WSMR Route Learner

Due to engineering works taking place on various sections of the Chiltern lines, Wrexham & Shropshire trains were frequently diverted at weekends via the WCML and some wonderfully obscure routes around north west London. This meant that train crew needed to be familiar with all the possible routes to be used and so several crew training runs were undertaken using the Chiltern/WSMR "Bubblecar" 960 014. I was privileged to be invited to travel on one of these workings on Thursday 4th February 2010, starting from Chiltern's Wembley LMD. More photos to be added, as per usual! Many thanks to those at WSMR who granted me this privilege... Just a shame about the weather! All photos taken with permission and under supervision.

Now approaching the WCML at Willesden's signal WM661 protecting Acton Branch Junction, the signal showing a clear green aspect and "UR" on the theatre indicator for "Up Relief", despite the fact that the train will be travelling in the down direction. Both up and down lines are signalled bi-directionally beyond this point, so either line can be taken. It is also possible to join the down fast of the WCML beyond here at Willesden No. 7, but being routed via the relief lines is more usual. 11:25, Thursday 4th February 2010. Digital Image No. GMPI4416.

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Now approaching the WCML at Willesden's signal WM661 protecting Acton Branch Junction, the signal showing a clear green aspect and "UR" on the theatre indicator for "Up Relief", despite the fact that the train will be travelling in the down direction. Both up and down lines are signalled bi-directionally beyond this point, so either line can be taken. It is also possible to join the down fast of the WCML beyond here at Willesden No. 7, but being routed via the relief lines is more usual. 11:25, Thursday 4th February 2010. Digital Image No. GMPI4416.

GMPI4416 PoV960014 ActonBranch