Glorious Devon

Glorious Devon 1958 SR WR Part 2

By Mike Traves and the GD58 Team

DESCRIPTION

Foreword:
This is Mike Traves' last route and one of his many contributions to Train Simulator. The route reflects his dedication to Train Simulator and providing a quality freeware route, for all to enjoy. Both Geoff (JustGeoff) and Ken (Ausc) had the pleasure of working with him on this build. His train simulator influence extends as far back as MSTS, but he is probably best known in our community for creating Glorious Devon 1958. A recreation of the railway lines between Exeter and Plymouth. This release completes both the SR & WR routes from Exeter to Plymouth. The route is a lasting memory of his work and please take the time to give Mike and his family your thoughts as you enjoy the route.

Description:
The section of the former Great Western Railway that runs across the South Devon Banks to Plymouth from Exeter and its branch to Kingswear is one of the most famous and picturesque locations in England that has captured many people's hearts.

The alternative Southern / ex-LSWR route climbs through farmlands to Okehampton then across northern Dartmoor and down to Tavistock, terminating in Plymouth Friary Station. A scenic but less busy route servicing many small holiday communities in north Devon.

GWR and SR would run trains along both routes in order for drivers to familiarise themselves with the branches in case an emergency detour was necessary. “Glorious Devon” recreates the area as it would have looked in 1958 after which the Beeching changes took effect.

Significant research has been undertaken to achieve the closest possible authenticity, recreated in digital, for Train Simulator. It was a period of great transition for Britain's railways, from much loved steam traction – Manors, Halls, Castles and Kings, to early classic diesel hydraulics – Hymeks, Warships and Westerns on the GWR route, along with Bullied light pacifics King Arthurs, Schools, T9, S15’s and many other smaller classes on the Southern portion.

Colour light signals were just making an appearance around Plymouth and the diesel shop at Laira was in the first stage of construction. The iconic Intercity House at Plymouth North Road station had yet to be built. Glorious Devon offers great potential for scenario writing, from local passenger services, to inter regional expresses to London, the Midlands and beyond. Although the location is predominately rural, freight services were varied too, including coal distribution and fuel for a 40MW power station, livestock, milk, fruit, fish and china clay and ballast. There is much to discover, from rail connected docks to stations long since closed but now brought back to life. The route comes with several excellent scenarios.

Enjoy Glorious Devon!

Route Contributors:

Mike Traves (aka meonia)
Geoff Harrison (aka JustGeoff) for route research and scenarios.
Ken Collett (aka Ausc) for Route Research, Signals and Scenarios.
Laurence (Oldoakcom) Andis Signals and Trackwork
AndiS Signal Packs and Support

The route has many supporters and contributors during development. Their on going support is appreciated and the GD1958 team wish to thank them for their contribution.