CAN any of our readers throw any light on what was the little known railway station of Grimethorpe Halt?

It was situated between Shafton and Grimethorpe and it even boasted a waiting room. However, this had very little comfort on cold winter days. In fact, it was nothing more than a dilapidated old railway coach only fit for the scrapyard. It had no glass left in its windows and with this missing there was nothing to stop the cold and draught coming through.

A single carriage train known as "The Little Annie" and to some the "Push and Pull" ran along the line. It was said it "pulled" to Wakefield and "pushed" back to Grimethorpe. Fares were collected from passengers by a conductor.

The train only stopped to let passengers get on board when they put their hands out - just as if they were stopping a bus. So, it must be assumed travellers must have had a good sight of the track as it approached.

From what can be seen on the photograph, it appears the only access to the station was down a flight of steep steps near to the railway bridge. There is a lady passenger waiting for the train who seems to be looking at the notice board. She must have made the somewhat hair-raising descent on to the platform.

There are some steps on the opposite side of the track for passengers which have the luxury of a hand rail. But, even in those days, crossing the track on foot to get to the other side would have been frowned on by the railway authorities.

Ex-Shafton resident Derek Taylor, who now lilves in Doncaster, has submitted a photograph of Grimethorpe Halt. "I can remember using the train on a couple of occasions, but I can't remember anyone using the waiting room. It was better for passengers to stand outside so that the driver could see them and stop in time."

If anyone has any information about the station please contact Kath Parkin, Editorial Department, Barnsley Chronicle, 47, Church Street, Barnsley. S70 2AS.