Marcus' Model Railway Journey

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The Up and Down Dean and Main lines looking towards Fisherton Tunnel in 1963 and in the 1970s

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Factors affecting the severity of consequences

The driver’s cab of train 1L53285

There was a loss of survival space in the driver’s cab of train 1L53.

The initial impact between the two trains was between the front left corner of the driver’s cab of train 1L53 and a point around the leading right-hand side passenger doors of the fourth carriage of train 1F30.

The driver's cab of train 1L53 suffered a loss of survival space that was likely to have led to serious or fatal injuries to the driver, had he not vacated his seat just before impact.

Examination of the surviving parts of the cab structure from the leading carriage (57802) of train 1L53 showed that the front left cab corner pillar became overloaded and failed.

This pillar would have carried much of the force resulting from the collision.

Cab of train 1L53 (additional damage was caused by the fire and rescue service during the extraction of the injured train driver)
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Internal sliding vestibule doors

Damage to the internal sliding doors on the train obstructed evacuation routes and prevented train crew from accessing carriages to assist passengers.

Class 158 and class 159 trains have their exterior doors located at each end of the body.

The area adjacent to these doors, commonly referred to as the vestibule, is separated from the main saloon area by ‘bi-parting’ sliding doors.

The purpose of these doors is to improve passenger comfort, by isolating the saloon area from draughts when the exterior doors are opened.

Each saloon to vestibule door has two door leaves.

These meet in the middle of the doorway and are power operated such that each leaf opens to its respective side.

The vestibule doors are electrically operated, and each leaf moves on runners located above the door aperture.

Analysis of CCTV footage recovered from the carriages and interviews with witnesses identified that, in the immediate aftermath of the accident, at least three of these doors were unavailable to passengers.

Image showing jammed vestibule door of the leading carriage of train 1L53
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24th October 2023

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TRANSPORT FOR WALES

Changes to Barmouth rail replacement service​

Transport for Wales (TfW) has announced changes to its rail replacement service in Barmouth due to road closures beginning in early November.

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WCP Barmouth​

Transport for Wales (TfW) has announced changes to its rail replacement service in Barmouth due to road closures beginning in early November.

Church Street in Barmouth is set to close for eight weeks from Monday 6 November to allow Welsh Water to complete repairs to a damaged sewer.

The road currently forms part of the route for the TfW rail replacement service which is in place between Machynlleth and Pwllheli while Network Rail carries out work on Barmouth Bridge.

The main diversion through the town will be via the Quay but due to a low bridge the larger coaches currently operating the rail replacement service are unable to use this route.

Changes to the rail replacement service are:
  • The semi express services between Machynlleth and Barmouth will be operated by alternative vehicle types which can follow the diversion via the Quay. This trip will include an additional 10 minutes running time to account for the slower running of this type of vehicle.
  • Semi express Services between Barmouth and Pwllheli will continue to be operated by coaches.
  • There will be a 10-minute bus-to-bus connection planned at Barmouth with a bus coordinator present to ensure these connections are maintained.
  • The arrival and departure times at Machynlleth will remain the same and times amended forward/back from there as this is where train connections have been planned.
Ben Clifford, TfW road transport manager said: “We’ve been working closely with the local authority and our bus providers to try and minimise any disruption to our rail replacement service when the road closure is in place.
“We’re confident we have a robust plan in place and we will have extra staff on the route to help passengers using our services during this time.
“Due to the changes we would encourage passengers to check for the latest travelling information before making their journeys.”

For more information visit Passengers and travellers | TfW

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24th October 2023

Stray cats find a ‘purrfect’ home in Lancashire railway depot​

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Image shows (left to right) Northern colleagues Simon Crabtree, Matt Lodge with Max the cat, Gary Pennington and Steve Gordon with Ginge the cat
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Nearly ten years ago, an apparently stray cat who was skinny, cold, and hungry, turned up at Northern's train depot at Blackpool North in Lancashire.

The staff at the depot took pity on the cat, took him in, and named him Max.

He must have liked his new home, and as the word spread a second cat chose to make the depot its home, after he was also apparently abandoned.

The staff named Max's mate Ginge.
 
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Max supervising work inside Northern's Blackpool North depot​

Max and Ginge now look upon the depot as their home, and when they're not sleeping in the mess room or demanding treats, they are supervising staff as they go about their work.

Staff have even built a cosy wooden house for them outside the depot, but quite understandably the pair seem to prefer hanging about indoors.
 
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Ginge taking a nap inside the office at Northern's Blackpool North depot​

Max and Ginge aren't the only cats that have made their homes on Northern's premises, as cats named Felix and Bolt are familiar sights at Northern's Huddersfield station.

Their fame has spread further as a author Kate Moore wrote a book about him titled Felix the Railway Cat.
 
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Ginge in the office at Blackpool North​

Simon Crabtree, production delivery manager at Northern, said: “The team love Max and Ginge and are proud to take care of them – and they all chip in to pay for the vet bills and food.

“Because the depot operates 24 hours a day, there's always someone around to make a fuss of them – and they're great company for us.

“They are important members of our team here at the depot.”
 
26th October 2023

Merger announced between two Welsh narrow gauge railways​

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The Vale of Rheidol Railway has announced that it is in negotiations for to acquire the Brecon Mountain Railway (BMR), which will ensure the long-term future of the Brecon Mountain Railway.

Compared with the Vale of Rheidol Railway, the Brecon Mountain Railway is a relative youngster.

The Vale of Rheidol was built in 1902 and is renowned for breath taking views on its route from the coast at Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge in the Cambrian Mountains.
 
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Garratt 60 at the Vale of Rheidol Railway
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Unlike other Wlesh narrow-gauge railways which were built for hauling freight, the Vale of Rheidol has continuously operated as a tourist railway since it opened in 1902.

It also has a claim to fame as being the last steam railway to be operated by British Rail.

By contrast, the Brecon Mountain Railway is a much newer railway.

It was built by Tony Hills and his business partner Peter Rampton on the track bed of the former Brecon and Merthyr Railway but is now a narrow gauge railway.

The line climbs through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park from Pant, which is two miles north of Merthyr Tydfil and runs along the full length of the Pontsticill Reservoir and the adjoining Pentwyn Reservoir to Torpantau.
 
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Loco No.1 on the Brecon Mountain Railway

Both railways have a history of collaboration, as the Brecon Mountain Railway acquired the Rheidol line when British Rail put it up for sale in 1988.

For the next eight years both both lines operated under a common management, but in 1996 it was decided that they should established as distinct entities.

Mr. Hills was tasked with overseeing the Brecon Mountain Railway and Mr. Rampton took charge of the Vale of Rheidol Railway.
 
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Number 8 heads its train into Devil's Bridge Station​

Since then, both railways have made significant investments in enhancing their attractions, with the Brecon Mountain Railway extending services to its current terminus at Torpantau and the Vale of Rheidol developing new workshops, restoring stations and launching new visitor facilities.

Unfortunately, Tony Hills passed away in 2015 and Peter Rampton in 2019.

The merger will benefit both two railways and bring a range of benefits to both them and their visitors, including:
  • Securing the legacy of both Peter Rampton and Tony Hills;
  • Provide investment for enhanced visitor experiences at both railways;
  • Financial benefits, by sharing resources, increasing operational efficiency, and making cost savings;
  • Providing job opportunities, because expanding operations will open up new job openings and career prospects.
Both railways will continue to operate as separate entities, each with its individual charm and character, with the merger expected to be completed by spring 2024.

Further information can be found on the website of the Vale of Rheidol Railway at www.rheidolrailway.co.uk and the Brecon Mountain Railway at www.bmr.wales.

Vale of Rheidol Managing Director Llyr ap Iolo said. “this proposed acquisition seems the natural progression for the Vale of Rheidol to carry on the legacy of both Tony Hills and Peter Rampton. Having worked with them for over 30 years, it will be a privilege for us to continue Tony's work with the American two-foot gauge theme of the BMR.

Brecon Mountain Railway Managing Director Matthew Hills said.” Bringing the two railways back together will not only guarantee the future of BMR but also the development of the railway. I and my fellow director believe that this is the best way to secure the future of the railway and my father's legacy “
 
26th October 2023

Devon heritage railway to become custodians of steam locomotive 3205​

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3205 at Hood Bridge​

The South Devon Railway has announced a new collaboration with the 2251 Locomotive Fund that will see the railway become custodians of steam locomotive 3205 for the next 50 years.

The railway says that the agreement “solidifies” its commitment to preservation.

The 2251 Locomotive Fund has been owners of 3205 since it was withdrawn by BR in 1965.

The agreement means that the 1946 locomotive will find a permanent home at the South Devon Railway as a living testament to the rich travel history of the Great Western Railway.

Along with this news, a new share issue has been released, providing the opportunity for supports to help fund the restoration of the locomotive.

You can find out more information on the South Devon Railway website.
 
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3205 at Dartington​

Jon Morton, Chairman of South Devon Railway Ltd, remarked, “We are thrilled to take on the custodianship of locomotive 3205. This collaboration with the 2251 Locomotive Fund underscores our commitment to preserving the heritage of steam locomotion. As the primary stewards of 3205, we are excited to showcase its historical significance to railway enthusiasts and the wider public.”

The Trustees of the 2251 Locomotive Fund expressed support for the share issue, stating, “This innovative funding approach demonstrates South Devon Railway's commitment to engaging the community in the preservation effort. We encourage enthusiasts and supporters to participate in this unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of locomotive 3205.”
 
29th October 2023

Alpha Trains to buy twelve Stadler EURO9000 locomotives​

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iñigo parra, ceo stadler valencia and fernando pérez, ceo alpha trains group​

Rolling stock leasing company Alpha Trains has signed a contract to buy twelve EURO9000 locomotives from Stadler.

The EURO9000 is a latest-generation six-axle hybrid multi-system locomotive.

This is the first time that Alpha Trains have placed an order for it, although the company already has a fleet of 121 Stadler locomotives and 162 Stadler multiple-unit passenger trains.

Alpha Trains operates in the European Union and European Free Trade Association regions of mainland Europe.
 
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Euro 9000 locomotive​

The twelve locos are scheduled to be delivered in 2025 and 2026, and will be built at Stadler's factory in Valencia, Spain.

The German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) is funding the project with a total of 15 million Euros, as part of its rail funding guideline, which is coordinated by NOW GmbH and implemented by Project Management Jülich (PtJ).

The EURO9000 is a multisystem electric loco, which is also equipped with diesel power units.

It is therefore able to haul freight on AC and DC electrified lines and on non-electrified track sections, including on international routes with mixed traffic.

It has advanced traction capability and a high performance level, making it well-suited to a range of freight services and to fit in with Alpha Trains' sizeable and diverse portfolio.

Alpha aims to reduce diesel consumption – and therefore pollution – by purchasing efficient and innovative alternative propulsion vehicles.

This will enhance the sustainability of rail freight.
 
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EURO9000 locomotive​

Fernando Pérez, CEO of Alpha Trains Group, said, “The purchase of the EURO9000 demonstrates our company's position as a key player in the industry, and it reflects our commitment to providing leasing solutions that meet the specific needs of our customers. The exceptional power and efficiency of the EURO9000 locomotives is perfectly in line with our goal to promote sustainable and reliable transport solutions.”

Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia, said, “This new order reinforces our long-standing collaboration with Alpha Trains to offer the market locomotives that support the modal shift from road to rail by increasing the competitiveness of rail freight transport with sustainable, efficient and economically profitable solutions. The EURO9000 locomotive is the latest example.”
 
29th October 2023

Major project by Amtrak to renovate Wilmington Station is now complete​

The station has seen full renovation and repair work carried out in order to bring a modern and accessible station for customers​

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Pictured above (from left to right): Governor John Carney, Mayor Mike Purzycki, Amtrak EVP Laura Mason, Senator Tom Carper, White House Senior Advisor Mitch Landrieu, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, FRA Administrator Amit Bose​

Wilmington station in Delaware Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Railroad station has now seen a major project to fully renovate and repair it, completed by Amtrak.

The work has seen the station modernised and now includes two new escalators alongside interior stairs whilst offering passengers improved accessibility features.

Amtrak has seen over 600,000 customers travelling via Wilmington Station for the fiscal year 2023, which puts it as the rail operator's 20th busiest station.

The station was built back in 1908 and in Spring 2011 was rededicated as Joseph R. Biden Jr. Railroad Station following a large-scale restoration programme.

Since 2011, Amtrak has invested approximately $800 million to support upgrades and improvement work over 119 of its stations across the national network in a bid to improve passenger experience.

A key focus on accessibility has also been made with projects carried out to support passengers with mobility difficulties, including:
  • Upgrades to platforms, ramps and sidewalks
  • Renovations to entranceways and restrooms
 
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Level Boarding​

The vast project has seen 20 stations meet the Americans with Disabilities Act this year whilst a further 35 stations are set to see work completed to ADA standards in 2024 as part of an estimated investment of $195 million by Amtrak.

The rail operator is also improving design at 143 stations across its network and will see 39 construction projects get underway as part of its focus on creating a fully accessible Amtrak network by 2029.

In a future phase of the programme, plans for Wilmington Station will see further repair and improvement work carried out at both the station and for adjacent rail beds.

This work will see the station meet standards in alignment with the Northeast Corridor, such as boarding platform improvements which are near completion in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.

To find out more about the history of Wilmington Station, please click here.

Laura Mason, Amtrak Executive Vice President of Capital Delivery, said:

“The Wilmington Station is an important transportation hub on the Northeast Corridor and this $11.6 million project is a critical investment in the station,”

“Amtrak is grateful for the Delaware Federal Delegation's continued support in funding Department of Transportation grant programs, support of the IIJA and continued partnership.”
 
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Amtrak train

Mitch Landrieu, Senior Advisor to the President and Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator, said:

“President Biden's Investing in America agenda is delivering billions of dollars to upgrade and modernize our nation's passenger rail, including $22 billion for Amtrak, and a key part of that investment is ensuring that all passengers can use Amtrak stations and service.”

“With help from the President's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Amtrak has upgraded 20 stations across the country to full ADA accessibility, and over the next five years we will work together to upgrade dozens more. This is just one of the many ways that the Biden-Harris Administration is making our nation's transportation systems more accessible to every single American.”

Amit Bose, Federal Railroad Administration Administrator, said:

“Americans need and deserve world-class passenger rail, and that includes Americans with disabilities, our aging population, and others who rely on and benefit from modern, accessible, and convenient rail stations.”

“We're excited to see renovations completed at the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Railroad Station and other stations nationwide, and we know there is more to come. President Biden's Investing in America agenda includes historic funding for rail and unprecedented opportunities to upgrade stations, services, and vital infrastructure that will benefit local communities and lay the foundation for world-class passenger rail service.”
 
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Amtrak train​

U.S. Senator Tom Carper, Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, said:

“Each year, more than half a million Amtrak passengers rely on the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Railroad Station to get to work or school, visit family and friends, and even travel someplace new. I am one of them, taking a train to and from our nation's Capitol each day.”

“In the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we were able to secure $22 billion for Amtrak to make much-needed repairs, address maintenance backlogs, and modernize train stations like the one in Wilmington. This investment is our biggest step forward yet for the future of passenger rail, which is key to reducing roadway congestion, improving air quality, and keeping us competitive in a global economy.”

U.S. Senator Chris Coons, said:

“Amtrak is a critical link for Delaware, and I'm glad to see it expanding access to clean, safe train travel for more Delawareans.”

“As a frequent Amtrak rider, I see the use Joseph R. Biden Jr. Railroad Station gets in downtown Wilmington, and I know that Wilmington and its surrounding communities will truly appreciate improved, renovated access that also brings the station into ADA compliance. Investment in this infrastructure keeps Wilmington connected to the world.”

U.S. Representative, Lisa Blunt Rochester said:

“Over the past year, 600,000 people have passed through the Joseph R. Biden Train Station in Wilmington for work or for fun, carrying with them the grand experience of riding an Amtrak train.”

“It's been a priority of President Biden and his administration to invest in our nation's infrastructure – from our roads and bridges to ports and rail. And thanks to this historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this mission is being realized across the country, including here in Delaware. It's critical that the Wilmington Station's infrastructure remains up to date as more and more people opt to travel by train, and I'm thrilled to celebrate with Amtrak, the Biden Administration, and my congressional colleagues, Senators Carper and Coons, as we unveil a more accessible and inclusive Wilmington Train Station.”

Governor Carney said: “The Biden Station has been a part of our community since 1908, serving 600,000 customers last year”. “The investments from the Federal government ensure that this station serves our city and regional infrastructure for years to come.”
 
29th October 2023

Jacobite steam locomotives to head for Lancashire this Monday​

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The locomotives that were used to haul The Jacobite over the summer will be returning to Lancashire this Monday, 30th October 2023.

This movement is expected to be hauled by 44871 and 45407 ‘The Lancashire Fusilier'

Departing Fort William's Tom Na Faire Depot at 09:10, the locomotives will pass through Spean Bridge (09:37), Tulloch (09:58), Rannoch (10:45), Bridge of Orchy (11:39), Upper Tyndrum (12:05), Crianlarich (12:17), Arrochar and Tarbet (13:22), Garelochhead (14:03), Helensburgh Upper (14:16), Dumbarton Central (16:22), Springburn (17:08), Coatbridge Central (17:33), Lockerbie (20:27), Carlisle (21:59), Oxenholme Lake District (23:21) and Carnforth at 23:52, where they will stable at Carnforth Steamtown.
 
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30th October 2023

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TRANSPORT FOR WALES

More Valley Railway Lines Electrified for Metro​

Transport for Wales is another step closer to delivering the South Wales Metro and has now electrified the railway line from Aberdare to Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil to Abercynon.

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Metro works Pontypridd - Porth​

Transport for Wales is another step closer to delivering the South Wales Metro and has now electrified the railway line from Aberdare to Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil to Abercynon.

Over 60,000 meters of Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) has now been energised across the whole South Wales Metro rail network.

The South Wales Metro will provide more rail services and make it easier for people to travel in the region.

Brand-new Citylink Class 398 tram-trains are already in test on Metro routes and the £100 million Metro Depot at Taff’s Well is near completion.

Karl Gilmore Rail Infrastructure Director at TfW said:

“This is yet another key milestone in the transformation work of our core valley lines as we continue to progress in delivering the South Wales Metro

It’s really exciting to see more railway lines electrified in South Wales and through delivering the Metro we’ll be providing people with a more sustainable option of travel.

Taff’s Well depot is the home of our new tram trains and it’s fantastic to see these light rail vehicles out on test which will soon be in passenger service”

The transformation of the Core Valley Lines for the Metro has been part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through Welsh Government, and will enable faster, more frequent services between Cardiff and the heads of the valleys. 

Alasdair MacDonald, Regional Director for Balfour Beatty, said:

“We are proud to have successfully delivered this critical part of the Core Valley Lines transformation programme.

Delivering this important upgrade will not only provide more reliable rail services, but also a greener and more sustainable way to travel for thousands of people.”

As TfW continue to electrify more of the railway in South Wales, they’re urging the public to be aware of the safety risks.

Trespassing on the railway is illegal, and doing so today carries a higher risk of serious burns and ultimately death.

If you see any suspicious behaviour on the tracks to the British Transport Police:

Call 0800 40 50 40
Text 61016
In an emergency call 999
Or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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30th October 2023

Steam locomotive 45407 The Lancashire Fusilier to pass through Yorkshire this Wednesday​

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LMS Black 5 No. 45407 The Lancashire Fusilier is to pass through Yorkshire this Wednesday (1st November 2023) as it heads to the Wensleydale Railway.

Departing Carnforth Steamtown at 07:45, the locomotive will pass through Carnforth (08:05 and 08:26), Hellifield (09:13), Skipton (09:26), Keighley (09:41), Shipley (Yorks) (09:50), Castleford (10:41), Church Fenton (10:57), York (11:11), Thirsk (11:42) and Northallerton at 11:58.
 
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30th October 2023

Hitachi Rail given clearance for £1.4bn takeover of Thales rail signalling business​

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Hitachi Thales signalling​

Hitachi has announced that it has been given clearance to proceed with the €1.66bn (£1.4bn) acquisition of Thales Ground Transportation Systems.

Approval from the European Commission means that the deal has now been given clearance from all 13 authorities, after the UK gave their approval earlier this month.

As a condition of the approval, Hitachi will divest its mainline signalling businesses in France, Germany and the UK.

A Hitachi spokesperson said “Hitachi Rail has been given clearance to proceed with its €1,660 million acquisition of Thales' Ground Transportation Systems business today. The publication of the European Commission's (EC) approval means that the deal has now received clearance from all 13 competition authorities which reviewed the acquisition.”
 
31st October 2023

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RAIB

Press release:​

Report 13/2023: Serious injury to a passenger alighting from a train at Loughborough Central station

Published: 31st October 2023

RAIB has today released its report into a serious injury to a passenger alighting from a train at Loughborough Central station, 14 January 2023.

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Photograph taken during a reconstruction of the incident
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Summary

At 11:50 hrs on Saturday 14 January 2023, a passenger alighting from a train at Great Central Railway’s Loughborough Central station lost his footing and sustained a serious injury. The train had made a planned stop at platform 1.

The door used by the passenger opened onto the platform end ramp, approximately 1.6 metres beyond the end of the level part of the platform.

The passenger, who was visually impaired, lost his footing and fell while alighting from the train because he was unable to safely negotiate the step down onto the platform end ramp.

This was because the level platform was only around two metres longer than the distance needed to safely accommodate all of the train’s doors, and the train’s brakes were not performing in a consistent, predictable manner.

Measures implemented by the railway had not effectively controlled the risk of passengers using doors which were not adjacent to usable platforms.

RAIB identified two underlying factors, that Great Central Railway did not have effective processes for learning lessons from operational experience, and had no effective process to support the identification, management and monitoring of risk.

The report makes three recommendations.

The first is addressed to Great Central Railway and relates to the assessment and control of risk, learning from previous events, and ensuring that the needs of disabled passengers are considered.

The second recommendation, also addressed to Great Central Railway, relates to auditing and assurance of its risk management activities.

The third recommendation is made to the Heritage Railway Association and relates to the provision of guidance on managing the risks around the passenger / train interface at heritage railway stations.

RAIB has identified two learning points.

The first is a reminder of the importance of having a robust system to manage staff training and competence records.

The second reminds duty holders of the importance of prompt accident reporting.
 
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