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Above:
The
line from KIllin Junction to Killin closed on 28th September 1965,
the section from Killin to Loch Tay having closed on 9th September
1939 just six days after the start of World War 2. The junction
was a remote spot and so the Caledonian Railway constructed cottages
for the use of railway staff, but this was all that remained of
them in May 2006. The railway cottages at the equally remote Riccarton
Junction in Northumberland have been repaired, but time is running
out for these Scottish survivors. (Bob Prigg)
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Above:
Part way along the trackbed to Killin, this pile of moss-covered
sleepers was encountered. The neat stack suggests that the demolition
gang might have intended to recover them, but here they remain over
40 years later. May 2006. (Bob Prigg) |
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Above:
As
the railway skirted around the east side of Killin, it crossed the
River Dochart by this substantial 5 arched viaduct. The trackbed here
is now a footpath, which enables locals to savour the views once enjoyed
from the carriage window. May 2006. (Bob Prigg) |
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Above:
North east of Killin on the long abandoned section to Loch Tay,
the old railway is again used as a footpath, including this bridge
over the River Lochay. If you wish to follow in our members' footsteps,
the link here
gives details of a scenic 3 mile railway walk around Killin. May 2006.
(Bob Prigg) |
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Above:
The main line through Killin Junction ran from Callander to Crianlarich
and Oban, and fortunately this railway remains open west of Crianlarich.
The Callander to Crianlarich section was closed a few weeks ahead
of Dr. Beeching's schedule due to a rockfall in Glen Ogle, where the
12 arch Glen Ogle Viaduct now carries a high quality Sustrans cycle
trail. History repeated itself in 2004 when a further landslide blocked
the route, but it is now open again and very popular at weekends
it's little wonder, really, considering that the alternative route
through the glen is the busy A84. May 2006. (Bob Prigg) |
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Above:
This
photograph shows the new surface on the deck of the viaduct, which
apart from offering cyclists an incredibly smooth ride
also prevents water getting into the fabric of the structure and causing
frost damage during the winter months. Our member on the left has
taken the tougher route for the sake getting of a good photograph!
May 2006. (Bob Prigg) |
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Above:
This
classic view of Glen Ogle Viaduct in the landscape makes it very
clear why such a structure was needed here. Photographer Peter Stubbs
has captured the viaduct in other seasons, and two of his pictures
can be viewed by clicking on the link here;
the colours in autumn are particularly remarkable. The reuse of
this fine monument to the age of steam is a credit to all concerned.
May 2006. (Bob Prigg)
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