£18.95
Martin Dean, Kevin Robertson, Roger Simmonds
Publication Date: 2003
Format & Edition: Hardback, Revised Edition
Pagination: 122 Pages, 156 Illustrations
Condition: New
Genre: LSWR
Status: In Stock
The Basingstoke and Alton Light Railway by Martin Dean, Kevin Robertson and Roger Simmonds.
The railway from Basingstoke to Alton was the first line authorised by the 1896 Light Railways Act, yet the reasons for its construction have always been in doubt. The traditional view, that it was built as a ‘blocking line’, is now questioned for the first time.
Opened in the summer of the Edwardian era, the line was closed in 1916 and its rails sold to assist the war effort. There the matter should have rested, but a vigorous campaign by the local population ensured that the track was relaid, against the wishes of the railway company, a unique achievement.
Unusually the branch was to feature in two full length films – The Wrecker (1928) and Oh Mr Porter! featuring Will Hay in 1937.
This illustrated book is the product of many years of research.
Early Schemes and Early Dreams
The Advent of the Light Railway
Making of the Line
A Rural Railway – Line Described
The Early Years
Fight for Re-instatement
Decline with Immortalisation
Cliddesden Station
Herriard Station
Bentworth and Lasham Station
Epitaph