Cliffe viaduct, Lewes - a scene that has gone for good.

During the run-down of services on the route in 1968-69, BR engineers discovered weaknesses in the long-neglected structure that led them to impose single line line working. This necessitated the introduction of a Lewes - Barcombe Mills 'shuttle service' that connected with trains from Uckfield and points north. In this rare view, taken as one of these 'shuttles' cautiously heads north along the viaduct, the up line is already showing clear signs of disuse.

Subsequently, Cliffe viaduct's structural problems led to the 'premature' closure of the entire Lewes - Barcombe section, with bus services filling the breach until the route's official closure date in May 1969.

Current plans for the Uckfield - Lewes link's restoration envisage a renewed service leaving the town on the London route and branching off for Uckfield near Hamsey - the original route prior to 1868.