Rye in 1979

(All 19.2.1979)

The Ashford to Hastings line only just survived - it was slated for closure in the 1970s. It was a diesel outpost in a mainly electric area and retained much charm in the 70s.

30 years and one month ago there was snow on the ground as I visited the line from my home in West Sussex. I think at this time the whole ine was still double track, some singling has taken place since. At Appledore there was, and indeed still is, a long branch line to Dungeness nuclear power station. This once continued to New Romney with an interchange with the 15 inch gauge Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. This line now of course gives East Sussex a direct link with the continent with a change at Ashford.