Signal Boxes and Semaphores by Gordon D Webster

Signal Boxes and Semaphores by Gordon D Webster

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Summary

Explores the decline of mechanical signalling in the UK.

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Signal Boxes and Semaphores by Gordon D Webster

Mechanical signal boxes and semaphore signals are the last vestige of Victorian technology still to be found on Britain's railways. Still surviving against all the odds in a digital era, only a few hundred 'boxes' remain in use out of the 10,000 originally built to control train movements across every inch of the network. Sadly, almost all of them are to be abolished within the next decade and replaced by twelve computerised Regional Operating Centres. The old system is still alive and well throughout a number of locations seemingly lost in time, from the remote Scottish Highlands to the busy Great Western main line. The world's largest 'box' at Shrewsbury - containing 180 levers - contrasts with many tiny level crossing cabins in Yorkshire, while single-track electric token systems have also remarkably stood the test of time on some secondary routes. In this book, Gordon D. Webster looks at the last signal boxes and semaphores with a vast selection of photographs, showing the various trains that pass in an intriguing blend of old and new. Interior views are included, showing the traditional working environment of the signalman which will also soon be lost forever.
Gordon D. Webster studied journalism at Glasgow Caledonian University. He is the author of several railway books.
SKU Unavailable
ISBN 13 9781445656175
ISBN 10 1445656175
Title Signal Boxes and Semaphores
Author Gordon D Webster
Condition Unavailable
Binding Type Paperback
Publisher Amberley Publishing
Year published 2016-11-15
Number of pages 96
Cover note Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
Note Unavailable