Recent content by ex-probationer

The old Barnham mechanical box closed in Nov 2008 after the Barnham resignalling, when the new Barnham panel box opened.

Obstacle detection is an automated alternative to a Signaller looking at a CCTV and pressing 'Crossing Clear'. Consequently, Obstacle Detection crossings are not provided with CCTV for the Signaller.

Completely agree that the gate stops and latches are missing. It is usual for crossing gates to be physically locked across the road, by using a gate lock lever, which also releases the interlocking for the protecting signal levers. I think the drive rodding linking the crossing gates must...

If my memory serves me correctly, 2-aspect, Stop & Distant signals from Trowse Junction to Haughley Junction with a 3-aspect at Diss in the Down Direction.

This is the link to the Network Rail website, which may provide the answers you are looking for.... https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/wessex/north-downs-line-signalling-upgrade/

Is the location of the mystery item just past the exit of a major goods yard, past or present? The only 'low-coupling detector' I knew of, was located on the Up Harwich Line leaving Parkeston Quay. The unit sat in the 4-foot and when triggered caused an alarm on the panel at Parkeston SB. I...

Just a guess, perhaps it's the remains of a 'low-hanging coupling' detector? Many, many years ago, they were a response to dealing with smashed AWS magnets.

I've just checked, as I took photo's of Canterbury West on 17/07/2008, whilst on duty. Seems there were two at that time, not sure if they still exist. Also found in my collection, a Yellow GPL photographed at Gillingham, Dorset on 5/11/2009. This was before the West of England...

Nobody seems to have mentioned Dullingham (Key-Locks), adjacent to the station. I understand there are still some User Worked Crossings on Public Roads in Anglia, though Belaugh Road and Coltishall Road on the Cromer Line have recently been commissioned as AHBs.

I seem to remember the boundary was close to Cattishall crossing, approx half-way between Thurston and Bury, when I was leading an Ipswich based S&T Fault team in the mid 1980's.

I found this link about the use of the GSMR yellow (Sig) button - Urgent call button to the Signaller, on the Network Rail website. It has the layout of GSMR Driver's Control Panel.

I remember there being a hump marshalling yard either side of the GE mainline between Goodmayes and Chadwell Heath in the early 1970s.

Not for certain, the signals CDB20 and CDB20R were old and of an unusual circuit design that I had never seen before nor since. The lamps in both signals were fed from 110v/12v AC with the 110v AC being switched from Hampden Park signal-box, rather than the standard style where the lamps are...

I can confirm the 3-asp signal was CDB 20, sorry the photo is poor quality, it was taken by myself on duty in 2005.

I'm guessing many of these AHB crossings could become MCB Obstacle Detection crossings, as the consultation documentation only appears to specify consideration of Full Barriers.