I did get them on camera - I won't pursue it this time as I got the shots I wanted and the matter was amicably settled by the CSOs.
The only part of the guidelines with any litigating connotations is the "General" section - some foolish people confuse the word 'guidelines' with 'legal document'. It's nothing short of pig-headed to attempt to use them as the backbone of an arguement.
Anyway, why should one need use them against railway staff? If one understood and abided by them, the staff would already be aware of exactly what one is doing. I know for a fact that Balham has a station supervisor.
To me, the word guideline in such a context connotates common sense - to misuse them suggests having a deficiency of it. However that's only my subjective view - has anybody succesfully used them to get railway staff to leave them alone?
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At smaller stations when I'm waiting for something to come, I often break the ice with the supervisors or ticket office staff by introducing myself and cadging some gen. For example when chasing the Shepperton SERCO (aiming for 10 sightings next time it runs), I went to one particular medium sized station and asked the staff to look up where 1Q14 was. It was a good 30 minutes away, the staff were surprised that I (not looking like a typical spotter) was into trains and knew about the headcodes and routing etc. I was invited to take a seat in the office and had a lengthy chat with the half-dozen staff, very pleasant. I was able to keep an eye on the SERCOs progess as well. When the 37s were around the corner, I went to the end of the platform - the driver recognised me, and the BTP appeared (getting off a 455) just as it was thrashing past
hock:. They stood behind me and waited until I stopped videoing, then asked why I was filming trains. I explained myself then they were on their way - no doubt some people would have snapped at them that they had permission (note, the guidelines do not equate to having permission), but I didn't need to mention it - I merely explained I was an enthusiast and the train was unusual and of interest. Diplomacy (especially with the authorities) will get you a long way.
Those who have had problems at staffed stations, did you bother to make yourself known to the staff beforehand? If you're planning anything which takes longer than a spur of the moment point-shoot-leave, it is necessary to do so. After all, what can anybody tell you if you've already spoken to the DSM or supervisor?