In 1960 many trains on the Western Region were still hauled by elderly steam locomotives, though titled trains and high speed schedules were still commonplace.

Within 5 years, the diesel invasion was all but complete. However, the culprits - a fleet of stylish diesel-hydraulics, and other first generation diesel types, still provided a fascinating scene for the enthusiast.

This programme includes rare cine film to illustrate the change on the motive power front in this area of the country over a period spanning more than 50 years.

Volume 1 in the series looks at the area around Bristol, including the routes to Stoke Gifford, the Severn tunnel, and the western approach through Bedminster.

We then follow the route to Bath, with a break to see steam on the S&D at Green Park, Midford, Radstock, and other locations, together with a Class 22 diesel at Shillingstone. Then onto Westbury, Castle Cary, Yeovil and finally Weymouth, including scenes filmed on the Weymouth Quay branch.

The programme includes a variety of ex-GWR steam types such as Castles, Granges, Kings, Counties & Halls, plus various others such as Britannias, West Country, classes 3MT, 4F, 7F and 9F etc.

For the diesel fans - see the early Diesel-hydraulics at the new Bath Road depot together with Peaks, Sulzer type 2s, Brush type 4s. The Royal Train at Temple Meads hauled by class 31s, Metro Cammells’ famous Bristol Pullman train and the prototype HST in action. A Peak diesel and class 5 4-6-0 at Mangotsfield. Class 31s, 33s & 37s on the Weymouth route, with the latter also seen on aggregate traffic. A Warship & Hall combination at Westbury, and prototype D0226 passing Bath on a goods train in 1960.

Of added interest is the comparison in the railway infrastructure in this 50 year period, with contemporary views showing the scenes as they are now.

Produced by - Globe Video Films
Running time - 60 Minutes
DVD only