The passing earlier this year of Keith Beddoes was a sad loss, as he was the founding father of the Severn Valley Railway, leading the way in saving the historic line in the 1960s and laying the groundwork for its revival as the popular attraction it is today.
But his death has been a loss to railways more generally, as he was a railways historian and author, who over the years was kind enough to share some of his photographic collection, and his knowledge, with the Star.
His spirit lives on in the enthusiasm of the SVR volunteers who bring the world of steam to modern-day passengers who enjoy a trip along the preserved line.
So thanks Keith, and thanks too for giving us the opportunity to showcase a selection of your photos, many featuring the SVR line, giving a window on Shropshire’s railway past.
1. Heavy stuff
"GWR 2-8-2 tank No. 7221 propelling a train of oil tanks over Coalbrookdale viaduct circa 1955. Wellington driver Joe Burdon was in charge of the train which had originated at Farley oil depot on the Much Wenlock branch - the heaviest tank engine to be used on the Severn Valley line." | Keith Beddoes
2. Line closure signalled the end
Coalport signal box, on the Severn Valley line, in the 1950s. Keith told us: "Built in 1895, the absence of finials at the ends of the roof suggest it was a GWR Type 6 signal box, with sliding sashes in every window bay. After the Severn Valley line closed to passengers in September 1963 the box remained open for goods traffic until the end of November, finally closing on December 2, 1963." | Keith Beddoes
3. Making sure there are no slip-ups
Unloading salt at Coalport Station. Salt was for spreading on platforms in snow and frosts, and was stored in the old weighbridge office, nicknamed the salt house. On the left is Alf Bowdler. Keith's photo came originally from Mrs Joan Higginson. | Keith Beddoes
4. Arrival of a royal visitor
"Worcester 'Collett' 0-6-0 No. 2241 in the sidings at Coalport having just arrived with the special train carrying the Duchess of Kent on board, Monday, May 27, 1957. The next day, after an overnight stop, the train took the Duchess to Bridgnorth for her official visit to the town. On the left is the former weighbridge office which in 1941/42 was reinforced with concrete and used as a pill box to guard the river crossing and ammunition trains." It's another picture originally from Mrs Joan Higginson. | Keith Beddoes