A Society for people who study aspects of railways and a focal point for railway documentation
In the 1950's and 60's train spotting was the most popular non-sport hobby in the country. When the West Coast Sightings Sheets project commenced in 2000 it was hoped we could make some progress in creating reports showing actual engines on actual trains on the West Coast route. It seemed an almost impossible task at the time but we have now had over 1000 enthusiasts share their notes with us and we have produced some comprehensive reports. Booklets are available for certain years and are listed below. There is still a considerable way to go with this project and every month, with enthusiasts help, we are able to enhance the records. We would love to produce other reports but they all take considerable time to create so we can only do what we can in the time available. Our area of coverage is Euston to Scotland via both Birmingham and the Trent Valley through to Holyhead, Liverpool, Manchester, Blackpool and Barrow. As part of the studies we also record "cross traffic" in the Manchester/Liverpool/Blackpool triangle and also on the North Pennine routes.
Please note that we record steam and diesel locos but not electrics.
Train spotting notes
The basis of our research
Here are examples of train spotting records. Obviously the most detailed records are of the most value but even lists of numbers can prove useful. On a given day we will likely have someone else out spotting so your basic notes might confirm engines, especially if the two observers are at relevant locations. We gets lots of queries so extra notes always help. Shed logs are also useful as they show us where certain engines are/were so we can then bear this in mind when studying that day.
We are particularly interested in workings around Carlisle, especially engine changes and overnight trains. Did you travel through or do any spotting at Carlisle 1948-68. If so we would like to hear from you.
WCSS Booklets
We have now created 16 booklets containing data for the given year and area. These are done in batches and, depending on demand, may become unavailable. Our booklets are done in two styles namely FULL ROUTE and PRESTON.
FULL ROUTE covers Euston to Carlisle including Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester sections. All daytime passenger and main parcel trains are shown from approximately 8am to 8pm. The 1960's versions cover EVERY Saturday of the year whilst the 1950's versions cover summer Saturday but include a North Wales section too. Occasionally we produce a weekday version.
PRESTON covers the summer Saturdays of a given year but in much greater detail. Trains are shown in order of time due including specials and freights. Where known timings and loads are given.
CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ARE:-
FULL ROUTE 1956, 1959, 1960, 1962, 1963 and 1964....these are £9.95 plus £2.70 postage
PRESTON 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964...these are £12.95 plus £3 postage
Currently being created are 1954 and 1965 versions
To purchase please contact Chris Coates
01204 690122
wcss@btinternet.com
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