TAKING a train ride for pleasure has been curtailed at present in these difficult times, and so, sadly, has a Liston Hall presentation that I was going to give this month, in conjunction with the Marlow Society, showing vintage films of “The Marlow Donkey” and the line from Marlow to Maidenhead, plus the connection that once existed between Bourne End and High Wycombe.

I suppose a new date might be arranged when the world returns to normal, but who knows when that might be?

However, on a similar subject, above is a local page from a very entertaining and well illustrated book - “Britain From The Rails, A Window Gazer’s Guide” by Benedict Le Vay.

This page brought back distant memories of Ford’s Blotting Paper factory at Loudwater and their tall sign-written chimney.

I have added a few pictures from my own collection of both Bourne End and Marlow stations.

Before the Marlow extension was added in the 1870s, the former was called “Marlow Road”.

The author does not appear to realise that Marlow used to be titled Great Marlow, and in fact many of us wish it still was.

However his suggestion of rebuilding the old station is a marvellous idea, although it is even less likely to happen than the punishment designated for our Mayor.

It’s hardly Mr Scott’s fault anyway: our marvellous Victorian station was tragically demolished back in 1968!

“Britain From The Rails”, with its many photographs and line drawings, will make us all want to hop on a train again whenever we are able, and there are some especially nice chapters on rail lines in my annual holiday destination: Wales.

One of the best books I have come across in the last year. It is published by Bradt Travel Guides of Chalfont at £16.99.

However, as result of checking that I had permission to copy their page, they have very kindly offered a 50% discount to Marlow Free Press / Bucks Free Press readers if you order via the website.

Visit bradtguides.com/shop and enter code DREAM50 at the checkout.

Contact Michael on michael@jazzfans.co or 01628 486571