Asking to Trainspot

[Babybirdrobin]

Good evening,

Yesterday morning I was removed from Liverpool Street platforms dispite having a valid zone 9 travelcard because you now have to ask to Trainspot and take photos harmlessly.
I understand this and have no problems with it as it helps security although I was unaware of having to ask the ‘stationmaster’ if I wanted to, even just doing it quickly while passing (I didn’t even know LST had a ‘stationmaster’).

Also, I naively assumed that this was LST exclusive so almost got chucked off at London Bridge for filming a Turbostar…


I’d just like to know how long this has been mandatory? Also, how many stations operate in this way?

Thanks people

 

[FrodshamJnct]

Good evening,

Yesterday morning I was removed from Liverpool Street platforms dispite having a valid zone 9 travelcard because you now have to ask to Trainspot and take photos harmlessly.
I understand this and have no problems with it as it helps security although I was unaware of having to ask the ‘stationmaster’ if I wanted to, even just doing it quickly while passing (I didn’t even know LST had a ‘stationmaster’).

Also, I naively assumed that this was LST exclusive so almost got chucked off at London Bridge for filming a Turbostar…


I’d just like to know how long this has been mandatory? Also, how many stations operate in this way?

Thanks people

It’s station dependent in my experience. I’ve never been approached or challenged by station staff when photographing.

 

[Shaw S Hunter]

There seems to have been an uptick in this sort of incident lately, especially in London, if posts on this site are anything to go by. Network Rail's own guidelines are reasonably explicit but I wonder if the time has come for that advice to include a list of those stations, whether managed/run by NR or a TOC, where permission from the duty stationmanager/master is required as standard policy as opposed to being merely a matter of courtesy.

 

[Babybirdrobin]

There seems to have been an uptick in this sort of incident lately, especially in London, if posts on this site are anything to go by. Network Rail's own guidelines are reasonably explicit but I wonder if the time has come for that advice to include a list of those stations, whether managed/run by NR or a TOC, where permission from the duty stationmanager/master is required as standard policy as opposed to being merely a matter of courtesy.

Ok, thanks, can you link to the NR guidelines please, just so I can take a read to understand what I should be doing?

 

[Babybirdrobin]

It’s station dependent in my experience. I’ve never been approached or challenged by station staff when photographing.

Ok, I‘m starting to assume now that unless you find the manager, you will be challenged which is a bit annoying but they are trying to increase security at stations so asking to Trainspot so they know you’re there may be a part of it.

 

[Hadders]

From Nationalrail.co.uk

Guidance for Rail Enthusiasts | National Rail

Help and guidance on trains and stations for anyone who is a trainspotter, a train buff, a rail fan, a rail enthusiast or even a ferroequinologist!

www.nationalrail.co.uk

Whether you prefer to be called a trainspotter, a train buff, a rail fan, a rail enthusiast or even a ferroequinologist, you will get a warm welcome at all our stations. Our advice and guidance will help you enjoy your passion safely

At the station​

If you are visiting a major station, please ask any member of station staff to tell the Duty Station Manager that you are there. At smaller stations just let any member of station staff know. This means they will be aware that you are on the station – and why you are there – and will be able to do their jobs without wondering what you are doing.
You may require a platform ticket to get through the ticket barriers and access platforms if you are not making a train journey.

On the platform​

Please be safe and sensible at all times. You can visit our Safe Train Travel page for more information. And always follow these rules:

• Stay clear of the platform edge and behind the yellow lines
• Do not trespass onto any area of the railway that is not available to passengers
• Do not climb on any structure or interfere with platform equipment
• Do not obstruct any signalling equipment or signs which are vital to the safe running of the railways
• Avoid wearing anything which is similar in colour to safety clothing, such as a high-visibility jacket, as this could cause confusion to drivers or other railway employees
• Avoid congregating at busy areas of the platform – such as customer information points, departure screens and waiting areas – or in any place where this may interfere with the duties of station staff

Occasionally, a member of staff may ask you to move to another part of the station, or to leave the station. Staff should be happy to explain the reasons why. Please bear in mind that they have to prioritise the safety and security of all passengers, and are authorised to use their judgement.

Taking photographs or videos​

You may take photographs or videos, as long as it is for your personal use. Commercial photography needs prior permission from Network Rail or the relevant train company.
Flash photography is not allowed. It could distract train drivers and platform staff, and is a potential safety hazard. You might be asked not to use a tripod at busy stations, as it could cause an obstruction. Also, you must keep tripod legs away from the platform edge and behind the yellow line.
You are not allowed to take photographs or videos of security related equipment such as CCTV cameras.

Rules and regulations​

You must always follow the Railway Byelaws. These cover trains, tracks and stations across the country and apply to conduct and behaviour, equipment and safety, control of premises, and travel and fares. You can read and download the Railway Byelaws, and find more information about other railway conditions and codes, on our Your Rights and Obligations as a Passenger page.

Reporting issues​

We kindly ask that you report any suspicious behaviour or activities to a member of station staff or, for more serious incidents, to the British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency, you should call 999.

 

[Lucan]

Good luck with getting to speak to the stationmaster at somewhere like Liverpool Street.

 

[Peter Mugridge]

Ok, I‘m starting to assume now that unless you find the manager, you will be challenged which is a bit annoying but they are trying to increase security at stations so asking to Trainspot so they know you’re there may be a part of it.

You don't need to find the manager as such; just go to the Reception desk ( it'll be signposted ) - they'll sign you in there and give you a prominent "Visitor" badge.

 

[Buzby]

I found myself at the Newcastle Metro recently, and wanted to capture the old stock before retirement. At Central I was told I needed a permit from Nexus, and their admin office was at South Gosforth. This was fine as I was heading out that way to start at the Airport. At the offices, I was told there was a form to fill in on the websit. Explaining that wouldn’t work as I was here, now. Staff printed out a 6-page form with a variety of T&C’s which I filled in as best I could, and handed it over - expecting some sort of permit in return.

After 5 minutes of waiting, I was told it took up to a week to process applications - I pointed out I was only there as a courtesy, and with no obtrusive equipment I doubt anyone would notice I was on the network, so the forms were torn up and binned then I departed. At no time was I challenged or asked to explain my presence - but it seems no matter what hoops you jump through, it’s never enough!

 

[Babybirdrobin]

You don't need to find the manager as such; just go to the Reception desk ( it'll be signposted ) - they'll sign you in there and give you a prominent "Visitor" badge.

Ok, thank you, that‘s helpful!

 

[Train Maniac]

Ive found flashing my sunflower lanyard (a legacy from COVID) at approaching station staff/security usually does the trick. Just shows you arent up to any trouble