Rose Hill

[@1royjames]

I have to agree these cab rides with captions are brilliant. Please keep them coming.

[@doncoffey5820]

Trying slightly different captions on the Chester video tonight. Let me know what you think.

[@dean6248]

That was interesting journey lots of great info on lost lines. Maybe on day we can run on those lines again.

[@doncoffey5820]

Hopefully Dean 👍

[@Thursdaym2]

Bredbury, Woodley and Romily were my stamping grounds as a kid. Sometimes we would bike to Hyde Junction on Sundays to see the Harwich boat train go by on the Woodhead line. Long way from my home in Cornwall. Good memories.

[@doncoffey5820]

I was brought up in New Mills Butch and I used to see the Harwich Boat Train come through as well.

[@martinmarsola6477]

A nice quick trip today, and very smooth. Thanks for the video and chat. Cheers Don.

[@doncoffey5820]

You’ll sign the entire north of England soon Martin.

[@petrolhead9027]

Another great video Don cheers, Rose hill is my local station done this trip many times and nice to see it from the drivers view

[@frankdent6397]

My Great Grandad was signalman at Woodley and Apethorn Junction in 1900. I often traveled the route from Macclesfield to Woodley and Hyde Central in my youth (1950's - 60's). Thanks for bringing back many happy memories.

[@doncoffey5820]

Wouldn’t that make a lovely video - Macclesfield to Woodley via Bollington? Sadly we’ll probably never see it unless it languishes in some loft waiting for discovery! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@josephkarl2061]

As always, fan-bloody-tastic! 👍👍👍 I'll probably never see these places in person, but these videos make me feel more Mancunian every time I watch them 😁

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoy them Joseph.

[@stevejackson327]

Again, as I've said before, thanks for the memories Don. I only just come across this one ( my bad!). I grew up pre-teen in Hyde, only about 100 yards from the CLC line to East Godley, where it ran under Stockport Road. Spent much time watching the old "steamers". Happy Days!

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s all local to me as I grew up in New Mills. I was a driver manager for a few years and assessed drivers over these suburban lines.

[@DavidPeacock1972]

The black and white footage kinda gave it a nice retro British Transport Films feel. Didn't spoil the experience one bit, in fact in my opinion, it did look good. Big thumbs up from me. Another job well done.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks David. Much appreciated. I’m off to film a very different trip tomorrow which should prove very interesting.

[@edwardbarnes2702]

Brilliant Don as ever, the captions says it all, as most of the old line side infer structure has gone back to nature, plus makes you realise How much of our Railway history as gone. I like many of your followers really love these ‘real’ time journeys, been there upfront as a very young Second man at Stewards Lane ‘some’ years ago on the southern, on class 33, 73 Hope your going to continue these journeys, even repeats at different times of year, as me not into mainstream ‘soaps’😫can while away a journey to somewhere never been, certainly beats standing on the platform plus indoors with a nice glass of red.🤓

[@doncoffey5820]

Enjoy that red! I’m lucky that the company lets me do TransPennine videos and my mate helps me get the Northern routes. As long as they are happy then I’ll keep doing various routes. Cheers Edward.

[@Doppolina99]

Watched all your videos at least twice. Very informative and entertaining. Thankyou. Keep up the good work.

[@doncoffey5820]

I would actually recommend watching them twice. You can concentrate on the cab ride more second time around and probably see things you missed first time. Thanks for the positive feedback Phil.

[@daveharrison9107]

Really enjoyed this video, on a recent work trip to the area I parked at Rose Hill and took the train to my meeting in Ardwick. Lovely scenery on the first bit and an interesting industrial landscape after. Great to see it from the cab, please keep up the good work :)

[@charlesshivoder2887]

Hello from the USA. Thank you for this fine video. The insets showing various rear and side views are a great idea. I particularly enjoyed your attention to the operational and signals which are quite different than over here. The signals in the U.K. are a complete mystery to me. I guess our signaling is just as bizarre to you, particularly where the old railroad-specific systems are still in service. I have subscribed to your account and will look out for your future videos. Thanks again fit the fine job. CAS Pennsylvania

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks for tuning in Charles. I was about to produce a video on signals but then I read the conditions the company gave me for sharing them on the internet and they don’t want me giving away information about driving the train which I think it did a bit too much. There is one on turning out at junctions that you might like. I visit the US every year and I see some signals but they look a bit strange to me. In a nutshell, ours are green, two yellows, one yellow and red.

[@SmTaUcM]

Another great video Don. I find it very entertaining and relaxing to watchi and learn about the routes and their infrastructure. Keep them coming!

[@doncoffey5820]

More coming soon Stuart.

[@anmolmehta7116]

What a nice ride to and fro from Rose Hill. A lot of sun glare on the way which is very rare in England as it is mostly overcast and rainy. You chose a nice day to film this video.

[@doncoffey5820]

.....and Manchester is “Rainy City”! The Chester video runs tomorrow at 8pm UK time and the sun is a little bit troublesome for the first 10 minutes but then it is superb footage for over an hour!

[@Foggen1231]

Absolutely brilliant!! I guess all young boys want to be an engine driver (both my grand dads were in the 40's and 50's). Your comments certainly indicate that it is not just a matter of getting into the driver's seat and away you go!! Also it was neat doing the trip in reverse. Amazing how much of the view changed drastically - almost felt like it was two different lines for a while. Many thanks for posting, the editing, and the informed comments.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks! The view going the other way is often quite different which is why drivers spend so much time route learning. If its a shortish route like this I include both ways but for the longer ones, they take much more editing and are vast files so it makes sense to show them as separate videos.

[@HenrysAdventures]

Brillaint video! I really enjoyed watching. When things get back to normal I'll walk the old trackbed South of Rose Hill.

[@doncoffey5820]

Me too Henry. I was watching your videos by the way.

[@PhilPage227]

Great viseo Don, i loved every minute and plan to travel that route very soon.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes. its worth a look Phillip - thanks.

[@ricwilki6254]

Interesting as always and, yes, I was one who didn’t know what the rumble strips really did! Love the B&W section of the film, very artistic! 👍

[@andrewganley9016]

Another Top Class Video,Usual Intelligent,Informative commentary,Obviously A Real Railway Man,Despite Driving All That Plastic!

[@philmissy1]

Awesome, something I would never see otherwise so thank you for sharing.

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it Phillip.

[@bigmacmclure953]

wow it look like we have travel back in time keep up the great work

[@doncoffey5820]

It does a bit! Quite atmospheric you might say!!!

[@bigmacmclure953]

@@doncoffey5820 yeah it does

[@David330ify]

Another enjoyable video Don. Thank you.

[@phwbooth]

Thanks for this, Don. Yet again, I have learned something, as well as finding the video enjoyable.

[@doncoffey5820]

Good, glad you enjoyed it.

[@stewartpilling8648]

Fantastic video. Thank you for your hard work.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thank you too Stewart.

[@paulwhitear4983]

Really enjoyed this video Don, Nice to see that they didn't knock down the disused signal box. Liked the transition from colour to black and white then back to colour.

[@MrCrankyChris]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video and will catch up with your weekly postings, I like the references you make to the old and now disused lines and branches in the commentary.

[@doncoffey5820]

Much appreciated Chris - more soon.

[@paulmasterson386]

Many years ago when I was a Manchester guard, a driver moved his 101 set past the platform towards the buffers; the train disappeared off the track circuit and the Romiley signalman called the fire brigade!

[@doncoffey5820]

Hi Paul. Yes, thats the reason those zigzags are welded on the track - to stop trains “disappearing off the radar”!

[@colmone5592]

Good work.Well done.

[@iantaf5559]

Well, being as there are no other comments, I'll happily add the first!!! Thanks, Don, another good un! Thanks to the crew involved too.

[@doncoffey5820]

There was Ian but they get held for approval in case they are full of spam. Thanks for the compliment.

[@JohnRodgers7390]

Waited around 10 hours before watching it, but worth the wait. That is an interesting line and nice to see the stone quarry consist. With the change to black & white, you had to judge what the aspect of the signals by your speed. But have to see well worth the wait for.

[@doncoffey5820]

Hopefully no more B&W now I’ve got those settings that HCG uses. We’ll see if this fancy GoPro behaves tomorrow when I’m out with Northern again.

[@philipalldred5038]

Great info once again

[@Bigbro28]

Actually, this looks pretty good in b & w - reminds me of the days of steam. Nice one! 🐨🇦🇺

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes that was a frustrating problem with my early camera!

[@bfapple]

Used to have a friend whose garden backed onto the Rose Hill branch. Good memories...

[@doncoffey5820]

My sister had Glendale Restaurant which backed on to it too.

[@None-zc5vg]

The Rose Hill branch used to go on to Macclesfield until 1970: I used to cycle across the track at a level-crossing in Poynton: now most of the dead line is a cycle-track and footparh. At Hyde North the single-lead junction helped caused a non-fatal crash between 2 DMUs in 1991, and additional platform signalling, a set of catch-points and a long sand-trap were put in to supplement the 1984 resignalling. The overhead positioning of the gantry signal on the M/C.- bound line out of Hyde North may have confused the driver of one train, and once he'd moved off , the single-lead track made a crash inevitable.

[@russouk]

nice sunny frosty morning...like them,wakes me up on way to work in AM...lol...she looks cold on right at 14:16 we need more track not less...trains over cars any day. wish we had more fast lines here in cardiff..mostly slow runs around city and outskirts...though we have plenty of them...St Fagans is about nearest to watch them speed by

[@doncoffey5820]

At least Wales does get lines reopened occasionally.

[@kevincrowley6273]

As I have quite a few years on the clock, I remember the through service to Macclesfield. Marple Wharf Junction was the 'Guardian' of the junction complete with semaphore signalling, MWJ controlled the 'Splitting Distant' Intermediate Block Distant signals which were originally Oakwood SB's signals (the recess for the 'box is still in place on the Manchester bound track.) The one thing you used to be able to do at Rose Hill station back in the day was lean over the road bridge on the Manchester bound platform and 'Touch' the semaphore Starter when it was off it was THAT close!

[@doncoffey5820]

You know what Kevin, I think I remember that. My eldest sister lived down that way and I remember how close it was. She also lived on Cross Lane and we used to run down and watch the DMU’s which had built up a fair lick by then. Green with a grey roof!

[@johnhardman3]

One of the last old diesels on the Rose Hill run was a '50s Class '101' 3-car unit that's now preserved (as 2 coaches, anyway).Another antique on that route was the hybrid '100/105' 2-car set which should have gone to the NRM but which was,instead, left unprotected so that vandals could finish it off.

[@MartinMiller1]

Very enjoyable!

[@jerrydowse5061]

Looks good in b&w Don,maybe do some more.another enjoyable trip,thank you.

[@doncoffey5820]

Will do Jerry.

[@vasilicastoica416]

Chiar îmi place 👍👍👍

[@andrewr2825]

I’m a big fan of these videos but one thing always intrigued me. Isn’t Ardwick a desolate looking station!! Thanks for these videos Don.👍🏻

[@doncoffey5820]

Good point Andrew. Ardwick used to be in the middle of quite a populated suburb of inner Manchester but these days it is mainly commercial and all the rows and rows of terraced houses have virtually all disappeared. There are only a couple of trains a day stop there. This excellent film from Jonathan Gilbert tells you a little more about it..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3fbnntoZb-sbck

[@andrewr2825]

Thanks for that link Don. After watching it, I’m even more convinced about it’s desolation! And Ashburys isn’t inviting either.

[@None-zc5vg]

@@andrewr2825 Until about 1994 Ashburys had a waiting-room and an underpass between the platforms, but road-widening on Pottery Lane and replacement of the mid-30s bridges produced the present station with a passenger overbridge and bus shelters. Recent timetable changes have trimmed the number of trains stopping there, and there's probably a long-term goal of closing it, along wirh Ardwick (which only has a vestigial peak-hour 'service').

[@allthestroke88]

I do enjoy a low winter sun when in England. Especially the North.

[@TheBritMedic503]

Thanks Don

[@dpjones1]

It's a shame they don't put track back down at Phillips park junction so the ecs trains don't have to go down to guide bridge to loop before going into Piccadilly. Nice video by the way that land had nothing there near hyde north when I left hyde in 1994

[@doncoffey5820]

You mean over the old viaduct? It would be nice. They have put a new crossover in that allows a short move via the back of Ashburys Station but it’s only for empties and requires changing ends.

[@johnhardman3]

The LNWR viaduct was only there to connect with that company's line on the main viaduct at Ardwick : reinstating the old link is unlikely because it would involve a lot of expensive new track, points and signalling on top of what had been installed nearby in the late-'80s remodelling of the junction at Ardwick.

[@44662dc]

Simply marvellous Don it's really great to get a drivers eye view. Very informative as well. I do wonder though who you work for as in Northern or TPE (lol)

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Denis.

[@doncoffey5820]

Oh, and by the way, I work for TPE!

[@deltic9721]

Another great informative video Don, hope you do not think this a stupid question but often wondered how you know when to slow down and how much brake pressure to apply to stop in the right place on a platform?

[@doncoffey5820]

Its a good question Bill, not a stupid one. When drivers learn a route they learn all the shut off and braking points. That is the point they shut off power (trains will coast for miles on favourable gradients) and the point that they “normally” start braking. Of course, they can adjust the braking if needed and all trains vary slightly in their brake performance (especially older ones). These older units have a 3 step brake, that is 3 fixed steps that cannot be varied so you can just feather the brake, it is step 1, 2 or 3. The brake cylinder pressures are roughly 1, 2 and 3 bar with the highest pressure achieving deceleration just short of locking the wheels on a dry rail. It takes a bit of getting used to. Of course the Class 185s that I drive are much newer and and have a variable brake and hydrodynamic transmission retarder working disc brakes. They are heavy and so can generate quite a bit more deceleration. Even that said, I still have target braking points. I might brake much earlier in leaf fall to avoid sliding or can afford to brake a bit later on a good rail if I want to make a bit of time when running late. I always like your questions Bill, I can tell you are thinking about what you are seeing ;-)

[@Harry-me1zq]

Don, as a former Southerner now living 'up north' Macclesfield way in the day before Shut Windows you could often see the train in front only a 100 yds or less. Was or that the same today ?

[@doncoffey5820]

You mean when you are following one Phillip? There are occasions where you can indeed see the train in front but modern signalling rationalisation tends to lead to longer sections. I git stopped at Gilberdyke recently and I could see that the train in front was probably freight. The signaller told me it had popped up as unidentified so she’d stopped it to identify this alien train. His headcode had dropped out of the radio and left his id blank. As soon as he put it back in he was soon gone so he must have given it some beans. I was in a 185 but he never got in my way again all the way to Hull!

[@greatbritishentertainmentl5636]

Didn't like going into the sun, but did like the short b/w footage on the return trip - gave a 1960s feel to your video. One small point - it would help at the start if the departure time of the train appears on the screen as it leaves the platform - what are your thoughts Don?

[@doncoffey5820]

I’m limited with how much I can add to the footage. I’ve got Final Cut Pro but I’m hopeless at it.

[@noyonb1483]

Another brilliant video Don. Thanks for all the effort you put in, its very much appreciated. I’m amazed at how much you need to know before driving a route. How do you actually learn a route? Do other drivers watch your videos? Are there maps, guides detailing it all, or a combination of many sources and sitting with other drivers? Thanks again and I’ll look forward to the next video! 👍

[@doncoffey5820]

Routes are learned in stages. A freshly qualified driver might start with 2 or 3 then build up after he or she has built up a level of instinct. They start with a few rides over the route with a qualified driver then they get a detailed route brief involving all the route and its pitfalls. Then they start learning proper with a specified number of trips in each direction and preferably some in the dark. After (usually) 50% of the trips they can drive if the booked driver will agree to taking responsibility and then at the end they sit an exam and a ride over the route in both directions. The pass out is detailed. The driver has to go over the route a certain number of times in order to keep competency otherwise they have to take a special “refresh” trip.

[@noyonb1483]

Don Coffey Thanks again. Very informative as always!

[@rowanlidbury]

The 20mph speed restriction at 34:10 seems to only apply in one direction. Therefore I would think it's to "brake check" you as you descend a gradient? You see the gradient marker boards in the run down to it.

[@doncoffey5820]

Its a reasonable suggestion but then the speed goes straight back up afterwards. The gradient isn’t too steep and signal sighting is good. I tend to think it is historical but so far without the definitive answer.

[@rowanlidbury]

@@doncoffey5820 I can only speculate, I don't drive the route. The only difference between the two lines seems to be the gradient, nothing structural. I think it may well be historical in that it was there before modern rolling stock and signalling as a kind of speed based approach control. I bet network rail wouldn't dare remove it.

[@doncoffey5820]

That is absolutely true. Everybody knows its there but until it gets re-signalled (re-designed) it will not change.

[@markduhig6472]

With my PWay hat on, could the drains have failed that side many moons ago leaving wet beds? PWay forgot to raise the speed after the repair, and won't do it now because it will have to be risk-assessed and no-one will take responsibility.

[@doncoffey5820]

@@markduhig6472 It could certainly be something that dates back years. I think it would need a signalling upgrade to see it gone.

[@emlynn1004]

The black and white added mystery to the trip! I am wondering if the 20 MPH slow down is something like the story of the servants setting places for a meal for the King's Guard during Victoria's time. It was set for a reason years ago, and no one told anybody to stop doing it? Question: How many trains are on the same route going back and forth? I thought I counted 3 on the other side, so 4 going in a circle?

[@doncoffey5820]

That 20 is a mystery for sure! That line is quite busy in places with transpennine, Rose Hill and Hadfield services passing as far as Guide Bridge. Further back at Ashburys, you can add the Hope Valley stoppers too!

[@paulbissitt4754]

Only just joined the 21st century with a tablet to use and I am well and truly hooked on your splendid videos.Many thanks.Is there any chance of a Bradbury R T to Runcorn binliner with a Class 70 planned? From The Steelyman.

[@doncoffey5820]

I have got some 70 footage which I’ll show at some stage but not on that route just yet. It may we’ll pop up so keep your fingers crossed.

[@jeannotfloor5541]

Again a good and educational uploading! Yesterday I watched the Glossop/Hadfield loop, which I shared with my friends living in Glossop. I did not know a lot of hidden gems and rich histories of local lines and I'm glad that to teach us about them together with driver's interesting chores along the line. About the zig-zag things on the rails, I never knew that it is kind of GPS for trains at the very end - like many viewers I thought that they were for assisting to brake the train in case of shooting out too far and hitting the buffer. Unfortunately I cannot hear the sounds (and engines) what they are like, as I am deaf, but thank you for describing them when reading the captions! Just one question and maybe it is a stupid one, but it bothers me sometimes whether trains have brake-lights like cars? Just wondering in case if a train would accidentally bump into the front one! I notice that drivers are always checking lights (both front and rear) before/after driving, they do even more often than motorists usually do(n't)! 😁

[@doncoffey5820]

I might have described it badly. The rails have a small electrical voltage running through them and when the train wheels run over them, they complete track circuits that show the position of the trains. If the rails are contaminated, the track circuits cannot detect the presence of the train.

[@ellieswinfen9200]

The TC welds on this are really hard to hear, but if you ever find yourself at Euston with a Pendo driver who wants the shortest walk possible to the crew rest centre it's so noisy it sounds like a derailment!

[@Spookieham]

I only twigged these were DMUs when I noticed afterwards there was no cantenary at Rose Hill...

[@mustangj0hn]

If you ever find yourself on the Blackpool South line, I'd love to see a video of that route.

[@doncoffey5820]

That almost certainly won’t happen but Blackpool North will.

[@mustangj0hn]

Pity that :( seen a few BPN vids, sadly no South.

[@MrAuriga67]

Another great informative video Don ! Am I correct in thinking the signal at Marple Wharf Junction is "track approach" controlled ? Also when the train starts from Manchester Piccadilly, the Driver gets an "R" indication to start the train. Does this indicate Manchester Piccadilly is not a "self dispatch" station ?

[@doncoffey5820]

Regarding “track approach”, yes, that is exactly what it is but that term is hardly used for drivers. The reason is that if they consider it track approach and predict that it will always change, there could be several reasons why it won’t and that might lead to the signal being accidentally passed at danger.

[@darrelljohnston8676]

We are in the land void of color. ...cool.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, some of the early videos were a bit drab but I’ve got a grip of it in later ones.

[@Geeves8612]

What's always amused me is the various mainline junctions were reduced to single lead into double yet Rose Hill is a double into single! I presume two trains could technically be held on the branch? I've no clue if it ever happens.

[@doncoffey5820]

I spoke to one of the head signallers in the Manchester area (signs all over the place!) and he said you can draw a train up to the first signal while one comes out. You would never normally send two up the single line unless it was for assisting a failed train but then special regulations come into play.

[@None-zc5vg]

The Romiley signal-box must be out of use by now (the video must be a few years old): has the box been demolished yet ?

[@doncoffey5820]

It will look a lot better tomorrow when its had time to buffer.

[@blackrider21]

Just an idea (dont take it the wrong way as i know what time it takes to edit a video and really appreciate your vids) but maybe with the text side of things instead of having scrolling text just have a block of text on screen leave it for a few seconds and then remove it , the reason i think this will be good is when i watch videos i prefer to keep my eyes on the road ahead so as not to miss anything , with the scrolling text i have to take my eyes away from the road and read the text , if it was stationary i could pause the video read the text then unpause and keep watching , just an idea anyway keep up the great work , from a fellow railwayman :)

[@sweetmyth2537]

Ok

[@davidyoung695]

It does indeed.

[@doncoffey5820]

I’ve got basic software but I’ll have a look at the other options. I appreciate the feedback.

[@doncoffey5820]

I’ll certainly see what options I’ve got.

[@annescholey6546]

In the 90s 101s pounded the route on the way to Sheffield.

[@doncoffey5820]

They did indeed Ann. In fact, they ran on that line right until withdrawal and a very dear and sadly missed driver instructor by the name of Alan Childs drove on the farewell trip from Manchester Piccadilly.

[@1951GL]

Don, as usual your commentary is so informative. I am 68 at the end of this year but, frankly, would love to do your job. Back in 1965, as a spotter, regularly got the dmu service from Piccadilly to Marple and left at Reddish North to access Reddish MPD for the dc electrics. Is there any chance of the Rose Hill line being extended to Bollington and Macclesfield? I understand Bollington has expanded somewhat and there must be commuter business to be had from there. Thanks for the upload.

[@doncoffey5820]

I consider myself very lucky. I’m 61 next and still love doing this job although I have a job share and only work two weeks in four. I have a privileged opportunity to keep my brain healthy by playing 1:1 scale trains and I love it. As for the line to Macclesfield, well I guess if old Beeching were to rationalise the railways again today, he would meet a lot of resistance as we now realise the importance of public transport. As for the damage that was done, its hard to get it back now as much of the land has been given up to development. Its a nice thought though and it must have been a fantastic run through the Cheshire countryside.

[@jeannotfloor5541]

I was thinking the same thing lately when watching the videos and you talking about former lines. They ought to be brought back to life again and I am glad that they are not in disarray too badly, so they could be restored again (which are also dependent on demand from public, availability of financial incentives, etc.). Just cutting few trees, lay down rails, signalling and (if necessary) overhead wires - that'll do. A lot of infrastructure is there already, maybe a bit upgrade/more support needed here and there. I am wondering if that Beeching hadn't overdone his job in the first place! 😡 If it was me using common sense, I think that they would be better worth looked at - rather than wasting billions to an entire new line such as the HS2 - and restored local lines would bring more local housing and jobs. If trams are back to life in cities, I do not see why not the same with trains! ☺

[@doncoffey5820]

@Stefan Bradley Wow, cameras have come on a bit haven’t they? Thanks for sharing Stefan.

[@doncoffey5820]

@@jeannotfloor5541 Yes, I can see the need to rationalise but they shouldn’t have sold the land where it could be reopened.

[@moparluvrsgagarage2898]

Don Great video and altho am only 1/2 way thru it I had an idea maybe you can incorporate in future videos. Think you could put a compass in an upper corner so we "foreigners" know which direction we are heading??? Just a thought ------- now on with the show.........

[@doncoffey5820]

I’ve got limited facilities with my plain old standard editing software. I try to include a map or make reference to the general direction at various stages.

[@keithashley6298]

Again, a lovely video, thanks as always for the information. No, the black and white section did not deter my enjoyment of the film.

[@doncoffey5820]

Much appreciated Keith.

[@williammonaghan3724]

When you realise the truth about the 'zig zags' and feel like a silly sausage! Mind you, if you heard the old 504 Bury EMU's pulling in to Manchester Victoria, back in the day, you'd also think it was an audible warning lol..

[@doncoffey5820]

Haha, sorry to embarrass you William - very eloquently put! I wonder if it is because there is a big void under Vic that caused the racket or just that they were rather old and transmitted more noise.

[@johnhardman3]

I've always wondered if those rumble-strips couldnt have reduced wheel-adhesion at the very time (approaching the buffer-stops) when the braking had to be most efficient.

[@TheDroppy68]

A new route and more interesting facts / information thanks Don. I don't mean to stir-up any ill-feelings, but I have to ask; do you think Siemens does just as good a job as BREL or better? If so, what do you think is the main contributing factor towards this? More modern technology? Design philosophy? Or was BREL better due to their work ethics?

[@doncoffey5820]

Hmm, it’s not easy to answer that because we’re not comparing apples with apples. BREL didn’t have access to all the facilities and systems that Siemens do. I would also say that the trains are not comparable because Class 185s are still cutting edge 10 years after introduction. I’m a big Siemens and Class 185 fan so I’m probably biased. I don’t know if that answers your question but it’s just an opinion.

[@TheDroppy68]

@@doncoffey5820 thanks for your reply, I hazarded a guess before I "penned" my question, that Siemens would probably have the edge due to the "technological evolution" in both train design, and the machinery / infrastructure used in its maintenance. However being away from Britain since its' BR days I was curious if the (close-down?) of BREL had ultimately been a positive thing or not? I'm just guessing here, but I'm sure without Siemens, BREL would still have designed excellent traction, with the advent of new technologies. From what I've read, it was Thatcher's government that was hell-bent on running BR and BREL into the ground despite their amazing developments (like the APT).

[@chrisr2368]

Another good video. I was wondering your opinion on the HS2 project? Is there an objective need for it? IT seems to me that fixing the rationalisation (from the days when rail did seem to be fading) that has taken place and adding back infrastructure which is idle (or ripped up) would be far more effective. The journey times from Birmingham and Manchester to London are far better than the past.

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s only my opinion but I’d rather see the current railway fixed first. What do you think?

[@johnhardman3]

HS2 is another high-speed way of laundering-away your taxes (think "foreign aid").

[@nothisispatrick6180]

Oooohhhh 150205 saw that around manchester on saturday wonder if you where on it

[@doncoffey5820]

No I was only on it for one day. On Saturday I was driving a Class 185 to Hull then York.

[@nothisispatrick6180]

@@doncoffey5820 oh wouldent of seen you i was round manchester though but on platforms 13/14

[@limeyfox]

Really enjoying your videos - is there any particular reason why Rose Hill trains have always run via Hyde and New Mills trains via Bredbury?

[@doncoffey5820]

I think its just a way of making sure both routes get catered for. It also aids capacity over these busy corridors.

[@johnhardman3]

The Rose Hill trains continued on to Macclesfield via Poynton and Middlewood until the line beyond Rose Hill closed in 1970.The trackbed remained but a viaduct at the Macclesfield end has gone. You can walk/cycle/ride a horse along the rest of it (horses tend to be spooked by cyclists). The closed stations' platforms are still there in places.

[@redviper24]

A very enjoyable video, thank you but what is the cross section of track in the middle of the tracks at 2:02 is this just dumped there?

[@doncoffey5820]

That’s part of a new switch which is waiting to be installed.

[@redviper24]

@@doncoffey5820 Thank you, for the explanation.

[@karazor-el9596]

What's the best looking station you've been to,for me lime street and that stunning route inn

[@doncoffey5820]

Now thats a good question Mark but a tough one. For all round awesomeness (if that is a word) then yes, Lime St takes some beating. That vertical sided stone cutting is one thing but then the two 200ft wide unsupported arched roofs are just astonishing. It is without a doubt a marvel. For pure looks though, Irlam takes some beating and Hebden Bridge has a fine retro look. Have a look on Google if you aren’t familiar with them.

[@karazor-el9596]

Hebden is very quaint much like cumbrian stations settle stone built stations are a delight

[@danielkingham9045]

Hi Don,,sorry to keep pestering about minor things,,,,but when one gets to an „overhead neutral section“ what are the yellow blocks on the ground actually represent?and what causes rail row (noise)i don’t know if you have ever driven through Sough Tunnel near Darwen but there is or even was a lot in there..,,,thanks again and have a good Easter,,,

[@doncoffey5820]

Good questions. The yellow boxes feature in the Stoke video and are inductive switches that isolate the power in the train. It stops arcing of the power supply if the train passes by with power on. There are several reasons for unusual track noise. If you listed between Ashley and Mobberley on the Chester video, there is an almighty din down past the motorway. That is just the lay of the land. However, there are sections of track that are actually rippled which is due to the braking and acceleration wear on the rail head.

[@danielkingham9045]

Don Coffey .....but why do these noises tend to happen near or even directly under air shafts ? Have a good Easter Monday

[@doncoffey5820]

There is an echo as you pass under some shafts.

[@johnnyboy3949]

Would you or anyone ever be able to film the Calder valley line? Would love to see it from a driver POV as it’s my local line

[@doncoffey5820]

There is a Calder Valley video - the one with the flames on the thumbnail.

[@sandywallace1219]

What’s the purpose of the two small red lights you sometimes see beside the track down at ground level? Another great video and thanks for uploading.

[@doncoffey5820]

Those are Ground Position Lights (GPLs) and are used for signalling trains performing shunt moves.

[@KenWard2015]

Additionally, the welded Zig-Zags are Stainless Steel so they don't rust. :-) I'm sat at home using my GM bus Pass while not going past my front door.

[@doncoffey5820]

They do another one called Eutectic Strip which is like a cluster of particles laid out in zigzag form.

[@FlyingPhysicist]

At 25:20 there is a visible diagonal "split" down each rail... what is that there for?

[@doncoffey5820]

Its called a “breather`”. If you notice, that is a section of continuously welded rail (CWR) and it expands considerably in hot weather so that diagonal split allows the two sections to expand past each other.

[@FlyingPhysicist]

@@doncoffey5820 right! so the rails used to construct this section of track are not heated prior to welding, as with higher-speed lines?

[@CyclicPilot]

@@doncoffey5820 I thought CWR was pre-tensioned so that it doesn't actually expand - temperature changes place different levels of tension on the sleepers without the rail actually moving. The 'breather' is there to separate the track circuits in different signal sections. I could be wrong though...

[@lukeedwards8599]

Not sure why it's 20mph leaving Woodley towards Manchester, yet going the other way it's normal speed.

[@doncoffey5820]

Nobody Knows Luke!

[@transportationuk7656]

Do you know if any new trains are coming to the South Transpennine Route in the future? I know the Nova fleet are going to be working on the North and West Transpennine routes. I am sick of seeing just Class 185s. I live in Sheffield so.

[@doncoffey5820]

Its probably not what you want to hear if you live down that way but no, the South Pennine route and the Hull line will get exclusively strengthened Class 185s (6 cars instead of 3). Thats not a bad thing because 185s are one of the most dependable units in the country. They are also getting all sorts of updates although this is delayed by problems getting the new fleet in service.

[@transportationuk7656]

Don Coffey Ah okay thanks.

[@davestrains]

Fabulous video Don!!..do you know when the 142's on this line are retiring,and whats replacing them?!! cheers dave

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Dave. The 142s don’t meet the regulations for wheelchairs that come out next year so unless they get a very special concession, they will be gone in the next 12 months or so. As for what replaces them, well Northern are currently undergoing a complete overhaul of the fleet which will see the brand new 195 diesels and the 331 electrics introduced. That in turn allows further cascades of other types to replace those 142s. Don’t expect any fancy 170s or even 158s but you should see the 150s performing regularly on Rose Hills instead of mixed up with 142s.

[@stanmarsh14]

Speaking of the 170's, looks like TPE has got at least one on loan from Northern at the moment, with it running through Huddersfield.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, it does Leeds - Huddersfield shuttles.

[@stanley3647]

I always thinking about Zig-Zag purpose - my explanation to myself was to increase of friction in case of emergency breaking (due to slippery rail). But goot to know real reason. Any chance for Sheffield-Nottingam in future?

[@doncoffey5820]

I can’t promise that as its well off my patch but there is a possibility the TPE will pick up the Nottingham route but not for some time yet.

[@richardburdick9430]

Question.... At 25:21, at the Rose Hill station, there were splits in both rails. What purpose do they serve?

[@doncoffey5820]

ts called a “breather`” Richard. If you notice, that is a section of continuously welded rail (CWR) and it expands considerably in hot weather so that diagonal split allows the two sections to expand past each other.

[@richardburdick9430]

@@doncoffey5820 Thanks for the quick reply. I have not seen any joints like this over here in the USA.

[@brcinemawm]

Just guessing, but is the short 20mph speed linked to lower noise for the houses on the right?

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s not a bad suggestion for sure but the line peed in the opposite direction is 50mph.

[@brcinemawm]

It would still cut the noise down by 50%.

[@doncoffey5820]

It would Wayne but I doubt thats the reason ;-)

[@brcinemawm]

Weaker track or embankment on that side?

[@doncoffey5820]

That’s a possibility but why have they never fixed it?

[@russouk]

always wondered how the "saw" each train...suprised they not using GPS nowadays.....150s look much better with no connector in its face lol how fara apart are those detector track shackles ? in days of black and white...wonder how they knew what clour the signal was ha ha ha sorry couldnt resist it...looks good in b+w tbh maybe that 20mph zone is a suicide hotspot?....or maybe noise seneitive area next to track...old folks home or hatchery lol

[@doncoffey5820]

None of those reasons for the 20! The train radio is GPS and that tracks the train too.

[@jamieclarkson8757]

When you turned off to the right where does the line going straight on go to ?

[@doncoffey5820]

Marple, New Mills then Hope Valley to Sheffield. There is a video in the collection showing it.

[@jimcolleran1804]

I just have to ask, why is part of the video in black and white? Or am I missing something?

[@doncoffey5820]

Err, well it was in the video description and then it was again explained in the video itself, there was a fault with the colour balance on the camera and my only alternative was to show it in black and white or leave it off altogether. Not brilliant but the better option I thought.

[@jimcolleran1804]

@@doncoffey5820 I guess I missed that. Keep them coming if you can. I like the commentary even though I don't see it all

[@karazor-el9596]

Any plans for Bradford either station

[@doncoffey5820]

I’ve only ever been once and that was just being nosey. The nearest I can promise is the Calder Valley route. Maybe I can blag a ride to Interchange one day but can’t promise Mark.

[@karazor-el9596]

I bet you were dissapointed when you got there lol

[@doncoffey5820]

It was a nice ride up through Halifax and all the tunnels.

[@karazor-el9596]

Its in desperate need of a facelift they say its coming but we'll see

[@lewishope-palma2428]

When will the Buxton to picc be what day this week will it be this week

[@doncoffey5820]

I don’t think it will be this week but if all goes well there will be another special treat instead!

[@doncoffey5820]

Get ready for your Buxton video!

[@transportationuk7656]

Not many stop at Ardwick do they

[@doncoffey5820]

No, partly because there is no demand and partly because that little stretch of line between Ardwick and Ashburys is one of the busiest in Manchester. They want trains gone rather than reducing the headway (spacing between trains).

[@olikirrage]

i looked for myself lol

[@doncoffey5820]

Not the most exiting run but it completes the journeys around Manchester.

[@olikirrage]

Yes, I’m going to that line later to see the NR Test train trackside near Romiley

[@Bivolari]

It is heartbreaking to see all of the abandoned right of way. Oh, to have had a digital video camera in the 1910's and 1920's when the railroads were still King.

[@doncoffey5820]

100% agree!!!