The Token System

[Metroland]

STOP

A single line operating under ANY signalling system will be ONE BLOCK SECTION for its entirety. There will be NO block signals along its length.

Why ?

Because if theres block sections theres nothing to stop a train entering from both ends. OK, they might not hit head on due to the blocks, but they can`t pass each other-think of that photo of the railways across the USA meeting for the first time.

But I`ve seen signals on a single line.

There`ll be non-block signals for level crossings. As they`re non-block signals they don`t affect the amount of trains running.

As to passing tokens at speed, the S&D had it perfected on their section of line with various ex-SR and BR Standards with `catching` equipment on the cab sides. This also carried on to the diesels, with many classes so fitted. They all had the equipment removed and plates welded over the recesses in the `70s.

You can divide single lines into signal sections in TCB, it's fairly common in fact. Signalling controls prevent trains entering opposite ends, but you can have one train following another. A good example was Princes Risborough-Bicester before it was doubled.

You can also have one train following another on signals, when working single line working in TCB.