynyslas, Glandyfi and Dovey Junction. This remote, roadless junction is seen multiple times, including the combining of the Pwllheli and Aberystwyth portions of the Cambrian Coast Express for the onward run to Shrewsbury.
Machynlleth features prominently, with shed scenes including the preparation of 82033 and Dukedog 9017 piloting both directions of the Cambrian Coast Express in 1960. Overhead and panoramic views of the area are included. The route continues via Cemmes Road, featuring a token exchange and a detailed look at Talerddig Bank, with passenger and freight trains seen climbing the notorious gradient. The final up Cambrian Coast Express is shown at this location in March 1967.
Further locations include Newtown, Welshpool, Buttington, Llanymynech, Llanfyllin and Oswestry. Additional scenes not strictly on Cambrian metals show Shrewsbury, Hookagate, Llangollen, Llandderfel, Bala Junction, Bala, Bontnewydd and Dolgellau — including what is believed to be the final day of services.
Motive power featured includes:
– ex-GWR: Manor, 43xx, 2251, 45xx, Pannier, Dukedog
– BR Standard: 75xxx, 78xxx, 80xxx, 82xxx
– Occasional DMUs also appear
Filmed between 1960 and 1967, most of the content is in colour. The footage is presented in the original running order of the cine reels and accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and an informative commentary.
Released: February 2021
Running Time: 1 hour 26 minutes
(Collection)
236Cambrian Steam Miscellany No. 2
The Jim Clemens Collection No. 40. The second volume in the Cambrian-themed “Miscellany” series, compiled mainly from the cine film of the late Jim Clemens, with some previously unused archive material.
The programme begins at Gobowen in autumn 1966, with double-headed Class 2 2-6-0s on stone trains from Nantmawr Quarry. It features the Cambrian main line from Whitchurch to Welshpool, including Ellesmere, Oswestry, Llanymynech, and branches to Wrexham and Llanfyllin.
The route of the “Cambrian Coast Express” is explored from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth via Talerddig Bank, with extensive Manor class footage. The coastal run includes Fairbourne, Barmouth Viaduct, Llanaber, Harlech, Portmadoc and Afon Wen. The Caernarvonshire Railway route north from Afon Wen to Caernarvon is also covered.
Further coverage includes the Ruabon to Barmouth line, featuring Trevor, Llangollen, Berwyn Halt, Corwen, Bala Junction, Dolgellau, Penmaenpool and Arthog. Passenger and SLS special workings to Blaenau Ffestiniog are also included.
Motive power: ex-GWR Manor, 43xx, 2251, 45xx, Pannier tanks; ex-LMS Black 5s, 8Fs, Ivatt 2-6-0s; BR Standards including 75xxx, 78xxx, 80xxx, 82xxx, and 84xxx; plus occasional DMUs.
Filmed between 1959 and 1966. Mostly colour, with authentic sound and commentary.
Released: May 2021
Running Time: 1 hour 36 minutes
(Collection)
239Wales & The Marches – A Steam Miscellany
This volume offers a wide-ranging look at steam operations across Wales and The Marches during the 1960s. The majority of the footage comes from the late Ellis James-Robertson’s collection, much of it previously unseen. Born in Swansea in 1922, Ellis later moved to Pwllheli and then settled in Worcester in the mid-1950s.
The film opens at Bangor on 7 April 1961 before moving south to feature the historic Swansea & Mumbles Railway, the world’s first passenger-carrying railway. Both rare monochrome and colour footage are included.
Returning to North Wales, there are glimpses of the Snowdon Mountain Railway and Vale of Rheidol Railway, followed by a number of visits to the area around Pwllheli. A highlight is coverage of the SLS “Farewell to the Cambrian Railways” rail tour on 17 January 1965, with scenes from Shrewsbury, Welshpool, Ellesmere, Whitchurch, Oswestry, Llanymynech and Llanfyllin.
On 6 June 1964, Ellis undertook a round trip from Hereford, capturing scenes at Pontypool Road, Hafodyrynys, Crumlin Viaduct, Hengoed, Quakers Yard, Aberdare, Neath and Landore to Swansea High Street. The journey continued via the Central Wales line to Swansea Victoria, passing Gowerton South, Pontarddulais, Llandovery, Cynghordy Viaduct, Builth Road, Llandrindod Wells and Craven Arms.
One of the most notable sections features over 15 minutes of film shot on 7 April 1964 on the 14xx-hauled Leominster to Kington and Presteigne freight-only branch. Ellis travelled on the locomotive to and from Presteigne, capturing excellent footage that will appeal to Great Western enthusiasts.
The film also includes scenes from the former Carnarvonshire Railway north of Afon Wen, showing all-steam action at Chwilog, Llangbi, Ynys and Brynkir, including double-headed summer specials. Additional footage captures the last inbound freight to Lydbrook Junction via Ross-on-Wye and Kene Bridge, filmed on 29 October 1965. Other featured locations include Dolgellau, Porthywaen, Llynclys, and the final day of operation in August 1963 over the town section of the Welshpool & Llanfair narrow gauge line.
The programme concludes with scenes from NCB colliery workings at Merthyr and Mountain Ash.
Locomotive types featured include:
– ex-GWR: 14xx, 2251, 28xx, Hall 4-6-0s, 57xx, 78xx and 94xx pannier tanks
– ex-MR: Dock Tank
– ex-LMS: Fairburn 2-6-4Ts, Black 5s, Scots, 8Fs, Ivatt Class 2 2-6-2Ts and 2-6-0s
– BR Standard: Class 5 4-6-0 (73000 series), Class 4 4-6-0 (75000s), Class 4 2-6-4T (80000s), Class 3 2-6-2T (82000s) and Class 2 2-6-0 (78000s)
– NCB: Industrial locomotives
Filmed almost entirely in colour, the footage is accompanied by an authentic soundtrack and a well-researched, informative commentary, offering a nostalgic look at the final years of steam across Wales and The Marches.
Released: January 2022
Running Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
Wishlist
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241
242Southern Steam Miscellany No. 7 – The Brian Parnell Collection Part 1
This programme is the first of five volumes compiled from high-quality, previously unseen cine film by the late Brian Parnell. It forms the seventh Southern steam instalment in the Miscellany series, covering a wide range of locations in Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire and Dorset. The footage is presented in the order it runs off the original reels.
The programme begins at Oxted with the “H” Class push-pull service to Tunbridge Wells West, with additional scenes at Hever and Groombridge. At Upper Warlingham, local passenger and freight services are seen, followed by activity around Norwood Junction shed. Three Bridges is shown with Motor Set 618 being prepared for East Grinstead.
Next comes footage from Brighton and its surroundings during 1962 and 1963, including two views of the “Lancing Belle” double-headed at Hove in August 1962. Redhill, the Southern Region Central Division’s principal steam depot after 1963, features prominently, alongside visits to Tonbridge, Eastbourne, Polegate, Hailsham, and Hellingly.
The LSWR main line is seen from Waterloo to Basingstoke, with scenes at Nine Elms Shed, Clapham Junction, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton and Woking. The “Bournemouth Belle” is captured in action, including from a parallel running train.
The programme explores the scenic Redhill to Guildford line via Reigate, Betchworth, and Gomshall & Shere, with steam-hauled freight and passenger services. A highlight is ex-LNER B1 No. 61313, a Rotherham loco captured unexpectedly at Reigate in 1964.
Other locations include the Hayling Island branch, Brockenhurst, Bournemouth Central and West, and Swanage.
Locomotive classes featured include Bulleid Pacifics (Merchant Navy, West Country, Battle of Britain), Schools 4-4-0s, Maunsell moguls (N, U, U1), USA tanks, Q, Q1, H, S15, M7, A1X “Terrier,” C, K, E4, E6, H16, W, and Beattie well tank 0298. Also seen are LMS Ivatt Class 2 2-6-2Ts and BR Standard Classes 3, 4 and 5.
Filmed mainly between 1962 and 1965, this colour footage is accompanied by an informative commentary and authentic soundtrack.
Released: 7 November 2022
Running time: 1 hour 17 minutes
(Collection)
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244Great Western Steam Miscellany No. 7 The Brian Parnell Collection Part 3
An all-new release featuring previously unseen high-quality cine film from the late Brian Parnell. This is the third instalment in the series, compiled in the running order of the original footage. The volume covers the former Great Western Railway system and surrounding regions.
The film opens with scenes at Oxford in the summer of 1963, capturing through trains from the south coast to Birmingham, the steam-hauled Worcester to Paddington service, and 9F No. 92004 — the longest-lived of the class, built in 1954 and withdrawn in March 1968.
The journey continues into Gloucestershire, with footage from Lansdown Junction, Cheltenham Spa, Tramway Junction, Gloucester, and the Golden Valley push-pull service between Gloucester and Chalford. A particular highlight comes at Brimscombe, where the last steam locomotive built by British Railways, 92220 Evening Star, tackles the steep climb to Sapperton Tunnel with assistance at the rear.
GWR locomotives are also seen working along the North Downs line, including scenes at Redhill shed, a departure from Redhill station, and onward through the third-rail section to Reigate, Betchworth and Guildford.
In summer 1963, Brian Parnell visited Devon, capturing film at Exeter St Davids, Tiverton Junction, and the Culm Valley branch via Coldharbour Halt and Uffculme to Hemyock and its dairy — a delight for 14xx enthusiasts.
August 1964 saw a visit to the Cambrian system, with scenes from Welshpool, Dovey Junction, Aberystwyth, the Vale of Rheidol line, Abertafol Halt, Morfa Mawddach, Barmouth Viaduct, Barmouth and Portmadoc.
Additional locations include Southall (three visits in 1964), Birmingham Snow Hill, Worcester Shrub Hill and shed, Swindon, Trowbridge, Westbury, Frome, Templecombe, Wadebridge, Boscarne Junction, Hatton and Hatton Bank.
Although filming largely ceased in 1965, footage from the Great Western 150 celebrations in Devon and Cornwall two decades later has been included to round off the programme.
Locomotive classes featured include:
– ex-GWR: County, Castle, Hall, Grange, Manor, 43xx, 2251, 72xx, 45xx, 41xx, 56xx, 64xx, 57xx and 94xx
– ex-LSWR: T9
– ex-Southern: West Country Pacifics
– ex-LMS: Stanier Black 5s, Jubilees, 8Fs and Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0s
– BR Standard: Britannia Pacifics, Class 4 4-6-0s, Class 4 2-6-4Ts, Class 3 2-6-2T and 9F 2-10-0s (including 92220 Evening Star in two separate appearances)
Filmed primarily between 1963 and 1966, the content is presented entirely in colour and features an informative commentary alongside an authentic soundtrack.
Released: April 2023
Running Time: 1 hour 3 minutes
(Collection)
245London Midland Steam Miscellany No. 11 – The Brian Parnell Collection Part 4
The fourth and penultimate volume in this series presents all-new, previously unseen high-quality cine film from the late Brian Parnell, focusing on the London Midland Region and extending into Scotland, Wales, and Southern England. Some rare glimpses of the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway are also included.
The programme opens on the Lancashire coast at Morecambe in summer 1965 before heading up the West Coast Main Line via Shap Summit and Tebay to Carlisle, with scenes at Kingmoor Shed. Highlights include preserved Stephenson Link Black 5 No. 44767 and Jubilee 45660 Rooke, which developed 1250hp on the Ais Gill climb during the 1937 load tests. The journey continues back down the WCML with visits to Oxenholme, Lancaster, and Hest Bank, the latter showing locomotives picking up water on the move.
The now-vanished Leicester West Bridge branch is shown in May 1963, worked by Johnson 2F 0-6-0s—the final use of these Victorian locomotives. Footage from the Leighton Buzzard to Dunstable line in 1962 includes an ex-LNWR Super D at work.
Elsewhere, visits are made to Gloucester, Cheltenham, Oxford, Southall, and Swanage. Substantial footage was taken on the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway, including locations such as Branksome, Templecombe, Cole, Wincanton, and Glastonbury.
Scottish scenes feature Glasgow Central, Edinburgh Princes Street, Stirling, and Perth, while in Wales there are views at Barmouth and Llandudno Junction.
There is extensive coverage of the final years of steam in the North-West, with visits to Carnforth, Preston, Rose Grove, Chester, Warrington Bank Quay, Buxton, Bolton, and Blackburn.
Filmed between 1962 and 1968, motive power includes LMS Black 5s (including experimental variants), Jubilees, 8Fs, Fowler 4Fs, Ivatt 4MT “Flying Pigs”, Ivatt 2MTs, Class 4 2-6-4Ts, Johnson 2Fs, Super Ds, S&D 2-8-0s, and BR Standards including Britannias, Class 5s, Class 4 4-6-0s, and 9Fs.
All film is in colour and includes an informative commentary and authentic soundtrack.
Released: October 2023
Running time: 1 hour 10 minutes
(Collection)

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