The Great Western Steam Retreat: Chasing the Final Steam Trains in BR’s Western Region, Wales and the Welsh Marches

By Keith Widdowson (softback, The History Press, 235pp, www. thehistorypress.co.uk, £16.95, ISBN 978-0-750998-07-9).

HERE is an evocative account of the author’s extensive travels behind steam locomotives during the final years of steam operations from 1964 onwards.

The main focus is on GWR/ WR steam, though by no means exclusively! Keith vividly recaptures the complex world of steam railway working through this account of his Herculean efforts to achieve haulage behind as many different locomotives as possible – covering huge mileages and investing much time in the process. Real dedication and commitment was essential.

Though GWR/WR steam ended notionally at the end of 1965, Keith’s efforts continued and in 1966 he managed 35,575 miles of steam haulage – an amazing figure!

Here is the world of rundown sheds and locomotives, where the terrific efforts of staff and crews kept steam operations going in the face of much official neglect and imminent closure of many important lines. However, in this situation Keith chronicles some extraordinary high-speed feats by footplate crews on locomotives

facing withdrawal and scrapping.

The book provides a window for us to revisit the final years of steam and experience journeys that can never be repeated. The author’s monochrome photographs do much to enhance the atmosphere that is caught so well in this excellent book. WINDOW ON LAST GASPS OF WESTERN STEAM