1984

 

In early 1984, a ten-vehicle EPB formation is seen departing Strood, working a Gillingham to Charing Cross service. On the right can be seen the now vacated site of the engine shed, which was demolished in 1970. On the left is Strood Dock Basin. Behind the EPB formation can be seen the still operational goods yard. Within the latter can be seen a mix of vacuum braked HTV's and air braked HEA's, which would either have been conveying domestic coal for sale to local merchants or local industrial users. The absence of any coal stocks within the yard would suggest that the photo was taken after the commencement of the National Miners Strike in March 1984 for the duration of which most coal movements were stopped although certain dispensations were granted such as industrial coal for hospitals. © Chris

1984

 

This second 1984 view is taken at ground level, and shows a Class 33 bound for the tunnel portal, hauling Sheerness Steel scrap wagons. In the foreground is the redundant dock basin, which was still complete with lock gates (albeit derelict). Sidings still existed immediately beyond the wooden posts on the left. © Chris

1984

 

This 1984 view of Strood goods yard is full of interest. In the centre is Vulcan Foundry diesel shunter 0-4-0 ''Telemon'', which can now be found at Oswestry on the Cambrian Railway. Behind ''Telemon'' is an 0-6-0 shunter built by Hudswell Clarke in 1959, which had been acquired by W. M. Cory from the Port of Bristol Authority. It still wore the blue livery of its previous owner. In the foreground, on the left, is an ICI caustic soda wagon, a traffic which the photographer does not remember as being frequent at the yard. © Chris