I think I'm beginning to see the Wood for the Trees ! (although I'm not sure whether there is actuall a light at the end of my personal tunnel, Beechings cuts perhaps).

Prior thread:

Joseph GRINDLE 1813 -> Coach Co. Cinderford
http://www.forum.forest-of-dean.net/index.php?id=812

BUT what about that "oil merchant" stuff ?.
Not "petrol" aka filling station presumably