Now well into Wolds country, the villages are separated by large expanses of open farmland. The number of points at which the line can be accessed declines, explaining perhaps the lack of photographs taken beyond Widmerpool. South of Stanton Tunnel, the line was occasionally prone to an influx of stray sheep.

Looking north through Bridge 33 (115m 60c) in Sep 1967

South of Stanton Tunnel was a set of catch points, and another bridge not accessible to the public. This was removed in September 2000 as part of the Alstom Test Track refurbishment. The reason for removal is unknown. The following two pictures were taken (with permission) during the summer 2000 just before the bridge was removed. You will notice a concrete wall adjacent to the Up track - which I believe was put in to protect wild flowers.

Looking north from Bridge 35 towards Stanton Tunnel in summer 2000 before restoration began

Looking south from Bridge 35 in summer 2000 before track restoration began

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Copyright Colin Aldworth 1989 - 2004