I was always suprised, given that it was the heart of the system how grotty Swindon Station was, however it was so much better than the modern replacement!

Peter Kerslake says "This view depicts 5351, a local Swindon based engine at this time, with what appears to be a Class "K" pick up freight on the "down" through road at Swindon station.
5351 appears to be coupled to just a brake van so could well be just about to set off westwards to collect her wagons as her tender is piled high with a fresh load of coal rounds.
Yes, the station does appear rather uncared for and run down, but it was still a good place for the local enthusiasts of the times, providing a first class vantage point to see the vast amount of passenger and freight traffic passing through during those happy days."