Steam Around Reading

A tribute to this glorious age of steam around Reading

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Brunel's main line from Paddington to Bristol was, and still is, the most important of the Reading railways. For over 125 years steam dominated this great route, its green-liveried engines, adorned with brass and copper trim, each exhibiting the characteristic style that typified the designs of the Great Western Railway. Among the photographers who regularly recorded the railway scene at Reading was Walter Gilbert, whose trademark was quality. Wally, as he liked to be known, took his camera both east and west from Reading. Captured here through the lens of his camera are striking reminders of the years between 1950 and 1963 - so different from the modern experience of high speed trains and turbo units. Taken from the collections of a number of other enthusiasts, Kevin Robertson illustrates locations such as Henley-on-Thames and Didcot and shows locomotives and trains both at work and at rest. This superb collection of photographs will evoke strong memories for many, and prove an important guide to this part of our railway heritage.