This paper, first in the series explaining the Great Western Railway's practices and those of British Railways Western Region from to 1972, covers the Great Western Railway period from the start of the 20th century through to The Great War.

Written by our founding member John Morris, this era was significant not least because traffic levels were growing and additional lines and signalling were needed - and provided. It was also a period of improved metallurgy and relaxation of the distance from the signal box for the mechanical control of facing points. Long length leads and other track component improvements allowed higher speeds and more powerful locomotives allowed longer and heavier trains.

John explains how these factors impacted on signalling arrangements during this period of rapid evolution and explains all the different things that were taken into account when determining what was to be provided at each location. On top of that there are a considerable number of sketches that illustrate the principles discussed.

If you really want to understand signalling practices, especially if you want to build a realistic model set during this period, then this treatise is an absolute must for you. Even if your interests lie with a different railway tradition then this paper will greatly help your understanding of the whys and wherefores of layouts.

John refers to a number of layout drawings produced by our own Drawing Office and still available from this Society.

This signalling paper is supplied as a photocopied booklet. Copies are created to order - we don't keep piles of them on the shelves - so there can easily be a three week gap between you ordering and the booklet dropping through your letter box. The wait will be worth it!

Need this on a different media? Contact us via the link at the bottom of the page and we'll see what we can do.