Unconventional Signals

[Annetts key]

I know the St Andrews crosses were considered the limits of authority for position light movements in the old signalling at Temple Meads. The signals authorising movements towards them were equipped with numeric route indicators, and the appropriate description would illuminate with the correct signal aspect according to whether the near or far platform number was the destination. I realise there were separate exit buttons for the short routes to the crosses, but could a position light also be cleared to the far platform with that already occupied, or was a PL equivalent movement beyond the cross only ever possible under signallers' verbal authority?

PL aspects could be cleared into either platform with either track circuit (one per platform)(or both) occupied. This was used frequently for shunting moves, either locos setting onto trains or DMUs joining another already in either platform.

If both the odd and even platforms were free (the whole platform length), that is, both track circuits were clear, the gantry signal would display a main aspect plus the theatre indicator would display the appropriate platform number depending on which exit button the signaller had used.

If a train had stopped at or short of the St. Andrew’s cross, if then, there was a need for the train/loco/unit to move forward past the St. Andrew’s cross, the driver needed permission from the signaller and if the line ahead was already occupied with a train, also had to be conducted forward by a member of the station staff.

 

[Snow1964]

Some of the signal gantries outside Waterloo have double theatre indicators next to some signals. Haven’t been there fore a while so don’t know if they have been replaced by wide LED versions that can show 2 characters.

 

[Journeyman]

How about the LMS colour light signals on the Watford DC lines? Replaced with conventional signals in the mid 80s. I believe they were unique.

 

[MadMac]

How about the LMS colour light signals on the Watford DC lines? Replaced with conventional signals in the mid 80s. I believe they were unique.

i hadn’t realised that this was the same system as at Mirfield. See https://www.jmri.org/xml/signals/LMS-1932/index.shtml.

 

[jamesst]

Don't know if it counts but there's a lot of green to red signalling round the Liverpool loop. Meaning you can pass a green signal then round the corner come to a red aspect with no yellow cautionary aspect.
Thankfully trains have good brakes these days!!