Berkswell: A Quiet Stop with a Royal Past on the West Coast Main Line

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes near Coventry, West Midlands, lies Berkswell Railway Station. At first glance, it might appear to be a modest two-platform stop on the mighty West Coast Main Line. However, delve a little deeper, and you uncover a fascinating history, surprising connections, and a quiet significance that belies its humble appearance.

The images capture Berkswell on a somewhat overcast day, showcasing its functional, yet well-maintained, platforms. The presence of overhead lines is a clear indicator of its electrified status, and indeed, you can see modern trains like the Avanti West Coast Pendolino arriving and departing, a testament to its role on this crucial artery of the British rail network.

A Station with Evolving Identities

The story of Berkswell station begins in 1839 with the completion of the London and Birmingham Railway. Initially, the line passed by without a stop in this precise location. It wasn't until 1844 that the first station opened, known then as Dockers Lane. The name game began in January 1853, when it was rechristened Berkswell. Interestingly, in February 1928, it became "Berkswell and Balsall Common," acknowledging its closer proximity to the latter village. However, around 1959, as electrification works commenced on the line, the name reverted simply to Berkswell, a designation it has retained ever since. The electrification itself was a significant undertaking, finally completed in 1974, dramatically modernizing the line and the station's operational capabilities. The remodelling during this period likely shaped much of the station's current layout, as seen in the clear, uncluttered platforms and modern fencing.

Echoes of a Bygone Junction and Royal Connections

One of the most intriguing aspects of Berkswell's past is its role as a junction. Just south of the station, a line once branched off towards Kenilworth. This connection, operational from March 2, 1884, until March 3, 1969, is no longer in use, but the siding track where trains once ran is still visible. Today, this old line is being transformed into a greenway, offering a new lease of life to a piece of railway heritage.

Even more captivating are the stories associated with this very siding. It is known to occasionally house the Royal Train, and members of "the Firm" (the Royal Family) have reportedly spent nights onboard while parked here. Furthermore, history whispers that even Sir Winston Churchill himself is said to have overnighted in this quiet siding. These anecdotes lend a remarkable, almost secretive, air to Berkswell, hinting at its strategic utility beyond regular passenger services.

Modern Functionality and Passenger Flow

Looking at the station today, as depicted in the photos, it boasts two platforms, clearly marked, serving trains heading north towards Birmingham New Street and south to London Euston. The tracks are well-maintained, and the overhead electrification lines crisscross above, a constant reminder of the high-speed traffic that uses this route.

A notable upgrade to the station's infrastructure occurred in 2004 with the removal of a level crossing to the south of the platforms. This was a crucial development, replaced by a bridge, enabling the line to accommodate more high-speed trains safely and efficiently.

While Berkswell station offers minimal facilities, these are functional and meet the needs of its commuters. You can spot waiting shelters on both platforms and ticket machines, ensuring ease of access for passengers. There are no public toilets, but a car park is available for those arriving by road. The station is typically manned during selected hours, providing a human presence for assistance.

In terms of service, Berkswell enjoys a respectable two trains per hour in each direction, connecting it to two major urban centres. Before the global disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic, Berkswell saw significant passenger traffic, with 334,000 users recorded in the 2019/20 period. The pandemic, of course, had a dramatic impact, causing passenger numbers to plummet to just 52,916 in the first year of the virus. As travel patterns continue to normalize, it's expected that Berkswell will once again see its numbers rise, reaffirming its importance to the local communities of Berkswell and Balsall Common.

In conclusion, Berkswell Railway Station is more than just a stopping point on the map. It's a place where history intertwines with modern functionality, a quiet witness to the evolution of rail travel, and a surprising link to some of Britain's most prominent figures. Next time you're passing through, spare a thought for the stories held within its tracks and platforms.

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The siding that occasionally houses the Royal Train can be seen to the
right of the mainline. This used to be the junction of the
Kenilworth Line.

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A Fleeting Glimpse of Tile Hill: A Station's Enduring Story

Sometimes, a single photograph, captured in a hurried moment, can tell a surprisingly rich tale. Such is the case with my solitary image of Tile Hill Railway Station, snapped quickly on January 18, 2017, as my train to Berkswell was just pulling in. Living some 100 miles away, it's unlikely I'll ever return to this spot, making this one picture the sum total of my visual record of the station. Yet, even this fleeting glimpse, combined with the station's history, paints a vivid picture of its evolution and importance.

Tile Hill serves the suburbs of Coventry in the West Midlands, strategically located on the vital main line railway connecting London Euston and Birmingham New Street. Its origins trace back to 1850 when it first opened its doors as Allesley Lane. A couple of name changes followed, to Allesley Gate in 1857, before finally settling on Tile Hill on April 1, 1864 – a fitting name for a station deeply embedded in the local community.

Originally, the station featured staggered platforms on either side of the Cromwell Lane level crossing. This layout remained largely unchanged for over a century until the transformative 1960s. The electrification of the main line necessitated a complete rebuild of the station into its current, more modern form. Further significant changes arrived in 2004 when the old level crossing was replaced by a bridge, and a new platform connecting bridge was constructed, enhancing accessibility and safety for passengers.

My photograph, taken with a Nikon D3300 SLR, captures this modern iteration of the station, showcasing the broad, open platforms and the overhead footbridge connecting them. The digital display board, though slightly obscured, gives a sense of the constant rhythm of arrivals and departures.

Tile Hill has historically been a bustling hub. With a ticket office open seven days a week at various times, it typically saw an impressive average of approximately 700,000 passengers per year. However, recent times have presented significant challenges. A combination of car park developments and the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a dramatic drop in numbers, plummeting to just 107,000 during the 2020-21 period. This represents an average reduction of around 11,000 passengers per week, a stark reminder of the widespread effects of global events on local infrastructure.

Despite this recent downturn, Tile Hill remains a crucial link in the railway network, offering two trains per hour in both the Birmingham and London directions. My quick snapshot may be the only visual souvenir I have of this station, but it serves as a portal to its rich past and its enduring role in connecting communities. It's a testament to how even a hurried moment can encapsulate a significant story, prompting reflection on the constant evolution of our transport systems and the ever-changing lives they serve.

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UK Rugby League Grounds from Above

Rugby League isn't just a hobby for me; it's a deep-rooted passion, particularly when it comes to my beloved Halifax Panthers. For years, they were known as Halifax RLFC, a club steeped in history with a legacy that includes four league championships and five Challenge Cup victories. While our glory days of consistent Super League presence are a little further back – we've been a mainstay of the Championship since our relegation in 2003 – the fire of fandom still burns bright.

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A New Perspective: From Spectator to Aerial Documentarian

My journey into a unique creative project began with a pivotal moment in the sport: the Super League's decision to deny Toronto Wolfpack re-entry. This move opened up a fascinating bidding process, creating an opportunity for Championship clubs to ascend to the Super League and for League One clubs to vie for a spot in the Championship. This reshuffling ignited a new curiosity in me, specifically about the grounds of the League One clubs.

What started as a simple interest quickly evolved into an ambitious idea: creating short aerial videos of each club's stadium. My initial plan was to focus solely on the League One grounds. However, I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the process. It was a refreshing departure from my usual creative endeavors, offering a new perspective and a technical challenge I truly enjoyed.

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Expanding the Vision: A Full League Showcase

That enjoyment led to an expansion of my project. I realized the potential to create a comprehensive visual record of the sport's infrastructure. Consequently, I extended my aerial tours to include all the Championship clubs and, ultimately, every Super League club's home stadium. The result is a unique collection that not only showcases the diverse venues of Rugby League but also offers a bird's-eye view of the heartlands of this incredible sport. It's been a truly rewarding experience, allowing me to combine my passion for Rugby League with a newfound love for aerial videography.

League 1.

Beyond the familiar Super League and Championship, a vibrant, albeit often overlooked, tier of professional rugby league exists: League 1. This dynamic competition currently comprises ten ambitious clubs, each vying for promotion and a slice of the sport's higher echelons. Far from a static entity, League 1 is a hotbed of potential expansion, with an intriguing array of prospective teams eyeing future admission, hinting at a truly international flavour for the competition.

The whispers of expansion are particularly exciting. Imagine the return of the Toronto Wolfpack, a club that previously disrupted the rugby league landscape with their transatlantic ambitions, bringing a renewed North American presence. Joining them could be the Ottawa Aces, whose 2022 confirmation marked a significant step in the sport's Canadian footprint. The allure of the Big Apple beckons with the potential inclusion of a New York City team, promising to tap into a vast, untapped market. Further afield, the prospect of teams from Belgrade and Valencia speaks to rugby league's burgeoning global appeal, hinting at a truly pan-European competition. Domestically, the sport's grassroots are stirring, with potential new clubs from Bristol and Liverpool signalling a desire to re-establish strongholds in key English cities.

For the upcoming 2021 season, the battle for promotion will be fiercely contested by a diverse group of clubs, each with their own unique history and aspirations. From the Cumbrian strongholds, the Barrow Raiders and Workington Town will bring their traditional rivalry and passionate support. The Midlands will be represented by the Coventry Bears, a club steadily building its presence in a less traditional rugby league heartland. Yorkshire's rich heritage will be on display with the likes of Doncaster RLFC, Hunslet Hawks, and Keighley Cougars, all boasting proud histories and determined to climb the ladder. London's enduring commitment to the sport will be championed by the London Skolars, while the ambition of the North Wales Crusaders highlights the sport's growing footprint across the Celtic nations. Finally, the Rochdale Hornets and West Wales Raiders complete the line-up, each bringing their own brand of resilient rugby to the challenging League 1 arena.

League 1, therefore, is more than just a third tier; it's a melting pot of established clubs, ambitious newcomers, and fascinating international prospects, all contributing to the rich tapestry of professional rugby league. The future of the competition, with its potential for significant expansion and increased geographical diversity, promises to be an incredibly compelling narrative for fans of the sport.

Championship.

The Betfred Championship isn't just a rugby league competition; it's arguably the most competitive and unpredictable league in the entire British rugby system. Imagine a battlefield where the margins are so fine that a strong opening to the season could be the very thing that propels a team towards promotion to Super League, or conversely, condemn them to relegation. This isn't hyperbole; it's the thrilling, high-stakes reality of the Championship.
The 2021 season, in particular, was a testament to this cutthroat environment. Fourteen formidable clubs lined up, each with aspirations of glory or the desperate need to secure their survival. The roster was packed with storied names and ambitious challengers: Batley Bulldogs, Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury Rams, Featherstone Rovers, Halifax Panthers, London Broncos, Newcastle Thunder, Oldham RLFC, Sheffield Eagles, Swinton Lions, Toulouse Olympique, Whitehaven RLFC, Widnes Vikings, and York City Knights.

Every single fixture in this league carries immense weight. The difference between a promotion playoff spot and the drop zone can often be just a handful of points, or even a single try. This intense pressure cooker environment forces teams to perform at their absolute peak week in and week out, leading to enthralling contests, unexpected upsets, and dramatic season finales. It’s a league where grit, determination, and tactical prowess are just as crucial as individual brilliance, making it a compelling watch for any rugby league enthusiast.

Super League.

The Super League stands as the pinnacle of professional rugby league in the United Kingdom, holding the prestigious position of being the second-highest-ranked competition globally. Its intensity and passionate fanbase make it a captivating spectacle for sports enthusiasts.

Following the unfortunate withdrawal of the Toronto Wolfpack, the Leigh Centurions earned their promotion to the Super League, ensuring a robust 12-club competition for the 2021 season. These twelve formidable teams battle it out annually for ultimate glory, each boasting a rich history and dedicated supporters.

The line up of clubs that make up this elite league includes:

• Castleford Tigers: Known for their fiercely loyal fanbase and attacking flair.

• Catalans Dragons: The sole French representative, bringing a unique international flavor and a powerful, physical game.

• Huddersfield Giants: A club with a long history in the sport, always a tough opponent.

• Hull FC: One half of the passionate Hull derby, renowned for their strong forward pack.

• Hull Kingston Rovers: The other half of the Hull rivalry, often characterized by their tenacious defence.

• Leeds Rhinos: One of the most successful clubs in Super League history, boasting multiple titles and a reputation for exciting rugby.

• Salford Red Devils: A resilient team known for their attacking ambition and never-say-die attitude.

• St Helens RFC: Widely regarded as one of the most dominant forces in modern rugby league, with a consistent record of success.

• Wakefield Trinity Wildcats: A club with a strong community presence and a history of passionate performances.

• Warrington Wolves: Often contenders for major honours, playing an expansive and entertaining brand of rugby.

• Wigan Warriors: Another titan of the sport, with a storied past and a reputation for developing top-tier talent.

Each season delivers thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, and incredible displays of skill and athleticism as these clubs vie for the coveted Super League trophy.

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A Glimpse into the Past: A Postcard from Leamington

There's something truly special about old postcards, each one a tiny window into a moment in time. Among my collection, one particular card stands out, offering a charming glimpse into early 20th-century life and a minor historical puzzle.

Sent to "23 Bramble Street, Coventry," the postcard is dated either September 6, 1901, or 1907. The printed "1" in the year looks quite convincing for 1901, but a quick dive into the history of the featured landmark throws a delightful wrench into that assumption!

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The Mystery of the Mill Suspension Bridge

The star of this postcard is undoubtedly the Mill Suspension Bridge in Leamington Spa. This beautiful bridge, which still stands today, officially opened to the public in 1903. This immediately tells us that the postcard couldn't have been sent in 1901, making 1907 the more likely date!

The bridge is a Grade II listed structure, as is the weir beneath it. Its name comes from the site of the town's water mill, a vital source of water for Leamington, which was demolished in 1899. The bridge's design is even thought to be inspired by London's famous Albert Bridge across the River Thames.

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A Message from Emily

The postcard bears a warm message from a cousin named Emily to "Dearest Annie & Arthur." While I can't quite make out their surname, the sentiment is clear:

"Dearest Annie & Arthur, I thought perhaps you would like a postcard of Leamington, my dear sister & I were both there yesterday, it is a beautiful place but I (can't make the word out but thinks it's discovered) you have both been. I shall come over to Coventry sometime & see you because you were both so kind the last time, we are having some beautiful weather now, so we shall both be very pleased to have you both over at Melton when it is most convenient for you to come, so with love & best wishes to you both I will say, goodbye from your loving cousin Emily"

It's a lovely snapshot of family connection, discussing visits and good weather – simple pleasures that transcend time.

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Good Luck and Old Pennies

The Mill Suspension Bridge has a charming, if now forgotten, tradition. Until Britain adopted decimal coinage in 1971, it was popular for people to throw pennies and half-pennies from the bridge into the weir below. This act was once considered good luck and a way to honour the Gods. It's safe to assume this tradition continued and brought good fortune to those tossing coins long after the bridge's opening.

This little postcard, initially a small puzzle, has opened up a fascinating story of local history, family ties, and old superstitions. It's a wonderful reminder of how much history can be contained in such a small piece of paper!

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