RichmondCommu
Established Member
From memory that's the level crossing where BR installed a solar powered mechanism.
From memory that's the level crossing where BR installed a solar powered mechanism.
Yeah Idridgehay crossing was the one BR installed the solar panel controlled equipment at, if you look at the left of the cab window in my photo, you can just make out the tower with the solar equipment. The volunteer on the train I was on earlier in the year did explain what it was all for but I can't quite remember what was said.
My wife and I enjoyed a ride behind the Jinty today; absolutely wonderful and a 'must do' if you're in Derbyshire this summer.
Two things that I noticed today:-
Although the branch is quite lengthy at 9 miles there are 16 foot crossings which cannot be easy for the driver, despite the use of the whistle. I'm guessing it must be much easier driving a DMU or one of the loco's as you have a much wider view.
Secondly, at Idridgehay I'd not noticed that the two signal posts are still in place that would have protected the level crossing during BR days. A question for forum members Neil Ferguson and Tim Oakes, were the signal heads still in position when you got hold of the line? Also, just north of the level crossing there is a freshly laid concrete base; is this in connection with the level crossing?
Thanks again,
Richmond Commuter!
Hi Richmond Commuter (or can I call you Richmond?)
First of all, I'm delighted you enjoyed our railway that much - please spread the word!
Yes, you're right about the foot crossings, indeed we recently slapped a TSR on a farm crossing because we were not happy with sightlines due to vegetation growth, so until it gets cut-down, we have had to take action. You need eyes everywhere, especially with walkers who think the line is a footpath and sheep who are the world's greatest escapers!
At Idridgehay, the posts were for white flashing lights to indicate to the driver that the AOCL was clear. We've kept the posts but they never carried signals in the traditional sense.
The concrete base is for a crossing keeper's hut. At Gorsey Bank, we have a little tin hut in place but the plan is to install a Buildings Bespoke reproduction box at each crossing for use when traffic is heavier. Certainly having a crossing keeper takes five or more minutes out of running times.
Here's the temporary hut at Gorsey Bank with me in front:
Thanks again for asking and thanks also for your support!
Neil
Similar to me, an utter relevation when I visited some years back and have been a regular visitor ever since. The SBR is definitely Tamworth’s hidden jewel. N.B. This is a private railway and visits are by invitation only via their web site.I've lived in Tamworth for 26 years and had no idea the Statfold Barn Railway existed!
Hi Richmond Commuter (or can I call you Richmond?)
Yes, you're right about the foot crossings, indeed we recently slapped a TSR on a farm crossing because we were not happy with sightlines due to vegetation growth, so until it gets cut-down, we have had to take action. You need eyes everywhere, especially with walkers who think the line is a footpath and sheep who are the world's greatest escapers!
Thankyou for the offer, but diamond track circuit indicators appear to be about the one thing we have enough of.