Each generation looks back wistfully to its youth, and for many the 1950s and 60s represent a golden era. Summer on the Western, compiled by Leslie Price, captures that essence using images taken by Richard Charles “Dick” Riley, one of the most accomplished railway photographers around at that time. Born in 1921 in South London, Riley’s daily commute to school sparked a lifelong passion for steam engines, particularly the Great Western Railway (GWR). From an era when children could freely explore the countryside, Riley’s work immortalises those moments for future generations. His photographs were taken predominantly in black & white and reflect the simplicity and charm of a time when colour photography was still in its infancy. Riley’s meticulous notes and contemporary timetables allow us to dive deep into the details of each scene he captured.
This book takes readers on a journey across post-WWII Britain’s Western Region during the 1950s and early 60s. From Paddington to the serene landscapes of Wales and the picturesque routes to Penzance, Riley’s camera documented a time when railways were the nation’s lifeblood. His personal vehicle, a Morris Minor Convertible, enabled him to explore remote parts of the Western Region, capturing the essence of a rapidly changing world. Riley’s photographs range from the quiet solitude of Abbotsbury to the rugged beauty of Dartmoor and the industrial valleys of South Wales. These images, many of which have been featured in other publications, have now been brought together to provide a greater knowledge of his work.
173 black & white photographs. Hardback. 160 pages