1960-1969
The 1960s brought changes worldwide and of course locally. Around Britain the Beeching Report on the railways indicated closure of many train lines, including the one that came through Tipton and went on to Budleigh Salterton. The station finally closed in 1967.
The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was established, which included Venn Ottery but stopped just outside Tipton St John. Development of new housing was under way. Some extreme weather conditions were experienced, Tipton suffered flooding, the bridge was washed away, and Prince Philip visited to inspect the damage.
The Tipton Times was launched! First edition published in 1969 and still going strong today.
Click on any photo below to see a full size image.
1960s undated
The railway station was quite busy – steam trains, then diesel ran through Tipton.
Football and tennis clubs were active.
The school flourished…
1963
East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty designated. (Venn Ottery is within AONB, but not TSJ.)
Steam trains mostly replaced by diesel.
Snow 10 feet deep some places. Groceries brought in by tractor
1964
Diesel train at TSJ station.
1965
Land for the Playing Field purchased by the village.
1966
Land for the Playing Field purchased by the village.
1967
Last passenger train via Tipton.
Tipton railway station closes.
Angela Court (formerly part of orthopaedic hospital) opens as retirement home.
Summer Fair Princess crowned.
1968
Bad weather brought flooding to Tipton: the bridge was washed away, houses were flooded. Prince Philip visited to inspect the damage.
A temporary bailey bridge was built by the army.
1969
First edition of the Tipton Times was published – still going strong today!
