Unfortunately my memories of steam at Worcester are somewhat faded now. I started as an engine cleaner in August 1964, then was promoted to fireman at the end of that year. As you probably know, promotion was not on merit, but on seniority. I was just lucky that there was a shortage of firemen at the time I started.
The photo above was taken in October 1964, and was published in Rail News, the BR staff magazine. From L-R Chris Smith, Alan Collins, Fred Jones (in charge of the cleaners), Myself and (I'm not sure of the person on the right, but I think his surname was Hemming)
It is the only photo I have of myself at Worcester. I have one or two which I took from the footplate of the Shrub Hill pilot, but they are of poor quality. I also have a large group photo, taken on the same day as the one of the cleaners, which features about thirty or more of the shed staff, and was, possibly, also published.
As for anecdotes, I shall have to give this some thought. My memory is not good at the best of times, and this was cracking on for forty years ago. But what I must do, is get into my loft, and gather together all my notes which I made at the time, to see if they can jog my memory. My strongest memory is of working on the Shrub Hill station pilot, usually a pannier tank. 4680 and 3682 were two which come to mind. Incidentally the station pilot was known as the 'Joint Shunter'. I'm only guessing, but I've thought since that that was a reference to the fact that Shrub Hill may once have been a joint station, GWR and Midland. My biggest regret was not writing down, at the time, some of the tales which were told in the engine mens' cabin (mess room). I think the hours of sitting about waiting for trains developed their story telling skills, but, unfortunately, as I say, my memory isn't up to the job.
I can't actually recall the last day of steam, maybe I was not on duty. For a lot of the staff, the withdrawal of steam was a blessing, as it was hard and dirty work. But for me, young and keen, it was a sad disappointment. I continued to work on the foot plate, on diesels, right up to 1973, at which time I took voluntary redundancy.
Once again I'm not sure, but I assume steam engines stayed at Honeybourne for banking right up until the last day of steam. My friend Chris (in the photo) transferred there (against advice) and was made redundant when steam was withdrawn.
I hope this helps, and if I can think of anything else which may be of use I'll let you know.
Best wishes, Brian
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