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Description
Keywords: HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,Warrington,WBQ,WCML,warning,from the,platform,edge,turbulence,rail,railway,railway safety warning sign,UK railway safety,yellow railway sign,train station safety notice,rail travel safety UK,railways,railway safety culture,public warning signage,transport risk management,passenger safety awareness,infrastructure communication,travel and commuting UK,rail network operations,hazard awareness,human behaviour and safety,health and safety,WA1 1NW,Warrington Cheshire UK,railway platform sign,passing trains air turbulence,public safety message,station platform detail,British railway station,transport safety signage,editorial image,daytime interior
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 3DCX6B9 - A close view of a yellow railway safety warning sign reading Keep back from the platform edge ? Passing trains cause air turbulence, photographed at Warrington Bank Quay railway station, Warrington WA1 1NW, Cheshire. The sign is mounted on a blue-painted column beneath the station canopy, with brickwork and structural elements of the platform visible in the background.
Such warning signs are a familiar feature of the UK rail network and form part of long-established efforts to communicate safety risks clearly to passengers. High-speed passing trains can create sudden air turbulence, particularly on busy mainline platforms, making clear and legible signage an essential component of accident prevention and passenger awareness.
Warrington Bank Quay is a major interchange station on the West Coast Main Line, serving long-distance intercity services as well as regional routes. Stations of this type experience frequent non-stopping services, increasing the importance of platform safety messaging for waiting passengers.
The sign's simple wording, high-contrast colour scheme and durable enamel-style finish reflect traditional British railway design principles, prioritising visibility, clarity and longevity in public safety communication. Images like this are often used editorially to illustrate stories about transport safety, rail infrastructure, commuting culture and everyday risk management in public spaces.
Photographed in daylight with shallow depth of field, the image isolates the warning message while retaining enough environmental context to situate it clearly within a working railway station. It offers strong editorial value for themes including public safety, transport systems, infrastructure design and the lived experience of rail travel in the UK.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,transport,trains,platform,platforms,carriages,unreliable,at,Scotland,UK,Princes St,EH1 1BE,EH1,intercity train,UK rail travel,passenger train,long distance rail,British railways,train at platform,Edinburgh Waverley,railway platform,station interior,modern train,rail transport UK,commuter travel,business travel,public transport,rail operator branding,urban transport,travel infrastructure,UK railway network,Pendo,Pendolino,West Coast Main Line,WCML train
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2X2CG2G - This image shows an Avanti West Coast passenger train standing at a platform inside Edinburgh Waverley railway station in Edinburgh, Scotland. The photograph captures the side of the modern intercity train, clearly displaying Avanti West Coast branding, with carriage windows reflecting the historic stone architecture of the station surroundings. Platform markings, tactile paving, and station infrastructure are visible, situating the scene firmly within a busy city-centre transport hub.
Edinburgh Waverley is Scotland's principal mainline railway station and one of the busiest stations in the United Kingdom outside London. Located between the Old Town and New Town, the station sits within a dramatic valley setting and plays a vital role in connecting Scotland's capital with destinations across England. Avanti West Coast operates long-distance services on the West Coast Main Line, linking Edinburgh with Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, and London Euston.
The image reflects contemporary UK rail travel, combining modern rolling stock with historic station architecture. It illustrates themes of intercity transport, public infrastructure, business and leisure travel, and the ongoing importance of rail connectivity between major UK cities. The photograph is suitable for editorial and commercial use relating to transport, travel, railway operations, urban mobility, and the British rail network.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,UK,England,union,action,manned,ticket,offices,unmanned,Warrington,railway,rail,station,Cheshire,WA1 1LW,WA1,self-service,notice,of,strikes,strike,and,limited,services,due,to,card,contactless,cash,complicated,inconvenient,consultation,WCML,West Coast,mainline,main line,disabled,disability
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2RG8Y9W -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,M60,Manchester Piccadilly Rail Station,Piccadilly Station Approach,Greater Manchester,England,UK,M60 7RA,train,railway,rail,station,exterior,outside,at,night,the,mainline,passengers,passenger,modern,secure,transport,building,architecture,HS2,high-speed,redevelopment,plan,plans,Northern Powerhouse,connectivity,integrated,railways,safe,terminus,WCML,West Coast Mainline
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2RAJ378 - Manchester Piccadilly is the principal railway station in Manchester, England. Opened as Store Street in 1842, it was renamed Manchester London Road in 1847 and became Manchester Piccadilly in 1960. Located to the south-east of Manchester city centre, it hosts long-distance intercity and cross-country services to national destinations including London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Reading, Southampton and Bournemouth
regional services to destinations in Northern England including Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newcastle and York
and local commuter services around Greater Manchester. It is one of 19 major stations managed by Network Rail. The station has 14 platforms: 12 terminal and two through platforms (numbers 13 and 14). Piccadilly is also a major interchange with the Metrolink light rail system with two tram platforms in its undercroft.
Piccadilly is the busiest station in the Manchester station group with over 30 million passenger entries and exits between April 2019 and March 2020
A major redevelopment of the station and surrounding area has been proposed to complement the HS2 proposals involving the construction of a canopy over the HS2 platforms, the creation of a new entrance, and office, retail and residential development. Designs indicate that the derelict Mayfield Station and the Gateway House office block will be demolished. The plans were approved by the Government in November 2016
Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) proposals include the construction of new platforms under Piccadilly station and the proposed HS2 platforms. The 2016 'Manchester Piccadilly Options Assessment' by the National Infrastructure Commission stated: Addition of Northern Powerhouse Rail and Station to the Manchester Piccadilly system will be the last step of the process of transforming the station in to a transport super hub. The NPR station and its construction will need to be considered throughout the design and implementation
Description
Keywords: Warrington,centre,WA1,Cheshire,England,English,UK,GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,closed,manufacturing,facility,WA5,2,WA5 1AA,major,soap,detergent,detergents,WBQ,Avanti,train,WCML,West Coast Mainline,platform,Pendolino,service,engine,station,Bank Quay,sunny,blue sky,blue skies,West Coast,Surf,plant,household products,Charlotte Nichols,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2RHH6G0 - Read more at https://www.business-live.co.uk/manufacturing/unilever-north-west-plant-persil-17657936
Unilever North West plant where Persil and Surf are made could close after 'irreversible decline in demand'
The household products giant said the plant is 'running at less than half its capacity'
Global household products giant Unilever is set to close an historic North West plant where Persil and Surf laundry detergents are made, after what it called an irreversible decline in demand for washing powder.
The British-Dutch firm said it was launching a strategic review into the 136-year-old factory in Warrington that employs more than 100 people but is currently running at less than half its capacity.
The statement from the firm, whose brands include Dove and Lynx, said one potential outcome would be to close the entire plant, and that it would be challenging to find a commercially sustainable alternative.
Unilever said: [We] appreciate that this is difficult and unsettling news for the 123 employees at Warrington and will support them through this review.
Jon Strachan, vice president of supply chain, added: This decision has not been taken lightly.
Whatever the outcome, the review is likely to require difficult decisions. We understand this will cause considerable concern for our Warrington employees, suppliers and the local community and that the outcome may have significant implications for them.
We are committed to treating our employees fairly throughout and providing support during this period of uncertainty.
Following the announcement, GMB, the union for Unilever workers, together with Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols, have called on the company to save the historic factory.
Description
Keywords: Warrington,centre,WA1,Cheshire,England,English,UK,GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,closed,manufacturing,facility,WA5,2,WA5 1AA,major,soap,detergent,detergents,WBQ,Avanti,train,WCML,West Coast Mainline,platform,Pendolino,service,engine,station,Bank Quay,sunny,blue sky,blue skies,West Coast,Surf,plant,household products,Charlotte Nichols
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2RHH6G6 - Read more at https://www.business-live.co.uk/manufacturing/unilever-north-west-plant-persil-17657936
Unilever North West plant where Persil and Surf are made could close after 'irreversible decline in demand'
The household products giant said the plant is 'running at less than half its capacity'
Global household products giant Unilever is set to close an historic North West plant where Persil and Surf laundry detergents are made, after what it called an irreversible decline in demand for washing powder.
The British-Dutch firm said it was launching a strategic review into the 136-year-old factory in Warrington that employs more than 100 people but is currently running at less than half its capacity.
The statement from the firm, whose brands include Dove and Lynx, said one potential outcome would be to close the entire plant, and that it would be challenging to find a commercially sustainable alternative.
Unilever said: [We] appreciate that this is difficult and unsettling news for the 123 employees at Warrington and will support them through this review.
Jon Strachan, vice president of supply chain, added: This decision has not been taken lightly.
Whatever the outcome, the review is likely to require difficult decisions. We understand this will cause considerable concern for our Warrington employees, suppliers and the local community and that the outcome may have significant implications for them.
We are committed to treating our employees fairly throughout and providing support during this period of uncertainty.
Following the announcement, GMB, the union for Unilever workers, together with Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols, have called on the company to save the historic factory.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,city,centre,BR,logo,British Rail,Lancaster Station sign,British Rail double arrow,railway station signage,WCML,Lancaster,Lancashire,England,UK,public,transport,signs,rusty,Northern Trains,TransPennine Express,Avanti West Coast,UK rail network,main line railway,intercity services,regional rail services,station name sign,railway branding,transport infrastructure,rail travel UK,commuter transport,long distance trains,northern England railways,blue sky,trees,outdoor sign,editorial photography,LA1 1JF,LA1
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R64RTD - This image shows the classic British Rail double arrow station sign for Lancaster railway station, photographed against a clear blue sky with surrounding trees. The sign identifies Lancaster as a key stop on the West Coast Main Line, one of the UK's most important intercity rail corridors linking London with the North West of England and Scotland.
Lancaster station is served by Avanti West Coast long-distance services, providing direct connections to London Euston, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. In addition, the station is an important regional hub for Northern Trains and TransPennine Express, offering onward connections across Lancashire, Cumbria, Yorkshire, and the wider North of England.
The continued use of the British Rail double arrow symbol reflects the enduring visual identity of the UK rail network, even decades after rail privatisation. Station signage of this type remains instantly recognisable and is widely used to represent rail travel, connectivity, and public transport in Britain.
Photographed in daylight, the image works well as editorial material illustrating UK railway infrastructure, regional and intercity rail services, transport policy, sustainable travel, and the role of provincial cities like Lancaster within the national rail network.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,WN1,WN1 1BJ,WCML,West Coast,main,line,rail,public,transport,Avanti,Lancs,Greater Manchester,town,centre,north,west,western,platform,BR,front,outside,British Rail,logo,electric,trains,electrified,WGN,electrification,project
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55JM0 - Wigan North Western railway station is one of two railway stations serving the town centre of Wigan, Greater Manchester, England.
It is a moderately-sized station on the West Coast Main Line. It is operated by Avanti West Coast, and is also served by Northern Trains.
Wigan's other station is Wigan Wallgate, which is about 110 yards (100 m) away, on the opposite side of the street named Wallgate, for services to Manchester (Victoria, Deansgate, Oxford Road & Piccadilly), Southport and Kirkby. Both stations are centrally located on the southern fringe of Wigan town centre. The station is named North Western, not because of its location but because it formerly belonged to the London and North Western Railway. The drop in usage figures for Wigan North Western in 2006/07 was due to the adjustment of the allocation between the town's two stations. In 2009 North Western station was identified as one of the ten worst category B interchange stations for mystery shopper assessment of fabric and environment and was set to receive a share of ?50m funding for improvements
The station is served currently by Avanti West Coast. There is an hourly service on the West Coast Main Line from London Euston, which continues northwards to Glasgow Central, with additional peak services terminating at Preston, Lancaster and Carlisle. The journey time from London is less than two hours (1 hour and 55 minutes). There is also an hourly service in the opposite direction calling at Warrington Bank Quay and London Euston. It is also served by Avanti West Coast's services from London Euston via Birmingham New Street to Blackpool North, Edinburgh and Glasgow Central (alternate hours). The single London Midland service from Birmingham New Street to Preston that used to call in the evening was withdrawn at the end of the 2007-8 timetable.
With completion of the first stage of the North West electrification programme, most TransPennine Express services between Manchester and Scotland were re-routed
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,WN1,WN1 1BJ,WCML,West Coast,main,line,rail,public,transport,Avanti,Lancs,Greater Manchester,town,centre,north,west,western,platform,branded,Avanti West Coast,poor,service,services,Partnership,WGN,electrification,project,Network Rail,NetworkRail,waiting area,platforms,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55JMG - Wigan North Western railway station is one of two railway stations serving the town centre of Wigan, Greater Manchester, England.
It is a moderately-sized station on the West Coast Main Line. It is operated by Avanti West Coast, and is also served by Northern Trains.
Wigan's other station is Wigan Wallgate, which is about 110 yards (100 m) away, on the opposite side of the street named Wallgate, for services to Manchester (Victoria, Deansgate, Oxford Road & Piccadilly), Southport and Kirkby. Both stations are centrally located on the southern fringe of Wigan town centre. The station is named North Western, not because of its location but because it formerly belonged to the London and North Western Railway. The drop in usage figures for Wigan North Western in 2006/07 was due to the adjustment of the allocation between the town's two stations. In 2009 North Western station was identified as one of the ten worst category B interchange stations for mystery shopper assessment of fabric and environment and was set to receive a share of ?50m funding for improvements
The station is served currently by Avanti West Coast. There is an hourly service on the West Coast Main Line from London Euston, which continues northwards to Glasgow Central, with additional peak services terminating at Preston, Lancaster and Carlisle. The journey time from London is less than two hours (1 hour and 55 minutes). There is also an hourly service in the opposite direction calling at Warrington Bank Quay and London Euston. It is also served by Avanti West Coast's services from London Euston via Birmingham New Street to Blackpool North, Edinburgh and Glasgow Central (alternate hours). The single London Midland service from Birmingham New Street to Preston that used to call in the evening was withdrawn at the end of the 2007-8 timetable.
With completion of the first stage of the North West electrification programme, most TransPennine Express services between Manchester and Scotland were re-routed
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,WN1,WN1 1BJ,WCML,West Coast,main,line,rail,public,transport,Avanti,Lancs,Greater Manchester,town,centre,north,west,western,platform,electric,trains,electrified,branded,Avanti West Coast,poor,service,services,Partnership,WGN,electrification,project,keep back from the platform,high speed trains,warning,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55JMM - Wigan North Western railway station is one of two railway stations serving the town centre of Wigan, Greater Manchester, England.
It is a moderately-sized station on the West Coast Main Line. It is operated by Avanti West Coast, and is also served by Northern Trains.
Wigan's other station is Wigan Wallgate, which is about 110 yards (100 m) away, on the opposite side of the street named Wallgate, for services to Manchester (Victoria, Deansgate, Oxford Road & Piccadilly), Southport and Kirkby. Both stations are centrally located on the southern fringe of Wigan town centre. The station is named North Western, not because of its location but because it formerly belonged to the London and North Western Railway. The drop in usage figures for Wigan North Western in 2006/07 was due to the adjustment of the allocation between the town's two stations. In 2009 North Western station was identified as one of the ten worst category B interchange stations for mystery shopper assessment of fabric and environment and was set to receive a share of ?50m funding for improvements
The station is served currently by Avanti West Coast. There is an hourly service on the West Coast Main Line from London Euston, which continues northwards to Glasgow Central, with additional peak services terminating at Preston, Lancaster and Carlisle. The journey time from London is less than two hours (1 hour and 55 minutes). There is also an hourly service in the opposite direction calling at Warrington Bank Quay and London Euston. It is also served by Avanti West Coast's services from London Euston via Birmingham New Street to Blackpool North, Edinburgh and Glasgow Central (alternate hours). The single London Midland service from Birmingham New Street to Preston that used to call in the evening was withdrawn at the end of the 2007-8 timetable.
With completion of the first stage of the North West electrification programme, most TransPennine Express services between Manchester and Scotland were re-routed
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,CAF,Transport for Wales,UK passenger train,intercity regional service,North Wales route,West Coast Main Line,WCML connection,Warrington Bank Quay,Cheshire,North West England,Welsh rail services,regional rail,modern rolling stock,red and grey livery,cab front detail,coupling,platform edge,tactile paving,public transport,rail travel UK,documentary photography,editorial image,Transport for Wales CAF Class 197 unit 197018 at Warrington,operating a service toward Holyhead in North Wales.,service,toward,Holyhead,in North Wales,Welsh
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55J42 - This image shows Transport for Wales CAF Class 197 unit 197018 standing at Warrington Bank Quay railway station in Cheshire. The train is operating a northbound service toward Holyhead, linking North West England with North Wales and the Isle of Anglesey.
The Class 197 fleet, built by CAF as part of the Civity family, represents a modernisation of diesel regional services in Wales and the border counties. Designed to replace older rolling stock, the trains offer improved accessibility, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency on long regional routes that are not fully electrified.
The photograph focuses on the cab end and coupling area of the unit, highlighting contemporary train design, lighting, and livery. Platform features such as the yellow safety line and tactile paving are visible, situating the scene within a busy mainline station environment that handles both long-distance and regional services.
Taken in daylight under the station canopy, the image is well suited to editorial use covering UK rail transport, modern rolling stock, regional connectivity, Welsh transport policy, and everyday passenger rail operations on routes linking England and Wales.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,Warrington Bank Quay,WCML,station safety signage,British railway,platform edge,Cheshire,North West England,UK rail network,passenger safety,accessibility,wheelchair symbol,pram symbol,luggage trolley symbol,hazard symbol,warning triangle,ground markings,station infrastructure,electrified railway,track and platform,commuter rail,long distance rail,documentary photography,editorial image,UK transport,West Coast Main Line,railway platform,sloping platform,apply brakes,platform warning,rail safety markings
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55J49 - This image shows painted safety markings on a sloping railway platform at Warrington Bank Quay railway station in Cheshire, a key stop on the West Coast Main Line. The clear yellow text reads Sloping Platform ? Apply Brakes and is accompanied by universally recognised pictograms indicating luggage trolleys, pushchairs, and wheelchairs.
Sloping platforms are a known safety consideration on parts of the UK rail network, where gradients can cause wheeled items to roll toward the platform edge if not secured. Ground-level warnings such as this are designed to be immediately visible to passengers, supplementing tactile paving and yellow safety lines near the edge of the platform.
Warrington Bank Quay serves long-distance intercity services as well as regional trains, meaning platforms must accommodate high passenger volumes, heavy luggage, and accessibility needs. The presence of inclusive symbols highlights the importance of designing safety messaging that addresses all users, including those with mobility aids.
Photographed from above in daylight, the image emphasises the functional design of railway safety infrastructure and is well suited to editorial use covering rail safety, station design, accessibility, transport policy, and everyday passenger experience on the UK rail network.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,Warrington Bank Quay,Cheshire,WA1,WBQ,WCML,West Coast,mainline,main line,the,scouse,name,a,train,trains,of,Runcorn,flying Scotsman,20th,birthday,celebration,celebrations,iconic,Pendolinos,funny,fun,public,transport,rail,railway,engine,carriage,NW,North West
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55J4J - Virgin Trains Pendolino given Flying Scouseman name to mark firm's 20th birthday
ECHO competition won by Michael Dally, of Runcorn
Read more at https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/virgin-trains-pendolino-given-flying-13175811
The ECHO teamed up with Virgin Trains to help celebrate the firm's 20th birthday and invited people to come up with a name for one of their iconic Pendolinos, used on the West Coast mainline between Lime Street and Euston.
Other shortlisted suggestions for the new name included Mighty Mersey, Pride of Liverpool, Merseyside Express and Liver Bird.
Arif Mahmood, Virgin Trains station manager for Liverpool Lime Street said the response to the competition had been overwhelming.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,British,English,public safety notice,rail travel,UK railway,passenger safety,warning sign,British rail signage,transport safety,air turbulence warning,hazard notice,yellow warning sign,station infrastructure,overhead line equipment,electrified railway,commuter safety,public transport,travel risk,railway rules,safety message,documentary photography,editorial image,UK transport,electric,cables,WCML,Warrington,high speed,trains,express,air turbulence
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R55J5X - This image shows a yellow railway safety sign mounted on a station platform in the United Kingdom, clearly instructing passengers to Keep back from the platform edge. The accompanying message warns that passing trains can cause air turbulence, highlighting a common but often underestimated risk in busy railway environments.
Such signage forms part of the UK rail network's wider approach to passenger safety, particularly on platforms used by high-speed or non-stopping trains. The sign's bold black text on a yellow background follows established safety-design conventions intended to ensure high visibility and immediate comprehension.
Overhead line equipment and electrical infrastructure are visible in the background, reinforcing the operational context of a modern electrified railway. Together, these elements underline the importance of clear safety communication in public transport settings where large numbers of people move through confined spaces.
Photographed under natural light, the image is well suited to editorial use covering rail safety, public transport infrastructure, passenger behaviour, risk awareness, and the everyday experience of travelling by train in the UK.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,train,England,UK,rail,public,WCML,West Coast,westcoast,mainline,main line,TOC,train operating company,Avanti West Coast,390124,CW2 6HR,CW2,Nantwich Road,Crewe,class 390,EMU,red,light,pulled,service,red light,red lights,signal,signals,coach,carriage,carriages,British Rail,Class 390,trenitalia,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R8T9G6 - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,platforms,rail,WCML,FirstGroup,and,TOC,engine,390141,BR,EMU,class 390,electric,electrified,managed,by,London NorthWestern Railway,London NorthWestern,302,Elder Gate,Milton Keynes,Buckinghamshire,MK9 1LA,MK9,South East,SE,intercity,services,service,sign,signage,arrived,boarding,franchise,strike,strikes
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2RADRX1 - Milton Keynes Central railway station serves Milton Keynes and surrounding parts of Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire (England). The station is located on the West Coast Main Line about 50 miles (80 km) northwest of London. The station is served by Avanti West Coast intercity services, and by West Midlands Trains regional services.
This is the principal station for the city, one of seven serving the Milton Keynes urban area. Milton Keynes Central, which opened on 17 May 1982, is by far the busiest and most important of these, as well as being the largest in terms of platforms in use, having overtaken Bletchley when platforms 2A and 6 became operational.
Milton Keynes Central has a total of seven platforms. Platforms 1 and 3 are the south and northbound slow platforms, while 4 and 6 are the south and northbound fast platforms. Platforms 2 and 5 are reversible, being slow and fast respectively. Platform 2 is used mainly by terminating stopping services from London Euston, whilst platforms 1 and 3 are used by West Midlands Trains services between Euston and Northampton, Birmingham New Street or Crewe. Platforms 4, 5 and 6 are used by Avanti West Coast inter-city express services between London and the West Midlands, north Wales, the north-west or Scotland.
Platform 2A is a five-car south-facing bay platform, originally intended for the extension of Marston Vale Line services from Bedford into Milton Keynes Central this proposal no longer appears in plans for East West Rail, being replaced by a planned service to/from Oxford or Aylesbury (see below). Meanwhile, platform 2A is used only by exception when additional platform capacity is needed, such as when there is a service delay. To the north of the station the six lines reduce to four (two slow and two fast) and there is a mile of five-track running to the south before this also reduces back to four.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Greater Manchester,England,UK,NPR,Northern Powerhouse,rail,north west,transport,outside,Stockport Railway station,British Railways,BR,exterior,with,SK3 9HZ,train,railway,building,Stockport,Cheshire,main,line,concourse,view,over,looking,M&BR,West Coast Main Line,route,routes,centre,town,stations,services,service,WCML,the
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2N28PPH - Stockport railway station in Stockport, Greater Manchester, England, is 8 miles south-east of Manchester Piccadilly on the West Coast Main Line to London Euston.
The Manchester and Birmingham Railway opened in stages from Manchester and reached Stockport in 1840. The 5+1?2-mile (9 km) line ran from a temporary station in Manchester to another in Stockport at the north end of the uncompleted Stockport Viaduct. The temporary station, which was later renamed Heaton Norris, was Stockport's only station for more than two years. After the viaduct was completed, the M&BR built a station at its southern end as an experiment. The decision was prompted by complaints that the first station was a long way from the industrial parts of town and even farther from the residential districts on the south side. The second station opened on 15 February 1843 as Edgeley. By 1844, it was the town's principal station. Heaton Norris, at the north end of the viaduct, closed in 1959.
The station was operated by the London and North Western Railway and became part of the London Midland and Scottish Railway in 1923. In 1948, British Railways ran the system.
Most lines into the station were electrified at 25 kV AC, using overhead wires, under the British Railways 1955 Modernisation Plan
however, not all of the local lines were electrified.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Greater Manchester,England,UK,railway,building,main,line,train,Stockport,Cheshire,SK3 9HZ,BR,British Railways,logo,Stockport Railway station,exterior,with,outside,transport,north west,NPR,Northern Powerhouse,rail,town,centre,principle,stations,route,routes,service,services,West Coast Main Line,WCML,the,M&BR
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2N28PT8 - Stockport railway station in Stockport, Greater Manchester, England, is 8 miles south-east of Manchester Piccadilly on the West Coast Main Line to London Euston.
The Manchester and Birmingham Railway opened in stages from Manchester and reached Stockport in 1840. The 5+1?2-mile (9 km) line ran from a temporary station in Manchester to another in Stockport at the north end of the uncompleted Stockport Viaduct. The temporary station, which was later renamed Heaton Norris, was Stockport's only station for more than two years. After the viaduct was completed, the M&BR built a station at its southern end as an experiment. The decision was prompted by complaints that the first station was a long way from the industrial parts of town and even farther from the residential districts on the south side. The second station opened on 15 February 1843 as Edgeley. By 1844, it was the town's principal station. Heaton Norris, at the north end of the viaduct, closed in 1959.
The station was operated by the London and North Western Railway and became part of the London Midland and Scottish Railway in 1923. In 1948, British Railways ran the system.
Most lines into the station were electrified at 25 kV AC, using overhead wires, under the British Railways 1955 Modernisation Plan
however, not all of the local lines were electrified.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Greater Manchester,England,UK,railway,building,main,line,train,Stockport,Cheshire,SK3 9HZ,BR,British Railways,logo,Stockport Railway station,exterior,with,outside,transport,north west,NPR,Northern Powerhouse,rail,town,centre,principle,stations,route,routes,service,services,West Coast Main Line,WCML,the,M&BR
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2N28PY0 - Stockport railway station in Stockport, Greater Manchester, England, is 8 miles south-east of Manchester Piccadilly on the West Coast Main Line to London Euston.
The Manchester and Birmingham Railway opened in stages from Manchester and reached Stockport in 1840. The 5+1?2-mile (9 km) line ran from a temporary station in Manchester to another in Stockport at the north end of the uncompleted Stockport Viaduct. The temporary station, which was later renamed Heaton Norris, was Stockport's only station for more than two years. After the viaduct was completed, the M&BR built a station at its southern end as an experiment. The decision was prompted by complaints that the first station was a long way from the industrial parts of town and even farther from the residential districts on the south side. The second station opened on 15 February 1843 as Edgeley. By 1844, it was the town's principal station. Heaton Norris, at the north end of the viaduct, closed in 1959.
The station was operated by the London and North Western Railway and became part of the London Midland and Scottish Railway in 1923. In 1948, British Railways ran the system.
Most lines into the station were electrified at 25 kV AC, using overhead wires, under the British Railways 1955 Modernisation Plan
however, not all of the local lines were electrified.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Merseyside,city,centre,platform,dusk,night,service,WCML,poor,Alstom,Pendolino,390112,EMU,Electric,trains,train,at,unreliable,renewed,failed,intercity,to,Euston,London,stopped selling,advance,tickets,Richard Scott,First Group,Trenitalia,worst performing,drivers,overtime,strikes,timetable,peak
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2M1F601 - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Avanti West Coast,tickets to everywhere,train tickets,WCML,rail travel UK,card,contactless,cash,payment,collect,collection,tickets,UK,ticket vending machine,TVM,passenger ticketing,buy tickets machine,collect tickets,debit card payment,credit card payment,cashless ticketing,singles and returns,British rail fares,public transport technology,modern rail infrastructure,documentary photography,editorial image,stations,increase,increases,fare,fares,out of order
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2R59X75 - This image shows a self-service railway ticket machine operated by Avanti West Coast at Warrington Bank Quay railway station in Cheshire. Branded with the slogan Tickets to everywhere, the machine allows passengers to purchase and collect train tickets for journeys across the UK rail network.
The ticket vending machine supports the purchase of single and return fares, as well as ticket collection for journeys booked online, reflecting the growing shift toward automated and cashless ticketing in British railway stations. Card payment facilities, on-screen instructions, and integrated printers are designed to reduce queues at staffed ticket offices and improve passenger convenience.
Warrington Bank Quay is a major interchange station on the West Coast Main Line, serving long-distance intercity services linking London with the North West, North Wales, and Scotland. Self-service machines like this play an important role in managing high passenger volumes, particularly during peak travel periods.
Photographed indoors under station lighting, the image is well suited to editorial use covering UK rail transport, passenger services, ticketing technology, public transport modernisation, and the everyday experience of travelling by train on Britain's mainline railway network.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,tour,76,L1 1HL,L1,DB,integrated,public,trains,train,and,station,underground,Queen Sq,mainline,BR,British,English,WCML,Northern,main,stations,Victorian,history,historic,glass,front,fronted,arch,arched,strike,strikes,industrial,action,sunny,dramatic
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2K0KDNM -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,side,BREL and British Rail Research Division Advanced Passenger Train prototype,research,engineering,advanced,passenger,rail,railway,railways,development,developments,innovation,innovate,British,Great,GB,United Kingdom,West Coast,mainline,main line,the,future,tilt,tilts,tilting
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2RDP - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,British Rail APT,side,BREL and British Rail Research Division Advanced Passenger Train prototype,research,engineering,advanced,passenger,rail,railway,railways,development,developments,innovation,innovate,British,Great,GB,United Kingdom,West Coast,mainline,main line
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2RF4 - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,British Rail APT,BREL and British Rail Research Division Advanced Passenger Train prototype,side,side on,BREL,APT,Crewe,WCML,APT-P,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe Heritage Centre,research,engineering,advanced,passenger,rail,railway,railways,development,developments,innovation,innovate,British,Great,GB,United Kingdom,West Coast,mainline,main line,Crewe Railway Age
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2RKD - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,trains,livery,unveiled,on,loco,at,heritage centre,power unit,preserved,CW1 2DB,CW1,British Rail Engineering Limited,BREL,BR,British,rail,railways,passenger,freight,WCML,West Coast,Main Line,MainLine,black,red,logo,electric,class,87,Crewe Railway Age
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2RN2 - The British Rail Class 87 is a type of electric locomotive designed and built by British Rail Engineering Limited (BREL) between 1973 and 1975. A total of thirty-six locomotives were constructed, to work passenger and freight services over the West Coast Main Line (WCML).
The type was developed in response to the need to add extra capacity to the electric traction fleet operated by British Rail (BR), in addition to the desire to introduce a higher performance electric locomotive than the existing Class 86, upon which the Class 87 was based. Class 87s were British Rail's flagship electric locomotives from their introduction until the late 1980s, at which point they began to be superseded by members of the newly-developed Class 90 fleet ? itself an improved derivative of the Class 87 design.
As a consequence of the privatisation of British Rail during the mid 1990s, all but one of the Class 87s were transferred to Virgin Trains. Under this operator, the type continued their passenger duties until the advent of the new Class 390 Pendolinos, after which they were gradually transferred to other operators or withdrawn between 2002 and 2007
A large proportion of the fleet has been exported to Bulgaria, where they have entered regular use once again.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,Scotland,blue,carriage,1st class,1st,class,Glasgow,Euston,tartan,table,tables,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes,inside,interior,seats,seating
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2T4N - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,your,poster,seats,seating,1st,2nd,standard,class,office,second class,comfort,passenger,passengers,information,InterCity,InterCityAPT,boarding pass,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2T8T - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,Glasgow,London,Euston,InterCity,InterCityAPT,comfort,second class,2nd,1st,seats,passenger,passengers,information,seat,numbers,historic,history,transport,technology,plan,diagram
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2TAG - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,pendolino,passing,1st class,1st,class,carriage,TrenItalia,infrastructure,blue,tartan,Euston,Glasgow,Scotland,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes,inside,interior
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2TD7 - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,car,carriage,shop,sandwiches,sandwich,high speed,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes,inside,interior,seats,seating,buffet,dining,cafe,the
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2TFC - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,car,carriage,shop,sandwiches,sandwich,high speed,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes,inside,interior,seats,seating,buffet,dining,cafe,the
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2TH2 - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,2nd class,standard class,carriage,Red,tartan,Euston,Glasgow,Scotland,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes,inside,interior,seats,seating,second,standard
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2TJP - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,driver,speedo,speedometer,dead mans handle,dead man handle,HST,high,speed,prototype,prototypes,inside,interior,seats,seating,drivers,driving,cab,compartment,dead mans,handle
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2TRH - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,CW1 2DB,1/4,Aa,quarter,of,a,mile,to Crewe,to,sign,signage,rail,BR,British Rail,WCML,railway,main,line,signal,box,signals,in big letters,capital,letters,this way,maroon,systems
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2W37 -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,train,WCML,trains,Manchester,Glasgow,Euston,Birmingham,Liverpool,operating,company,TOC,poor,service,overbooked,late,driver,shortage,union,RMT,overtime,ASLEF,excuses,excuse,for a,room for improvement,tickets,peak,travel,emergency,timetable,awful,management,overcrowding,overcrowded,dirty
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2K148W6 - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
-Onboard-Hub-for-ordering-food--drink-and-refreshments--from-your-train-seat-from-cafe-buffet-via-QR-code-2K148X3.jpg)
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,England,UK,QR Code,scan,poor,service,at,your,seat,food,and,drink,West Coast,trains,WCML,closed,not,working,no,hot,water,for,order,ordering,of,from,cafe,tripadvisor,shocking,joke,chaos,shambles,overbooked,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2K148X3 - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,Hotpixuk,Parker street,Warrington,England,UK,rail,transport,station,RMT,union,train,delays,cancelled,display,indicator,action,Rail,Maritime and Transport,Workers,WCML,West Coast mainline,defend,pay,jobs,conditions,redundancies,pay increase,over,network,negotiated settlement,rail employers,unsafe,multiyear pay freezes,dispute,strike action,ASLEF,Avanti west coast,walkout,cancel
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JEKRBE - The RMT was formed in 1990 through a merger of the National Union of Railwaymen (NUR) and the National Union of Seamen (NUS) to create a single transport industry trade union. Its president is Alex Gordon and its general secretary Mick Lynch
Rail union RMT launch 3 days of national strike action across the railway network.
Over 50,000 railway workers will walkout as part of 3 days of national strike action later this month, in the biggest dispute on the network since 1989.
The union will shut down the country's railway network on 21st, 23rd and 25th June, due to the inability of the rail employers to come to a negotiated settlement with RMT.
Network Rail and the train operating companies have subjected their staff to multiyear pay freezes and plan to cut thousands of jobs which will make the railways unsafe.
Despite intense talks with the rail bosses, The RMT has not been able to secure a pay proposal nor a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,city centre,England,UK,Levelling up,Northern Powerhouse,Lime Street,Liverpool Lime St,rail,railway,RMT Union,strike,striking,transport,infrastructure,L1,at,mainline station,Eurovision,2023,NW,northwest,network,routes,investment,subsidy,platform,platforms,blue,city,station,WCML,mainline,main line,L1 1JD
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JDDPPK -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,city centre,Merseyside,England,UK,Levelling up,Northern Powerhouse,rail,station,RMT Union,strike,striking,transport,infrastructure,at,railway station,L1 1JD,BR,NetworkRail,parking,dropoff,area,zone,sunny,mainline,WCML,Merseyrail,NW,northwest,network,routes,investment,subsidy,platform,platforms
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JDDPYT -
Description
Keywords: @Hotpixuk,Hotpixuk,GotonySmith,Manchester Piccadilly mainline railway station,England,UK,Manchester Piccadilly West Coast,mainline,main line,WCML,interchange,Manchester,Store Street,transport for,system,Northern,railway,TOCs,train operating companies,Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Oxford Road Capacity Scheme,retail,shops,HS2,High Speed2,NPR,Northern Powerhouse Rail,city centre,commuters,passengers,travelers,rail,workers,strick,RMT,strike,RMT union
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2J880D1 -
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,Northern Powerhouse,North West,England,UK,scrapping return rail tickets,RMT,ASLEF,train,approach,Manchester,Greater Manchester,M60 7RA,Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Oxford Road Capacity Scheme,Network Rail,Northern Powerhouse Rail,NPR,Victorian,shed,platform,platforms,TfGM,carriage,carriages,service,track,Avanti,WCML,EMU,destination,Electrical Multiple Unit,at,Avanti West Coast,late,cancelled,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2J92PEP - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,Northern Powerhouse,North West,England,UK,scrapping return rail tickets,train,rail,railway,approach,Manchester,Greater Manchester,M60 7RA,Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Oxford Road Capacity Scheme,Network Rail,Northern Powerhouse Rail,NPR,Victorian,information,ticket,gates,desk,bright,displays,terminus,West Coast Main Line,WCML,commuters,commuting,TfGM,Andy Burnham,public,transport,retail,shopping,shops,cafes
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2J92PFJ -
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,Northern Powerhouse,North West,England,UK,scrapping return rail tickets,train,rail,railway,approach,Manchester,Greater Manchester,M60 7RA,Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Oxford Road Capacity Scheme,Network Rail,Northern Powerhouse Rail,NPR,Victorian,information,ticket,gates,desk,bright,displays,terminus,West Coast Main Line,WCML,commuters,commuting,TfGM,Andy Burnham,public,transport,retail,shopping,shops,cafes
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2J92PFN -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,HotpixUK,money,notes,price,Scottish notes,Scottish money,strike,RMT union,workers,Scotrail,Ticket,tickets,prices,increase,increases,cost,costs,Scots,Scot,Scottish,note,cash,sterling,Scotland,railway,trains,train,inflation,affordable,services,route,routes,subsidy,subsidised,net zero,Glasgow,WCML,West Coast Mainline
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2CC6XX5 -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,HotpixUK,TOC,train operating company,WCML,transport,public,Passenger Charter,passenger,Victoria Square,House,Birmingham,First TrainItalia,ltd,late trains,cancelled trains,Avanti West Coast Delay Repay Cheques,repayment for late and cancelled trains,repayments,Delay Repay,cheque,Cheques,repayment,for,late and cancelled trains,FirstGroup,PLC,delay,rail,train,December 2019,delay compensation,UK,legally entitled,to,compensation,Getting a refund for a cancelled or delayed train,tickets,travel
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2BEYC16 -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,railway station,electric,EMU,BR Class 390,TOC,Train Operating Company,WCML,West Coast Main Line,WA1,at night,night,dusk,Cheshire,England,Warrington,franchise,delays,late trains,poor service,good service,improvement,rebrand,rebranding,First Group,Avanti,unit,train 390155,new livery,evening,fleet,refurbished Pendolino,carriage,public transport,repainted,overbooked,overcrowded,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AR6MXP - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that began operating the West Coast Partnership franchise on 8 December 2019. It replaced Virgin Trains, which had operated the franchise since 1997.
In August 2019 the DfT awarded the franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium with Avanti West Coast to commence operations on 8 December 2019. Some uncertainty remains as the Competition and Markets Authority launched a merger inquiry into the award of the franchise following a referral from the European Commission
Avanti West Coast initially operates the same services as Virgin Trains on the West Coast Main Line. When High Speed 2 opens, it will also operate these services.
Over the course of the franchise several timetable changes are expected to be made
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUk,HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,fashion,clothing,clothes,line,denim,jacket,train,platform,in front,waiting,for a,rain,WCML,West Coast Main Line,wearing a,Bow Down,I Been On,denims,Beyonc?? Knowles-Carter,Beyonc??,Knowles-Carter,Beyonce,lyric,quote,quotes,top,blond,Crewe,Cheshire,England,UK,CW1 2DB,CW1
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AFFW8G -
Description
Keywords: @Hotpixuk,HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,UK,England,WCML,day,Cheshire,van,response,engineers,delay,delays,repay,overhead,lines,cables,theft,electric,supply,disruption,ice,snow,early morning,morning,cold,Newtork,Rail,winter,working,repair,repairs,the,Pway,tracks,track,WA4 6TU,WA4
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AE02JP -
Description
Keywords: @Hotpixuk,HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,UK,England,dusk,Cheshire,railway,rail,night,winter,road,WA1,for,replacement,services,morning,cold,icy,ice,frost,WA1 1LW,stations,WCML,outside,stand,stands,shelter,shelters,bus stop,bus stops,integrated,public transport,WBC,Warringtons Own Buses,the,Cheshire Cat
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AE02NA -
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,UK,Cheshire,England,GB,Great Britain,Wilson Patten St,at,WBQ,railway station,WA1,transport,Warrington,platform2,Virgin,Pendolino,Train,WCML train,railway,mainline,Persil factory,platform,platforms,service,services,history,TOC,historic,brand,branding,branded,better,times,on,the,WCML
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2ABJGGF -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,rail,BR,infrastructure,West Midlands,England,UK,transport,public,WCML,West Coast Main Line,Victoria Rd,Tamworth,B79 7JT,B79,Staffordshire,Staffs,overhead,cable,electrified,morning,sunrise,electrification,early,sign,signs,TOC,train,operating,company,managed,by,cuts,services,route,routes
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2M84KJT - Tamworth is a split-level railway station which serves the town of Tamworth in Staffordshire, England. It is an interchange between two main lines
the Cross Country Route and the Trent Valley section of the West Coast Main Line (WCML). It has four platforms: Two low-level platforms (1 and 2) on the WCML, and, at a right-angle to, and passing over these, are two high-level platforms (3 and 4) served by the Cross Country Route. Historically there were chords connecting the two lines, but there is no longer any rail connection between them.
The original station was opened on 12 August 1839[1] by the Birmingham and Derby Junction Railway, a forerunner of the Midland Railway, on its original route from Derby to Hampton-in-Arden meeting the London and Birmingham Railway for London. Later, in 1842, the B&DJ built a branch to Birmingham, terminating at Lawley Street railway station.
Tamworth high level platforms, looking north.
On 26 June 1847 the London and North Western Railway opened its Trent Valley Line passing at a right angle beneath the original Birmingham and Derby line with a new joint station designed by John William Livock.
The joint station did not acquire the High Level and Low Level names until 1924. Since it was expected that only local trains would call, the low level platforms were on loops, with the running lines left clear for expresses. At that time there was a north to west curve linking the, by then, Midland Railway line with the LNWR line. This curve was opened in 1847, and closed in March 1969
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,rail,BR,railways,infrastructure,West Midlands,England,UK,train,transport,public,WCML,Victoria Rd,Tamworth,B79 7JT,B79,Staffordshire,Staffs,overhead,cable,electrified,electrification,service,services,red,signal,light,split-level,Trent Valley,Cross Country,route,routes,trains,Midland,Midlands Engine,signalling,delays
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2M84KK3 - Tamworth is a split-level railway station which serves the town of Tamworth in Staffordshire, England. It is an interchange between two main lines
the Cross Country Route and the Trent Valley section of the West Coast Main Line (WCML). It has four platforms: Two low-level platforms (1 and 2) on the WCML, and, at a right-angle to, and passing over these, are two high-level platforms (3 and 4) served by the Cross Country Route. Historically there were chords connecting the two lines, but there is no longer any rail connection between them.
The original station was opened on 12 August 1839[1] by the Birmingham and Derby Junction Railway, a forerunner of the Midland Railway, on its original route from Derby to Hampton-in-Arden meeting the London and Birmingham Railway for London. Later, in 1842, the B&DJ built a branch to Birmingham, terminating at Lawley Street railway station.
Tamworth high level platforms, looking north.
On 26 June 1847 the London and North Western Railway opened its Trent Valley Line passing at a right angle beneath the original Birmingham and Derby line with a new joint station designed by John William Livock.
The joint station did not acquire the High Level and Low Level names until 1924. Since it was expected that only local trains would call, the low level platforms were on loops, with the running lines left clear for expresses. At that time there was a north to west curve linking the, by then, Midland Railway line with the LNWR line. This curve was opened in 1847, and closed in March 1969
Description
Keywords: HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,Liverpool,for,way out,above us only sky,Merseyside,North West England,UK,LPY,West Coast Main Line,WCML,Speke,interchange,bus interchange,Garston,L19,platform,M,Merseyrail,public transport,transport,sign,platforms,the,airport,bus,Beatles,travel,rail,railway,station,stations,airports,Northern Powerhouse
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AGPHAJ - Liverpool South Parkway station is a railway station and bus interchange in the Garston district of Liverpool, England. It serves, via a bus link, Liverpool John Lennon Airport in the neighbouring suburb of Speke, as well as providing an interchange between main line services and the Merseyrail rapid transit/commuter rail network.
The station is located towards the southern end of Merseyrail's Northern Line and on the junction of two main lines: the City Line from Liverpool to Manchester via Warrington and the Liverpool branch of the West Coast Main Line to London via Crewe.
Allerton Traction Maintenance Depot is situated to the immediate east of the station.
As the orbital route had been closed, the impetus to eventually complete the station was to improve public transport access to the expanding Liverpool John Lennon Airport, and also to provide new journey opportunities for rail passengers in south Liverpool by giving easy interchange between Northern Line, City Line and West Coast Main Line services.
Construction began in 2004. Allerton station closed in July 2005 and the new station was built on its site. The concourse, bus station and car park were built on land that was once the home of South Liverpool F.C. An information board situated on the footpath towards the main road explains the history of the site. The station opened on 11 June 2006, the day after Garston station closed.
At the time of opening, the Merseyrail City Line service (which had been hourly at the former Allerton station) was increased to half-hourly. The station also became an additional stop on the Liverpool-Birmingham service (then operated by Central Trains). From 11 December 2006, the Monday-Saturday evening service on the Northern Line was increased to run every 15 minutes, instead of half-hourly as previously.
Initially, many long-distance services omitted Liverpool South Parkway from their timetables.
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,WC,loo,toilet,pan,Virgin toilet,Virgin down the toilet,number two,number one,engaged,flush,WCML,TOC,Train Operating Company,toilet engaged,carriage toilet,down the toilet,talking,talking toilet,Richard Branson,Branson,West Coast Main Line,Virgin Trains talking toilet,sign,sticker,train carriage,rail,railway,public convenience,public conveniences,information,blockages,blocking the toilet,toilet blocked,dirty,clean,humour,toilet seat,out of order
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy PB6G53 - Virgin introduces talking train lavatories
Virgin Trains has turned to humour to tackle the vexed problem of blocked lavatories
In the heyday of British Rail, gentlemen were urged to lift the seat when using the lavatories,
Now rather more explicit instructions are being given to passengers on Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Trains services to the west midlands, north west England and Scotland.
After the lavatory door shuts passengers are greeted with a pre-recorded message.
It declares: Please don't flush nappies, sanitary towels, paper towels, gum, old phones, unpaid bills, junk mail, your ex's sweater, hopes, dreams or goldfish down this toilet.
Lavatories have already been adapted on the fleet of 20 Voyager trains and work is under way on its 56 tilting Pendolino trains.
At times there have been problems with lavatories being blocked by inappropriate items flushed down the bowl.
Passenger forums suggest that the issue of blocked lavatories is a major source of annoyance for the travelling public
This has prompted Virgin, which earlier this year was given an extension of its franchise on the West Coast Main Line, to act.
When lavatories get blocked it means trains have to be taken out of service, a spokesman said.
It is also a huge inconvenience to passengers especially on a long trip.
We wanted to do something which would grab people's attention and a talking toilet does get the message across.
They are being well received, but time will tell. We're trying to face a serious issue in a chummy, informal way.
The initiative was welcomed by Antony Smith, chief executive of the consumer watchdog, Passenger Focus.
It can be frustrating to find that toilets are out of order or blocked, so hopefully the announcements will help this happen less.
Anything that gets useful information across to passengers in a fun way is to be welcomed.
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,WC,loo,toilet,pan,Virgin toilet,Virgin down the toilet,number two,number one,engaged,flush,WCML,TOC,Train Operating Company,toilet engaged,carriage toilet,down the toilet,talking,talking toilet,Richard Branson,Branson,West Coast Main Line,Virgin Trains talking toilet,sign,sticker,train carriage,rail,railway,public convenience,public conveniences,information,blockages,blocking the toilet,toilet blocked,dirty,clean,humour,toilet seat,out of order
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy PB6G55 - Virgin introduces talking train lavatories
Virgin Trains has turned to humour to tackle the vexed problem of blocked lavatories
In the heyday of British Rail, gentlemen were urged to lift the seat when using the lavatories,
Now rather more explicit instructions are being given to passengers on Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Trains services to the west midlands, north west England and Scotland.
After the lavatory door shuts passengers are greeted with a pre-recorded message.
It declares: Please don't flush nappies, sanitary towels, paper towels, gum, old phones, unpaid bills, junk mail, your ex's sweater, hopes, dreams or goldfish down this toilet.
Lavatories have already been adapted on the fleet of 20 Voyager trains and work is under way on its 56 tilting Pendolino trains.
At times there have been problems with lavatories being blocked by inappropriate items flushed down the bowl.
Passenger forums suggest that the issue of blocked lavatories is a major source of annoyance for the travelling public
This has prompted Virgin, which earlier this year was given an extension of its franchise on the West Coast Main Line, to act.
When lavatories get blocked it means trains have to be taken out of service, a spokesman said.
It is also a huge inconvenience to passengers especially on a long trip.
We wanted to do something which would grab people's attention and a talking toilet does get the message across.
They are being well received, but time will tell. We're trying to face a serious issue in a chummy, informal way.
The initiative was welcomed by Antony Smith, chief executive of the consumer watchdog, Passenger Focus.
It can be frustrating to find that toilets are out of order or blocked, so hopefully the announcements will help this happen less.
Anything that gets useful information across to passengers in a fun way is to be welcomed.
--Scotland--UK-PB6G56.jpg)
Description
Keywords: @HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,Scotland,UK,Overhead,line,cable,wire,wires,electric,electric trains,electrification,railway station,Glasgow,TOC,overhead,cables,danger,northbound WCML,WCML,25 kV AC overhead system,overhead system,system,dangers,25 kV AC,25kv,AC,danger overhead wires,danger overhead cables,SPT,Strathclyde Partnership for Transport,Transport in Glasgow,Argyle Line,lines,25kV AC,rail,railway,transport
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy PB6G56 -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,rail,freight,railfreight,industry,industrial,services,service,at WBQ,Cheshire,England,UK,WA1,WCML,Main,line,at,WBQ,Heidelberg Cement,Hanson Cement,Hanson,66750,castle cement,wagons,pulling,GBRf,transporting,transport,cement,wagon,owned,by,HeidelbergCement,Castle Hill,Maidenhead in,Berkshire
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JHBJWG - Hanson Cement is a cement production company located in the United Kingdom. It was called Castle Cement until it was rebranded in 2009. The company is now owned by HeidelbergCement. Hanson Cement has a long history dating back to the early 19th century, when it was founded as the Portland Cement Company.
The company was formed in 1981 through an amalgamation of three firms:
Tunnel Portland Cement Company Ltd (founded 1874) with plants at West Thurrock, Essex (1874), Pitstone, Buckinghamshire (1937) and Padeswood, Flintshire (1949).
Ketton Portland Cement Company Ltd (founded 1929) with a plant at Ketton, Rutland.
Ribblesdale Cement Ltd (founded 1937) with a plant at Clitheroe, Lancashire.
The company was acquired by HeidelbergCement in May 2007.
In 2005, the company's depot in Birmingham was sold and subsequently redeveloped as Curzon Gate.
Environmental concerns
The company admitted to numerous environmental offences over the years leading up to 2009, during a case in which it was fined 250,000 pounds by the Environment Agency Wales (EAW) in February 2010.
Operations
The head office is in Castle Hill at Maidenhead in Berkshire, and the works are located in Ketton in Rutland, Buckley in Flintshire, Clitheroe and Avonmouth near Bristol. The company has a marine terminal at Avonmouth that is used for the importation of cement in bulk, with samples from there tested at the Ketton site's laboratory each week to ensure they meet British Standards. Cement is also imported through the Humber ports.
Hanson Cement holds an open day at the Ketton production facility every year in July.
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,GBRf,66750,pulling,transporting,castle cement,wagons,at,WBQ,Bristol Panel Signal Box,railfreight,Cheshire,services,WCML,Heidelberg Cement,Hanson,Hanson Cement,line,UK,industrial,WA1,Main,England,service,industry,freight,rail,transport,diesel,engine,owned,by,HeidelbergCement,Castle Hill,Maidenhead in,Berkshire
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JHBJWR - Hanson Cement is a cement production company located in the United Kingdom. It was called Castle Cement until it was rebranded in 2009. The company is now owned by HeidelbergCement. Hanson Cement has a long history dating back to the early 19th century, when it was founded as the Portland Cement Company.
The company was formed in 1981 through an amalgamation of three firms:
Tunnel Portland Cement Company Ltd (founded 1874) with plants at West Thurrock, Essex (1874), Pitstone, Buckinghamshire (1937) and Padeswood, Flintshire (1949).
Ketton Portland Cement Company Ltd (founded 1929) with a plant at Ketton, Rutland.
Ribblesdale Cement Ltd (founded 1937) with a plant at Clitheroe, Lancashire.
The company was acquired by HeidelbergCement in May 2007.
In 2005, the company's depot in Birmingham was sold and subsequently redeveloped as Curzon Gate.
Environmental concerns
The company admitted to numerous environmental offences over the years leading up to 2009, during a case in which it was fined 250,000 pounds by the Environment Agency Wales (EAW) in February 2010.
Operations
The head office is in Castle Hill at Maidenhead in Berkshire, and the works are located in Ketton in Rutland, Buckley in Flintshire, Clitheroe and Avonmouth near Bristol. The company has a marine terminal at Avonmouth that is used for the importation of cement in bulk, with samples from there tested at the Ketton site's laboratory each week to ensure they meet British Standards. Cement is also imported through the Humber ports.
Hanson Cement holds an open day at the Ketton production facility every year in July.
Description
Keywords: City,Birmingham City,WM,Brum,Brummie,Mainline,railway,station,Rail station,WCML,Virgin,London Midland,Midland,Midlands,GoTonySmith,new,redeveloped,rail,Arts and Crafts style,cock fighting,central,hub,Virgin Trains,transport,infrastructure,Gateway Plus,Midland Railway,LNWR,British Rail,BR,Network Rail,Network,redevelopment,Eastern Entrance,Entrance,regeneration scheme,regeneration,approved,plan,plans
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy MJ2YEB -
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,carriage,Engine,66746,at,Scotland,luxury,tourist,experience,attraction,UK,GB,Great Britain,rail,railway,platform,on the platform,Perth,train,transport,tourism,hauled,famous,WCML,Scottish,summer day,British,British Rail,heritage,old,tour,maroon,yellow,trainspotting,trainspotter,track,renovated,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy MGMJT0 -
Description
Keywords: GoTonysmith,@HotpixUK,train,sunset,platform,Lanarkshire,passenger,tilting,British Rail,West Coast Mainline,Fiat Ferroviaria,Maintained,transport,delay,strike,RMT Union,subsidy,union,RMT,integrated public transport,public transport,Alstom Manchester Train Depot,West Coast Main Line,WCML,BR,tilting train,EMU,dramatic,GB,UK,passengers,evening,town,north,sunrise,arrives,arriving,at,city,rail
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy MM9A1H -
Description
Keywords: GoTonysmith,@HotpixUK,train,arrives,arriving,rail,sunset,sunrise,at,city,platform,town,north,Lanarkshire,evening,UK,GB,passenger,passengers,dramatic,tilting,tilting train,BR,British Rail,EMU,WCML,West Coast Mainline,West Coast Main Line,Fiat Ferroviaria,Alstom Manchester Train Depot,Maintained,transport,integrated public transport,public transport,subsidy,union,RMT,RMT Union,strike,delay
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy MM9A1M -
Description
Keywords: GoTonysmith,@HotpixUK,Interior,of an,overcrowded,Virgin train,Virgin,train,rail,TOC,franchise,West Coast Mainline,Voyager,passengers,crowded,UK,British Rail,privatisation,UK train network,franchise model,inside,busy Pendalino train,busy Pendolino train,full,busy,West Coast Franchise,night,dusk,evening,seats,seating,passenger reservations,Virgin train tickets,Class 390,British Railway Class 390,Alstom,WCML,West Coast Main Line,Angel Trains,Department Of Transport
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy MM99TA - In 2002, Virgin Trains in the UK began operating custom-designed Pendolino trains known as the Class 390 on its West Coast Main Line (WCML) franchise. The 53 9-car trains were constructed by Alstom and are leased by Virgin Trains from Angel Trains.
Owing to the failure of the WCML upgrade to provide in-cab signalling, these units are limited in service to 125 mph (200 km/h) operation rather than their 140 mph (225 km/h) design speed. In 2006, Virgin Trains announced that, over the following three years, they would be examining the possibility of running the trains at 135 mph (215 km/h) through the Trent Valley as part of their new WCML Franchise Proposal.
An Alstom Class 390 Pendolino in Birmingham
The Class 390 Pendolino were maintained by Alstom (West Coast Traincare) under contract to Virgin Trains until 2012. The main maintenance locations are Wembley, Midlands (Oxley, Wolverhampton), Manchester (Longsight) and Glasgow (Polmadie), as well as Liverpool (for minor work only) and several Traincare Points along the line of route (such as Euston and Carlisle). Headquarters for West Coast Traincare moved from the former Metro-Cammell factory at Washwood Heath in Birmingham upon its closure in November 2005 to Manchester Longsight depot with some functions being based at a new office facility at Oxley depot.
In 2008 DfT announced that 31 of the existing 9-car sets would be lengthened to 11 cars to increase capacity. Four new 11-car sets were also to be built. Angel Trains ordered the vehicles from Alstom in September 2008. Virgin Rail Projects has been selected to introduce the new trains. The longer units would require major infrastructure changes to allow stations and depots to accommodate the 11-car units.
Description
Keywords: WCML,repayment,rebate,credit,TOC,compensation,for,late,rail,journey,DelayRepay,VirginTrains,timetable,NRCoT,late,trains,train,franchise,privatised,renationalised,private,fragmented,infrastructure,railway,refund,refunded,Train Operating Company,West Coast Trains Limited,West Coast Trains Ltd,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,BR,Scottish,British,Welsh,problem,with,problem with,issue with,TOC,TOCs,transport,tour,tourism,tourists,urban,fail,infrastructure,delay,delays,delayed.late,later,Expensive,ticket,price,prices,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,train operating companies,National Rail Conditions of Travel,ticket prices
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy HEJ5KF - The National Rail Conditions of Travel (NRCoT) are a contractual document setting out the consumer's rights and responsibilities when travelling on the National Rail railway network in Great Britain. These replaced the National Rail Conditions of Carriage (NRCoC) as of October 1st 2016.
When a train ticket is purchased, a contract is established. The NRCoT are the principal terms of that contract between traveller and train operating company (TOC), which have been established by the Rail Settlement Plan, which is part of the Association of Train Operating Companies. The document is available for public viewing at the National Rail website, and also as a free PDF download.
Additional terms do apply to travellers, primarily from two sources:
For certain ticket types (such as those purchased at discount in advance), the TOCs concerned apply additional terms and conditions on top of the NRCoT.
The NRCoT cover the entitlement and restrictions of travellers, however they are not the only document to do so. Under the Transport Act 2000 (section 219), the Railway Bylaws also apply, though more generally.
Whilst the NRCoT are referred to on all train tickets, at stations, and on internet sites selling tickets for rail travel, very few travellers ever bother to read the document, unless they find themselves in dispute with a rail company on some matter. They are, however, of use to the consumer, because they afford considerable rights to the traveller with regards ticket validity. This has become a matter of significant public interest recently, in view of the complex and convoluted pricing structure of rail tickets in Great Britain.
Description
Keywords: trains,traveler,journey,traveller,travelers,infrasructure,infrastructure,Network,transit,TOC,privatised,public,ownership,public,building,Victorian,platform,Scotrail,City,Centre,Glasgow Central,City Centre,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,Scottish,British,Scotland,Street,Glasgow,G1,3SL,at,dusk,evening,red,lights,dawn,travel,tourism,delay,Virgin,trains,WCML,Virgin,trains,WCML,West,Coast,Main,Line,Intercity,Inter-City,delay,delays,delayed.late,later,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,Gordon St,G1 3SL,Gordon Street,Gordon St,Platform passengers,In The Evening,On the platform,Dawn Train,Network Rail,Virgin Trains,Virgin Trains,Main Line
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H9PM3E -
Description
Keywords: transport,rail,train,passenger,journey,traveller,passengers,infrasructure,infrastructure,Network,transit,TOC,privatised,public,public,building,Victorian,platform,Scotrail,Euston,Passengers boarding,West Coast Main Line,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,Scottish,British,Scotland,Street,Glasgow,G1,3SL,at,dusk,evening,red,lights,dawn,travel,tourism,light,daytime,Virgin,trains,WCML,West,Coast,Main,Line,Intercity,Inter-City,City,Centre,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,Gordon St,G1 3SL,Gordon Street,Gordon St,Platform passengers,In The Evening,On the platform,Dawn Train,Network Rail,walking down the platform,Virgin Trains,Main Line,City Centre
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H9PM3F -
Description
Keywords: WCML,Cheshire,railway,rail,Virgin,train,trains,TOC,electric,electrified,public,transport,transit,sunny,summer,trip,excursion,refurbished,efficient,network,BR,northern,powerhouse,Pendo,Pendolino,Warrington Bank Quay,Rail Station,Virgin Trains,blue sky,West Coast Main Line,British Rail,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,British,England,engine,electric,drive,unit,390,104,390104,Alstom,technology,Alstrom,French.high,speed,express,locomotive,passenger,transportation,Stagecoach,track,locomotives,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,Rail Technology,Alstom Rail Technology,High Speed,passenger transportation,GEC-Alstom
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H541YW - Warrington Bank Quay railway station is one of two railway stations serving the town centre of Warrington in Cheshire, England.
A Virgin train shown here at platform three.
Warrington Bank Quay is a north-south oriented mainline station on one side of the main shopping area, with the west-east oriented Warrington Central on the other side to the north west operating a more frequent service to the neighbouring cities of Liverpool and Manchester.
A bus shuttle service operated every 20 minutes from Monday to Friday daytime between the two stations and the Centre Park business park. The station is directly on the West Coast Main Line.
Description
Keywords: WCML,Cheshire,railway,rail,Virgin,train,trains,TOC,electric,electrified,public,transport,transit,sunny,summer,trip,excursion,refurbished,efficient,network,BR,northern,powerhouse,sign,Crossfields,Warrington Bank Quay,Rail Station,Virgin Trains,blue sky,West Coast Main Line,British Rail,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,British,England,Crossfield,factory,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H5424P - Warrington Bank Quay railway station is one of two railway stations serving the town centre of Warrington in Cheshire, England.
Warrington Bank Quay is a north-south oriented mainline station on one side of the main shopping area, with the west-east oriented Warrington Central on the other side to the north west operating a more frequent service to the neighbouring cities of Liverpool and Manchester.
A bus shuttle service operated every 20 minutes from Monday to Friday daytime between the two stations and the Centre Park business park. The station is directly on the West Coast Main Line.
Description
Keywords: line,electrified,WCML,England,UK,main,Virgin,Warrington,Cheshire,WBQ,Bank,Quay,cables,cable,copper,valuable,theft,steal,temptation,danger,unsafe,vandal,insulator,lead,stolen,crime,damage,kids,children,Overhead line,electric train line,West Coast Main Line,Bank Quay,Railway lines,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,British,England,support,sun,sky,loss,cost,tax,payer,taxpayer,freight,delays,thieves,criminal,criminals,transformer,switch,gear,switchgear,signal,signalling,metal,scrap,offence,transport,police,forensic,marking,agents,scrap,railtrack,network,rail,insulator,insulators,glass,plastic,electrical,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,freight delays,scrap metal,Transport Police,British Transport Police,forensic marking agents,Scrap Metal Dealers Act,Network Rail
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H550GA - Cable theft costs millions of pounds each year. The total cost to the economy, taking into account the impact of freight delays to power stations, supermarkets etc and on passengers who miss appointments or have their day ruined, is even higher.
The theft of metal is a big problem for the railway as thieves target signalling cables, overhead power lines and even metal fences to sell for scrap.
Britain's rail network is designed to fail safe, which means that when a cable is cut trains are brought to a standstill. This protects passengers but can lead to lengthy, frustrating delays while the problem is found and fixed safely.
A large proportion of funding comes from the UK Government, so these thefts are, ultimately, costing taxpayers money.
Description
Keywords: line,electrified,WCML,England,UK,west,coast,main,Virgin,Cheshire,Bank,Quay,cables,cable,copper,valuable,theft,steal,temptation,danger,unsafe,vandal,insulator,lead,stolen,crime,damage,kids,children,Overhead line,electric train line,West Coast Main Line,Bank Quay,Railway lines,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,British,England,support,sun,sky,loss,cost,tax,payer,taxpayer,freight,delays,thieves,criminal,criminals,transformer,switch,gear,switchgear,signal,signalling,metal,scrap,offence,transport,police,forensic,marking,agents,scrap,railtrack,network,rail,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,freight delays,scrap metal,Transport Police,British Transport Police,forensic marking agents,Scrap Metal Dealers Act,Network Rail
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H550K8 - Cable theft costs millions of pounds each year. The total cost to the economy, taking into account the impact of freight delays to power stations, supermarkets etc and on passengers who miss appointments or have their day ruined, is even higher.
The theft of metal is a big problem for the railway as thieves target signalling cables, overhead power lines and even metal fences to sell for scrap.
Britain's rail network is designed to fail safe, which means that when a cable is cut trains are brought to a standstill. This protects passengers but can lead to lengthy, frustrating delays while the problem is found and fixed safely.
A large proportion of funding comes from the UK Government, so these thefts are, ultimately, costing taxpayers money.
Description
Keywords: New,WCML,Cheshire,pano,wide,electric,train,Engine,69104,Pendo,driving,end,coach,first,class,franchise,TOC,Stagecoach.operating,company,privatised,privatized,rail,railway,public,transport,system,engineering,heavy,Warrington Bank Quay,First Class,First Class Coach,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,British,England,new,black,electric,electrification,platform,hornby,Powercar,Power,Car,Pendlino,french,english,built,manufactured,high,voltage,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,Power Car
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H552T6 -
Description
Keywords: Railway,rail,Royal,Mail,privatised,privatisation,high,speed,diesel,engine,carriage,class325,electric,multiple,units,with,a,northbound,WCML,from,Warrington,Bank,Quay,Station,England,UK,letter,parcel,traffic,transport,dusk,Royal Mail,Class 325,Royal Mail,postal service,Warrington Bank Quay,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,different,unique,red,northbound,north,bound,rail,railfreight,railways,service,track,tracks,train,trains,BR,transport,transportation,WCML,325,British,class,electric,english,freight,mail,rail,railfrieght,railway,railways,royal,royal mail train,train,trains,uk,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,Photo of,class 325,class 325 emu,electric multiple unit,mail train,rail freight,royal mail postal,WCML postal,West Coast Mail Line,West Coast Main Line,british trains,mail train,UK railways
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H19DHB -
Description
Keywords: Warrington,Wigan,WCML,West,Coast,seat,reservation,Ticket,privatisation,Orange,railway,station,GB,UK,United,Kingdom,Great,britain,British,travel,transport,public,mass,transit,Seat Reservation,Rail Tickets,British Rail Tickets on a timetable,Public transport,mass transit,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,unique,images,special,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,multiple
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy FDNNXP -
Description
Keywords: UK,platform,building,brickwork,line,rails,empty,lonely,cold,GoTonySmith,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,no,train,trains,strike,strikes,main,Carlisle,Citadel,city,Railway,BR,railways,infrastructure,Cumbria,bridge,Victorian,platforms,mainline,WCML,NetworkRail,Network Rail
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy EY3RJJ -
Description
Keywords: railway,rail,Freight,wagon,wagons,at,a,at,WBQ,Station,Cheshire,England,UK,waggon,waggons,stop,stopped,control,controlled,railway station,WCML,Virgin,west Coast,Main Line,West Coast Main Line,rusty,coal,stone,transport,GoTonySmith,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Network,Rail,transportation
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy EY5KEY -
Description
Keywords: VT WCML West Coast Main Line Mainline dusk,next,Virgin,train,to,night,nighttime,train,calling,at,railroad,track,railtrack,BR,British,Rail,BritishRail,GoTonySmith,Carlisle,Station,railway,Cumbria,information,indicator,sign,WCML,service,on time,evening,rail,infrastructure,services,cross-border,on-time,dusk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy ED8PPR -
Description
Keywords: white,grey,red,gray,platform,waiting,at,BR,British,Rail,franchise,railway,station,London,England,UK,United,Kingdom,high,speed,tilting,system,vehicle,Tiltronix,anticipatory,technology,low,energy,consumption,Eco,electric,braking,European,regulations,11,9,car,carriage,GoTonySmith,highspeed,ETCS,ERTMS,Glasgow,Birmingham,Manchester,Edinburgh,services,routes,WCML,West,Coast,Mainline,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy EC2T0K -
Description
Keywords: Townhall,B3 3DQ,B33DQ,nighttime,time,winter,autumn,fun,tourism,tourist,west midland,west midlands,council,virgin,train,trains,virgin trains,newstreet,New street,WCML,council house,Dhruva Mistry,The river,Gotonysmith,hotpixuk,@hotpixuk,City,centre,tourist,tourism,travel,Birmingham City,Birmingham city Centre,at,city
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy ED8PP1 - Victoria Square is a pedestrianised public square in Birmingham, England. It is home to both the Town Hall and the Council House, and directly adjacent to Chamberlain Square.
The square is often considered to be the centre of Birmingham, and is the point from where local road sign distances are measured. It is a short walk from St. Philip's Cathedral on Colmore Row and is on the main pedestrian route between the Bull Ring and Brindleyplace areas. Three major roads, Colmore Row, New Street and Paradise Street meet there.
Description
Keywords: Townhall,B3 3DQ,B33DQ,nighttime,time,winter,autumn,fun,tourism,tourist,west midland,west midlands,council,virgin,train,trains,virgin trains,newstreet,New street,WCML,council house,Dhruva Mistry,The river,Gotonysmith,hotpixuk,@hotpixuk,City,centre,tourist,tourism,travel,Birmingham City,Birmingham city Centre,at,city
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy ED8PP4 - Victoria Square is a pedestrianised public square in Birmingham, England. It is home to both the Town Hall and the Council House, and directly adjacent to Chamberlain Square.
The square is often considered to be the centre of Birmingham, and is the point from where local road sign distances are measured. It is a short walk from St. Philip's Cathedral on Colmore Row and is on the main pedestrian route between the Bull Ring and Brindleyplace areas. Three major roads, Colmore Row, New Street and Paradise Street meet there.
Description
Keywords: Townhall,B3 3DQ,B33DQ,nighttime,time,winter,autumn,fun,tourism,tourist,west midland,west midlands,council,virgin,train,trains,virgin trains,newstreet,New street,WCML,council house,Dhruva Mistry,The river,Gotonysmith,hotpixuk,@hotpixuk,City,centre,tourist,tourism,travel,Birmingham City,Birmingham city Centre,at,city
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy ED8PPE - Victoria Square is a pedestrianised public square in Birmingham, England. It is home to both the Town Hall and the Council House, and directly adjacent to Chamberlain Square.
The square is often considered to be the centre of Birmingham, and is the point from where local road sign distances are measured. It is a short walk from St. Philip's Cathedral on Colmore Row and is on the main pedestrian route between the Bull Ring and Brindleyplace areas. Three major roads, Colmore Row, New Street and Paradise Street meet there.
Description
Keywords: HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,Crewe works,rail,railway,trains,engine,transport,history,BR,British Railways,UK,Great Britain,APT,seats,standing not allowed,British,InterCityAPT sign,train formation,for high speed train,InterCity train,1970s,1980s,WCML,APT-E,APTE,Crewe Works,CreweWorks,advanced,tilting,seat,plan,area,areas,CW1 2DB,CW1,poster,guide,instruction
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AGMNXA - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood for 23 years.
Description
Keywords: Mainline,BR,British,Rail,railtrack,RD,Road,north,NW1,2BT,NW12BT,railway,train,rail,railroad,Network,Networkrail,West,Coast,main,line,engineer,London,and,Birmingham,&,main-line,1833,office,building,looking,up,Gotonysmith,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,woke,culture-wars,culture wars,war on woke,WCML
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy DCE78J - Euston Station London
Robert Stephenson FRS (16 October 1803 ? 12 October 1859) was an English civil engineer. He was the only son of George Stephenson, the famed locomotive builder and railway engineer
many of the achievements popularly credited to his father were the joint efforts of father and son.
Description
Keywords: Warrington Bank Quay,Parker St,Warrington,Cheshire,UK,gotonysmith,where,to,stand,on,railway,board,first,class,VT,Virgin,trains,gotonysmith,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,WA1 1LW,train,station,platforms,area,history,historic,signal,signals,overhead,lines,electrified,post,WCML
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy CFEFHN - Gold Zone Virgin trains sign, Warrington Bank Quay, Parker St, Warrington, Cheshire , UK
Virgin Trains introduced three sliding classes of travel. Instead of First and Standard, you'd have Gold Zone, Blue Zone and Purple Zone. Gold Zone was full First Class and available to full-fare First Open ticket holders only. This would always take up at least 2 of the First Class vehicles, but in the peaks would take up all of them.
'Purple Zone was Standard Class, available to all Standard ticket holders, and would take up at least 3 of the Standard Class vehicles. The other vehicles would be the Blue Zone, which was where it got controversial. The Blue Zone was available only to holders of full-fare undiscounted Standard Open singles and returns, but also contained Weekend First accommodation on weekends and off-peak. On weekends, it would include both First and Standard accommodation, but in the peaks Standard only.'
Description
Keywords: arrives,departs,arriving,departing,gotonysmith,dusk,dawn,platform,two,Bank,Quay,Railway,Station,Warrington,Cheshire,UK,british,rail,railway,railways,unilever,works,factory,fast,high,speed,network,Europe,european,gotonysmith,Warringtonian,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,buffet & Bar,bar,WCML,west Coast Main Line
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy CF0NKN - A Virgin train arriving at Bank Quay west coast mainline Railway Station, Warrington, Cheshire, UK at dusk.
Unilever factory in the distance.
Description
Keywords: transport,rail,railway,train,trains,passenger,traveler,journey,traveller,travelers,infrasructure,infrastructure,Network,transit,TOC,privatised,public,ownership,public,building,Victorian,platform,Scotrail,City,Centre,Glaswegian,walking down,City Centre,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,Scottish,British,Scotland,Street,Glasgow,G1,3SL,at,red,lights,dawn,travel,tourism,delay,shadow,shadows,dark,nighttime,Virgin,trains,WCML,Virgin,trains,West,Coast,Main,Line,Intercity,Inter-City,delay,delays,delayed.late,later,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,Gordon St,G1 3SL,Gordon Street,Gordon St,Platform passengers,In The Evening,On the platform,Dawn Train,walking down the platform,Virgin Trains,Virgin Trains,Main Line
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H9PM3H - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,Hotpixuk,Parker street,Warrington,Cheshire,England,UK,WA1 1LW,rail,transport,station,RMT,union,train,delays,cancelled,display,indicator,action,Rail,Maritime and Transport,Workers,WCML,West Coast mainline,defend,pay,jobs,conditions,pay increase,over,network,negotiated settlement,rail employers,unsafe,dispute,strike action,striking workers,ASLEF,Avanti,cancel
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JEKRB7 - The RMT was formed in 1990 through a merger of the National Union of Railwaymen (NUR) and the National Union of Seamen (NUS) to create a single transport industry trade union. Its president is Alex Gordon and its general secretary Mick Lynch
Rail union RMT launch 3 days of national strike action across the railway network.
Over 50,000 railway workers will walkout as part of 3 days of national strike action later this month, in the biggest dispute on the network since 1989.
The union will shut down the country's railway network on 21st, 23rd and 25th June, due to the inability of the rail employers to come to a negotiated settlement with RMT.
Network Rail and the train operating companies have subjected their staff to multiyear pay freezes and plan to cut thousands of jobs which will make the railways unsafe.
Despite intense talks with the rail bosses, The RMT has not been able to secure a pay proposal nor a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies.
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Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Merseyside,city,centre,platform,dusk,night,service,WCML,poor,Alstom,Pendolino,390112,EMU,Electric,trains,train,at,unreliable,renewed,failed,intercity,to,Euston,London,stopped selling,advance,tickets,Richard Scott,First Group,Trenitalia,worst performing,drivers,overtime,strikes,timetable,off-peak,hotpix.org.uk
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2M1F5T4 - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
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Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Cheshire,England,UK,station,train,trains,APT,BREL,WCML,West Coast mainline,370006,Crewe,APT-P,Crewe Heritage Centre,Intercity,side,BREL and British Rail Research Division Advanced Passenger Train prototype,research,engineering,advanced,passenger,rail,railway,railways,development,developments,innovation,innovate,British,Great,GB,United Kingdom,West Coast,mainline,main line
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2JX2T7D - The Advanced Passenger Train (APT) was a tilting high speed train developed by British Rail during the 1970s and early 1980s, for use on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). The WCML contained many curves, and the APT pioneered the concept of active tilting to address these, a feature that has since been copied on designs around the world. The experimental APT-E achieved a new British railway speed record on 10 August 1975 when it reached 152.3 miles per hour (245.1 km/h), only to be bested by the service prototype APT-P at 162.2 miles per hour (261.0 km/h) in December 1979, a record that stood until September 2006.
Development of the service prototypes dragged on, and by the late 1970s the design had been under construction for a decade and the trains were still not ready for service. The election of Margaret Thatcher brought matters to a head and she alluded to funding cuts for the project. Facing the possibility of cancellation, BR management decided to put the prototypes into service, with the first runs along the London-Glasgow route taking place in December 1981. The result was a media circus when every problem large or small received front-page coverage and the entire project derided as an example of BR's incompetence. The trains were withdrawn from service again by the end of the month, to the great amusement of the press.
In spite of the APT's troubled history, the design was highly influential and directly inspired other high speed trains such as the Pendolino. The considerable work on electrification that was carried out hand-in-hand with APT was put to good use with newer non-tilting designs like the British Rail Class 91. The APT's tilt system was returned to the WCML on the British Rail Class 390, based on the Fiat Ferroviaria tilting train design and built by Alstom.
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Keywords: GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,at,North Lanarkshire,Scotland,UK,Train,Red,325007 royal mail,DB,DB Schenker,Schenker,TOC,train operating Company,class325,Class 325,BR,British Rail,mail train,sorting,office,WCML,West Coast Main Line,post train,postal train,British Rail Class 325,EMU,Class 319 EMU,electric multiple unit,Overhead,lines,Class350,class 350,TOPS,numbers,oleo buffers,Class 325 fleet,DB Cargo UK,Train for post
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy PCTA1E - The British Rail Class 325 is a 4-car dual-voltage 25 kV alternating current (AC) or 750 V direct current (DC) electric multiple unit (EMU) train used for postal train services. While the Class 325 bears a resemblance to the Networker series of DMUs and EMUs, they are based on the Class 319 EMU. The Class 325 was British Rail's newest unit to take over parcels workings on electrified lines.
In the early 1990s, the parcels sector of British Rail was seeking a fleet of multiple units that would be more cost-effective to run than the locomotive hauled stock it was using. The initial proposal was to convert a number of redundant Class 307 units that were in the process of being withdrawn from passenger service into Class 300 parcels units. Owing to the age of these units however, it was subsequently decided to procure a fleet of new trains. These units, which were ordered in 1994, were initially given the TOPS classification Class 350, before being changed to Class 325.
The 16 units were built at ABB Derby between 1995 and 1996. They are very similar to Class 319 units, sharing the same traction equipment and body design, but are fitted with cabs of the same design as the ABB Networker family.
TOPS numbers are on the front of the cabs under the driver's window in a non-standard typeface (Plantin, the then corporate typeface of Royal Mail), and the units were numbered 325001 - 325016. The units are fitted with large round oleo buffers, and have no gangways between carriages. They carry a livery of Royal Mail red, with two yellow stripes running along the lower bodyside before turning sharply backwards and pointing up towards the roof, black cab window surrounds and a full yellow warning panel. Each set is made up of four cars, with roller doors in place of sliding ones and no windows. Each car has two roller shutter sliding doors on each side and is designed to hold up to 12 tonnes. They have a pantograph to pick up power from the 25 kV AC overhead lines, and also a s
Description
Keywords: GoTonySmith,HotpixUK,@HotpixUK,Merseyside,city,centre,platform,dusk,night,service,WCML,poor,Alstom,Pendolino,390112,EMU,Electric,trains,train,at,unreliable,renewed,failed,intercity,to,Euston,London,stopped selling,advance,tickets,Richard Scott,First Group,Trenitalia,worst performing,drivers,overtime,strike,discount,expensive,dirty
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2M1F5RY - Avanti West Coast is a train operating company in the United Kingdom owned by FirstGroup (70%) and Trenitalia (30%) that operates the West Coast Partnership.
During November 2016, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced the InterCity West Coast franchise would be replaced by the West Coast Partnership (WCP). In August 2019, the DfT awarded the WCP franchise to the First Trenitalia consortium. On 8 December 2019, Avanti West Coast took over operations from the prior operating company Virgin Trains, which had run the franchise since 1997. Originally, the franchise was initially scheduled to run until March 2030, and had also been set to operate the initial High Speed 2 services from 2026. However, during December 2020, it was announced that First Trenitalia and the DfT had agreed to terminate the WCP franchise at the earlier date of 31 March 2026 as part of the abolition of the franchise system. Since then a number of contract changes have taken place due to COVID-19 and then poor performance by the company. As of March 2023, the company's contract will expire in October 2023.
Between 14 August and 18 September 2022, Avanti West Coast reduced its timetable, citing unofficial strike action from its employees. However, this allegation was disputed by Aslef, which accused the company of lying and blamed their lack of recruitment, especially of train drivers, for the problems. Trains were running at one service per hour on the majority of routes, as opposed to the three which would typically occur on the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly route. Following these changes, Avanti West Coast was subject to public criticism
news stories emerged of numerous train cancellations, overcrowded services, delays, and expensive fares. Many commuters faced difficulties reaching their destinations on the reduced services and some travellers have been left to wait for to two days before travel for tickets to be released for sale
-train-TPO--traveling-Post-Office-going-north-from-Warrington-Bank-Quay-Station--England--UK--WA1-1UP-H19DH1.jpg)
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Keywords: Railway,rail,Royal,Mail,privatised,privatisation,high,speed,diesel,engine,carriage,class325,electric,multiple,units,with,a,northbound,WCML,from,Warrington,Bank,Quay,Station,England,UK,letter,parcel,traffic,transport,dusk,Royal Mail,Class 325,Royal Mail,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,different,unique,red,northbound,north,bound,rail,railfreight,railways,service,track,tracks,train,trains,BR,transport,transportation,WCML,325,British,class,electric,english,freight,mail,rail,railfrieght,railway,railways,royal,royal mail train,train,trains,uk,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,Photo of,class 325,class 325 emu,electric multiple unit,mail train,rail freight,royal mail postal,WCML postal,West Coast Mail Line,West Coast Main Line,british trains,mail train,UK railways
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H19DH1 -
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Keywords: line,electrified,WCML,England,UK,west,coast,main,Virgin,Cheshire,WBQ,Bank,Quay,cables,cable,copper,valuable,theft,steal,temptation,danger,unsafe,vandal,insulator,lead,stolen,crime,damage,kids,children,Overhead line,electric train line,Bank Quay,Railway lines,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,British,England,support,sun,sky,loss,cost,tax,payer,taxpayer,freight,delays,thieves,criminal,criminals,transformer,switch,gear,switchgear,signal,signalling,metal,scrap,offence,transport,police,forensic,marking,agents,scrap,railtrack,network,rail,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,freight delays,scrap metal,Transport Police,British Transport Police,forensic marking agents,Scrap Metal Dealers Act,Network Rail
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy H542A5 - Cable theft costs millions of pounds each year. The total cost to the economy, taking into account the impact of freight delays to power stations, supermarkets etc and on passengers who miss appointments or have their day ruined, is even higher.
The theft of metal is a big problem for the railway as thieves target signalling cables, overhead power lines and even metal fences to sell for scrap.
Britain's rail network is designed to fail safe, which means that when a cable is cut trains are brought to a standstill. This protects passengers but can lead to lengthy, frustrating delays while the problem is found and fixed safely.
A large proportion of funding comes from the UK Government, so these thefts are, ultimately, costing taxpayers money.
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Keywords: HotpixUk,@HotpixUK,GoTonySmith,UK,England,English,WCML,at night,night,West Coast,Mainline,platform,Network Rail Windhoff Multi Purpose Vehicles,Network Rail,Windhoff,Multi Purpose Vehicles,Windhoff CargoSprinter,maintenance,track maintenance,diesel multiple unit,snow plough,de-icing,de-icer,MPV,repair,BR,Clearing Britains Railways,Clearing,Britains,Railways,anti-freeze,antifreeze,antifreezing,Multi Purpose Vehicle,98951,MultiPurpose Vehicle,cold
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy 2AAT2K2 - The Multiple-purpose Vehicle or MPV is a purpose-built departmental derivative of a diesel multiple unit. Twenty-five two-car units were ordered by Railtrack to enable it to replace its varied collection of ageing departmental vehicles, many of which were converted from redundant passenger stock.
The vehicles were built in Germany by Windhoff. The design is based on the Windhoff CargoSprinter units that are operated by Deutsche Bahn (Germany) and CRT Group (Australia). Normally a unit consists of one powered vehicle fitted with twin 265 kW (355 hp) Railpac diesel engines, semi-permanently coupled to an unpowered slave unit without engines. The later orders for the South East of England and for overhead line replacement are instead composed of two powered units, to give better acceleration and top speed. When first built there were problems with the vehicles being 'out of gauge' when running empty.
The concept of the design is that each vehicle has a driving cab and an under floor engine/transmission with Multiple unit (MU) control. The majority of each vehicle is a flat load bed that can carry combinations of 10-foot and 20-foot modules that are secured using the locking system for ISO standard containers. Modules can be changed as required to suit current requirements.
In 2005, two powered MPV units were used to form a Freight Multiple Unit for freight trials, made by coupling standard freight wagons in between the pair of MPV units. Temporary multiple unit control cables were run along the wagons in order to connect the two MPVs, which are acting as locomotives working as a push-pull train.
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Keywords: WCML,repayment,rebate,TOC,compensation,for,late,rail,journey,DelayRepay,VirginTrains,timetable,NRCoT,late,trains,train,franchise,privatised,renationalised,private,fragmented,infrastructure,railway,refund,Train Operating Company,West Coast Trains Limited,West Coast Trains Ltd,GoTonySmith,@HotpixUK,Tony,Smith,UK,GB,Great,Britain,United,Kingdom,English,BR,Scottish,British,Welsh,problem,with,problem with,issue with,TOC,TOCs,transport,tour,tourism,tourists,urban,fail,infrastructure,delay,delays,delayed.late,later,Expensive,ticket,price,prices,Buy Pictures of,Buy Images Of,Images of,Stock Images,Tony Smith,United Kingdom,Great Britain,British Isles,train operating companies,National Rail Conditions of Travel,ticket prices
Description: Tony Smith image Alamy HEJ5K6 - The National Rail Conditions of Travel (NRCoT) are a contractual document setting out the consumer's rights and responsibilities when travelling on the National Rail railway network in Great Britain. These replaced the National Rail Conditions of Carriage (NRCoC) as of October 1st 2016.
When a train ticket is purchased, a contract is established. The NRCoT are the principal terms of that contract between traveller and train operating company (TOC), which have been established by the Rail Settlement Plan, which is part of the Association of Train Operating Companies. The document is available for public viewing at the National Rail website, and also as a free PDF download.
Additional terms do apply to travellers, primarily from two sources:
For certain ticket types (such as those purchased at discount in advance), the TOCs concerned apply additional terms and conditions on top of the NRCoT.
The NRCoT cover the entitlement and restrictions of travellers, however they are not the only document to do so. Under the Transport Act 2000 (section 219), the Railway Bylaws also apply, though more generally.
Whilst the NRCoT are referred to on all train tickets, at stations, and on internet sites selling tickets for rail travel, very few travellers ever bother to read the document, unless they find themselves in dispute with a rail company on some matter. They are, however, of use to the consumer, because they afford considerable rights to the traveller with regards ticket validity. This has become a matter of significant public interest recently, in view of the complex and convoluted pricing structure of rail tickets in Great Britain.
