A comprehensive and illustrated history of the Staines Branch, which was opened in stages from 1882 onwards, but was closed following the Beeching Report. The line remained open to freight until it was severed to allow for the construction of the M25 motorway in 1981.
The book follows the construction of the line and looks at how it was used throughout its existence. The route is also surveyed, including the intermediate stations. The reasons for the closure of the line are also examined.
Chapter List:
- Beginnings and Early Schemes
- Construction Begins, 1873-1883
- Opening to Colnbrook, 1882-1884
- The Staines Extension, 1884-1885
- Nineteenth Century Developments, 1885-1900
- A Great Western Branch Line, 1900-1939
- The Second World War and its Aftermath
- Postwar Steam Operation
- Auto Service Finale, 1948-1958
- The Route
- The Stations
- Passenger Decline and Closure, 1958-1965
- A Freight Only Branch
Each chapter is well-illustrated with archive black & white photographs, maps and diagrams. Hardback. 246 pages.