The Train Now Departing

First transmitted in 1988, this programme charts the dramatic changes that have taken place across Britain’s railway network since the 1960s and the subsequent 20-year period following the end of the steam age. The programme includes an examination of events surrounding the proposed closure of the Settle to Carlisle line, one of the most magnificent stretches of railway line in England. Over 72 miles long and England’s highest mainline, it was known as ‘The Long Drag’ by the men who worked the line. The film follows activists comprised of railwaymen, rail enthusiasts and local residents who are rallying together to fight this proposed closure.

First transmitted in 1988, this documentary follows the daily journey to Mallaig on the West Highland Line. Since the 1980s, the line has been served by a restored K1 steam train provided and maintained by a group of steam enthusiasts. The train driver, Callum MacRaild, describes his working day as the journey progresses through some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe.

First transmitted in 1988, the Waterloo to Exmouth train route became very popular after World War Two, with enthusiastic passengers keen to embark on self-planned expeditions in the more rural climes of Exmouth. Railway enthusiast Barry Smith was one such passenger who travelled along this route on the 'ACE', the Atlantic Coast Express, during his childhood. In this episode, Barry retakes the journey in the hope of rekindling his boyhood enthusiasm for this once popular railway route. En route Barry comments on the dramatic changes that have taken place since the age of steam.

First transmitted in 1988, this programme explores the history of the narrow-gauge steam locomotive network that has served the Isle of Man since the 1870s. 'One disadvantage of train sets is that they aren't big enough.' So says Anthony Smith, who narrates the story of the Isle of Man's steam network. Steam engines might have been phased out decades ago but, thanks to local volunteers, the Isle of Man's lines have been restored and preserved for the pleasure of thousands of holidaymakers each year.

First transmitted in 1988, this episode looks at how the humble industrial railway lines are emerging from the shadows of the more traditionally glamorous passenger lines. Anthony Smith looks at steam engines used in industry and visits Amberley Chalk Pits narrow gauge railway museum, Castle Donington power station and the site of old ironstone works in Oxfordshire. At the dawn of rail transportation and during their peak, private industrial lines covered thousands of miles of Britain’s railway tracks. Sadly their heyday came to an abrupt end and much of their legacy has been forgotten. Through the efforts of keen rail enthusiasts who are working to restore old industrial locomotives and rolling stock, their legacy will not be lost.

First transmitted in 1988, preservation societies strive to keep services running for new visitors 20 years after the last passenger steam train ran on mainline railways. Accompanied by footage of engines on the Bluebell Line and the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway, enthusiasts talk about their passion for steam and why all the hard work involved in restoring and operating a steam train is worth it.