First opened in 1898, and having an operational life of just over sixty years, the 12 mile branch line between Newbury and Lambourn was an early casualty of a nationalised network keen to rid itself of the less profitable aspects of its operation. In essence, the fate of the Lambourn branch mirrored that of many other lines. First born out of a need to serve a local community, it was later deserted as the community began to look elsewhere, thus abandoning the railway it had once cherished. In 2007, nearly half a century after these events took place, a chance conversation and a subsequent meeting revealed a wealth of new material on this historic line. This gem of a book features an abundance of unpublished photographs, undiscovered facts, and a unique personal insight into the daily operation of the line. Certain to entice and intrigue railway historians and enthusiasts around the country, it will also appeal to the local community who remember the days when the railway was an important part of daily life.