It is relatively rare to see a guard collecting train fares today but it was a new experience for passengers on this particular line when this picture was taken.

The Watford Observer is delighted to share pictures from the archive at Watford Museum and this week we look back at the scene taken on board a train almost 60 years ago.

The museum’s volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: “This Watford Observer photograph records an event on the Watford Junction to St Albans branch line - often known at the Abbey Flyer.

Watford Observer: A guard taking fares for the first time on the Abbey Flyer in January 1966. Image: Watford Observer/Watford MuseumA guard taking fares for the first time on the Abbey Flyer in January 1966. Image: Watford Observer/Watford Museum

“It was taken in January 1966 and shows a guard taking fares on board the train for the first time.

“I assume tickets were purchased on the platform before this so I imagine this new on-board service was connected with the installation of automatic barriers at Bushey Mill Lane later on in the same year.”

Watford Observer: The St Albans branch line crossing at Bushey Mill Lane c1966. Image: Watford MuseumThe St Albans branch line crossing at Bushey Mill Lane c1966. Image: Watford Museum

Visit the Museum Facebook page or website www.watfordmuseum.org.uk to see more historic photos.