EAW002944 ENGLAND (1946). The Newark Works, Lower Bristol Road and environs, Bath, from the south-east, 1946

The train shed at Bath Green Park Station 9/3/2014

This photo shows the aftermath of the Bath Blitz of 25/26 April 1942 on Bath with a number of bomb sites in view. We also see the Bath Midland railway station which is a favourite with railway enthusiasts. We can see how the railway was still important for freight traffic at that time. We can see the Bath gas works and we can see the smoke and steam being given off. Personally seeing the photo I can recall the taste of the fumes which pervaded the air in the vicinity. The smells have gone but some of the gas holders remain today. There are also examples of Georgian architecture to be seen. The area has changed considerably today.

This photograph is useful in showing some of the devastated areas of Bath following the Baedeker Raids of 25/26 April 1942. As an example I could not believe my eyes when I saw the complete destruction of a little street which I remember personally from the 1950's. Victoria Road must have been completely rebuilt.

What a resource for railway modellers! This photo will be of enormous interest to most railway enthusiasts as it shows the goods yards, engine sheds and Bath Midland Station just before nationalisation.