Southern Steam - The Westerham Branch [1 of 3]

[JimTLonW6]

I was sorry that the attempt to preserve the line failed; in 1961 the environment in which these schemes were floated was very hostile. The Ministry of Transport of the day vigorously tried to frustrate early schemes; see the saga of the Kent & E Sussex and their Tenterden level crossing.

[chrainmad]

extremely saddening to watch in more ways than one-as its my grandfather driving.He retired in 65 and worked mainline diesels which he didnt like.

[AustinSomerset]

I was sad to see that even the Green fields left around Dunton Green Station up until the mid nineties have now been built all over, when passing through a year or so back. It doesn't seem that long back that it was with Riverhead, still a village. I suppose the next stop will be filling the fields twixt Otford Station and Kemsing with houses! Glad I left the South East really. Lovely to see this though, thank you.

[commanderfairfax]

Thanks for reminding me of my youth - living in Orpington this was the nearest steam branch line and I can still remember the ancient rolling stock with its incredibly noisy wheels!

[Mounhas]

@commanderfairfax

I also lived in Orpington, probably about the same time as you, and of course being near London meant ability to see diverse engines from all regions, and cabbing on the Westerham branch line, lurching around. Sweet memories. Remember the push and pull between Sevenoaks and Tonbridge.

Thank you S.R.F.

[whitechapelone]

beautiful video's.  Thanks for posting.