Pontycymer branch
All the pictures on this page were taken on 14 June 1996 and feature the five mile
branch from Tondu to Pontycymer in South Wales. In this first view, 37 897 has arrived at Pontycymer with its
train of empty hoppers and has just uncoupled prior to running-round.
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After 37 897 had run round, it then propelled the train into the headshunt where the wagons can be seen being loaded.
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In this view, the loaded train is seen returning back down the branch. Traffic ceased shortly after these pictures
were taken, although I believe the line is now the subject of a preservation attempt.
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The train proceeded very slowly and I was therefore able to keep driving ahead of the train to get pictures in several
different locations.
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A few minutes later the train is seen in a wooded cutting.
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Another picture taken from the same overbridge as the train passed.
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The train is seen passing the signal box at Tondu Junction. On a previous visit to the area,
a signalman had given me the telephone number of the signal box so that I could phone in order to check
that the coal train was running, before setting off from home. The line to Maesteg is seen curving away to the left,
past the signals.
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