The picture that epitomises my childhood memory of Marlborough station - a sudden burst of activity mid afternoon after hours of slumber. Following the July 1958 timetable changes, there was no weekday passenger service following the 09.05 departure to Savernake until these two services crossed between 15.42 and 15.49. This photo was taken sometime after those timetable changes as 31809, at the head of the Southampton service, carries the 'B' class headlamp code as the train now stopped at every station between Cheltenham and Andover. Prior to July 1958, it was deemed an 'express' as it omitted calls at Foss Cross and South Cerney!

My father, Fred James, can be seen by the first coach of the Southampton train, walking away from the camera. I don't think he would have been too impressed had he known the photographer (unknown) was trackside!

Resting by the kitchen door of the Refreshment Rooms on the far left, oblivious to all this activity, is proprietor Harold Trotman's dog, Jill.

The rear of the 14.50 Andover Junction - Swindon Town service can be seen on the left.

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