Wigan Album

The signal box looks new at that time in 1992, built on old foundations.... is the box still working?
Well done Harry.

Hi Colin,the signal box had just been repainted about a fortnight before i took this shot,but the timber top of this box is an LMS (type 11c+) replacement top installed by the LMSR in 1933,apparantly the brick base is from an earlier 1874 Saxby & Farmer box that stood on the same site.

Surprisingly enough the signal box at Rainford Junction still survives in operational use today with network rail,& looks even more modern these days as it recently got modernised about 18 months ago by network rail,& clad in UPVC,with new UPVC double glazing,new steps,new toilet,new kitchen,new roof etc.
(only 10 levers of the 1896 replacement 56 lever L&Y frame are now in situ in the box.

But at least the box survives.

Very interesting, thanks Harry.

The only thing that spoils your photo Harry is that silly looking train. If should have bin a steam engine. Good info and thanks, J.

I totally agree John,a Black 5 would have looked so much better than a 2 car class 142

Very uncomfortable train these Harry, I travel from Hindley to Manchester in the working week, and when these horrible trains turn up, I know the day's ruined before it starts.

Personally I`ve never really liked these class 142 "pacer" trains either,they dont half give a very rough & uncomfortable ride,especially on old jointed bullhead track or going over points & crossings at speed.
They also give out a painfully loud squeal from the wheels when travelling around tight curves & curves that are fitted with check rails.

Hi Harry,
Nice of you to take a photo of me working, there are not many! I've finished in 3007 Cyril Peers and I went at the same time. Don't forget I worked Wallgate to and didn't you 'train' with me a few days? Anyway check out 'Gone Now' Paul Mackenzie, and you will know what I'm up to now. By the way I still see 'The Lads' Cyril, Lol, Graham, Dave, Colin,and Seggieand a few of the others. Have fun, Paul,