• Visitors can check out the Forum FAQ by clicking this link. You have to register before you can post: click the REGISTER link above to proceed. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below. View our Forum Privacy Policy.
  • Want to receive the latest contracting news and advice straight to your inbox? Sign up to the ContractorUK newsletter here. Every sign up will also be entered into a draw to WIN £100 Amazon vouchers!

Dilton Marsh

Collapse
X
  •  
  • Filter
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts

    Dilton Marsh

    Was it worth keeping the Halt open,
    We thought as we looked at the sky
    Red through the spread of the cedar-tree,
    With the evening train gone by?

    Yes, we said, for in summer the anglers use it,
    Two and sometimes three
    Will bring their catches of rods and poles and perches
    To Westbury, home for tea.

    There isn't a porter. The platform is made of sleepers.
    The guard of the last train puts out the light
    And high over lorries and cattle the Halt unwinking
    Waits through the Wiltshire night.

    O housewife safe in the comprehensive churning
    Of the Warminster launderette!
    O husband down at the depot with car in car-park!
    The Halt is waiting yet.

    And when all the horrible roads are finally done for,
    And there's no more petrol left in the world to burn,
    Here to the Halt from Salisbury and from Bristol
    Steam trains will return.
    John Betjeman.

    ...and I am pleased to report it's still open for business as I've just hopped aboard the 15:03 to Warminster.

    Request stop only these days, mind you.

Working...
X