Born by accident, financially insecure, difficult to operate and mostly unwanted throughout its existence, the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway has nevertheless gained legendary status amongst enthusiasts and modellers alike. EVAN GREEN-HUGHES looks at what made this line so special and why it is so well remembered even today.
Above: A fleet of 11 Fowler ‘7F’ 2-8-0s were built specifically for the S&D in two batches in 1914 and 1925. All 11 remained in service into the BR era – the last being withdrawn in 1964. On June 17 1960 53803 heads a northbound goods near Evercreech. David Hepburne-Scott/Rail Archive Stephenson.