Signalling problems: Dorchester - Moreton 26 Feb

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A signalling problem between Dorchester South and Moreton is causing major problems this morning, with 7 trains cancelled between 0951 and 1213 (Dorchester South timings); others were cancelled earlier.

The current estimate for resolving the issue is "before the start of service on Friday 27th February."

My friend, an ex-signaller, is incredulous that a better service can't be provided.

I wonder what kind of problem this is?

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 26 Feb 2026 ==

My friend has just added this:

"if points are involved it would require a qualified member of staff to secure them (clip and scotch) and act as hand signalman!"

Journeycheck (source of information)

 

[trentside]

Looks like it was a track circuit showing occupied on the single line.

 

[Brush 4]

Another example of BR rationalisation causing problems years later. Used to be double track there. Sal - Exeter is of course the best/worst case.

 

[Midland Man]

Looks like it was a track circuit showing occupied on the single line

So pilot working needed - but presumably could use modified working of single lines for a specified period or number of trains.

 

[vikingdriver]

So pilot working needed - but presumably could use modified working of single lines for a specified period or number of trains.

It's not listed in the sectional appendix as having modified working available to be introduced. Not to say you 100% can't though, the page on the Network Rail website is from December 2009.

 

[Midland Man]

It's not listed in the sectional appendix as having modified working available to be introduced. Not to say you 100% can't though, the page on the Network Rail website is from December 2009.

Ah getting a Pilot might take time but I agree with the ex signaller's comment as an ex signaller/ inspector myself.

 

[Falcon1200]

My friend, an ex-signaller, is incredulous that a better service can't be provided.

There may be factors we, and your friend, are unaware of, eg staff availability, the effect on the service east of the affected area if trains run through, and whether line blockages are required to find, identify and repair the fault.

It's not listed in the sectional appendix as having modified working available to be introduced.

When I was responsible for introducing Modified Working there was a list of areas where it was authorised - If it was not on the list it did not happen!

 

[swt_passenger]

It's not listed in the sectional appendix as having modified working available to be introduced. Not to say you 100% can't though, the page on the Network Rail website is from December 2009.

I believe the date at bottom left is the last reprint of the whole document, or section. The latest update to an individual page is in a box at top right and is often much more recent. It’s not a lot newer, but pages either side are much more recently changed, so it is being regularly altered.