LBSCR E1R 0-6-2T No 32697 on pilot at Exeter St.Davids on 18 June 1959.

Peter Kerslake says "Red Cow crossing here at the London end of Exeter St. Davids was where Southern Region engines deployed on pilot and banking turns and assisting workings bound for Exeter Central via the severe gradient would wait for their next call to duty. 32697 is taking a breather with the Western Region crossing keeper in the background as this was a particularly dangerous crossing, the keeper necessary to prevent wayward pedestrians straying on the line.
32697 seen here was the last of her class housed at Exmouth Junction for these duties, remaining at Exeter until November 1959 when it was sent to Eastbourne."

Photo: K.L. Cook / Rail Archive Stephenson