THE feature on the 'Big Gun' certainly caused a lot of interest in Okehampton. It caused retired railwayman Gerald Smallacombe to do some more research and from former railway colleague Arthur Westlake he learnt that the train driver selected for this secret and important mission was Horace Stratford, based at Exmouth Junction.
Such was the requirement for this great train, that there were three engines, a War Dept leading from the front with a steam train and an early diesel at the rear.
The train stopped at Okehampton for water and 50 gun crew, support staff and rail workers all descended on the station buffet for well deserved refreshment, which must have put a drain on their food resources in wartime!
It was following this that the great train made its way to Halwill Junction, although it must be wondered how a train of that magnitude could ever be kept secret.
Mike Wreford
Okehampton