All,
Being in the Wear area with family allowed me to visit the current Out Of Use Sunderland South Docks Branch, which runs from (I can't remember the name of it...) Junction, approx 3 minutes on the train heading towards Seaham from Sunderland into the South Docks.
Having walked the whole length of the line (apart from in the Docks) the line is in reasonable condition, with all track intact and, with some repair, reasonably useable.
My research, and information from family, has informed that the branch was used in the 80's and 90's by both Oil and Coal trains, with Classes 37 and 56 being primarily used.
There was also an engine shed there, with pictures proving this, and thus showing that the branch must have been well used.
What I am trying to find out is both what the services are that used it, and roughly when were the last services along the branch.
The last important bit of evidence I came across was a small EWS sign screwed into the trackbed about half way along, proving that the branch has been used after privatisation, but when and by what???
Here's some photos I have come across :-
http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1980964
http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1980429
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pinzac55/2716699006/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pinzac55/3518192265/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/magility9/4362534953/
the other but of info I have found is on the South Dock homepage, showing a pair of Industrial Shunters on the Dock, which were nowhere to be seen, apart from a small 2 road shed locked up, could they be inside here...
http://www.portofsunderland.org.uk/rail_connection.php
Anyone information or reports from anyone???