- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway
Marcus' Model Railway Journey
- Thread starter Marcus Antonius
- Start date
- Status
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
778 at Pages Park
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
22nd November, 2025
Camera to check the track
Following Southeastern’s successful use of thermal imaging cameras to detect track defects before they become serious.
South Western Railway (SWR), which is also part of DFTO, are also getting on board with the idea.
Similar cameras have now been fitted to a Class 450 Electric Multiple Unit, which now bears the name ‘Hotshot’.
Thermal Imaging Cameras installed on South Western Hotshot train
Camera to check the track
Following Southeastern’s successful use of thermal imaging cameras to detect track defects before they become serious.
South Western Railway (SWR), which is also part of DFTO, are also getting on board with the idea.
Similar cameras have now been fitted to a Class 450 Electric Multiple Unit, which now bears the name ‘Hotshot’.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Hotshot logo on a Class 450 EMU
The cameras, which have been funded by Angel Trains, have been fitted to the four-car unit and can pick up any track defects in frontline service and alert appropriate engineers to resolve the issue.
This has the potential to reduce delays to other trains.
Hotshot has two cameras, one facing forward on the front of the train monitoring the running rails, and another one lower down, which records the condition of the third rail and the pick-up shoe gear, which draws power to operate the train.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Forward-facing camera on Hotshot
While the idea of using Thermal Imaging Cameras to check the state of rails in Britain is not new, applying such cameras to regular passenger trains is becoming more commonplace.
As Hotshot travels across the South Western Railway Network, it will provide minute-by-minute information on the conditions of the rails.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Hotshot being fitted with cameras
Until now, the unit has been on a preliminary trial, where it has prevented 2,500 minutes of delays after detecting a track fault in the Ashtead area earlier in the summer.
‘Hotshot’ is about to commence a full 12-month trial right across the SWR network under the management of Angel trains working in collaboration with Network Rail, One Big Circle, dg8 design and Siemens.
If it’s successful, more Class 450 EMUs will also be fitted with similar cameras, allowing them to record more parts of the network at once as they go about their journeys in Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire and Dorset.
“This Government is fundamentally reforming how our railways are run – creating a network that works better for the people and freight using it.
The cutting-edge technology that the integrated South Western Railway is trialling is key to achieving this and will serve as an example of the kinds of smart investments publicly owned rail companies can implement to improve services for passengers.
Upgrades like this will prevent disruption and reduce delays – supporting growth, jobs and homes as part of the Government’s plan deliver an efficient and reliable railway.”
Rail Minister Lord Hendy
“We’re proud to be supporting the introduction of this technology on passenger trains. Continuous monitoring of the infrastructure offers real value in helping deliver a more reliable railway for passengers. This has been made possible by working closely with our customers and suppliers to deliver a fully integrated solution.”
Barry Fox, Head of Product Management at Angel Trains
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Stadler NS FLIRT train
Last edited:
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
A FLIRT driver’s cab
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Under the night sky at Peak Rail
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
24th November, 2025
Midland Pullman HST
The Blue Pullman HST is set to pass through Oxfordshire this Wednesday (26th November) as it heads to Edinburgh.
Departing Oxford at 06:03, the HST will pass through Banbury (06:34), Leamington Spa (06:56), Warwick Parkway (07:10), Dorridge (07:24), Solihull (07:32), Birmingham New Street (07:56), Wolverhampton (08:22), Stafford (08:48), Crewe (09:13), Preston (Lancs) (10:06), Carlisle (11:38), Lockerbie (11:59) and Edinburgh at 13:19.
After time in Edinburgh, the HST will depart at 16:00 and will pass through Slateford (16:09), Carlisle (17:21), Preston (Lancs) (18:58), Crewe (19:41), Stafford (20:30), Wolverhampton (20:51), Birmingham New Street (21:40), Solihull (22:04), Dorridge (22:11), Warwick Parkway (22:25), Leamington Spa (22:41), Banbury (22:59) and Oxford at 23:28.
Striking Blue Pullman HST to pass through Oxfordshire on its way to Scotland
Midland Pullman HST
The Blue Pullman HST is set to pass through Oxfordshire this Wednesday (26th November) as it heads to Edinburgh.
Departing Oxford at 06:03, the HST will pass through Banbury (06:34), Leamington Spa (06:56), Warwick Parkway (07:10), Dorridge (07:24), Solihull (07:32), Birmingham New Street (07:56), Wolverhampton (08:22), Stafford (08:48), Crewe (09:13), Preston (Lancs) (10:06), Carlisle (11:38), Lockerbie (11:59) and Edinburgh at 13:19.
After time in Edinburgh, the HST will depart at 16:00 and will pass through Slateford (16:09), Carlisle (17:21), Preston (Lancs) (18:58), Crewe (19:41), Stafford (20:30), Wolverhampton (20:51), Birmingham New Street (21:40), Solihull (22:04), Dorridge (22:11), Warwick Parkway (22:25), Leamington Spa (22:41), Banbury (22:59) and Oxford at 23:28.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Steam on the Lappa Valley Railway
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
09001
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
24th November, 2025
507001 being shunted towards the Litchurch Lane test track
Merseyrail electric multiple unit (EMU) 507 001 broke new ground on Tuesday, 18th November, when, for the first time since being preserved, an energised 3rd rail supplied the power.
No. 507 001 had the honour of carrying Queen Elizabeth II when she opened the Merseyrail network, and last January, ownership of the unit was passed to the Class 507 Preservation Society.
Since then, volunteers have been working to prepare it for its next preservation milestone, a return to 3rd rail operation.
Preserved Merseyrail unit runs from 3rd rail power for first time
507001 being shunted towards the Litchurch Lane test track
Merseyrail electric multiple unit (EMU) 507 001 broke new ground on Tuesday, 18th November, when, for the first time since being preserved, an energised 3rd rail supplied the power.
No. 507 001 had the honour of carrying Queen Elizabeth II when she opened the Merseyrail network, and last January, ownership of the unit was passed to the Class 507 Preservation Society.
Since then, volunteers have been working to prepare it for its next preservation milestone, a return to 3rd rail operation.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
507001 after a successful day of testing
The test drive using 3rd rail power took place at Alstom’s test track in Derby, where 6,000 visitors had boarded the unit during August’s Greatest Gathering, where they could take a tour underneath the unit and sit in the driver’s seat.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
WATCH VIDEO:
www.youtube.com
Once the society became the owner of the unit, they didn’t want it to remain as a static exhibit.
Since The Greatest Gathering, where 507 001 was only on static display, volunteers have been testing the on-board systems to prove the train is safe to operate.
The historic moment came at 1.30 pm when the brakes were released, and for the first time since being preserved, the power controller was set to draw power, and the train travelled at 5 mph along the whole length of the test track.
This was followed by further tests of the traction and braking systems, with speed being gradually increased to 20mph, which gave 507 001 the accolade of being Britain’s fastest preserved EMU.
The drive to preserve a Class 507 unit came in September 2023.
Eight weeks later, a group of determined individuals decided to form the Class 507 Preservation Society.
An inaugural meeting was held in November 2024, and just two months later, Angel Trains donated 507 001 to Class 507 Preservation Ltd for a token sum of £1.
Robert Hampton, Chairman of the Class 507 Preservation Society, commented that the test track run proves our determination that 507 001 will not be ‘stuffed and mounted’ but preserved as a living, working train.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have operated 507 001 under its own power on the test track at Derby. The support afforded to us by Alstom’s operations team and all the staff at Litchurch Lane has been fantastic. Whilst on the test track, the test team drivers reported that the train performed well, although they were slightly bemused by our old train, which features both a power and a brake handle – in stark contrast to the state-of-the-art traction that they drive on a day-to-day basis. Our own team of engineering and operations specialists worked collaboratively with Alstom for this to happen, and I would like to thank everyone for their efforts.”
Jake D’Arcy, Alstom’s Head of Operations
- YouTube
Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.
www.youtube.com
Since The Greatest Gathering, where 507 001 was only on static display, volunteers have been testing the on-board systems to prove the train is safe to operate.
The historic moment came at 1.30 pm when the brakes were released, and for the first time since being preserved, the power controller was set to draw power, and the train travelled at 5 mph along the whole length of the test track.
This was followed by further tests of the traction and braking systems, with speed being gradually increased to 20mph, which gave 507 001 the accolade of being Britain’s fastest preserved EMU.
The drive to preserve a Class 507 unit came in September 2023.
Eight weeks later, a group of determined individuals decided to form the Class 507 Preservation Society.
An inaugural meeting was held in November 2024, and just two months later, Angel Trains donated 507 001 to Class 507 Preservation Ltd for a token sum of £1.
Robert Hampton, Chairman of the Class 507 Preservation Society, commented that the test track run proves our determination that 507 001 will not be ‘stuffed and mounted’ but preserved as a living, working train.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have operated 507 001 under its own power on the test track at Derby. The support afforded to us by Alstom’s operations team and all the staff at Litchurch Lane has been fantastic. Whilst on the test track, the test team drivers reported that the train performed well, although they were slightly bemused by our old train, which features both a power and a brake handle – in stark contrast to the state-of-the-art traction that they drive on a day-to-day basis. Our own team of engineering and operations specialists worked collaboratively with Alstom for this to happen, and I would like to thank everyone for their efforts.”
Jake D’Arcy, Alstom’s Head of Operations
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
24th November, 2025
Yesterday, the Chancellor and Transport Secretary announced that there will be a freeze on rail fares.
Millions are set to benefit from the freeze on season tickets, peak returns and off-peak returns between major cities.
They are aiming to help reduce the cost of living, and as transport costs make up around 14% of household spending, this should help reduce costs.
Those commuting on some of the busier routes, with flexi season tickets, a commuter travelling to work fr three days can save:
Next week at the Budget I’ll set out the fair choices to deliver on the country’s priorities to cut NHS waiting lists, cut national debt and cut the cost of living. That’s why we’re choosing to freeze rail fares for the first time in 30 years, which will ease the pressure on household finances and make travelling to work, school or to visit friends and family that bit easier.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves
Train fares to be frozen to assist with Cost of Living
Yesterday, the Chancellor and Transport Secretary announced that there will be a freeze on rail fares.
Millions are set to benefit from the freeze on season tickets, peak returns and off-peak returns between major cities.
They are aiming to help reduce the cost of living, and as transport costs make up around 14% of household spending, this should help reduce costs.
Those commuting on some of the busier routes, with flexi season tickets, a commuter travelling to work fr three days can save:
- £175 each year for travelling between London and Woking
- £7 each year for travelling between Leeds and Bradford
- £315 each year for travelling between London and Milton Keynes
Next week at the Budget I’ll set out the fair choices to deliver on the country’s priorities to cut NHS waiting lists, cut national debt and cut the cost of living. That’s why we’re choosing to freeze rail fares for the first time in 30 years, which will ease the pressure on household finances and make travelling to work, school or to visit friends and family that bit easier.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Avanti West Coast Macclesfield Art Trail
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
24th November, 2025
White Ribbon Day
London Northwestern Railway is taking part in White Ribbon Day (25 November), a pledge to end violence against women and girls.
Hundreds of passengers travelling with the operator are expected to take part in the pledge and speak up about violence during White Ribbon Day and the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (25 Nov – 10 Dec).
The operator will be at different stations across its network to raise awareness of the White Ribbon Charity.
Those visiting Milton Keynes, Bedford, Watford Junction, Bletchley and St Albans can take part in the pledge, which is a personal commitment to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women and girls.
At Milton Keynes, there will also be a White Ribbon exhibition promoting the ‘We Speak Up’ theme.
“As the company’s White Ribbon lead, I am passionate about advocating for an end to violence against women and ensuring our female passengers feel safe travelling by train.
“We’ve taken part in White Ribbon Day for multiple years, but this year we’re going one step further by expanding our initiative and hosting awareness raising events throughout the UN’s 16 Days of Activism. We hope that by encouraging our customers to open up about their role as allies, we can help to create a safer railway for everyone.”
Matthew Bradley, head of stations at LNR
London Northwestern Passengers invited to take the White Ribbon Pledge
White Ribbon Day
London Northwestern Railway is taking part in White Ribbon Day (25 November), a pledge to end violence against women and girls.
Hundreds of passengers travelling with the operator are expected to take part in the pledge and speak up about violence during White Ribbon Day and the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (25 Nov – 10 Dec).
The operator will be at different stations across its network to raise awareness of the White Ribbon Charity.
Those visiting Milton Keynes, Bedford, Watford Junction, Bletchley and St Albans can take part in the pledge, which is a personal commitment to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women and girls.
At Milton Keynes, there will also be a White Ribbon exhibition promoting the ‘We Speak Up’ theme.
“As the company’s White Ribbon lead, I am passionate about advocating for an end to violence against women and ensuring our female passengers feel safe travelling by train.
“We’ve taken part in White Ribbon Day for multiple years, but this year we’re going one step further by expanding our initiative and hosting awareness raising events throughout the UN’s 16 Days of Activism. We hope that by encouraging our customers to open up about their role as allies, we can help to create a safer railway for everyone.”
Matthew Bradley, head of stations at LNR
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
25 Nov 2025
Late night services
South Wales Metro services will run later into the night from 14 December, supporting the nighttime economy and offering more options for travelling customers.
The new timetable will provide more services throughout the Valleys by strengthening community connections and will offer more travel opportunities across the region.
The later services, especially the late connection from Cardiff Bay, offer a fantastic opportunity to stay out later and watch shows at the Cardiff Millennium Centre, making journeys home afterwards simple and stress-free.
These key changes are further changes as part of the South Wales Metro developments:
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “Railway connections are vital in driving prosperity.
“These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
The rail timetable will change from December 14th 2025, and there are improvements and changes across the Wales and Borders network.
Please visit here for more detailed information: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables
New late night rail services for South Wales Metro
Late night services
South Wales Metro services will run later into the night from 14 December, supporting the nighttime economy and offering more options for travelling customers.
The new timetable will provide more services throughout the Valleys by strengthening community connections and will offer more travel opportunities across the region.
The later services, especially the late connection from Cardiff Bay, offer a fantastic opportunity to stay out later and watch shows at the Cardiff Millennium Centre, making journeys home afterwards simple and stress-free.
These key changes are further changes as part of the South Wales Metro developments:
- A brand-new hourly Sunday service between Coryton and Penarth (an extension of the existing Cardiff-Penarth services), which boosts Sunday travel.
- On Fridays, there will be three later last trains from Cardiff after midnight to each of Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr Tydfil, including a connection from Cardiff Bay.
- On Mondays to Saturdays there will be a new train at 05:37 from Bridgend to Cardiff calling at all stations and extending to Ebbw Vale, supporting early commuters.
- Ynyswen station, on the Treherbert line, will officially reopen after the completion of significant upgrades.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “Railway connections are vital in driving prosperity.
“These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
The rail timetable will change from December 14th 2025, and there are improvements and changes across the Wales and Borders network.
Please visit here for more detailed information: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables
- When you’re using a level crossing, remember to:
- Read the warning signs and follow the instructions carefully.
- If you’re on a bike, dismount and walk.
- Supervise children and animals.
- Stop, look both ways and listen.
- When the line is clear, cross quickly without running (keep looking and listening).
- If there is a gate, always close it behind you.
- Ynyswen station will reopen on Sunday 14 December, following the completion of a new second platform and Access for All footbridge. Passengers heading towards Cardiff should use platform 1 (the original station platform), whilst those travelling towards Treherbert should use platform 2 (the new platform).
- Across the UK rail industry, there are two major timetable changes each year in May and in December as part of the national biannual railway timetable change coordinated across Great Britain.
- The new timetables are now in journey planning systems ahead of the change on 14 December, so customers can search for train times after this date to see what they’ll be.
- For full details and to plan your journey, please check before you travel by visiting www.tfw.wales and enter journey details for a date after 14 December.
Last edited:
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
25 Nov 2025
Heart of Wales
Five trains a day will be available between Shrewsbury and Swansea via Llandrindod Wells from December.
As part of the December timetable changes, Transport for Wales is adding a new midday train in each direction on the Heart of Wales line between Shrewsbury and Swansea via Llandrindod Wells, increasing the daily service from four to five trains a day.
From 14 December, the new timetable will provide passengers on this line a more flexible option for day-long trips and essential journeys.
This improvement will support the local tourism economy.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “Railway connections are vital in driving prosperity.
“These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
The rail timetable will change from December 14th 2025 and there are improvements and changes across the Wales and Borders network.
Please visit here for more detailed information: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables
Five trains a day to return on the Heart of Wales line
Heart of Wales
Five trains a day will be available between Shrewsbury and Swansea via Llandrindod Wells from December.
As part of the December timetable changes, Transport for Wales is adding a new midday train in each direction on the Heart of Wales line between Shrewsbury and Swansea via Llandrindod Wells, increasing the daily service from four to five trains a day.
From 14 December, the new timetable will provide passengers on this line a more flexible option for day-long trips and essential journeys.
This improvement will support the local tourism economy.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “Railway connections are vital in driving prosperity.
“These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
The rail timetable will change from December 14th 2025 and there are improvements and changes across the Wales and Borders network.
Please visit here for more detailed information: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables
- The funding for the additional Heart of Wales Line service is confirmed as part of the Welsh Government’s 2025-26 Budget agreement with the Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds
- Across the UK rail industry, there are two major timetable changes each year in May and in December as part of the national biannual railway timetable change coordinated across Great Britain.
- The new timetables are now in journey planning systems ahead of the change on 14 December, so customers can search for train times after this date to see what they’ll be.
- For full details and to plan your journey, please check before you travel by visiting www.tfw.wales and enter journey details for a date after 14 December.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
25 Nov 2025
Chester
Two trains per hour will be available between Chester and Wrexham following rail timetable changes this December.
From 14 December, the new timetable will deliver significant enhancements across North Wales by strengthening community connections, boosting cross-border travel, and providing more flexible travel opportunities.
These are further changes as part of the Network North Wales developments.
Key changes for North Wales include:
“These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
The rail timetable will change from December 14th 2025, and there are improvements and changes across the Wales and Borders network.
Please visit here for more detailed information: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables
North Wales rail frequency doubled with new timetable
Chester
Two trains per hour will be available between Chester and Wrexham following rail timetable changes this December.
From 14 December, the new timetable will deliver significant enhancements across North Wales by strengthening community connections, boosting cross-border travel, and providing more flexible travel opportunities.
These are further changes as part of the Network North Wales developments.
Key changes for North Wales include:
- An introduction of a new hourly service between Chester and Wrexham, doubling the frequency to 2 trains per hour.
- The daily 11:23 service between Cardiff and Holyhead will now make additional stops at Craven Arms (12:59) and Church Stretton (13:07).
- On Mondays to Saturdays, there are new trains at 05:54 from Bidston to Wrexham General and at 20:51 from Wrexham Central to Bidston
- The 20:26 Pwllheli to Machynlleth, and 21:47 Machynlleth to Pwllheli evening services on the Cambrian Line are intended to remain
“These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
The rail timetable will change from December 14th 2025, and there are improvements and changes across the Wales and Borders network.
Please visit here for more detailed information: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables
- Across the UK rail industry there are two major timetable changes each year in May and in December as part of the national biannual railway timetable change coordinated across Great Britain.
- The new timetables are now in journey planning systems ahead of the change on 14 December, so customers can search for train times after this date to see what they’ll be.
- For full details and to plan your journey, please check before you travel by visiting www.tfw.wales and enter journey details for a date after 14 December.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Wednesday 26 Nov 2025
Marcus & Cleo Have Another Bus Adventure into Cardiff
Firstly we popped into 'The Great Western' for a couple of drinks.
We then went to my model railway shop and Cleo bought a couple of things for my Christmas present, so I'll tell you what they were then.
Our last call was 'The Gatekeeper' where we had some more drinks and some food.
There was a very good ales there, I had four pints of Rocking Rudolf.
Then it was the bus home.
The bus into Cardiff was Cardiff Bus/Bws Caerdydd No. 554, ADL Enviro200, CN17 BGV
Marcus & Cleo Have Another Bus Adventure into Cardiff
Firstly we popped into 'The Great Western' for a couple of drinks.
We then went to my model railway shop and Cleo bought a couple of things for my Christmas present, so I'll tell you what they were then.
Our last call was 'The Gatekeeper' where we had some more drinks and some food.
There was a very good ales there, I had four pints of Rocking Rudolf.
Then it was the bus home.
The bus into Cardiff was Cardiff Bus/Bws Caerdydd No. 554, ADL Enviro200, CN17 BGV
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
The bus home from Cardiff was Cardiff Bus/Bws Caerdydd No. 253, ADL Enviro200, CE63 NZH
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Successful UK-first mainline rail trial introduces real-time train location technology to enhance safety at rural level crossings in Wales
Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & BordersUniversal signalling trial Nov 2025
Network Rail’s trial of Universal Signalling’s ‘U-Cross’ system marks a significant step forward in delivering next-generation, safer signalling to rural railway lines across Britain.
Developed by Universal Signalling and first demonstrated at the Global Centre of Rail Excellence in Onllwyn, South Wales, in 2024, the technology has already been recognised as a potential game-changer for the rail industry.
The system provides signallers with real-time information on the precise location of trains, enabling quicker, safer decision-making at user-worked level crossings - used daily by farmers, landowners and rural communities.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Universal signalling trial Nov 2025
The challenge
User-worked crossings are common on rural lines and require users to contact the signaller by telephone before crossing.
While current processes are safe, signallers often rely on train-location information drawn from several different sources, which can result in delays for people waiting to cross.
‘U-Cross’ addresses this challenge by delivering real-time, enhanced situational awareness directly to the signaller - including exactly how many minutes are available to cross safely before the next train arrives - enabling faster, safer decision-making.
Solutions of this kind traditionally take years to develop and can be costly, but the combined efforts of Universal Signalling, Network Rail Wales & Borders and Transport for Wales - co-funded by the Innovation Acceleration Forum - enabled this trial to be delivered quickly and effectively.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
User worked level crossing
How the UK-first mainline trial worked
The two-week trial (3 - 14 November) took place on an 11-mile section of the Heart of Wales line between Llandeilo and Llandovery, covering 20 user-worked crossings.
As part of the trial:
- The track was fitted with U-Beacon Universal Locator Beacons, visible as green discs attached to the sleepers through Llandovery Station.
- In-service Transport for Wales trains were fitted with readers and communications equipment.
- Trains automatically transmitted their position to the signaller when approaching or clearing a crossing.
- The systems in-built health and performance monitoring capability collected more than 400,000 data points for the team to analyse.
The next phase will look to extend the technology across the full 96-mile Heart of Wales line, which has 126 crossings, before exploring opportunities on other rural rail routes across the UK.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Universal signalling green beacon on track
Anthony Aldred, Operations Manager, Network Rail Wales and Borders said, “Managing access to the railway at user-worked crossings is a key part of keeping our network safe for the people and communities who rely on it. In rural areas, where signallers rely on information from multiple sources, U-Cross gives them a clear, instant view of train locations and visual confirmation of whether a crossing is safe to use, while defaulting to established procedures if a fault is detected.
“This product has real potential to further strengthen safety and reduce delays for users and it has been incredibly valuable to support this project.
“We’re proud to be part of this UK-first trial as we work with Universal Signalling and our industry partners to explore how it could benefit more locations across the network.”
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Universal signalling data screen
Stephen Head, Chief Executive Officer at Universal Signalling said, “U-Cross is the first stepping stone towards our vision for next-generation digital signalling that’s affordable for rural lines. What truly sets this apart is the speed of deployment, which drives down cost to the railway.
“We’ve automated and productionised as much of the process as possible, stripping out much of the cost base. Fitting 11 miles of track in just two and a half overnight possessions, with no prior design work, shows what’s possible with our system.
“It’s been a delight working with the Wales & Borders teams, and the support from Transport for Wales has been fantastic. Feedback from this trial and analysis of the data collected will inform refinements ahead of the next phase.”
Network Rail is proactively adopting innovative technologies to enhance the passenger experience, strengthen safety and deliver smarter, more cost-effective ways of running the railway.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
26 November, 2025
60532 Blue Peter
60532 Blue Peter is to visit Newcastle this Thursday (27th November) as it hauls a Steam Dreams Charter to Edinburgh.
The tour starts at London Kings Cross behind a diesel locomotive at 08:45, where the train will head north via Welwyn Garden City (09:12), Huntingdon (09:54), Grantham (10:31), Newark Northgate (11:05), Doncaster (11:50) and York at 12:27.
Here, 60532 Blue Peter will be added to the train and will depart at 12:58. From here, 60532 will pass through Northallerton (13:40), Durham (14:48), Newcastle (15:06), Berwick-upon-Tweed (17:16), Dunbar (18:18), and Edinburgh at 18:57.
Steam locomotive 60532 Blue Peter to pass through Newcastle this Thursday
60532 Blue Peter
60532 Blue Peter is to visit Newcastle this Thursday (27th November) as it hauls a Steam Dreams Charter to Edinburgh.
The tour starts at London Kings Cross behind a diesel locomotive at 08:45, where the train will head north via Welwyn Garden City (09:12), Huntingdon (09:54), Grantham (10:31), Newark Northgate (11:05), Doncaster (11:50) and York at 12:27.
Here, 60532 Blue Peter will be added to the train and will depart at 12:58. From here, 60532 will pass through Northallerton (13:40), Durham (14:48), Newcastle (15:06), Berwick-upon-Tweed (17:16), Dunbar (18:18), and Edinburgh at 18:57.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
26th November, 2025
N2 GNR No.1744 under overhaul
The Sir Nigel Gresley Society has given a further update on the overhaul of the oldest surviving locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, after it passed its steam test at the workshops of the North Norfolk Railway (NNR) at Weybourne.
The loco – Gresley class N2 GNR No.1744 – moved to the NNR at the end of last year for the final stages of overhaul, which began in 2018.
During the overhaul, it became evident that more extensive work was required than originally thought, which has also meant that the cost is much higher than anticipated.
The need to carry out a large amount of mechanical and boiler work has pushed the cost of the overhaul to around £650,000.
The overhaul was disrupted by the Covid-19 lockdown, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine added to both costs and timescales.
Update on Gresley’s oldest steam locomotive as overhaul approaches completion
N2 GNR No.1744 under overhaul
The Sir Nigel Gresley Society has given a further update on the overhaul of the oldest surviving locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, after it passed its steam test at the workshops of the North Norfolk Railway (NNR) at Weybourne.
The loco – Gresley class N2 GNR No.1744 – moved to the NNR at the end of last year for the final stages of overhaul, which began in 2018.
During the overhaul, it became evident that more extensive work was required than originally thought, which has also meant that the cost is much higher than anticipated.
The need to carry out a large amount of mechanical and boiler work has pushed the cost of the overhaul to around £650,000.
The overhaul was disrupted by the Covid-19 lockdown, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine added to both costs and timescales.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
N2 GNR No.1744 under overhaul
Work completed this year has included non-destructive testing and examination of the two carbon steel steam pipes that serve from the superheater header to the steam chests.
This involved magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of all historic welds, ultrasonic measuring of the thickness of the pipe, and clamping the two pipes together to form a single unit.
This allowed a hydraulic pressure test to be carried out, which tested the boiler to be tested at pressures up to 255psi, which is 50% higher than its safe working pressure.
The next steps in the overhaul are to fit the no. 17 washout plugs, to finish reassembling the engine, and to carry out a final hydraulic pressure test of the boiler.
The superheater header will undergo hydraulic testing to 255psi.
The NNR agreed to initially fund the work to complete the overhaul, on the basis that it will use the loco for a period without charge to recoup the expenditure through revenue.
However, the Gresley Society still needs to raise a further £100,000, so is promoting its N2 Overhaul Completion Club.
It is looking for 100 people who are each willing to donate £1,000 in up to eight instalments, in return for benefits including a signed certificate, the chance to visit the loco under overhaul, and a reserved seat on one of the loco’s first trains after it returns to service next year.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
N2 GNR No.1744 under overhaul
“The Gresley Society was created to preserve a working Gresley locomotive, and we owe it to our founders, and for the benefit and education of today’s generation, to maintain that vision. The progress on No. 1744’s overhaul at the North Norfolk Railway is one more step towards the return of Sir Nigel Gresley’s oldest surviving locomotive to traffic in spring 2026 resplendent in its distinctive Great Northern Railway livery.
“However, The Gresley Society is not yet out of the woods financially and launched a major £100,000 financial appeal with The N2 Overhaul Completion Club to fund No. 1744’s return to traffic which has already raised over £35,000. I’d encourage all LNER lovers who want to see the class N2 paired once again with the Midland & Great Northern Society’s unique set of Quad-Art carriages on the North Norfolk Railway to get on board with our appeal!”
Philip Benham MBE, Chairman of The Gresley Society
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
27 Nov 2025
Pay as you go
The number of rail journeys made using Pay As You Go (PAYG) tap on, tap off technology has now exceeded two million.
The milestone comes a year after the system was launched in November 2024, cementing its status as Transport for Wales’ (TfW) fastest growing ticketing product.
TfW was the first UK train operator outside of London and the South East of England to introduce this innovative payment solution, and it continues to lead the way on this front.
The system is currently available across 95 stations in the South East Wales Metro region, offering customers access to better value fares* and daily/weekly fare capping.
The success of the scheme to date paves the way for the introduction of pay as you go ticketing in North Wales next year (as part of the wider Network North Wales programme), bringing similar benefits to communities across the North Wales & Borders region.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “I am delighted that more and more passengers are opting for pay as you go, making the most of a simpler and fairer way of paying for their rail and bus tickets.
“I look forward to welcoming pay as you go ticketing to North Wales next year so that many more people can just tap and go.”
Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer at Transport for Wales said: "It's great to see so many customers embracing this convenient and simple way of travelling.
“When we talk about improving the customer experience, ‘tap on, tap off’ ticketing is exactly what we mean. It’s making rail travel faster, fairer, and more accessible, which is driving both customer satisfaction and revenue growth for the network"
*PAYG offers the best value or lowest fare against the equivalent non-PAYG fare
To find out more on pay as you go, visit: https://tfw.wales/ways-to-travel/rail/ticket-types/pay-as-you-go
Pay as you go contactless payment system hits two million
Pay as you go
The number of rail journeys made using Pay As You Go (PAYG) tap on, tap off technology has now exceeded two million.
The milestone comes a year after the system was launched in November 2024, cementing its status as Transport for Wales’ (TfW) fastest growing ticketing product.
TfW was the first UK train operator outside of London and the South East of England to introduce this innovative payment solution, and it continues to lead the way on this front.
The system is currently available across 95 stations in the South East Wales Metro region, offering customers access to better value fares* and daily/weekly fare capping.
The success of the scheme to date paves the way for the introduction of pay as you go ticketing in North Wales next year (as part of the wider Network North Wales programme), bringing similar benefits to communities across the North Wales & Borders region.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “I am delighted that more and more passengers are opting for pay as you go, making the most of a simpler and fairer way of paying for their rail and bus tickets.
“I look forward to welcoming pay as you go ticketing to North Wales next year so that many more people can just tap and go.”
Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer at Transport for Wales said: "It's great to see so many customers embracing this convenient and simple way of travelling.
“When we talk about improving the customer experience, ‘tap on, tap off’ ticketing is exactly what we mean. It’s making rail travel faster, fairer, and more accessible, which is driving both customer satisfaction and revenue growth for the network"
*PAYG offers the best value or lowest fare against the equivalent non-PAYG fare
To find out more on pay as you go, visit: https://tfw.wales/ways-to-travel/rail/ticket-types/pay-as-you-go
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
27th November, 2025
GWR Pannier Tank No. 7754 prepares to work a Santa Special
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway in Denbighshire has announced that the start of their festive Santa season will begin this coming Saturday (29th November) with a special opening ceremony to be held at Llangollen station to mark the start of the festive running season.
Beginning at 9.30 am, the Llangollen Silver Band will play festive music as they march the length of platform one to the steam engine at the front of the first Santa Special train of the season.
The band will continue to play until 9:45 am, when Father Christmas will appear with the rostered footplate crew, along with Hazel Birkenhead and Carolyn Thomas, MS.
“I have been a supporter of the Llangollen and Corwen Railway all my life. I brought my children here when they were young, and now I am bringing my grandchildren. It is a wonderful asset for our community and a magical place at Christmas. I am delighted to help launch this year’s Santa Specials.”
Carolyn Thomas MS
Opening Ceremony to start the festive season at Llangollen
GWR Pannier Tank No. 7754 prepares to work a Santa Special
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway in Denbighshire has announced that the start of their festive Santa season will begin this coming Saturday (29th November) with a special opening ceremony to be held at Llangollen station to mark the start of the festive running season.
Beginning at 9.30 am, the Llangollen Silver Band will play festive music as they march the length of platform one to the steam engine at the front of the first Santa Special train of the season.
The band will continue to play until 9:45 am, when Father Christmas will appear with the rostered footplate crew, along with Hazel Birkenhead and Carolyn Thomas, MS.
“I have been a supporter of the Llangollen and Corwen Railway all my life. I brought my children here when they were young, and now I am bringing my grandchildren. It is a wonderful asset for our community and a magical place at Christmas. I am delighted to help launch this year’s Santa Specials.”
Carolyn Thomas MS
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Santa Special topping up with water at Llangollen
Together, both Carolyn and Hazel will cut a special ribbon marking the opening of the festive season at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway.
There will also be an official photograph taken at the event, featuring all VIP guests, Father Christmas, and the Footplate Crew.
Passengers booked on the first train will board before their departure, where the train will be waved off with the band playing.
The majority of Santa Special services on the Llangollen and Corwen Railway have already sold out, though some seats are still available in the run-up to Christmas.
The railway offers incredible views through the Dee Valley, as volunteers and staff create a friendly festive atmosphere, and every child meets and receives a present from Santa Claus.
Trains over the festive season also include the ever-popular Siôn Corn and Mince Pie specials, which run between Christmas and New Year.
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway looks forward to meeting all families and friends and spreading festive cheer during the 2025 festive running season.
“The launch of the Santa Specials is one of the highlights of our year. It brings together our volunteers, our communities and families who return year after year to share in the magic. We are especially proud to have Hazel Birkenhead with us. Hazel is one of our outstanding volunteers and, despite being over 80, still cooks breakfast for our teams every weekend. She represents the heart of this railway. This event is largely run by our amazing volunteers, whose dedication makes everything possible. Tickets for this year’s Santa Specials are already almost sold out, which shows just how loved this experience has become. We can’t wait to welcome passengers and begin another unforgettable Christmas season.”
David Hennigan, Trust Manager of the Llangollen and Corwen Railway
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
27th November, 2025
Steam locomotive 34028 Eddystone on test on the Swanage Railway
34028 Eddystone is to visit Bristol this Saturday (29th November) as it hauls The Bath and Bristol Christmas Express.
Departing London Paddington at 08:13, the train will pass through Slough (08:40), Reading (09:04), Newbury (09:38), Pewsey (10:19), Bath Spa (11:14) and Bristol Temple Meads at 11:32.
After time in Bristol, 34028 Eddystone will depart at 17:31 and will pass through Bath Spa (17:46), Chippenham (18:16), Swindon (Wilts) (18:44), Didcot Parkway (19:50), Reading (20:16), Slough (20:42) and London Paddington at 21:11.
Steam locomotive 34028 Eddystone to visit Bristol this Saturday
Steam locomotive 34028 Eddystone on test on the Swanage Railway
34028 Eddystone is to visit Bristol this Saturday (29th November) as it hauls The Bath and Bristol Christmas Express.
Departing London Paddington at 08:13, the train will pass through Slough (08:40), Reading (09:04), Newbury (09:38), Pewsey (10:19), Bath Spa (11:14) and Bristol Temple Meads at 11:32.
After time in Bristol, 34028 Eddystone will depart at 17:31 and will pass through Bath Spa (17:46), Chippenham (18:16), Swindon (Wilts) (18:44), Didcot Parkway (19:50), Reading (20:16), Slough (20:42) and London Paddington at 21:11.
- Status