Cambrian Coast "Pull cable" board

[Haywain]

Travelling on the Cambrian Coast line a few days ago I happened to notice this sign just outside one of the stations (possibly Harlech).it was positioned at a height suitable for the driver to operate. So, having not seen one before, I am curious to know its purpose - is it a means of operating a level crossing?

 

[godfreycomplex]

Travelling on the Cambrian Coast line a few days ago I happened to notice this sign just outside one of the stations (possibly Harlech).it was positioned at a height suitable for the driver to operate. So, having not seen one before, I am curious to know its purpose - is it a means of operating a level crossing?

It is indeed

 

[Haywain]

It is indeed

Thanks. Would the same thing be in place at Porthmadog? I saw a driver activate the crossing there (Pwllheli bound) but thought it was a plunger/push-button arrangement.

 

[Wilts Wanderer]

There used to be a pull chain at Barmouth as well. A similar arrangement exists at Eggesford on the Barnstaple branch I think?

 

[1955LR]

Llandrindod Wells on the Heart of Wales line is another

 

[Trainspecial]

There used to be a pull chain at Barmouth as well. A similar arrangement exists at Eggesford on the Barnstaple branch I think?

Yes

 

[Gloster]

If this is the arrangement that I think it is, I have a recollection that there used to be a similar arrangement on the Colne Branch, possibly at Chaffers. Unfortunately, the locals used to amuse themselves by smearing unpleasant substances on it just where the driver would place his hand, so I believe that there were plans to remove it.

 

[alistairlees]

Thanks. Would the same thing be in place at Porthmadog? I saw a driver activate the crossing there (Pwllheli bound) but thought it was a plunger/push-button arrangement.

It is the same at Porthmadog

 

[Western 52]

Also at Llandovery on the HOWL I think.

 

[Haywain]

Thanks for the answers, much appreciated and curiosity satisfied!

 

[The Planner]

If this is the arrangement that I think it is, I have a recollection that there used to be a similar arrangement on the Colne Branch, possibly at Chaffers. Unfortunately, the locals used to amuse themselves by smearing unpleasant substances on it just where the driver would place his hand, so I believe that there were plans to remove it.

Dog Sh*t crossing. Its been sorted now.

 

[Harpo]

I’d noticed signs on both Portmadog and Barmouth platforms instructing drivers to wait until the MA is extended before operating the crossing, suggesting they’re not interlocked.

 

[Haywain]

I’d noticed signs on both Portmadog and Barmouth platforms instructing drivers to wait until the MA is extended before operating the crossing, suggesting they’re not interlocked.

The MA?

 

[Purple Train]

The MA?

Presumably Movement Authority.

 

[Lewisham2221]

The MA?

Movement Authority

 

[geoffk]

Dog Sh*t crossing. Its been sorted now.

I remember travelling across this one on the Colne branch. Amazing what keeps the locals amused. How does it operate now?

 

[Harpo]

Presumably Movement Authority.

Sorry - yes.

 

[Haywain]

I’d noticed signs on both Portmadog and Barmouth platforms instructing drivers to wait until the MA is extended before operating the crossing, suggesting they’re not interlocked.

That would suggest to me that it's to make sure they don't operate the crossing too soon (if that's what you mean, I apologise).

 

[edwin_m]

That would suggest to me that it's to make sure they don't operate the crossing too soon (if that's what you mean, I apologise).

Probably both correct. If the MA was interlocked so it required the crossing to be operated, then the crossing would have to be operated first. But it makes sense to establish that the train has permission to proceed before trying to stop road traffic.

 

[Elecman]

If this is the arrangement that I think it is, I have a recollection that there used to be a similar arrangement on the Colne Branch, possibly at Chaffers. Unfortunately, the locals used to amuse themselves by smearing unpleasant substances on it just where the driver would place his hand, so I believe that there were plans to remove it.

Correct it was Chaffers

 

[godfreycomplex]

Probably both correct. If the MA was interlocked so it required the crossing to be operated, then the crossing would have to be operated first. But it makes sense to establish that the train has permission to proceed before trying to stop road traffic.

All correct - those crossings are classified as TCO (Train Crew Operated) and therefore aren’t interlocked with any signalling (and haven’t been since RETB was introduced)