Great Western Coffee Shop

Nothing surprises me with Network Rail.

They close the Paignton - Newton Abbot line for half term twice annually and replace about 200m of track whilst we are given the prospect of travelling on buses for about an hour to Newton Abbot instead of the usual 18minutes!

No, I suggest they do more work meaning they don't need to close it for a few years.

The two weekly closures of the SW branch lines that happen every autumn and every spring are a total scandal. Fair play a couple of closures lately on the NQY/FAL have seen some lengths of new welded rail track introduced. But other two week closures on SIV/LOO/GSL have seen a couple overhanging trees removed and the odd length of rail replaced. No wonder the locals dont rely on their branch lines when they are closed 4 weeks a year for practically no reason. Why cant trees on say the Looe branch be trimmed on Sundays when theres no service in the winter anyway, if I were FGW I'd seriously question Networks Rails 'essential maintenance' program.....

Presumably due to the failure of 150233 on the previous days last Newquay trip....

FGW probably have a think tank to come up with differing ways of saying 'The train is broke' 'the staff are sick or cant be done with working for us anymore' 'Network rail cant look after two parallel strips of steal or coloured lights that our trains run on'

This isn't connected to the installation of the passing loop, is it?

This isn't connected to the installation of the passing loop, is it?

No, they're just removing a load of rail and sleepers that were replaced during the recent blockade.

Well the NQY is open after two weeks closure and am completely puzzled to what has been done, looks like errrrrrrrrrrrrr nothing!! Criminal.

The Falmouth branch seems to have had two 153s for the last week so a good thing in this case as one unit could be detached to keep the service going..

I suppose this will be the way forward when the Penryn passing loop is commissioned later in the year. Single 153s on the half hourly service then joining up for the hourly service and return to base at PNZ.

I believe that a pair of 153s are now diagrammed on the Falmouth branch - certainly on weekdays

The scheme will create passing points on the popular commuter and tourist line, which will mean that more than one train can shuttle back and forth at any time.

My thanks to Andrew Pennington for the following info on the aspired enhanced frequency and pattern :

trains cross with loop provided at Penryn alternate
trains do not call Perranwell due to pathing to make
1/2 hourly core branch service work.

Their are still problems.

People will still use the key peak trains, so overcrowding will get worse. Virgin XC found this out when they did Operation Princess - spreading did not occur.

A more frequent service will result in additional passengers being drawn in (more convenient, reliable etc.), so loadings will increase.

Will a single carriage cope?

Where is the 150 going? And where did the 2*153s come from?

Their are still problems.

People will still use the key peak trains, so
overcrowding will get worse. Virgin XC found this
out when they did Operation Princess - spreading
did not occur. A more frequent service will result
in additional passengers being drawn in (more
convenient, reliable etc.), so loadings will increase.

Will a single carriage cope? Where is the 150 going?
And where did the 2*153s come from?

Afternoon Lee and all

I've seen this statement posted before and I put it
forward to 'someone' who deals alot with the
partnerships TOC's e.t.c and he said that all trains
will stop at Perranwell.  Its only booked a 2min stop,
so I don't think it will throw the timetable out,
although most people I see at meetings usually use the
term a 45min timetable!

If FGW try to alternate the Perranwell stop, I got a
very good idea that "Perranworthal Town Council" plus
Perranwell and surrounding village's will have something
very strong to say about that; like errr no!  And they do
attend partnership meetings frequently!

Regards

Karl.

No change on previous advice with alternate calls

The core "standard hour" elements are:

1/2 hourly service
 
branch resourced by 2 x 153 vice 1 x 150
 
trains cross with loop provided at Penryn

alternate trains do not call Perranwell due to pathing to make 1/2 hourly core branch service work

Their are still problems.

People will still use the key peak trains, so overcrowding will get worse. Virgin XC found this out when they did Operation Princess - spreading did not occur.

Well lets put some things straight, the current service is actually 2 hourly near enough during the day and uses 2x153's coupled, there are currently 12 trains per day, the new timetable has I believe 27 trains per day, the 0755 from Fal usually loads around 100 passengers on arrival at Truro, if there were another service 30 mins later then it would spread the load. As it is now, after the 0755 trip you can usually just about manage when there is a 153 on the branch, with double the trains then there will be more empty seats to fill.

"Load spreading" may not happen - it didn't with Virgin.

Well lets put some things straight, the current service is actually 2 hourly near enough during the day and uses 2x153's coupled, there are currently 12 trains per day, the new timetable has I believe 27 trains per day, the 0755 from Fal usually loads around 100 passengers on arrival at Truro, if there were another service 30 mins later then it would spread the load. As it is now, after the 0755 trip you can usually just about manage when there is a 153 on the branch, with double the trains then there will be more empty seats to fill.

"Load spreading" may not happen - it didn't with Virgin.

Have you ever even travelled on the Fal to make a justified comment?

Great news, vacman - any idea when they will be laid?

From Monday 13 until approximately 1600 on Friday 17 October 2008 buses will be replacing trains between Truro and Falmouth Docks.

Isn't the improve service only coming in next May when technically it should be fine by December?

I believe the signalling won't be installed for a while.

I believe the signalling won't be installed for a while.

I believe the signalling won't be installed for a while.

Here is a plan i found about 2 weeks ago of the diagram from Truro signal box, showing the loop at Penryn:

http://craig-munday.fotopic.net/p55709127.html, or here for a larger version: http://images3.fotopic.net/?iid=yws14q&outx=2048&quality=70

Mark

I'm confused with the diagram.

Am I correct to assume that trains to Falmouth will pull into the northern end of the platform whilst trains to Truro will stop on the new southern extension? Once loading has completed the Truro bound service will pass the Falmouth one on the new 'outside' loop, then the Falmouth service will depart.

Or is it the other way around with Falmouth bound services taking the loop to pull into the southern end, after the Truro bound service has pulled into the northern end of the platform, which would seem to go against normal UK running?

This does look odd as effectively trains will pass on the right

[...]quite a few Scottish stations have had 'wrong' line working through their loops ever since the RETB signalling schemes were installed in the 1980s, though there doesn't seem to be any hard and fast rule about this.

Perhaps it wouldn't be a bad idea to install a ticket machine at Penryn too, maybe of the simple variety as featured on the St Ives branch.

In the interests of revenue protection FGW need to do something, on my fact finding trip last week, I travelled from Penryn to Truro without a ticket, and saved the 10p by buying a single for the retiurn journey.

Incidentally there's another problem which will need attention at Truro Station if the Treluswell Park and Ride service aspiration ever proceeds, customers aren't going to like walking the entire length of platform two and back to the bus service stop, the old gated exit which was bricked up some time ago will need to be re-opened. The buffet will be a nightmare used as a shortcut.

FGW  really need that 10p...how could you? ;D

Seriously...

You should have bought a ticket at Truro, following your outward journey if possible.  It is incumbent on passengers to purchase the ticket under their own steam and not wait to be approached by a Conductor/TM/RPI.

In the interests of revenue protection FGW need to do something, on my fact finding trip last week, I travelled from Penryn to Truro without a ticket, and saved the 10p by buying a single for the retiurn journey.

Incidentally there's another problem which will need attention at Truro Station if the Treluswell Park and Ride service aspiration ever proceeds, customers aren't going to like walking the entire length of platform two and back to the bus service stop, the old gated exit which was bricked up some time ago will need to be re-opened. The buffet will be a nightmare used as a shortcut.

So how are they going to cope with the car park open access then, it'll annoy people if they can't get onto Platform 3 from their cars and have to use the footbridges.

See some construction going on at the Signal box - for the Falmouth branch ?

So they'll have to fence the entire length of 'Platform 4' right up to the end slope of the eastern end forcing passengers from the west with luggage up over the bridge to get out of the main entrance, conversely arrivals on Platform 2 aren't going to be able to exit to their vehicles quickly either. I can't see how they can fit gates into the arrangement at the ticket office either. The station simply isn't designed for gates, unless they take back and refit the original now Car Rental office entrance. It's going to cause chaos the additional passengers coming off a late afternoon Paddington mingling with commuters buying tickets from the TO.

This'll cause enormous resentment amongst passengers who can now arrive and access Platform 3 for 'up' services directly.

I suspect there'll be hell up over this and I'm inclined to sympathise.

Oh well, I suppose it'll force me to go to Newquay and fly up to town if the access to Platform Three is going to be made a hurdle and a half. Simple access made travelling from Truro a pleasure. If they were to equip a footbridge with lifts it wouldn't be that difficult but when carrying a decent sized case and hand baggage its horrible. I hope they'll improve the pavement around the BTP office as part of this exercise as carrying bags on the existing is hazardous.

Simply because of my back condition (I attend Treliske weekly) which I don't make a fuss of makes things difficult, these kind of decisions really annoy those of us who have a physical impairment rather than a visible disability. A class of traveller that is badly neglected. Parking the car at the car park and walking directly onto platform three is brilliant, I always acquire parking and travel tickets in advance.

At least when flying the luggage is removed from you and you can make your way at Gatwick to the Platform without climbing stairs, and exit Victoria onto a taxi or bus easily too. Tube access at Victoria is being improved too.

If FGW were to gate platform three separately at Truro that would help but I can't see that happening.

It's easy. Don't bother with the machine, when you know that it will be rejected, but go straight to the barrier staff, who will gladly let you through, and then back again. 

Gladly? I did exactly this at Exeter the other day, feeling certain my ticket (Chippenham to Barnstaple) would be rejected by the barrier, but wanting a cup of tea (the only way to access the Lemming Tree is via the barriers).

The gentleman at the barrier tutted loudly, looked at the ticket, walked across to the barriers, held up a queue of people (a Cross Country train had just pulled in and was unloading), fed my ticket into the barrier, seemed surprised when it didn't work, walked back to his default luggage barrier and waved me through there.

It made me feel like a leper.

Let me guess, the member of staff had glasses and a deep devon accent? Think I know who your on about lol

It's easy. Don't bother with the machine, when you know that it will be rejected, but go straight to the barrier staff, who will gladly let you through, and then back again. 

The fact is that barriers prevent a lot of people from travelling from free, with very little inconvenience to the vast majority of the honest travelling public. I can't see the problem myself, and that's having years of negotiating the barriers at BTM twice a day.

Thats what I do now, just go straight to the Barrier Staff, in all honesty, once they recognise you, they don't even bother to look at you ticket. Same applies in the First Class Lounge at Temple Meads.

I generally don't have a problem with ticket barriers if they behave themselves. What I don't like are the barriers in London. If you want to get from Paddington to London Bridge to connect onto a service, say to Greenwich. There are about 4 different ticket gates to go through...! an absolute pain in the backside

It made me feel like a leper.

Signals now in situ, all Drivers that work over the line have been issued with the new operating instructions, and its all set to go live at 05.00 on the 5th of April.
There are also some minor aterations to some of the line speeds on the Branch.

... you talk about North and South platforms but surely it all happens on the original platform...there's no bridge.

Sorry doesn't seem to be a confused smilie!!

Oh, but there is - I have to use it, all the time!  ::)  ::)  ::)

6th of April 0445 is actual commissioning date

Two distinct platforms now exist with access at the points area to the track fenced off to the public, two new shelters are being constructed.

All good news on the Falmouth branch apart from connections.

I know Perranwell is only a small place and it is to be made a request stop but the train times are not good for onward connections.

From May the first off peak train is not now until 0940 towards Truro whereas the previous 0914 was brilliant for Plymouth and Penzance.

0940 will not get into Penzance until 1127 [1hr 47m] and Plymouth 1137.

It is almost the wrong half hourly train that will stop at Perranwell for good connections.

Do the services in each direction always stop at the same end of the platform? The signalling appears to allow two way running through both platforms.

It really does make the mind bogle, how on earth did that cost ^10 million  ???

local press coverage this week ...

Rail passengers get in the loop for frequent Falmouth trains

DREAMS of doubling the number of trains between Truro and Falmouth will be realised next month when a long-awaited passing loop goes into operation on the Maritime Line.

Contractors are still working at Penryn Station to ensure the ^10 million improvement scheme remains on target to be completed in time for it to go live on May 18.

About 400 metres of additional track has been installed and the station platform extended to cope with the new loop system.

more ...

www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/westbriton (http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/westbriton/Rail-passengers-loop-frequent-Falmouth-trains/article-886529-detail/article.html)

There in lies the answer as to why getting lines reopened/re-doubled is such a struggle. It now costs an absolute fortune to undo the damage down by Beeching and BR.

7 million mooted a few months ago...fat fees?

Really should be audited for future mini-improvements...there are many in the offing over the country.

Interesting to note the galvanised steel cage around it compared with all the other semaphores. No wonder it costs so much to do nothing.

I went to Penryn on Saturday and took a number of photos of the station improvements.

All the photos are here http://dcrp.fotopic.net/    It was quite a murky morning but you'll get a good idea of how things are looking there now.  It's all pretty impressive.

Richard Burningham
Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership

Excellent record of the work Richard.

Very good however the fact that half the platform is un-necessarily fenced off seems a bit short sighted. What if an HST was to go to Falmouth for example? Ah well, i'm sure they saved lots of money by not tarmacking that section!!

Both are run by First but it almost looks like competition between the bus and train rather than sensible public transport.

Still no 'this will be a request only stop from 17th May 2009' notices at Perranwell today. I'm still not sure that several people wont be left onboard as the train passes the station. Rolling stock doesn't have push buzzers and communicating with the guard within the seven mins from Truro will on the busier services be difficult.

Project completion press release from Network Rail Media Centre (http://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4312&NewsAreaID=2&SearchCategoryID=7).

Just a thought if one of these units fails, or another Cornish Branch unit does is there a new hierachy of replacement. Recent policy has seen one of the two cars detached to help out elsewhere. I would assume that the 'All Stations - Perranwell' Unit would remain in use on the Falmouth branch and the Express Truro <> Penryn unit would be the cancelled service and it transferred to assist elsewhere. 

They won't cancel Falmouth trains for elswere, it has only been in emergencies that they have taken one of the 153's from the Falmouth branch lately. there is no set rule but history has taught us that Falmouth and Gunnislake are the two top priorities in Kernow and St Ives in Summer, Newquay and Looe seem to take a back seat.

it works the same for St Ives, they would rather cancel a train on the Main line than a St Ives trip.
I once left Penzance with a train only for it to be terminated at St Erth and the train then used on the St Ives leaving us stranded at St Erth for over an hour waiting fo the following train.

I was talking with a conductor the other day about the Perranwell request stop. She said that as the train is only a single 153 they should be able to get through everyone after departure from Truro but if they don't the train would stop at Perranwell anyway to make sure anyone could get off.

I still find it strange that First have already increased frequency [15 mins day time only] and speeded up the 88 Falmouth to Truro bus and this week they have started to put on high capacity double deckers [60 seats + 29 standing]. Almost as if they are trying to compete with the train. I also note most of these buses are very empty!!!

I visited the new Penryn passing loop working model demo at Truro  and thought it was a very good effort. Well done.

Next the Falmouth branch needs a park and ride at Treluswell's busy junction near Ponsanooth which could serve both Falmouth and Truro.
In fact as from next week Treluswell will have going past:
1. A half hourly train between Truro and Falmouth.
2. A 15 minute bus between Truro and Falmouth.
3. A half hourly bus between Redruth and Falmouth
4. A two hourly bus between Truro and Helston.

This is better frequency than a lot of large City park and rides.

There has got to be a great opportunity here especially as the road is not capable of any real improvement.

I still find it strange that First have already increased frequency [15 mins day time only] and speeded up the 88 Falmouth to Truro bus

That's because the bus side doesn't talk to the train side. Stagecoach get on better with FGW than FD&C do...

The 15 minute bus service doesn't actually serve Posanooth and Perranwell now, it goes straight down the A39 between Tremough Campus and Carnon Downs, Perranwell, instead of having a half hourly bus to Truro now has about hourly.

From what i've been told Perranwell only gets three busses per day from monday? Competition on this line isn't really a bad thing as it will encourage people out of their cars! the new "fast" timings for the bus from monday still takes 43 minutes although the train journey time in the Truro direction is increased by 4 mins from monday! The train is far cheaper though!

Obviously not, as Vacman's predictions appear to be correct.

Have you ever even travelled on the Fal to make a justified comment?

With 5 units employed daily on branch lines between Liskeard and St Erth, Cornwall could do with a "ThunderDMU" stabled at Truro.

The "load spreading" worked well indeed! one unit failed this morning though so only hourly service for a couple of hours, another unit (a 150!) was sent up about 1000.

Penryn train service has early "teething problems"

Trains on the new Falmouth to Truro branch line service were stopped in their tracks within hours of launching the new service.

The 9.04 train to Truro failed to turn up on Tuesday without an announcement and passengers had to arrange alternative travel.

Penryn mayor Mary May was at the official opening of the rail loop at Penryn train station on Monday which enabled a service that runs every 30 minutes. In her mayor making ceremony on Thursday, she said: ^There was an early blip with the service, it must be having a few teething problems. My brother had to end up catching a bus to Truro.^

Prospective MP Terrye Teverson contacted First Great Western after she heard the train had been cancelled. Mrs Teverson said: ^I am particularly concerned that passengers were left standing with no announcement and no means of knowing when or if a train would eventually turn up.^

Julian Crowe, from First Great Western said that one of the train^s engines had broken down and there was no information system in place at Penryn Station but one should be in place by next march. He said that he would check that a phone number was in place for passengers to check on trains.

... a rather unfortunate occurrence, picked up by the Falmouth Packet (http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/fpfalmouth/4390593.Penryn_train_service_has_early__teething_problems_/) ::) :

Free shuttle bus service extended

A free shuttle bus service brought in to ease heavy congestion in Falmouth is to extend its route over the summer.

The new service includes stops which are closer to the town's car parks, railway station and University College Falmouth's Wood Lane Campus.

It is funded by Falmouth and District Hoteliers Association, the Town Council and Falmouth Tourism Partnership.

Organisers say the new route allows people to reach areas of Falmouth they may not have otherwise visited.

The free shuttle runs between 0900 BST and 1640 BST Monday to Saturday.

I have to say, an outside broadcast of an air display by a radio station sounds about as exciting and pointless to me as watching snooker on a black and white TV.

With the picture turned off.

Used the line for the first time on a Sunday today since the loop opened, It certainly confused passengers at Penryn to see a Falmouth bound train travel down through the normal Truro bound platform to stop at the Falmouth platform. I presume that the Penryn points are locked out all day on Sunday and the loop is effectively not signalled as passing isn't required currently.

It's the same on the evening weekday/saturday trains when it goes hourly, points aren't locked out, just no point using them!

Line problem between Truro and Falmouth Docks.
Train services are being disrupted due to a broken down train between Truro and Falmouth Docks. Short notice alterations, cancellations and delays of up to 30 minutes can be expected.
Replacement road transport is in operation between Truro and Falmouth Docks, in both directions. First Great Western tickets are being accepted on First Devon and Cornwall bus number 88 between Truro and Falmouth Docks.
Last Updated: 08/03/2010 15:45

A bad afternoon in Cornwall - with the 16.44 Penzance-Exeter canceled as well ( next train an hour later).  How broken down are these trains?  ( i.e. could "on the spot expertise" overcome the problems?)

Well they were built by British Leyland!

So i wonder what the failure was. Down there, or is it up from York?, last week and the 153s were fine but I did see a "spare" unit parked at the West end of Truro, it would seem all day. So could that not act as a thunderbird? and then be the substitute?
Or...am I being very naive here? ::)

Falmouth-Truro has gone pear shaped again I see...what is it with these 153s, are they that shot? No wonder Northern run around on the Harrogate line with no less than 3 coupled together...either super power or belt, braces and string! >:(

Surely that is a problem if they're only running an hourly service instead of every 30 minutes :-\

Ah, thanks...but can you get shorter than a 153?

Ah, thanks...but can you get shorter than a 153?

Disruption on First Great Western between Falmouth Docks and Truro due to road vehicle hitting a bridge at Falmouth Town. Tickets being accepted on First Bus route 88 services.

I attach a picture today of Truro looking west. There is a new semaphore, T26, and TPWS grids for presumably a west signalled route out of platform 3.

Unless I am wrong then this will mean all platforms now have a signalled route to the west. If a train from Penzance is going to Falmouth there should be no further need for everyone to gert off.

I assume this is so a Falmouth train can come in and leave from any platform.

Interesting to note the galvanised steel cage around it compared with all the other semaphores. No wonder it costs so much to do nothing.

There were four waiting today who all seemed startled by the down train.

Delight as rail firm signals change of heart over Falmouth repairs

Guest house owners in Falmouth are celebrating a victory after Network Rail backed down and postponed works planned along the branch line. The improvement work, which will involve replacing sleepers overnight, was due to start tomorrow but has now been put off. The timing of the work, planned to start the day before Falmouth Week gets under way, had been condemned.

Although Network Rail said there would have been no disruption to rail services, it would have meant the heavy and noisy work would have been carried out between 10pm and 8am.

The news of the postponement has been welcomed by several guest house owners in Melvill Road who feared the work would disrupt their businesses at the busiest time of year. The original schedule for the work, from tomorrow until August 27, was branded "idiotic," and the change of heart is being celebrated.

Gillian Jansen, who runs Ivanhoe with Donna Sears, said: "It's brilliant. It's the best news I have had in a long time. The fact they have listened is brilliant, I really did not think they would. I understand the work has to be done, I am not questioning that, we all want it as safe as possible and would expect it to be kept up to date. It was just the timing. Once August is over and the evenings close in and people close their windows, I don't have a problem."

Trish Bennett, who runs Penpol guest house with her mother Sadie Franklin, added: "I am so glad, it will make life a lot easier. It just proves people power works and you don't have to be American to complain. That is the thing, we don't do that (complain) because we're English but it proves it's worth it."

Network Rail failed to respond to daily inquiries from the West Briton for a week before saying it would not comment before the publication deadline. But at the last minute, spokeswoman Mavis Choong said: "We have looked at it again and the work that was going to start this week will not be going ahead. We will be looking for another window of opportunity to carry out the work, which could be quite difficult as we have booked the materials and resources."

did they not plan ahead for the red arrows

Contractors painting the handrail?

You would have thought it would be a fantastic exercise in PR, for all concerned, to have arranged (there was plenty of notice) a 67 and rake of four

viz the popes visit in '82..I cannot imagine what the railways would do now.

Agreed, they could havE used one of the many spare units that linger around Cornwall every day........

Don't think there are many - St Ives is 2 x 150 for the summer and has had a 153 tacked on the back.
In winter I see odd units at laid up at Plymouth, Par, Truro - not now though.
In answer to others Falmouth is 30 Mph for non DMU and doesn't have run around.
Tonight even more problems with signalling.

Something like 7 million was spent on upgrading Falmouth to dual working and it's just not reliable.

 

You missed the irony in my post  :)

what would it have cost to put a 67+ a few coaches on for an event that has been known about for months?...

Ok...what is involved financially?  ....

err. Is this a negative response to what's going on?
It does appear rather useless, given that the radio sations were suggesting to people to travel by public transport!!

I cannot see how, on here, we can be apologetic about lack of funds/stock/resources and at the same time as miss out on scope to put FGW forward as a resourceful outfit...what would it have cost to put a 67+ a few coaches on for an event that has been known about for months?...shambles. many peeps will be leaving Falmouth mummbling "how pathetic was that".

why a lower speed for non dmus?

why a lower speed for non dmus?
surely as the event was in the evening there were some 150s somewhere locally running not full and could of coped with a 153 on that diagram to increase capacity for the event? Falmouth was busy all week with a massive sailing regatta as well, so even swapping the 153's with 150's for the week could of been logical,
above saying there are no spare units, dont need spare units if you swap a longer train for a shorter train, i've been travelling frequently over the last couple of weeks, and i've yet to be on a 153 thats been more than half full, admittedly i dont know how busy it gets after i got off

Line problem between Truro and Falmouth Docks.

Train services are being disrupted due to a passenger being taken ill between Truro and Falmouth Docks. Short notice cancellations can be expected.

The XX:20 Truro to Falmouth Docks and the XX:50 Falmouth Docks services have been cancelled. Customers are advised to use the First Devon & Cornwall Service 88 between Truro and Falmouth Docks.
Last Updated: 27/08/2010 14:08

Line problem between Truro and Falmouth Docks.

Train services are now running normally between Truro and Falmouth Docks.

Last Updated: 27/08/2010 16:40

restarted from 16:20 pinching half the 14:49 PNZ to PAR service. 153318 dumped in Truro Yard requiring a heavy clean.

153318 dumped in Truro Yard requiring a heavy clean

Falmouth and Truro trains delayed after man taken ill

Trains between Truro and Falmouth are delayed this afternoon after a man fell ill whilst travelling.

The man was travelling towards Truro from Falmouth this afternoon and he is now being treated at the Royal Cornwall Hospital.

A spokesman for the British Transport Police said: ^There has been an incident, a person has been taken ill on a train and the train that person was on has been taken out of service.^

The spokesman added that at this time police are unaware of the man^s age or circumstances of his illness.

Train services are being disrupted due to a broken down train between Truro and Falmouth Docks.Engineers are working as fast as possible to restore services to normal. Short notice cancellations and delays of up to 30 minutes can be expected.

Services have been suspended. Customers are advised to travel on First Devon and Cornwall bus service number 88 between Falmouth Docks and Truro in both directions. Additional road transport is currently being sourced.

A broken down train is causing disruption at Penryn.

Because of this, the following alterations will apply until further notice:

    * An hourly train service will run between Truro and Falmouth Docks.

    * Buses will run between Truro and Falmouth Docks to supplement train services.

Is it a 153 or 150?

All services on the Falmouth line are booked to be Cl153s, so it is almost certainly one of them.

Sorry to hear of today's problems.

13:20 Truro to Falmouth Docks due 13:44
This train has been cancelled. This is due to earlier signalling problems.
Last Updated: 21/10/2010 13:17

13:50 Falmouth Docks to Truro due 14:18
This train has been cancelled. This is due to earlier signalling problems.
Last Updated: 21/10/2010 13:18

13:50 Truro to Falmouth Docks due 14:14
This train has been revised. It will call additionally at: Perranwell. This is due to earlier signalling problems.
Last Updated: 21/10/2010 13:24

153 was detached from front of 1724 from Truro to Penzance (Ex-Plymouth) to form 1727 Truro-Falmouth.  1724 to Penzance had to wait until Falmouth had cleared Penwithers Junc as both trains left from Plat 2, delaying Penzance service by about 10 minutes
 

2 mins? Wow!! Those 153s really motor along that branch.  ;) ;D

I think you meant 24-28 mins, perhaps?

The works finished on time but due to some signalling problem there has only been an hourly service today(Sat)

A bus has crashed into a railway bridge next to Falmouth Town train station this morning.

The vehicle has become lodged under the railway bridge in Avenue Road.

It has sustained severe damage to the upper deck, and appears to be wedged.

The road has been closed, and the railway line is shut between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks while the bridge is checked for structural damage.

Luckily, there were no passengers on board at the time of the accident

Perhaps it's time bus manufacturers put the driving position on the top deck!  :P ;D

At least they kept in the family - a First Bus disrupting a First train service.

So much for transforming travel!!  :)

And they have transformed travel..

from a double deck to a single deck :P

Bus crashes into Falmouth railway bridge

(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/51962000/jpg/_51962093_51962092.jpg)

A double-decker bus has been badly damaged after hitting a railway bridge in Cornwall.

Part of the front of the top deck of the First Bus vehicle was crushed when it hit the bridge in Arwenack Street in Falmouth earlier.

Only the driver was on board the bus at the time and no-one was hurt in the incident, police said.

The road was closed while engineers from Network Rail examined the bridge. It has since been reopened.

Double decker strikes rail bridge

A bungling double decker bus driver attempted to manoeuvre a low concrete rail bridge ^ and almost tore the roof after becoming WEDGED.

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The driver struck the rail bridge at around 7am this morning before desperately attempting to continue through the narrow gap next to Falmouth train station, Cornwall.

The roof was almost torn from the bus, which was not carrying any passengers at the time of the incident.

Accident and emergency crews attended the scene to remove the vehicle, before engineers assessed the bridge for structural damage.

Passerby Justine Gunn, 40, of Falmouth, snapped the aftermath as the ^sheepish^ driver got out of the cabin to survey the damage.

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Mum-of-two Justine said: ^I was walking by and just thought ^oops^.

^The driver was stood outside looking particularly sheepish about the whole affair, which is fairly understandable as the bridge^s height is clearly marked.

^The only thing I can think of is that ordinarily it^s a single decker coach which comes down the route so maybe the driver completely forgot what he was in.

^Thankfully no-one was on the bus as it was a real mess ^ there^s no way anyone could have survived it.

^ve never seen a double decker down here in the 17 years I^ve lived here. And that^s probably why.^

The road was closed for around an hour and the rail track was also shut as engineers surveyed the bridge to check for structural damage.

Hmm... are we absolutely certain as to the sex of the driver?

'driver' would've sufficed. Male or female is irrelevant.  ::)

One of the eyewitness reports referred to the driver as 'he'.

Passerby Justine Gunn, 40, of Falmouth, snapped the aftermath as the ^sheepish^ driver got out of the cabin to survey the damage.
Mum-of-two Justine said: ^I was walking by and just thought ^oops^. The driver was stood outside looking particularly sheepish about the whole affair, which is fairly understandable as the bridge^s height is clearly marked. The only thing I can think of is that ordinarily it^s a single decker coach which comes down the route so maybe the driver completely forgot what he was in.^

Perhaps we should 'declare an interest' here: Ollie and I have both walked under that particular bridge, on our Falmouth Line bash - and I for one wouldn't choose to drive a bus (even a single decker!) under it ...  :o

And they have transformed travel..

from a double deck to a single deck :P

BRITISH TRANSPORT POLICE APPEAL FOR INFORMATION AFTER MAN ASSAULTED ON TRAIN ^ PENRYN

British Transport Police officers are appealing for the public^s help to identify a man they would like to speak to in connection with an assault which took place on board a train on the Falmouth branch line.

Officers have today, Wednesday 2 November 2011, released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident which took place at about 10.20am on Saturday 15 October 2011.

Investigating officer, PC Wayne Frost, said: ^The 23-year-old victim placed his luggage on the luggage rack in the train carriage. Between Penmere and Penryn, he noticed a man approach his baggage and attempt to open it. He challenged the man who then assaulted him. Although not seriously injured, the victim was extremely shaken by the incident.

^Enquiries are ongoing and, after viewing CCTV images, I would now like to identify and speak to the man in this photograph as I believe he will have information which can assist the investigation. I would ask anyone who knows this man^s identity, or his current whereabouts, to contact BTP.^

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40, quoting incident reference B9/WWA of 02/11/2011. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A man has been recovered from railway tracks and is being treated in hospital this evening after an incident which saw the railway network from Truro to Falmouth temporarily closed.

British Transport Police, Cornwall and Devon Police and ambulance services attended the scene at Melville Road in Falmouth at 7pm.

The male casualty was taken to Royal Cornwall Hospital by land ambulance and police are not treating the incident as suspicious.

First Great Western's website says "Owing to emergency services dealing with an incident between Truro and Falmouth Docks all lines are affected.

"Train services running through these stations may be cancelled or delayed by up to 50 mins at short notice. An estimate for the resumption of normal services will be provided as soon as the problem has been fully assessed.

"Replacement road transport services are conveying passengers between Truro and Falmouth Docks in both directions until further notice."

Line problem: between Falmouth Docks and Penryn.
Owing to a person hit by a train between Falmouth Docks and Penryn all lines are blocked.

Train services running through these stations may be cancelled at short notice.
An estimate for the resumption of normal services will be provided as soon as the problem has been fully assessed.

Road transport is in place between Truro and Falmouth Docks.
A coach service will run between Truro and Falmouth Docks calling at all stations.

Man injured on Falmouth railway line: UPDATE

UPDATE:13.01

The ambulance service have said the the man, thought to be in his 20's, was taken to The Royal Cornwall Hospital at Treliske.

Initial reports suggest his injuries are not life-threatening.

UPDATE: 12.20

Police are reporting a man has been injured on the railway line in Falmouth this morning.

A nearby resident contacted the Packet to say they heard a train screech to a halt around 11.30am.

The incident happened close to the rail crossing near Treventon Close.

A police spokesman confirmed that they had been called to the scene, and that an adult male had been injured, adding that information was still coming in about the incident.

A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesperson said: ^I can confirm that a man has been injured after being struck by a train near Penmere rail station. Officers from BTP and Devon and Cornwall Police attended the incident, which was reported to police at 11.46am, and is currently being treated as non-suspicious. Medics from the South West Ambulance service and the Helicopter Emergency Medical service also attended and the man was taken to the Royal Cornwall Hospital.^

Ambulance personnel are also at the scene after a rapid response paramedic was sent.

The air ambulance was seen in the sky over Falmouth, landing close to Falmouth Fire Station.

A footpath running from Trescobeas Road was cordoned off by police.

UPDATE: 13.50. First Great Western is reporting that the train line in Falmouth has reopened, after a man was hit by a train earlier this morning.
 
They are advising that there may be some journey disruption as services recover.
 

Plans are afoot to mark next year's 150th anniversary of the branch line that runs between Truro, Penryn and Falmouth.

The Maritime Line celebration falls over the August Bank Holiday and a wide range of activities are in the pipeline.

They include an open day at Penmere Platform, a major exhibition at The Poly in Falmouth and the possible visit of a steam locomotive.

Two meetings have already been held to come up with and discuss plans.

Organisations dotted along the line are signing up and the non-profit body which promotes the line, the Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership is appealing for more people to get involved.

Richard Burningham, manager at the partnership, said: "The Maritime Line is hugely successful, with passenger numbers doubling since 2009, and I hope we can make next year's 150th anniversary celebrations a big, varied event with as many people involved as possible.

"We are particularly looking for people who would like to get involved in organising activities to be part of the programme."

Steve Lloyd, chairman of the Friends of Penmere Station said: "2013 is a double celebration for us ^ 150 years of the railway and 20 years of our group. My particular hope is that we see steam return to Falmouth as part of the festivities."

Truro to Falmouth Maritime rail line to close for a week

Rail passengers on the Maritime Line from Truro to Falmouth will have to get the bus from tomorrow due to work on the line.

The popular commuting line is to be closed for a week from tomorrow with a regular bus service will operate to take passengers between the two towns from Saturday, October 27 to Sunday, November 4.

Network Rail will be re-laying track as part of planned infrastructure renewal and maintenance work.

Julian Crow, First Great Western regional manager for the West of England, said: ^The Maritime Line is thriving with more passengers than ever before and we welcome this investment. We'll do our very best to make journeys as easy as possible while this work is carried out, providing a regular replacement bus service throughout the course of the works. We look forward to the improvements when it is completed.^

A half hourly bus service will operate Monday to Saturday, with an hourly service available on Sunday.

Further timetable information will be available from stations or on the First Great Western website at www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

Appeal for information after incident on Falmouth -Truro train

British Transport Police (BTP) officers are appealing for information after passengers on board a train travelling between Falmouth and Truro are alleged to have used racially abusive language in front of other passengers.

The incident was reported to BTP shortly before 2pm on Tuesday, 26 February, by the train manager on board the service.

Two men aged 27 and 31, from Truro, and a 25-year-old woman from Falmouth were arrested on suspicion of committing a racially-aggravated public order offence. They have been released on bail pending further enquiries until Wednesday, 27 March.

PC Wayne Frost, investigating officer, said: ^Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and, at this stage, I am appealing for anyone who was on board the train between Falmouth and Truro - between about 1.40pm and 2pm on Tuesday, 26 February - to come forward if you witnessed this incident. Your information may be able to assist police investigation this incident. If you think you can help, please come forward and contact BTP straight away.^

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In all calls, please quote incident reference B15/WWA of 27/02/13.

British Transport Police are appealing for information after a group of youths verbally abused a member of staff at Penryn railway station.

The incident happened on March 9 at about 10.25pm and BTP would like to hear from anyone who saw what happened or knows the individuals involved.

Investigating officer, PC Wayne Frost, said: "The member of staff had simply asked the group, who are believed to have been in drink, to show their tickets when they became abusive and swore at him. Clearly, behaviour such as this towards rail staff is unacceptable and won't be tolerated and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible."

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 11, quoting reference B6/WWA.

Hot news this week is that Network Rail has received no objection to lifting Falmouth Loop and Docks Connection and recovering the two Ground Frames during the 2013/14 financial year. No doubt your local sources will be able to find out the dates when published. In 2011, this connection was placed out of use for two years, but no traffic has materialised. A far cry from the 1970s when dock land was reserved for a Freightliner Terminal; land which on my last visit has never been built on.

Penryn commuters and rail passengers will need to keep some spare change handy from now on if they want to use the town^s station car park.
 
At the last meeting of the civic year, Penryn town councillors heard from county representative Mary May that the long awaited ticket machine, first mooted last April, had finally been installed.
 
For a while the machine was ^still in its packaging^ Mrs May said, but now ^it^s all wired up and ready to go^.
 
Parking in the station car park now costs ^1.30 a day, with German-based APCOA Parking enforcing the charges.
 
Tickets expire at 23.59pm on day of purchase according to the sign, which implies that overnight parking in the car park is effectively banned ^ although a spokesman for First Great Western (FGW) said two-day tickets, priced at ^2.60, ^should be^ available from the machine.
 
Hapless motorist Adrian Evans was caught out by the new charges this week when he ^received an ^80 fine for not having a ^1.30 parking ticket, which seems very unfair especially as it^s not been mentioned anywhere,^ he said.
 



He asked the Packet to ^warn others as it is not listed on First Great Western^s website and is hard to see, especially if you arrive in the early hours!^
 
There are two bright blue signs in the car park advertising the new charges, both with the ^1.30 per day^ tariff displayed in a large font.
 
Only one of the signs is directly illuminated, however.

APCOA also manage the car park at Penmere train station in Falmouth on behalf of FGW, but parking here is still free - subject to conditions.
 

On another note, should consideration be given to closing both Falmouth Town and Docks stations, with a new all purpose one being built on the flat between both existing stations....... thoughts anyone!

Sunday 25th First Great Western are running a HST special Truro to Falmouth to celebrate 150 years of this line. More info here http://www.greatscenicrailways.com/news.html

Just to say, there are still a few tickets left for the HST.  I have updated the news page (link above) with more details including how to apply.

Crowds make tracks to Falmouth rail anniversary: PICTURES

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Visitors to Falmouth on Saturday could be forgiven for rubbing their eyes in disbelief, after a huge old steam train appeared on the Moor overnight.

The improbable, and imposing, sight of a 45 ton steam locomotive in Falmouth was part of the weekend of celebrations to mark 150 years of the Maritime Line railway service.

The Bank Holiday weekend saw celebrations and events across the town on the anniversary of the railway reaching the town 150 years ago, organised by Richard Burningham of the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership.

Built by the Great Western Railway at Swindon in 1937, 0-6-0 Pannier tank no. 6435 is owned and operated by the Bodmin And Wenford Railway, and normally rattles the rails between Bodmin Parkway, Bodmin General and Boscarne Junction. Pannier tank engines were once a common sight working on branch lines throughout the Southwest.

In the cab for the day was driver Courtney Berryman. Originally from St Agnes, he started his working life in 1956 with British Railways at Truro motive power depot.

He regularly worked trains along the Falmouth branch, when it was very busy with freight as well as passenger traffic. He recalls days shunting the goods yards at Perranwell, Penryn and the interchange sidings at Falmouth Docks.

The Poly has also been hosting a special ^Falmouth on Track ^ How the Railway Changed the Town^ exhibition of photographs and memorabilia from the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society history collection to mark the 150th anniversary of the Falmouth railway line. There was the opportunity to view working models of early trains courtesy of Falmouth Model Railway Group and plenty of railway based activities for the young visitors.

Sunday saw the anniversary continue with the arrival of a special train into Falmouth Docks station. The fast mainline train, which usually plies its trade on the Penzance to London route, travelled the Maritime Line from Truro packed with railway fans and local dignitaries.

The chairman of First Great Western, Charles Howeson, and leading driver Phil Jones then joined Falmouth^s mayor Geoffrey Evans on the station platform to unveil a plaque commemorating 150 years of rail service from Truro to Penryn and Falmouth.

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Penryn mayor celebrates 5 years of railway loop with train shaped cake

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The mayor of Penryn and Cornwall Councillor Bert Biscoe cut a train shaped cake on Monday to celebrate a milestone in transport between Truro and Falmouth.

In a ceremony on Penryn station platform, the newly elected mayor Gill Grant and other dignitaries marked five years since the opening of the Penryn passing loop on the Maritime Line, which has led to a doubling in train traffic, with more than double the number of passengers.

She said: ^I think the fact that we have got the loop has made such a difference to transport between Truro, Penryn and Falmouth, and I^m very pleased to have been able to celebrate it.^

Councillor Biscoe, Cornwall Council^s portfolio holder for Transport and Waste, said: ^A small piece of work in Penryn has given rise to the fastest growing railway line in the UK, and played a significant part in revitalising confidence in the railway. It was the result of a unique partnership between Cornwall Council, Network Rail and First Great Western, which paved the way for similar partnerships elsewhere.^

Look Back In Time: Gruesome scenes at Falmouth's worst rail disaster

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Docks station

A goods train careering out of control claimed the life of its driver and caused chaos when it crashed into another row of freight wagons at Falmouth rail terminus 50 years ago, writes Mike Truscott.

The fireman and driver both jumped from their 80-ton diesel engine as, with ten wagons in tow, it hurtled towards the sidings at the then Falmouth Station (now the ^Docks^).

Dazed and bleeding, and with his jaw broken, 36-year-old Walter Reddaway, of Truro, slithered down a 25ft embankment and crawled 150 yards to Bar Road Post Office to summon help.

Driver Jack Dunn, 35, also of Truro, was not so lucky. With the brakes having failed, he struck the parapet of the Bar Road bridge and was believed to have been thrown back beneath the rear wheels of his engine.

The two men had taken the then regular 6.55 am freight train from Truro to Falmouth. Minor damage to the parapet and track had already been caused, just two days earlier, when another engine had derailed along the same stretch.

Post office owner Ken Rundle summoned an ambulance and dashed to the horrific scene with blankets, finding Mr Dunn lying in a pool of blood.

He was quickly joined by Mr V Huntingdon, from the Docks first aid post, and Docks policemen Sergeant R E Bowden and Constables D Littlejohn and L Crawley. Sergeant Bowden applied a tourniquet to Mr Dunn^s severed left arm.

Both injured men had emergency surgery at the Royal Cornwall Infirmary in Truro. Mr Dunn lost both hands and died in hospital.

At his inquest, the coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure, commenting that he might not have died had he stayed in his cab.

The train^s guard, Ken Bennett, had remained on board, to the rear of the train, unaware that it was out of control and that the crew had leapt for their lives.

The train came to a halt when the engine rushed into the sidings and concertinaed seven loaded wagons standing there.

The stationary wagons were loaded with foodstuffs and tinned goods which were scattered over a wide area. The force of the crash also burst open several of the cans of peas and soups.

A 15ft stretch of track was torn up and the buffers were twisted and splintered to matchwood. A disused water tower was demolished.

Mr Bennett was treated at Falmouth Hospital for severe shock, as were three railwaymen from Falmouth ^ signalman Harold Bullen, shunter Godfrey Beskeen and porter Harry Sharratt.

It was one of the worst accidents in the 151-year history of the Falmouth-Truro branch line.

Sixty-five years earlier, the up mail train came off the rails near Hill Head, Penryn, rolling down the steep bank and killing the engine driver.

Services have been suspended on First Great Western trains between Truro and Falmouth Docks due to road vehicle hitting a bridge.

More as we get it.

Breaking news at http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/11351554.Falmouth_to_Truro_trains_stopped_after_vehicle_hits_bridge/?ref=var_0

In connection with the Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta taking place, Falmouth Town station will be closed from Thursday 28 August 2014 to Sunday 31 August 2014 inclusive.

Customers should use Penmere or Falmouth Docks stations.

From Journeycheck

Quite a few car parks have closed in the centre of Falmouth so it makes sense to leave the car at a station and take the train instead over the next few days.

Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta starts

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Forty-three vessels from around the world are taking part in the Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta

A regatta featuring dozens of vessels and attracting thousands of visitors has started in Cornwall.

Forty-three vessels from around the world are taking part in the Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta.

It is the fifth time the town has hosted the tall ships since they first visited in 1966. In 2008 the event attracted more than 100,000 visitors.

The regatta will run until 31 August with the tall ships leaving Falmouth Bay on Sunday and sailing to London.

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Good effort by FGW to strengthen services. Though looking at the timetable I'm a bit worried that there is only one service back to Truro after the fireworks on Saturday night (ok, two if you count the one departing a couple of minutes after they're due to finish), which may struggle to cope.

There is an unadvertised "ghost" train too, just in case.

Delays for people leaving Falmouth Tall Ships after train breaks down at Perranwell

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Truro to Falmouth line

Hundreds of people leaving Falmouth Tall Ships have been left frustrated after a First Great Western train broke down at Perranwell, causing long delays.

Earlier reports were that there were no trains running in either direction between Truro and Falmouth after the train broke down at approximately 6pm this evening.

A First Great Western spokesman tweeted: "There is a train fault. However there's a train shuttling between Truro and Falmouth Docks. Replacement bus also available."

Thousands of people have been in the Falmouth today for the event, which is one of the town^s busiest days of the year.

One passenger said: ^The platform at Falmouth Docks was so full with people waiting for the train that they were not letting anyone else onto the platform. We have taken a taxi back to Penryn.^

Another passenger said: ^It has taken an hour and 20 minutes for us to get to Truro. It^s just ridiculous. I am sure there must be lots of angry people at Falmouth Docks."

Penryn station artwork designed by Falmouth University, Penryn College and Junior School pupils unveiled

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Penryn station artwork designed by Falmouth University, Penryn College and Junior School pupils unveiled

A huge mural designed by school children has been unveiled at Penryn railway station, two years after it was originally hoped to be in place.

Falmouth University set up the project working with about 20 Year 9 pupils from Penryn College and Years 4 and 5 from the junior school to come up with the design.

Over several years, they came up with a 40 foot town timeline featuring key moments in its history and iconic buildings.

However the Cornwall Council funded project hit delays when Network Rail requested a costly engineers report and then the design had to be altered, requiring further approval.

Originally planned to be made of steel to give it a 3D feel, the mural eventually had to be created on a flat surface.

Penryn Town Council agreed to take over the management of the project to ensure its completion.

Mayor Gill Grant said: ^I am delighted they have captured so many of the key moments and iconic buildings that are so important to us. There were many people involved in the project who have helped bring it forward.^

These include people from Falmouth University, Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership, First Great Western, FXPlus (the university student union), Cormac, Friends of Penryn Station, Cornwall Council and design company 20/20.

Town clerk Michelle Davey said: ^I am delighted to see the artwork finally installed. The project has been ongoing for more than four years when I took up the challenge of seeing it through to completion. We have had a great response from local residents and it was definitely well worth the effort.^

Service suspended between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks due to engineering works. Service suspended all weekend. Passengers will need to walk from Falmouth Town to the Docks. From 24th to 25th January.

I might be thinking of another west country branch line - but isn't a fairly steep climb between the two stations?

I might be thinking of another west country branch line - but isn't a fairly steep climb between the two stations?

Trains will be terminating and starting from Falmouth Town over the weekend due to track relaying. Legs and feet will replace trains between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks stations. Hopefully the run around loop and connection to the docks themselves will remain intact. :-\

On Facebook there is some pics of the ground frame dug up so I reckon it could be the end of the loop and link with the docks :(

The run round loop visible in the grass to the right is scheduled to be recovered at some future date removing any possibility of docks traffic.

I had hoped the loop and docks connection had been given a reprieve but disconnection was not unexpected no, but rather sad, happening, poignantly, soon after the Falmouth branch's 150th anniversary.
The third deepest natural harbour in the World and one of the biggest industrial sites in Cornwall now without a railfreight link.

The Transport Secretary was at Port of Sunderland today to see the arrival of the first train in more than 20 years.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin was in the Port of Sunderland today (5 February 2015) to see its rail line being used for the first time in more than 2 decades.

Network Rail has spent ^600,000 to reinstate the former rail line into the port, which will boost its freight operations by allowing cargo to be transported onwards by rail.

Patrick McLoughlin said:

As part of the government^s long term economic plan, we are investing record amounts in improving road and rail connections so that ports like Sunderland can realise their full potential and contribute to regional growth.

The reconnection of the port^s rail link will boost its import and export capabilities significantly. I am proud to see this historic port being put firmly on the map again for freight and maritime projects and gearing up for more business.

The Transport Secretary was visiting the Port of Sunderland as part of a 3 day trip to meet northern leaders to discuss how transport can drive forward the creation of a northern powerhouse.

The Port of Sunderland already handles more than 700,000 tonnes of cargo each year. The reinstated line will allow up to 5 trains a day to operate into and out of the port, connecting it to the East Coast mainline, and from there to the wider rail network and mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel.

During his visit Mr McLoughlin saw a trial run of a Class 66 locomotive on its newly connected rail line organised by rail freight haulier DB Schenker and Network Rail.

Work is about to be completed and the rail line will soon be used for commercial operations, increasing the port^s capability to manage cargo handling projects.

Port director Matthew Hunt said:

It^s fantastic to once again have rail connections at Port of Sunderland. We have always enjoyed great access to open sea, and the port is well placed in terms of its links to major roads and airports.

However, for more than 20 years, Port of Sunderland has not seen any rail traffic coming into its heart. To have lines connected into the port is a huge step forward for us and it really was an important moment for us to see the lines in use once again. It was great to share that with the Transport Secretary too.

The port is also set to benefit from work on the third Wear crossing in 2015. As a strategic transport corridor, the new bridge will better connect the port to trunk roads like the A19 and A1, ensuring that access is as straightforward as possible.

Trains now approach Falmouth Town from the Docks considerably faster.

a short section, but one which previously had been subject to a 30 limit. Trains now approach Falmouth Town from the Docks considerably faster.

Better that, than the alternative rather awful incident: see http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=14272.0  :o

Better that, than the alternative rather awful incident: see http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=14272.0  :o

Fri, 3 June 10:51 Truro to Falmouth Docks due 11:14 
This train will be cancelled.
This is due to a safety inspection of the track.
Further Information
Road replacement buses will operate between Truro and Falmouth Docks in both directions, operated by A2B of Truro.

Fri, 3 June 11:20 Falmouth Docks to Truro due 11:48 

This train will be cancelled.
This is due to a safety inspection of the track.

Further Information
Road replacement buses will operate between Truro and Falmouth Docks in both directions, operated by A2B of Truro

Edit- I have just seen on Facebook the NMT is going to Falmouth tomorrow due in Falmouth at 1120, so looks like the branch service has been cancelled for the NMT in its place.
Is the loop at Penryn big enough for the NMT to pass the other unit running on the branch?

Great Western Railway (GWR) will introduce an improved timetable on the Truro to Falmouth Maritime Line from Sunday 21 May 2017.

On Mondays to Fridays, the last train on the line will run more than half an hour later. The train will depart Truro station at 22 44 instead of the current 22 08 and Falmouth Docks at 23 11 instead of the current 22 35.

On Summer Sundays, the number of trains is set to increase from 11 to 12 each way, improving service frequencies in the middle of the day. Currently seven trains operate each way before 18 00 on Sundays, this will increase to eight.

Dan Okey, Regional Development Manager (West) for Great Western Railway said:

"Dedicated to supporting the communities we serve, I am delighted to be able to announce these service improvements on the Maritime Line. We are sure the later weekday service and additional Sunday train will be of great benefit to passengers, providing more opportunities to travel."

Maritime Line Forum Chair, Richard Burningham, Manager of the Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership said:

"Hats off and many thanks to Great Western Railway for introducing the later weekday train and extra Summer Sunday service. Both of these improvements have long been sought by local people and it is great that they are happening."

The later weekday train follows requests from Cornwall Council, the Hall for Cornwall and the Maritime Line Forum; allowing people to return home by train after a performance at the Hall for Cornwall. The later evening services will also allow visitors from other parts of the country to be better able to reach Falmouth by train. The later Maritime Line service will make a connection with the Golden Hind, the 18 03 from London Paddington. Currently, the latest people can leave Paddington for Falmouth is one hour earlier at 17 03.

We have similar requests from passengers on the Swindon -> Westbury service, where the final train on Monday to Friday is as early as 20:06 from Swindon.  As the train's then parked up at Westbury overnight, the rolling stock's available to run a 21:20 from Westbury and a 22:36 from Swindon.  ;D

You'd also need additional 'free' hours on a drivers turn to make that feasible. Presumably this was the case for that Falmouth train.

So latest departure from Paddington would push back from 1900 to a much more useful 2115, and evening events in Swindon (football, theatre etc) would be do-able by train.

Dependent on a driver with hours available though

I can't believe that is beyond the wit of those who plan such things. Indeed I would expect rostering of staff to be the least of the hurdles to jump after stock (no issue), pathing (apparently no issue) and financing (which is I guess where the real issue arises).

In addition to the standard GWR display and push to talk terminal and the recently installed (and working) WiFi at the station a new platform indicator and speakers have been installed in the past few days ....

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(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DUJ3qMuX4AExebV.jpg)

Bus smashes into Falmouth bridge

(http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/resources/images/1612807/) (http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/resources/images/1613545/?type=responsive-gallery-fullscreen) (http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/resources/images/1613546/?type=responsive-gallery-fullscreen) (http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/resources/images/1613547/?type=responsive-gallery-fullscreen)

A bus has crashed into a railway bridge next to Falmouth Town train station this morning.

The vehicle has become lodged under the railway bridge in Avenue Road.

It has sustained severe damage to the upper deck, and appears to be wedged.

The road was closed, and the railway line shut between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks while the bridge is checked for structural damage.

Both have since reopened.

Luckily, there were no passengers on board at the time of the accident.

In addition to the standard GWR display and push to talk terminal and the recently installed (and working) WiFi at the station a new platform indicator and speakers have been installed in the past few days ....

Houston, we have a problem, the electronic indicator was test live tonight. Almost everywhere on the platform however it is obscured by the 'Help Point' sign which obliterates the information displayed.

Probably down to the way the signalling system works.

I have been told when Melksham gets similar screens they will be set to clear information a certain number of minutes after the previous timing point.  This will be set slightly generously to allow for any delays between there and the station and extended dwell time at the actual station.

https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/live-updates-train-derails-between-2477550

The train line between Falmouth and Truro has been blocked after a train derailed.

The incident happened at Penryn station at around 12.50pm.

The train affected is the 12.53 service to Truro from Falmouth. The line has been completely blocked by the train that is now sitting between the two tracks.

It is unknown at this stage how long it will take to rectify and when the line will reopen.

Going to be an interesting inquiry.  Looks as though its come off on the single to loop points.  Its all our (my) fault for discussing the Penryn solution elsewhere on here ;D

No need for an enquiry; it is very clear that the driver did not steer left when he should of. ;)

or the altar of grammar even.
 ;)

No need for an enquiry; it is very clear that the driver did not steer left when he should of. ;)

The 'wink' smiley is for both the 'steering' comment and the 'should of' I hope.

I didn't get where I am today without knowing how to avoid a homonym when I wish too...  ::)

The points must have been damaged as only one train an hour in each direction running today (Tuesday 29 January).

Are the two units that normally cross a Penryn running coupled, to make for half the trains but each with double the capacity?

Looking at Tiger, it would appear not.   http://iris2.rail.co.uk/tiger/renderstaffsoad.asp?file=30475D.xml (http://iris2.rail.co.uk/tiger/renderstaffsoad.asp?file=30475D.xml)

Its usually no more that a day or two to repair such damage, so I suspect more to it than we know. ...

Been on a reccy as hourly service continues .... Photos taken at around 5.30pm tonight.

Nope, thought so.... hourly all day, last three journeys cancelled again. 

How long does it take to fix one set of points?

Lovely shots RC. Thank you for them  ;D

08:20 Falmouth Docks to Truro due 08:48
08:20 Truro to Falmouth Docks due 08:44
08:50 Falmouth Docks to Truro due 09:18

08:50 Falmouth Docks to Truro due 09:18 will be cancelled.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.

When it is clear that the safety learning from an event has been identified by a previous investigation or relates to compliance with existing rules, we may choose to publish a safety digest, rather than carry out a full investigation.

They will be publishing a safety digest.

Are 165/166s cleared to use the Falmouth branch?

Any clue as to when the line will be open again? Due to go to Falmouth this Saturday.

Could not a basic service be offered without any signaling ? "one engine in steam"

Lightning strikes damaged signalling equipment at Penryn yesterday. Network Rail are finishing their work to fix and test this this morning.

From journeycheck
Cancellations to services between Truro and Falmouth Docks
Due to a fault with the signalling system between Truro and Falmouth Docks the line is closed. (Lightning strike yesterday)
Train services running to and from these stations will be cancelled. Disruption is expected until 09:00 06/09.
Customer Advice
We're sorry for the disruption to your journey this morning.

We have been unable to source any replacement transport to run in place of the train service as local operators have no taxis or coaches available. (First day back for most school/College pupils)

We have also been unable to arrange for your tickets to be accepted on the local buses between Truro and Falmouth, we are still trying to do this. Until then, if you wish to use local buses, please purchase a ticket on the bus, keep it and send it, together with your train ticket, to us to claim for a refund of the bus fare.

Lightning strikes damaged signalling equipment at Penryn yesterday. Network Rail are finishing their work to fix and test this this morning.

I don't understand why no bus acceptance of rail tickets.  This has always come in to force when the branch goes down. Radio shout from control to accept all tickets.
Truronian did have a contract with GWR to be on standby 24x7, but that hasn't come into play it seems.
GoCornwall were wanting the standby contract, but that's another query.
Cornwall Council were trying to integrate rail and bus interchanges, etc.
Puzzled of Penwith

GWR will have phoned FTS to arrange transport or ticket acceptance. FTS will probably phone the Truro office number which won’t have been manned that early in the morning. For out of normal office hours (8-6 ish) they’d likely get a better response from Camborne or summercourt duty control?

Seems to have been caused by an overnight road-rail survey vehicle being used over the line after being put on at the Falmouth Docks end.  It seems accessing it from that end upset the axle counters.