A RAILWAYMAN’S VIEW VOLUME ONE – WESTERN REGION

While we are used to printed books, it’s worth giving thought to eBooks with the ease of access for reference plus the ability to look more closely at imagery to look at more detail. A Railwayman’s View - The Photographs of Peter Collins is especially suited to this. Peter Collins was a railwayman for two decades, including the fabulous BR blue era. This is the first of four volumes, which depicts the Western Region, with the Midland, Eastern and Southern Regions to follow, and I can’t wait!

The story starts with an introduction that validates Peter Collins’ experience with the operational railway and it is with that eye we get to see a fantastic black and white collection of images that range from the atmospheric and arty through to well-composed shots brimming with detail of interest to the modeller. This was a time when a modernising railway ran within steam-age infrastructure, so the appeal is wider than to those who have a fondness for hydraulics and the corporate blue years. Over 150 captivating images are curated into the geographical areas from London outwards with a wide variety of shots within each section covering the mundane in the form of commuter multiple unit services through to rarely pictured unique items such as the GWR Directors’ Saloon and the ‘Whitewash Coach’. Adjuncts to the main subject matter are often noted such as the period road vehicles, which incidentally appear in numerous shots that are similarly evocative in taking us back half a century to our father’s or, indeed, our first cars. Nostalgia is a powerful thing and it’s certainly here in these images, whether it be trains in the landscape or fume-filled canopies.

As modellers, our eyes will be drawn to the inspiring detail to be found in yards, on platforms, or the lineside; detail so often missed on typical three-quarter train and locomotive shots. Pack the cheese sandwiches and Corona and breathe in the atmosphere!

The eBook is priced at £20 and may be made available in print at a later date for a higher price based on interest.