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Monday 7 Oct 2019

Behind the scenes peek at Helpston signal box helps community understand level crossing safety

Region & Route:

Eastern

More than 200 residents took the chance to take a behind-the-scenes peek at the workings of Helpston signal box, after the signallers there organised a number of open days to promote level crossing safety.

The interactive sessions, which raised awareness of safety at level crossings and on the railway, were held from Monday, 16 until Saturday, 21 September. 239 people from the community attended.

Helpston signal box is located north of Peterborough on the widest level crossing in the country, with six tracks and a line speed of 125mph on the East Coast Main Line.

The events aimed to raise awareness of how signallers work to manage the safe running of trains and public safety at level crossings. Network Rail signallers explained to people in the community who use the crossing why they sometimes have to wait longer than expected before they can cross. They also showed them how misusing a crossing can be dangerous, and lead to additional delays for passengers, freight and other people using it.

Martin Fuller, Signaller for Network Rail, said: “We decided to run the public events so the community could find out more about what we do, and how we ensure the level crossing and the railway operates safely.

“Safety is Network Rail’s priority and it is important people do their bit by following the rules at a level crossing. Misusing one could be dangerous, and lead to additional delays for trains, as well as other vehicles or pedestrians crossing it.

“239 people got involved in the interactive sessions and we have had a lot of positive feedback.”

ENDS