Thanks Don for a wonderful journey through our beautiful countryside. The views from both inside and outside the cab enhance our enjoyment. Thank you once again for pointing out the ingenuity, industry and fortitude of those early railway engineers. What a debt we owe them!
This trip has to rank with best in your library Don. Not just the scenery but the history of the Midland railway was superb. As you pointed out,the highlight of the trip was seeing that unbelievable rock wall that supports the railway. That feat of engineering was incredible but what really impressed was the wonderful, wonderful laying of all the stone blocks so precisely. That is one hell of a monument to those navvies along with that 3 mile tunnel. Another big thank you Don, Ian
Thanks Ian. It would be easy to take that wall for granted but when you consider it was done in the days of candle light and pure physical labour. It’s quite a task to build that shelf with its feet in the river and one end directly into a tunnel. Not everyone gets it so it’s refreshing to have such feedback 👍
Thank you Don enjoyed that whist having my lunch! I do find your videos soooooo relaxing and you know I will watch again and again as they are stress releasers.
Thanks for this wonderful footage, it brings back memories of a hiking trip to Edale in the 90s and taking the train from Sheffield to Edale. Happy times, thank you.
I just stumbled upon this video and actually don’t watch others driving a train. But I must say this: What a well edited video: explanations, insets in the right moment, well timed and not too fast either (so you have time to read it). There’s a lot of stuff in UA-cam but this stands out. Really good job, big thumbs up!
If you’re not a rail enthusiast I’ll consider that an accolade thanks. Actually getting the timing of the captions right isn’t at all easy so I’m glad you appreciate it.
I'm a relatively new subscriber from America, Missouri specifically. I love your videos. They're a wonderful escape from the drama of the world. I especially enjoy your commentary; you are part travel guide, part historian. Very interesting. We don't have much passenger rail in the middle of America, so this is a fun channel. Thanks!
Thanks Mark, that’s much appreciated. I try to add something different to each video so that by watching several, the watcher can gain more and more knowledge about how our railway operates. I just love the historical and architectural aspects and the other things are mainly what I think you might find interesting. I’m really pleased you appreciate them.
I had spectacular views of the Hope Valley flying a K4 vintage glider from nearby Camphill Airfield in September 1971. Travelled by Derby Lightweight DMU from Sheffield to Edale before getting an unexpected lift to Great Hucklow. Also walked the Pennine Way in Easter 1969, obviously starting in Edale. Lived in the Pennines in 4 different locations over a period of 22 years. Your videos of this whole Pennine area bring back so many memories of my early years!
"Charming" doesn't begin to describe most of what's on offer on this journey. Once out of the urban sprawl of Sheffield up until just after Marple the scenery, in my humble opinion, has a timeless beauty that is well worth the time of any passenger wishing to see some of England's finest. But add the further interest of wonderful architecture that abounds in bridges, tunnels, station buildings and associated houses and the whole becomes jaw dropping, especially when you remember, or even just wonder, that most of these structures were built entirely without mechanical tools. Thanks for sharing Don. I love these videos.
Thanks, Don, another belter. When I was a student at Sheffield, 1964-67, train travel from Liverpool was a nightmare. The through train to Hull via the Woodhead route last ran in 1963. The following year, one or two of the fast Liverpool Central trains reversed at Manchester Central each weekday, and then took the Fallowfield Loop to Guide Bridge, to catch the Woodhead train. In my last couple of years there was a single through train each Sunday afternoon from Liverpool via the Hope Valley to Sheffield Midland. I mainly remember it because in the four or five times I used it, there was always a long wait at Chinley, for some reason.
Another great trip Don, thank you. Cutting in the extra shots of the "train in the landscape" is a good idea. That's the bits you miss 𝒐𝒏 the train; these views are saved for those of us who 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ the trains, rather than just travel on, or even even drive, them.👍👌😁 One noticeable thing about this route, best seen from the cab, is the variety of bridges. I don't think I saw a single ugly bridge on the journey, even the newest ones at the Manchester end. Great stuff, as always,😁 Cheers for now, Dougie.
Yes, the route is sensational. Those exterior shots are easy because I live nearby so I can’t always add them and I can no longer get into cabs so can’t promise to do the side shots.
Excellent video with lots of information added as well. I used to live next to the line at Grindleford 20 years ago and was looking forward to seeing my old house near the signal box but just at that moment a poster came up on the right of the picture and blotted it out! Never mind because it did not stop the enjoyment of seeing the departure from Sheffield, which I did on the train many times. It is interesting to see how it has changed from the past. The answer is not much.
You know, there have been a couple of times over the last year or so when I’ve got so fed up with red tape that I’ve very nearly thrown in the towel on these videos but every now and again I get a comment like this which really pulls me back. The videos have apparently helped a lot of people through this pandemic and that give me an equal kick to all the money we raise for charity. All the best.
This is a really great video of one of my favourite lines, I've recently been travelling to Edale for walks in the peaks so when you premiered this I was very excited to see what the route looked like from the cab. I think I speed for a lot of people when I say that I really appreciate the drivers eye view videos you post, so thank you.
Thanks Don. That video was excellent. Wonderful scenery and the written commentary was great. I learnt and enjoyed it. I live in Australia now, but lived previously in the UK. These videos have inspired me to want to return for a visit. Thanks. Richard.
I lived in Sale (Alty line) for 30+ years then emigrated to Akld NZ. I used the Alty (electric) line to connect with the (steam) train for Heyfield (Now Removed I guess ?) so knew most of this line well due to my Pennine walks - Edale also. What a 'blast from the past' - What can I say but to repeat previous many thanks - for the history too. Am impressed also with the advent of your Metro link vids. What a sensible use of old/new assets for a still growing metropolis. Very well done Don, and of course it's good to see it is all going to charity.😀
Hi Denis, thanks for the positive feedback. I lived by the Hayfield line as a kid and yes, that closed in 1970. I guess we should be grateful for what is left.
Brilliant video Don, really enjoyed watching it. One of my favourite routes along with the Calder Valley line. Never get fed up of watching either of them.
Great video as always. The commentary is informative and adds to the experience. I particularly liked the piece regarding the stone wall at New Mills, a truly impressive structure.
Hi Don thank you for once again a brilliant video. I will have to do that journey when I get into England. The information that you give is so interesting. I have recently watched a couple of other train videos and they are no where near as yours keep up the good work and stay safe
Cheers Don, as a railway enthusiast and a keen fell walker, I've used this line on a number of occasions and as you said, its a very scenic trip. This journey was made more pleasant by the additional information that you supply us with. Keep up the good work, looking forward to the next one.
Great video Don. Thanks. I remember when it was four tracks to Dore from Sheffield Midland, the underpass, Heeley carriage sidings and Millhouses engine shed. In those far-off days both curves to the Hope line were double tracked.
Hi John, allegedly will be double tracked again soon. I was talking with someone today and there will be a second line and platform at the station and then where the line comes off the south chord there will be an option to go directly into a loop carved out of the embankment. All the best John.
Hi Bob. Trust you are well. Yes, I was born and brought up in New Mills and since having an awareness about railways, that wall has fascinated me...... it doesn’t take a lot to please me!!!
Thanks Barry. That runs through my neck of the woods so I was able to get that additional footage. However, what I’m finding now is that I’m sending cameras out to willing helpers so there may be less “add ons”. Hopefully still full of interest though.
Hi, Don! Thanks for this. Just had the luxury of watching on the telly in my living room. Not often I get chance to use that due to caring responsibilities! Great video, beautiful scenery, and your usual standard of informative commentary! Cheers :o)
Thank you for this wonderful video. You, once again bring up the subject of Up and Down. I was employed by the Victorian Railways in Australia for 25 wonderful years. At one stage I was the Manager of the Hamilton Freight Centre in western Victoria. All the railway lines were closed by then except for the main line to Portland. North of Hamilton was is a town called Balmoral. The railway line from Balmoral to Natimuk, (I am not kidding, there is a town named Natimuk) ran North and South. Thus there was no up and down. The crews solved the problem by saying that they were going to Natimuk or Balmoral. But I did win a lot of arguments about Up and Down. Incidentally there are lots of familiar place names in the area. That was because a lot of the area was settled by migrants from England. Stan.
Hello I was brought up in Rowsley and can remember going on Sunday school outings from Rowsley railway station ,it shared a yard with Express dairy, as kids we loved train spotting as Rowsley once had a busy shunting yard.The highlight of many a summer evening was to watch the midland pullman speeding through on towards Manchester.regards Graham.
Hi Hilda. I was brought up in New Mills, a bit further down the line and along with my brothers and sisters used stop what we were doing when the train came through. There was always a coach with an oval window! I don’t remember ever seeing the Pullman but might not have been old enough to recognise it.
Don: thanks another great ride, nice to see the route in the Sheffield- Manchester direction, have already watched and enjoyed the Manchester-Sheffield video a couple of times, lets have some more !
Always enjoy watching these POV-from-the-cab videos of these train journeys! I have travelled so often along this particular route now - almost every month for more than 16 years - nearly all of the locations and line-side features are indelibly etched into my memory! The reason for this is, just for the record, the two Northern Trains lines to Sheffield (via Hathersage on the Hope Valley) and the commuter line to Glossop (Class 323 electrics) are the two routes that I used to spend many happy years (15 of them: 2005 to 2019) helping out with volunteering to host and run the popular folk music trains - which started in 1994 (Manchester to Edale initially) as a monthly event specifically geared towards leisurely Pennine walks and those who fancied a social gathering in the pub at the destination (in this case the Ramblers at Edale) before then expanding to take in other Northern Trains lines such as Buxton/Whaley Bridge, New Mills Central, Chester line (as far as Northwich), and then subsequently Glossop and Hathersage (extended two stops from the initial Edale destination and now adjourning at the village's Little John Inn for food, refreshments and more music). Meanwhile from the OTHER direction around the same time, rival Pennine folk music trains would also run monthly between Sheffield to Edale (Rambler's pub) as well as Huddersfield to Penistone. These have proved so popular that they have continued largely untroubled to this day - except of course for the last couple of years when all of them have been curtailed due to Covid and lockdowns. However, I believe they are starting up again and recently the Glossop one has returned back to its usual third-Thursday-of-the-month evening slot! For those who may not even know about these folk music trains (fully supported by Northern Trains in conjunction with the Hope Valley & High Peak Transport Partnership over the years), as a rule, the Hathersage folk trains were usually daytime ones that ran every SECOND Saturday of the month leaving Manchester Piccadilly at 11.45am and returning from Hathersage at 2.30pm, whilst the Glossop ones were an evening service every THIRD Thursday of the month, leaving Manchester Piccadilly around 6.45pm (adjourning to the town's Labour Club for more music, food and a prize raffle) before returning for Manchester around 9.40pm - these were generally more raucous given their evening time slot as, at the time, I also worked with the University of Manchester and would promote these trains with some of the students who would always enjoy coming along to these as a cheap and friendly social night out. For anybody intrigued and interested in seeing what happens on these music trains, I have uploaded many videos of some of the different types of bands we have had on these folk trains - shared on my UA-cam channel (just click on my user name Busterabcat and check the ones I have shared since 2010). And there is also a Facebook page for all those who would like to follow/keep tabs on which trains are happening next. Who knows, perhaps you yourself Don may well have been in the train cab on a few of these journeys when some of us rowdy musicians were in full swing 'entertaining' the hordes of shoppers, day trippers and homeward-bound commuters?? facebook.com/groups/155326564543/
Well, what can I say? I don’t normally get such detailed responses so thank you for your efforts. I’ve always been aware of the folk trains because I worked for Northern until 2013, some of which as a manager. I did drive one on the Buxton Line…. possibly 2009? I also know Neil Williams very well, in fact he’s been on authorised cab rides with me. Keep up the good work and I’m just about to watch your footage.
Thank you Don and Co. These videos are like taking a virtual journey, especially in these times of lockdown etc. Poor old Ardwick Station, the Cinderella of the Manchester Rail Netowrk - lol. This will sound like heresy, but I'm not much into the train types etc but love all the infrastructure and totally agree with you regarding the work of navees and stonemasons. In particular, the routes that 'us lesser mortals' don't get to see such as the recent Liverpool Docks route you recently posted. Again, thank you thank you thank you.
Thanks Jenny and don’t worry, I’m not a big train buff either, I usually have to ask somebody else about the trains themselves. I love the history and the architecture though and I chuck in a few bits that I find interesting like biscuit factories!!!!
Wow such beautiful scenery. Almost missed it. Was so busy reading the narration that I was missing the ride. So now I just watch the scenery. I don't know what is going on or where we are but the view is great. Nice camera work.
Sorry about that Doris. I get tongue twisted if I try to narrate but I do time the captions before the event so you can look up and see it. Thanks for the comment, much appreciated.
Hi Don, another great video. It would be nice to see the Hope Valley in fine weather, my first trip was on a fine summers evening from Sheffield to Edale in 1976 (for the Pennine Way). On subsequent trips either in person or on UA-cam, the conditions have been far from perfect..! Very little appears to have changed in the Hope Valley since the late seventies, mechanical signalling still survives though not for long I would imagine. Reminds me a little of the 'West of England' mainline in my days at OOC; with the exception of the ocaasional IBHS and the odd colour light distant, oil lamps ruled supreme, on a dark and gloomy night in unfavourable conditions (the St Erth milk for instants) you certainly needed to keep you whits about you; you were glad to get back towards Reading. Fortunately all that has changed now, semaphore signalling still has its place on heritage lines, but no longer on a modern railway. Take care.
A brilliant video there Don and a route I'm very familiar with as I used to travel on that line some years back after getting the East Midlands Connect service from Nottingham going via Sheffield and the HVL to Warrington to visit my girlfriend for weekends ( whom I now live with). I'm also familiar with Bamford and Hope as I have driven through those towns (and Castleton) from Snake Pass and Ladybower to get to the Peaks the other side. I've had a few good days out in the Hope Valley and can't wait for more of the same once restrictions are lifted.
I do miss driving this route, I still know all the signal numbers both ways as this was the first route I signed. Its stunning no matter what time of year you drive it, cheers Don.
Thanks for another great video, Don. Another exercise in nostalgia for me as in the early 70s, before I emigrated to Australia, I worked and lived in Sheffield then the Peak District and my family lived in north Cheshire. Guess what was a regular commute for me, although sadly almost always by car! Your story of the building of Totley tunnel was interesting. The skill of those Victorian engineers and surveyors was remarkable. At present tunnels are being dug under Sydney for a new metro, using high-tech boring machines that look as though they would be at home in outer space. But I bet their accuracy isn't much better than the Victorians'. Bob Green's story of his Totley tunnel adventures is a fascinating tale too. Such recollections show what a treasure trove there is in the history of the railways.
Thanks David. There’s no denying that the modern tunnel boring machines are better, they add the tunnel lining as they go. The main advantage is that they are virtually unmanned so there isn’t a vast loss of life. It’s also not as remarkable as those early engineers either, they were hero’s.
Hi Don, I've got to agree with you about how scenic the Hope Valley line is. I miss travelling along the route from Cleethorpes to Manchester and back on days out. Hopefully when the lockdown restrictions are lifted I'll be able to enjoy travelling along this scenic route again. For the time being thanks for sharing this video.
I was supposed to be filming that Cleethorpes run but no chance at the moment. I will be showing it as far as Doncaster in the next video. I live at Chapel en le Frith so will be down the Hope Valley when conditions permit.
Soon this line to be added to the Midland Mainline Sheffield to Leicester Route by Just Trains,so will be nice to see how it will compare to the real route.
Another great video Don. It just shows that the great Victorian engineering isn't found in the big cities but in the hills, valleys and Mountains of the UK.
Dont know why but I love the junctions where we swap tracks no idea why just do lol...cheers Don... seen Hathersgate in another vid of yours but in other direction...I remember those curved glass homes.. looked 4 times still cant see the sparrowhawk lol
I always thought that the UP line on the Midland Railway was towards Derby; St Pancras being famous for the only London terminus to have the UP line pointing away from the station. I agree that, in general, the UP line was towards London (and Sheffield being north of Derby would make the UP line going south. But south of Derby, it would have turned into the Down line). I live in Cheltenham, and the UP line there is definitely towards Birmingham, with the mileage shown from Derby. i may, of course, be wrong, and that after nationalisation, they changed the direction, and so, today, it is as it is, and you are right, and if so I do apologise for ever doubting your word on that. Excellent video, by the way, I do love the Hope Valley line, and your comments are both informative and entertaining. Thank you. Alan.
Hello Alan. Don’t apologise, I’m always happy to debate things railway and I don’t profess to be always right because I’m not! However, I’ve just checked the most recent Quail map and both in the area of St Pancras and Derby, Up is definitely toward the capital. Keep in mind I don’t go there but I did produce a video of St Pancras to Derby which was temporarily taken down but will go back at some stage. Now I don’t have the Western Region Quail map but yes, I would expect Up to be towards Birmingham because lines running west to east and east to west are usually designated up towards a hypothetical centre line of the country. I sign Liverpool to Hull and in those cases, both locations are Up towards Manchester.
Another excellent video. I liked the cutaway long shots of a similar train, and the digression about the retaining wall at New Mills. I read a novel by Stephen Booth in which the walkway alongside the wall and the Goyt featured, so it was interesting to see it for real. I'm glad I've actually seen the inside of the main train shed at Mac Picc now: all the previous videos have been through trains which have used the through platforms rather than the terminus ones in the train shed. The Hope Valley line is definitely very scenic. It's a shame that (as far as I know) no-one recorded a cab view along the Woodhead line before it closed in the 1980s. I've seen some sections on film from the early 70s. In the 1980s, video cameras would have been good enough to record the whole route - I think some could write to full-size (and therefore full-length) VHS tape, though powering the camera might have been a challenge. We need a time machine so Don can go back to 1982 and ask a coal-train driver to let him put a camera in the cab ;-) It will be intersting to see Leeds/London-Derby when those videos are ready to be loaded again. Don, is there any chance that you might have a contact to let you film the Huddersfield-Penistone-Barnsley-Sheffield route? I'd be interested to see the forward view, having only seen the view from a carriage window. That's where I had my "little disagreement" about ticket validity with the Gripper From Hell... I was right, he was wrong - fortunately an off-duty ticket inspector overheard and came to my defence.
Hi Mortimer. I’ve done several videos that start or finish in the train shed so you might like a flick through. Hadfield, Rose Hill, Sheffield, Stoke and even crew all started or finished in the shed. There is a video covering the entire Woodhead Route but perhaps earlier than just before closure; ua-cam.com/video/OR6LV5Syzdk/v-deo.html I will take the opportunity to correct a few errors on the StP to Derby vid before putting it back and I was talking only yesterday with TfW and the North Wales vids can go beck real soon too. Now that route from Huddersfield to Barnsley via Penistone was on the list of imminent before Covid but I’m not sure at what stage I can resurrect it. It’s certainly a possibility although I really can’t promise it. By the way, roboguard always seems to find me too ;-) Take care.
I watched this on my XBOX when you premiered it, Don. Well I was 3/4 of an hour late, but the video is up to your usual standards (an excellent mix of high res footage and educational & historical content!). I haven't got my xbox id linked to YT so I couldn't leave a like at the time (nor join in the live chat, assuming it wasn't members only). However, leaving a like now. Cheers!
Did I see a few gantry survivors from the old Woodhead route as you joined at Ashburys? It's a daft idea but those undertaking community service could be useful in removing the litter from the PW. I used to issue ferreting licences for the railway cuttings in Norfolk.
Hi Tom. Yes you did indeed see the old 1500v overheads. It would be nice to get some help cleaning the railway up. Network Rail spend a small fortune doing it but they wouldn’t dare let the public on the railway. Somebody would end up making a claim. I’d like to get a huge excavator and dump it over the wall.
It's a lovely part of England, one I haven't visited since the 1980s when I arrived at New Mills to find that I was the only person in the town not decked out in Dickensian costume. Sadly I can't remember the reason for this, a quick look at the Wkipedia page suggests it might have been the 130th anniversary of the opening of Newtown station. But what I did discover is that New Mills is where Swizzels Matlow make Parma Violets, Love Hearts and Refreshers. A mighty claim to fame indeed!
I was brought up (read that as dragged up) in New Mills Richard. We used to hang about the “toffee works” as we called it and some of the workers would throw as sweets while they were still warm! I think the attire was probably normal for New Mills - we’re getting gas and electric soon ;-)
i had such a wonderfull time when i was in the hope valley. i would get up, catch a train to hope or edale, climb a peak and then catch the afternoon train back home.
Hi Bob. The platforms used to accommodate very long trains in the days before the motor vehicle. There was a steam engine and a rake of coaches. It must have been lovely.
Many thanks Don! A truly superb video…both entertaining and educational…plus it was beautifully presented! I was pleased you mention the child at Totley…it would have given me a fright too….children are so unpredictable and I’ve recently had a child ride across into the road on a scooter in front of my car. Gave me a fright but the poor mother running behind to catch her child was absolutely distraught. Nobody hurt though. There are many videos of narrow escapes (and one or two fatal) incidents on UA-cam. You feel so helpless up front don’t you? The nearest I’ve come to anything similar was while on duty at Ryde Electrical Control Room in 1971 (it was actually in the substation) when a large Alsatian was spooked and ran off the platform edge with a train about to arrive. I saw what was happening and tripped all five of the circuit breakers (including the Up road CB at Rowborough Sub about two miles away) to cut the 750V from the third rails but not before the dog got a ‘belt up the tail’ (apart from a little burnt fur he was okay). Driver Frank Ash, approaching powerless and coasting in the 7-car Vec-Tis ex Underground Stock unit saw what was happened and stopped in time. Dog rescued okay…but there were a number of rather shaken staff about for a while. Fortunately, the owner did not follow the dog! Next time I saw the dog, his owner had a firm grip of his lead! Please keep up your excellent video series…I learned a lot from this one (the captions are so helpful) and appreciated the image intensified views in the tunnels. Regards, Rob in Bournemouth.
Thanks Rob, much appreciated. I stopped my train at Mirfield a couple of years back to report a beagle on the line. There’s no requirement to but I was concerned that it might have an owner chasing behind and on fairly high speed line, they’d never stop. I needn’t have worried because the signaller owned a beagle and she cautioned every train until it was recovered!!!
Hi Don Thanks as always you never disappoint Perhaps you might include the Transport for Wales Video's as you mentioned in your comments you might be releasing more contents
Hi Les. Yes, in fact I spoke to TfW only this week and we are nearly ready to push the button. I’m waiting for a phone call but not regarding the videos directly but we are possibly doing a joint charity event where I support a charity in the TfW name. Just a few things to sort out then they will be back. I’ve also got some more videos from them which can be sorted like Bidston to Wrexham and Manchester to Chester via Warrington. They are sitting waiting to be edited as soon as I get the nod. I’m as eager as you are ;-)
What an amazing journey! And such an impressive history! The Hope-Valey truly is a marvel to behold! Thanks, once more Don! 🍀 On a side note; you mentioned the high variety of TOCs serving Sheffield, and I saw a TPE 185 going in the direction of Sheffield. Is Sheffield fully served by TPE? Including the 68s and 802s in Diesel mode? I'm still considering coming over to The UK for at least a couple of days this summer. If the pandemic allows travel at all, between our countries, that is. (though I don't think we'll be that far this summer..) And since I most definitely want to be around the MML, because of the Bombardier diesel intercities and the remaining hsts; I'm still furthermore wondering which specific city suits me best. Considering I'd love to see/experience/capture the amazing Transpennine fleet and anyhow intend to also travel outside of my so called 'base-city', I'm still not set on which city I'm specifically going to stay in, whenever I can come over to The UK! Cheers. 😄
Good to see you Michel and thanks to all the input on the Facebook group. Yes TPE serve Sheffield but just like the Hull line that I work on, it is the habitat of Class 185s only. The upside of having the other types in service is that we can run them as 6 car sets.
Many thanks Don .. your usual masses of interesting info even makes tunnel runs entertaining. and all just i time for a little project .. i just wish TPE did the Skegness to Nottingham run
Hi Malcolm, I wish TPE did that route too! They did do the Scarborough to Hull for Northern which would have made a great film but that was before I was making the videos and it’s gone back to Northern. Still not impossible but takes a lot more getting permission.
I salute the tunnelers and what they did..amazing what a few pieces of wood a string and lump of lead can do...also the hard work by shovel and wheel barrow of hard working brave men.. is that small signal box before tunnel still in action ? are the bags of ballast all over network the smaller filler ballast that firms up the main ballast ?
Hiya Russ. Yes, absolutely astonishing what they achieved. Yes, the small box is open but it is due to got to York ROC. The bags usually have ballast in and they have little sacks with packing ballast (fine stone) in. If they get a bad joint they will add some fine stone in. Normal ballast has a memory effect where it will always find its way back where it came from. Mixing smaller stone disrupts the memory.
That bit about waving to other drivers. I presume there is a warning signal you can give an approaching driver if all is not well? Maybe a long blast on the horn or can you switch the tail lights on at the front of the train?
Yes exactly Roger. All the new trains have flashing headlights and a driver must stop immediately if they see them. The most effective way of stopping a train comes from the new radio system. If we press the red button it sends a STOP message to all adjacent trains and none must move until authorised by the signaller.
25:31 Glenbrook activity centre on the left hand side, spent a very enjoyable week there on a school trip & I was the only one trying to find out where the railway line went to!
Thanks Don for a wonderful journey through our beautiful countryside. The views from both inside and outside the cab enhance our enjoyment. Thank you once again for pointing out the ingenuity, industry and fortitude of those early railway engineers. What a debt we owe them!
We do David. It’s astonishing what they achieved and it boosted the development of the country.
This trip has to rank with best in your library Don. Not just the scenery but the history of the Midland railway was superb. As you pointed out,the highlight of the trip was seeing that unbelievable rock wall that supports the railway. That feat of engineering was incredible but what really impressed was the wonderful, wonderful laying of all the stone blocks so precisely. That is one hell of a monument to those navvies along with that 3 mile tunnel. Another big thank you Don, Ian
Thanks Ian. It would be easy to take that wall for granted but when you consider it was done in the days of candle light and pure physical labour. It’s quite a task to build that shelf with its feet in the river and one end directly into a tunnel. Not everyone gets it so it’s refreshing to have such feedback 👍
Another first class video from Don. A history and geography lesson all in one. Should be essential viewing for any tourist.
Thanks Patrick. I try to mix up the info in each video so it broadens the knowledge of the watcher and hopefully is just interesting.
Thank you Don enjoyed that whist having my lunch! I do find your videos soooooo relaxing and you know I will watch again and again as they are stress releasers.
Hi Val - its always good to hear from you. Glad you like them and the next will be out soon.
Thanks for this wonderful footage, it brings back memories of a hiking trip to Edale in the 90s and taking the train from Sheffield to Edale. Happy times, thank you.
Thank you Jackie, yes, it’s a wonderful part of the world for sure.
I just stumbled upon this video and actually don’t watch others driving a train.
But I must say this: What a well edited video: explanations, insets in the right moment, well timed and not too fast either (so you have time to read it). There’s a lot of stuff in UA-cam but this stands out. Really good job, big thumbs up!
If you’re not a rail enthusiast I’ll consider that an accolade thanks. Actually getting the timing of the captions right isn’t at all easy so I’m glad you appreciate it.
I'm a relatively new subscriber from America, Missouri specifically. I love your videos. They're a wonderful escape from the drama of the world. I especially enjoy your commentary; you are part travel guide, part historian. Very interesting. We don't have much passenger rail in the middle of America, so this is a fun channel. Thanks!
Thanks Mark, that’s much appreciated. I try to add something different to each video so that by watching several, the watcher can gain more and more knowledge about how our railway operates. I just love the historical and architectural aspects and the other things are mainly what I think you might find interesting. I’m really pleased you appreciate them.
I had spectacular views of the Hope Valley flying a K4 vintage glider from nearby Camphill Airfield in September 1971.
Travelled by Derby Lightweight DMU from Sheffield to Edale before getting an unexpected lift to Great Hucklow.
Also walked the Pennine Way in Easter 1969, obviously starting in Edale. Lived in the Pennines in 4 different locations over a period of 22 years.
Your videos of this whole Pennine area bring back so many memories of my early years!
I’m pleased to hear it brought back memories of those wonderful experiences. Thanks for sharing that 👍
Quality cab video as usual. Always look forward to the mix of operational insights and railway history. They really make a difference. Thanks.
That’s much appreciated Geoff. I try to mix up route features, history and some of the things that interest me 👍
"Charming" doesn't begin to describe most of what's on offer on this journey. Once out of the urban sprawl of Sheffield up until just after Marple the scenery, in my humble opinion, has a timeless beauty that is well worth the time of any passenger wishing to see some of England's finest. But add the further interest of wonderful architecture that abounds in bridges, tunnels, station buildings and associated houses and the whole becomes jaw dropping, especially when you remember, or even just wonder, that most of these structures were built entirely without mechanical tools.
Thanks for sharing Don. I love these videos.
Thanks Colin. I could wax lyrical for hours on the features and architecture of our railway, let alone the scenery!
Thanks, Don, another belter. When I was a student at Sheffield, 1964-67, train travel from Liverpool was a nightmare. The through train to Hull via the Woodhead route last ran in 1963. The following year, one or two of the fast Liverpool Central trains reversed at Manchester Central each weekday, and then took the Fallowfield Loop to Guide Bridge, to catch the Woodhead train. In my last couple of years there was a single through train each Sunday afternoon from Liverpool via the Hope Valley to Sheffield Midland. I mainly remember it because in the four or five times I used it, there was always a long wait at Chinley, for some reason.
That sounds like a faff Paul. I guess the wait at Chinley would be pathing. We often get it.
Lovely Don, a nice and slow amble through lovely countryside.
Glad you liked it EM176
Lovely film Don, one of my favourites of yours; beautiful scenery and really good captions. Brilliant!
Many thanks Adrian, glad you enjoyed it.
Excellent video, thanks for producing these Don! Got some good views of line walking from Bamford and Edale recently, so was great to see this.
Yes it’s lovely down that valley whatever you’re doing 👍
Fascinating as always! What a fantastic route. The Midland Railway never lacked ambition.
Superb Steve isn’t it? Take care.
Another great trip Don, thank you. Cutting in the extra shots of the "train in the landscape" is a good idea. That's the bits you miss 𝒐𝒏 the train; these views are saved for those of us who 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ the trains, rather than just travel on, or even even drive, them.👍👌😁
One noticeable thing about this route, best seen from the cab, is the variety of bridges. I don't think I saw a single ugly bridge on the journey, even the newest ones at the Manchester end. Great stuff, as always,😁
Cheers for now,
Dougie.
Yes, the route is sensational. Those exterior shots are easy because I live nearby so I can’t always add them and I can no longer get into cabs so can’t promise to do the side shots.
Excellent video with lots of information added as well. I used to live next to the line at Grindleford 20 years ago and was looking forward to seeing my old house near the signal box but just at that moment a poster came up on the right of the picture and blotted it out! Never mind because it did not stop the enjoyment of seeing the departure from Sheffield, which I did on the train many times. It is interesting to see how it has changed from the past. The answer is not much.
Sorry about that Nigel. There are more Hope Valley trips coming up.
I like the addition of the external views, as well as the wall on the River Goyt!
Glad you liked it. I think it adds a bit of interest too.
What a great video. It is amazing what engineers of the 19th century were able accomplish without modern equipment. Thanks for sharing it.
They were astonishing weren’t they. Take care.
Another superb offering, great countryside and excellent captioning. Thanks, Don. Keep 'em coming!
Thanks, will do Ray, thanks for following.
Another great video, thanks Don this old railwayman loves them!
I’m not so young myself Kevin - another couple of years maybe then I must stop. Glad you like them, take care mate.
It's nice to love your work, more of a hobby than a job. Your knowledge of the railway is amazing, and as ever another fantastic video, thank you 😊
Thank you Paul. I could retire now but I’m enjoying myself. Don’t tell anybody but I’d actually do it for nothing 😉
Thanks for another entertaining journey! Your vids have really helped me cope with not being able to travel much in the last year.
You know, there have been a couple of times over the last year or so when I’ve got so fed up with red tape that I’ve very nearly thrown in the towel on these videos but every now and again I get a comment like this which really pulls me back. The videos have apparently helped a lot of people through this pandemic and that give me an equal kick to all the money we raise for charity. All the best.
This is a really great video of one of my favourite lines, I've recently been travelling to Edale for walks in the peaks so when you premiered this I was very excited to see what the route looked like from the cab.
I think I speed for a lot of people when I say that I really appreciate the drivers eye view videos you post, so thank you.
That’s very kind and I hope it solved a few mysteries 👍
Thanks Don, thanks for the trip info and history on the way. Excellent video as usual.
Glad you enjoyed it Jeff.
Thanks Don. That video was excellent. Wonderful scenery and the written commentary was great. I learnt and enjoyed it. I live in Australia now, but lived previously in the UK. These videos have inspired me to want to return for a visit. Thanks. Richard.
Thanks Richard. Give me a shout if you come. I’ll arrange to say hello if it fits in with your itinerary and my work etc.
I lived in Sale (Alty line) for 30+ years then emigrated to Akld NZ. I used the Alty (electric) line to connect with the (steam) train for Heyfield (Now Removed I guess ?) so knew most of this line well due to my Pennine walks - Edale also. What a 'blast from the past' - What can I say but to repeat previous many thanks - for the history too. Am impressed also with the advent of your Metro link vids. What a sensible use of old/new assets for a still growing metropolis. Very well done Don, and of course it's good to see it is all going to charity.😀
Hi Denis, thanks for the positive feedback. I lived by the Hayfield line as a kid and yes, that closed in 1970. I guess we should be grateful for what is left.
A fantastic and very informative film,thank you for sharing.
Thanks Nick.
Brilliant video Don, really enjoyed watching it. One of my favourite routes along with the Calder Valley line. Never get fed up of watching either of them.
Thanks Laurie, yes that’s a lovely route.
Great video as always. The commentary is informative and adds to the experience. I particularly liked the piece regarding the stone wall at New Mills, a truly impressive structure.
It so easy to overlook these things Steve and yet they were mammoth tasks.
I love the information in your train journeys. Many thanks.
We do something different in every video Neil. 👍
I really appreciate your appreciation of the engineering marvels along the 'Permanent Way'.
Cheers Paul, its all stuff that interests me and I’m glad you appreciate it.
Hi Don thank you for once again a brilliant video. I will have to do that journey when I get into England. The information that you give is so interesting. I have recently watched a couple of other train videos and they are no where near as yours keep up the good work and stay safe
The nice thing is Robert is that by watching it, you also donated to charity 👍. Another video coming soon.
Cheers Don, as a railway enthusiast and a keen fell walker, I've used this line on a number of occasions and as you said, its a very scenic trip. This journey was made more pleasant by the additional information that you supply us with. Keep up the good work, looking forward to the next one.
Out on the 17th April all being well Peter.
Great video Don. Thanks. I remember when it was four tracks to Dore from Sheffield Midland, the underpass, Heeley carriage sidings and Millhouses engine shed. In those far-off days both curves to the Hope line were double tracked.
Hi John, allegedly will be double tracked again soon. I was talking with someone today and there will be a second line and platform at the station and then where the line comes off the south chord there will be an option to go directly into a loop carved out of the embankment. All the best John.
Great video Don, thanks for taking the time to get it on UA-cam, it's much appreciated.
Thanks as always for your support Dixie.
Great video Don. Thanks for posting. Really loved the New Mills part. Cheers, Bob
Hi Bob. Trust you are well. Yes, I was born and brought up in New Mills and since having an awareness about railways, that wall has fascinated me...... it doesn’t take a lot to please me!!!
Great job! Thank You. Best regards from France
Thank you for the feedback.
Thanks Don, great commentary and photo highlights and sidelights, as always.
Thanks Barry. That runs through my neck of the woods so I was able to get that additional footage. However, what I’m finding now is that I’m sending cameras out to willing helpers so there may be less “add ons”. Hopefully still full of interest though.
Hi, Don! Thanks for this. Just had the luxury of watching on the telly in my living room. Not often I get chance to use that due to caring responsibilities! Great video, beautiful scenery, and your usual standard of informative commentary! Cheers :o)
My pleasure Derrick, glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you for this wonderful video. You, once again bring up the subject of Up and Down. I was employed by the Victorian Railways in Australia for 25 wonderful years. At one stage I was the Manager of the Hamilton Freight Centre in western Victoria. All the railway lines were closed by then except for the main line to Portland. North of Hamilton was is a town called Balmoral. The railway line from Balmoral to Natimuk, (I am not kidding, there is a town named Natimuk) ran North and South. Thus there was no up and down. The crews solved the problem by saying that they were going to Natimuk or Balmoral. But I did win a lot of arguments about Up and Down. Incidentally there are lots of familiar place names in the area. That was because a lot of the area was settled by migrants from England. Stan.
Thanks Stan, very interesting. We can give you a run for strange names too. All the best.
Hello I was brought up in Rowsley and can remember going on Sunday school outings from Rowsley railway station ,it shared a yard with Express dairy, as kids we loved train spotting as Rowsley once had a busy shunting yard.The highlight of many a summer evening was to watch the midland pullman speeding through on towards Manchester.regards Graham.
Hi Hilda. I was brought up in New Mills, a bit further down the line and along with my brothers and sisters used stop what we were doing when the train came through. There was always a coach with an oval window! I don’t remember ever seeing the Pullman but might not have been old enough to recognise it.
another enjoyable and informative ride. As always it evoked happy memories. Thanks Don
Glad it brought back memories for you Frank 👍
Don: thanks another great ride, nice to see the route in the Sheffield- Manchester direction, have already watched and enjoyed the Manchester-Sheffield video a couple of times, lets have some more !
Well I can help you with that soon because I’m just working on the Earles to Drax video.
Thanks for a most entertaining and informative video - thoroughly enjoyable.
Much appreciated thank you.
Thanks for a great trip ,would be great to see all that wonderful country side at the hight of summer
We might get more footage down there later in the year 😉
Another great Cabride. Don. Really like the scrolling captions at the bottom of the video.
Thanks George, much appreciated.
Another excellent video. Enjoyable as always. I liked the inclusion of passing shots of similar services as well
It was quite easy in that case Paul because I live on that route.
Always enjoy watching these POV-from-the-cab videos of these train journeys! I have travelled so often along this particular route now - almost every month for more than 16 years - nearly all of the locations and line-side features are indelibly etched into my memory!
The reason for this is, just for the record, the two Northern Trains lines to Sheffield (via Hathersage on the Hope Valley) and the commuter line to Glossop (Class 323 electrics) are the two routes that I used to spend many happy years (15 of them: 2005 to 2019) helping out with volunteering to host and run the popular folk music trains - which started in 1994 (Manchester to Edale initially) as a monthly event specifically geared towards leisurely Pennine walks and those who fancied a social gathering in the pub at the destination (in this case the Ramblers at Edale) before then expanding to take in other Northern Trains lines such as Buxton/Whaley Bridge, New Mills Central, Chester line (as far as Northwich), and then subsequently Glossop and Hathersage (extended two stops from the initial Edale destination and now adjourning at the village's Little John Inn for food, refreshments and more music).
Meanwhile from the OTHER direction around the same time, rival Pennine folk music trains would also run monthly between Sheffield to Edale (Rambler's pub) as well as Huddersfield to Penistone. These have proved so popular that they have continued largely untroubled to this day - except of course for the last couple of years when all of them have been curtailed due to Covid and lockdowns. However, I believe they are starting up again and recently the Glossop one has returned back to its usual third-Thursday-of-the-month evening slot!
For those who may not even know about these folk music trains (fully supported by Northern Trains in conjunction with the Hope Valley & High Peak Transport Partnership over the years), as a rule, the Hathersage folk trains were usually daytime ones that ran every SECOND Saturday of the month leaving Manchester Piccadilly at 11.45am and returning from Hathersage at 2.30pm, whilst the Glossop ones were an evening service every THIRD Thursday of the month, leaving Manchester Piccadilly around 6.45pm (adjourning to the town's Labour Club for more music, food and a prize raffle) before returning for Manchester around 9.40pm - these were generally more raucous given their evening time slot as, at the time, I also worked with the University of Manchester and would promote these trains with some of the students who would always enjoy coming along to these as a cheap and friendly social night out.
For anybody intrigued and interested in seeing what happens on these music trains, I have uploaded many videos of some of the different types of bands we have had on these folk trains - shared on my UA-cam channel (just click on my user name Busterabcat and check the ones I have shared since 2010). And there is also a Facebook page for all those who would like to follow/keep tabs on which trains are happening next. Who knows, perhaps you yourself Don may well have been in the train cab on a few of these journeys when some of us rowdy musicians were in full swing 'entertaining' the hordes of shoppers, day trippers and homeward-bound commuters??
facebook.com/groups/155326564543/
Well, what can I say? I don’t normally get such detailed responses so thank you for your efforts. I’ve always been aware of the folk trains because I worked for Northern until 2013, some of which as a manager. I did drive one on the Buxton Line…. possibly 2009? I also know Neil Williams very well, in fact he’s been on authorised cab rides with me. Keep up the good work and I’m just about to watch your footage.
Thank you Don and Co. These videos are like taking a virtual journey, especially in these times of lockdown etc. Poor old Ardwick Station, the Cinderella of the Manchester Rail Netowrk - lol. This will sound like heresy, but I'm not much into the train types etc but love all the infrastructure and totally agree with you regarding the work of navees and stonemasons. In particular, the routes that 'us lesser mortals' don't get to see such as the recent Liverpool Docks route you recently posted. Again, thank you thank you thank you.
Thanks Jenny and don’t worry, I’m not a big train buff either, I usually have to ask somebody else about the trains themselves. I love the history and the architecture though and I chuck in a few bits that I find interesting like biscuit factories!!!!
Well done Don, another great and informative video. Excellent stuff. Thank you.
Thanks as always BE.
Wow such beautiful scenery. Almost missed it. Was so busy reading the narration that I was missing the ride. So now I just watch the scenery. I don't know what is going on or where we are but the view is great. Nice camera work.
Sorry about that Doris. I get tongue twisted if I try to narrate but I do time the captions before the event so you can look up and see it. Thanks for the comment, much appreciated.
Starting in my home city. All very familiar. Brought back memories. Thank you.
Much appreciated Adam.
Another excellent Video. Beautiful scenery. ( and aliens in Cowburn Tunnel?) Thank you Don.
Haha, it did look a bit like that I must admit!!! All the best David.
New sub Don been super cool watching these been all up and down country with you and I don't even know you thanks for the cool experience mate ✌️
Glad you found us and good to have you aboard.
Hi Don, another great video. It would be nice to see the Hope Valley in fine weather, my first trip was on a fine summers evening from Sheffield to Edale in 1976 (for the Pennine Way). On subsequent trips either in person or on UA-cam, the conditions have been far from perfect..!
Very little appears to have changed in the Hope Valley since the late seventies, mechanical signalling still survives though not for long I would imagine. Reminds me a little of the 'West of England' mainline in my days at OOC; with the exception of the ocaasional IBHS and the odd colour light distant, oil lamps ruled supreme, on a dark and gloomy night in unfavourable conditions (the St Erth milk for instants) you certainly needed to keep you whits about you; you were glad to get back towards Reading. Fortunately all that has changed now, semaphore signalling still has its place on heritage lines, but no longer on a modern railway. Take care.
You might like the next video which covers some of the Hope Valley. It’s a better day but not exactly glorious 😉👍
And yet another highly informative video, liked the touch of the per-recorded similar train going into the curve. Thanks Don!
That feature is easy José because it comes through the area where I live. I can’t promise it for all videos though!
A brilliant video there Don and a route I'm very familiar with as I used to travel on that line some years back after getting the East Midlands Connect service from Nottingham going via Sheffield and the HVL to Warrington to visit my girlfriend for weekends ( whom I now live with). I'm also familiar with Bamford and Hope as I have driven through those towns (and Castleton) from Snake Pass and Ladybower to get to the Peaks the other side. I've had a few good days out in the Hope Valley and can't wait for more of the same once restrictions are lifted.
I live in Chapel-en-le-Frith in the next valley and I get down there as often as possible in normal times. Lovely isn’t it?
I do miss driving this route, I still know all the signal numbers both ways as this was the first route I signed. Its stunning no matter what time of year you drive it, cheers Don.
I get the feeling I must know you 😉. Thanks for the feedback.
Great video Don. Really love your cab rides. Interesting information on them as well
Thanks Ben, that’s very kind.
Thanks for another great video, Don. Another exercise in nostalgia for me as in the early 70s, before I emigrated to Australia, I worked and lived in Sheffield then the Peak District and my family lived in north Cheshire. Guess what was a regular commute for me, although sadly almost always by car! Your story of the building of Totley tunnel was interesting. The skill of those Victorian engineers and surveyors was remarkable. At present tunnels are being dug under Sydney for a new metro, using high-tech boring machines that look as though they would be at home in outer space. But I bet their accuracy isn't much better than the Victorians'. Bob Green's story of his Totley tunnel adventures is a fascinating tale too. Such recollections show what a treasure trove there is in the history of the railways.
Thanks David. There’s no denying that the modern tunnel boring machines are better, they add the tunnel lining as they go. The main advantage is that they are virtually unmanned so there isn’t a vast loss of life. It’s also not as remarkable as those early engineers either, they were hero’s.
Hi Don, I've got to agree with you about how scenic the Hope Valley line is. I miss travelling along the route from Cleethorpes to Manchester and back on days out. Hopefully when the lockdown restrictions are lifted I'll be able to enjoy travelling along this scenic route again. For the time being thanks for sharing this video.
I was supposed to be filming that Cleethorpes run but no chance at the moment. I will be showing it as far as Doncaster in the next video. I live at Chapel en le Frith so will be down the Hope Valley when conditions permit.
Great video yet again thanks. Amazing engineering on that line.
Astonishing isn’t it Alistair.
ANOTHER EXCELLENT VIDEO TAKE CARE DAN AND EVERYONE
Thanks Andrew, all the best.
Terrific, thank you. The shots of the train just west of Edale were absolute fantastic. V WD!
Thanks Geoffrey. The camera was on a tripod but the wind was blowing that hard I couldn’t keep it still!!!
Another wonderful video Don,Thank You
Much appreciated thanks.
Another very good and informative video thanks Don
Glad you enjoyed it Mel.
Soon this line to be added to the Midland Mainline Sheffield to Leicester Route by Just Trains,so will be nice to see how it will compare to the real route.
G'day Don, great to another excellent video. I like the captions giving some history of line and branches.
Richard! Great to hear from you. Glad you liked the video and the “extras”. I hope the weather is good to you where you are, take care.
This has been incredible to watch Don. Thank you soo much for sharing this and looking forward to the next one :-)
Thanks Ricky.
A really good presentation once again informative as always. Did the route once in a 142 on a diversion from Essex to Blackpool.
Crikey, that’s a long way to go on a 142! Just kidding, glad you enjoyed it.
Another great video Don. It just shows that the great Victorian engineering isn't found in the big cities but in the hills, valleys and Mountains of the UK.
Exactly Graeme, it’s amazing really.
Dont know why but I love the junctions where we swap tracks no idea why just do lol...cheers Don... seen Hathersgate in another vid of yours but in other direction...I remember those curved glass homes.. looked 4 times still cant see the sparrowhawk lol
It’s just up beyond the lifts on the same platform and as we set off it drags its catch under the fence.
Another great video. I wondered to myself if drivers waved to each other when yours approached Hope, and then the answer came up in the text!
Most of the popular answers are in the videos but you have to watch them all to increase your knowledge 😉
I always thought that the UP line on the Midland Railway was towards Derby; St Pancras being famous for the only London terminus to have the UP line pointing away from the station. I agree that, in general, the UP line was towards London (and Sheffield being north of Derby would make the UP line going south. But south of Derby, it would have turned into the Down line).
I live in Cheltenham, and the UP line there is definitely towards Birmingham, with the mileage shown from Derby. i may, of course, be wrong, and that after nationalisation, they changed the direction, and so, today, it is as it is, and you are right, and if so I do apologise for ever doubting your word on that.
Excellent video, by the way, I do love the Hope Valley line, and your comments are both informative and entertaining. Thank you.
Alan.
Hello Alan. Don’t apologise, I’m always happy to debate things railway and I don’t profess to be always right because I’m not! However, I’ve just checked the most recent Quail map and both in the area of St Pancras and Derby, Up is definitely toward the capital. Keep in mind I don’t go there but I did produce a video of St Pancras to Derby which was temporarily taken down but will go back at some stage. Now I don’t have the Western Region Quail map but yes, I would expect Up to be towards Birmingham because lines running west to east and east to west are usually designated up towards a hypothetical centre line of the country. I sign Liverpool to Hull and in those cases, both locations are Up towards Manchester.
Another excellent video. I liked the cutaway long shots of a similar train, and the digression about the retaining wall at New Mills. I read a novel by Stephen Booth in which the walkway alongside the wall and the Goyt featured, so it was interesting to see it for real. I'm glad I've actually seen the inside of the main train shed at Mac Picc now: all the previous videos have been through trains which have used the through platforms rather than the terminus ones in the train shed.
The Hope Valley line is definitely very scenic. It's a shame that (as far as I know) no-one recorded a cab view along the Woodhead line before it closed in the 1980s. I've seen some sections on film from the early 70s. In the 1980s, video cameras would have been good enough to record the whole route - I think some could write to full-size (and therefore full-length) VHS tape, though powering the camera might have been a challenge. We need a time machine so Don can go back to 1982 and ask a coal-train driver to let him put a camera in the cab ;-)
It will be intersting to see Leeds/London-Derby when those videos are ready to be loaded again. Don, is there any chance that you might have a contact to let you film the Huddersfield-Penistone-Barnsley-Sheffield route? I'd be interested to see the forward view, having only seen the view from a carriage window. That's where I had my "little disagreement" about ticket validity with the Gripper From Hell... I was right, he was wrong - fortunately an off-duty ticket inspector overheard and came to my defence.
Hi Mortimer. I’ve done several videos that start or finish in the train shed so you might like a flick through. Hadfield, Rose Hill, Sheffield, Stoke and even crew all started or finished in the shed. There is a video covering the entire Woodhead Route but perhaps earlier than just before closure; ua-cam.com/video/OR6LV5Syzdk/v-deo.html
I will take the opportunity to correct a few errors on the StP to Derby vid before putting it back and I was talking only yesterday with TfW and the North Wales vids can go beck real soon too. Now that route from Huddersfield to Barnsley via Penistone was on the list of imminent before Covid but I’m not sure at what stage I can resurrect it. It’s certainly a possibility although I really can’t promise it. By the way, roboguard always seems to find me too ;-) Take care.
What an outstanding video Don! Hope you have more in your "pocket"! :-)
Yes, working on the next one as we speak Per.
not too often two great cities are linked by a railways crossing throught such a breathtaking scenery, awesome journey. thanks for sharing
Much appreciated Mikel, thank you. 👍
I watched this on my XBOX when you premiered it, Don. Well I was 3/4 of an hour late, but the video is up to your usual standards (an excellent mix of high res footage and educational & historical content!). I haven't got my xbox id linked to YT so I couldn't leave a like at the time (nor join in the live chat, assuming it wasn't members only). However, leaving a like now. Cheers!
No, you are always welcome to join in, I’ll be glad to hear from you.
A very interesting video, thank you. I found it helpful to have your captions well in advance of the subject that you were referring to.
Thanks Roger. I spend a lot of time getting them just right so that in 99% of cases you read them then see what I’m talking about.
47:10
This man-made brick wall/shelf is incredible.
It is Mark. Glad you appreciate it.
Did I see a few gantry survivors from the old Woodhead route as you joined at Ashburys? It's a daft idea but those undertaking community service could be useful in removing the litter from the PW. I used to issue ferreting licences for the railway cuttings in Norfolk.
Hi Tom. Yes you did indeed see the old 1500v overheads. It would be nice to get some help cleaning the railway up. Network Rail spend a small fortune doing it but they wouldn’t dare let the public on the railway. Somebody would end up making a claim. I’d like to get a huge excavator and dump it over the wall.
It's a lovely part of England, one I haven't visited since the 1980s when I arrived at New Mills to find that I was the only person in the town not decked out in Dickensian costume. Sadly I can't remember the reason for this, a quick look at the Wkipedia page suggests it might have been the 130th anniversary of the opening of Newtown station. But what I did discover is that New Mills is where Swizzels Matlow make Parma Violets, Love Hearts and Refreshers. A mighty claim to fame indeed!
I was brought up (read that as dragged up) in New Mills Richard. We used to hang about the “toffee works” as we called it and some of the workers would throw as sweets while they were still warm! I think the attire was probably normal for New Mills - we’re getting gas and electric soon ;-)
Thanks for the cab ride view ✔︎
No problem 👍
I keep being drawn back to this one and Buxton one
Lovely scenery isn’t it. 👍
I spent a lot of time as a young'un watching the trains go by with my Grandad at Dore Station
It brings back memories for a lot of people Kal.
"A truly wonderful feat." (at New Mills)
Amen to that! 👍😎
Easy to take for granted that one Paul. Glad you appreciate it.
Another excellent video, thanks!
Much appreciated thanks.
i had such a wonderfull time when i was in the hope valley. i would get up, catch a train to hope or edale, climb a peak and then catch the afternoon train back home.
Glad it brought back memories for you.
Hi don, wonderful journey beautiful valley,why are some of the old stations platforms so long,cheer's bob.
Hi Bob. The platforms used to accommodate very long trains in the days before the motor vehicle. There was a steam engine and a rake of coaches. It must have been lovely.
Many thanks Don! A truly superb video…both entertaining and educational…plus it was beautifully presented! I was pleased you mention the child at Totley…it would have given me a fright too….children are so unpredictable and I’ve recently had a child ride across into the road on a scooter in front of my car. Gave me a fright but the poor mother running behind to catch her child was absolutely distraught. Nobody hurt though. There are many videos of narrow escapes (and one or two fatal) incidents on UA-cam. You feel so helpless up front don’t you? The nearest I’ve come to anything similar was while on duty at Ryde Electrical Control Room in 1971 (it was actually in the substation) when a large Alsatian was spooked and ran off the platform edge with a train about to arrive. I saw what was happening and tripped all five of the circuit breakers (including the Up road CB at Rowborough Sub about two miles away) to cut the 750V from the third rails but not before the dog got a ‘belt up the tail’ (apart from a little burnt fur he was okay). Driver Frank Ash, approaching powerless and coasting in the 7-car Vec-Tis ex Underground Stock unit saw what was happened and stopped in time. Dog rescued okay…but there were a number of rather shaken staff about for a while. Fortunately, the owner did not follow the dog! Next time I saw the dog, his owner had a firm grip of his lead!
Please keep up your excellent video series…I learned a lot from this one (the captions are so helpful) and appreciated the image intensified views in the tunnels. Regards, Rob in Bournemouth.
Thanks Rob, much appreciated. I stopped my train at Mirfield a couple of years back to report a beagle on the line. There’s no requirement to but I was concerned that it might have an owner chasing behind and on fairly high speed line, they’d never stop. I needn’t have worried because the signaller owned a beagle and she cautioned every train until it was recovered!!!
Nice ride. I love the informative captions.
Thank you, much appreciated
Hi Don Thanks as always you never disappoint Perhaps you might include the Transport for Wales Video's as you mentioned in your comments you might be releasing more contents
Hi Les. Yes, in fact I spoke to TfW only this week and we are nearly ready to push the button. I’m waiting for a phone call but not regarding the videos directly but we are possibly doing a joint charity event where I support a charity in the TfW name. Just a few things to sort out then they will be back. I’ve also got some more videos from them which can be sorted like Bidston to Wrexham and Manchester to Chester via Warrington. They are sitting waiting to be edited as soon as I get the nod. I’m as eager as you are ;-)
Nice to see Sheffield Power Signal Box is still there 👍
It’s actually closed but yes, that’s the building. Thanks Daniel.
What an amazing journey! And such an impressive history! The Hope-Valey truly is a marvel to behold! Thanks, once more Don! 🍀
On a side note; you mentioned the high variety of TOCs serving Sheffield, and I saw a TPE 185 going in the direction of Sheffield. Is Sheffield fully served by TPE? Including the 68s and 802s in Diesel mode?
I'm still considering coming over to The UK for at least a couple of days this summer. If the pandemic allows travel at all, between our countries, that is. (though I don't think we'll be that far this summer..)
And since I most definitely want to be around the MML, because of the Bombardier diesel intercities and the remaining hsts; I'm still furthermore wondering which specific city suits me best. Considering I'd love to see/experience/capture the amazing Transpennine fleet and anyhow intend to also travel outside of my so called 'base-city', I'm still not set on which city I'm specifically going to stay in, whenever I can come over to The UK!
Cheers. 😄
Good to see you Michel and thanks to all the input on the Facebook group. Yes TPE serve Sheffield but just like the Hull line that I work on, it is the habitat of Class 185s only. The upside of having the other types in service is that we can run them as 6 car sets.
Many thanks Don .. your usual masses of interesting info even makes tunnel runs entertaining. and all just i time for a little project .. i just wish TPE did the Skegness to Nottingham run
Hi Malcolm, I wish TPE did that route too! They did do the Scarborough to Hull for Northern which would have made a great film but that was before I was making the videos and it’s gone back to Northern. Still not impossible but takes a lot more getting permission.
I salute the tunnelers and what they did..amazing what a few pieces of wood a string and lump of lead can do...also the hard work by shovel and wheel barrow of hard working brave men.. is that small signal box before tunnel still in action ? are the bags of ballast all over network the smaller filler ballast that firms up the main ballast ?
Hiya Russ. Yes, absolutely astonishing what they achieved. Yes, the small box is open but it is due to got to York ROC. The bags usually have ballast in and they have little sacks with packing ballast (fine stone) in. If they get a bad joint they will add some fine stone in. Normal ballast has a memory effect where it will always find its way back where it came from. Mixing smaller stone disrupts the memory.
That bit about waving to other drivers. I presume there is a warning signal you can give an approaching driver if all is not well? Maybe a long blast on the horn or can you switch the tail lights on at the front of the train?
Yes exactly Roger. All the new trains have flashing headlights and a driver must stop immediately if they see them. The most effective way of stopping a train comes from the new radio system. If we press the red button it sends a STOP message to all adjacent trains and none must move until authorised by the signaller.
25:31 Glenbrook activity centre on the left hand side, spent a very enjoyable week there on a school trip & I was the only one trying to find out where the railway line went to!
Yes, my daughters both went there with Brownies when they were little.
Thanks for video Don, I don’t envy the steam lads going through Totley Tunnel back in the day,hope you and family are well?🚂🚂🚂
No that must have been eye watering!!! 😂