Trafford Park to Wembley

[@davidwinkle4168]

It's amazing the architecture and quality of workmanship that went into building the entrance to Shugborough Tunnel and it's only the train driver that sees it!

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s almost a crime David. It’s why I often stop or slow the video down because it needs to be viewed or it seems a waste.

[@billholt2803]

If the railway networks are the Country’s veins the Trent Valley Line is its Aorta. This video is full of so many fascinating insights and great photography. There are so many more comments that could be made, but the most important is a very big thank you that you have invested so much of your time and skill in producing a truly memorable work.

[@doncoffey5820]

There is Bill but I have to watch that it isn’t one long string of captions or it doesn’t give the viewer an opportunity to look up. They are also timed to finish before the event, it takes ages to get it right!!! Glad you like them.

[@jimmyhillschin9987]

Don is the Lord God of train cab rides. We kneel before his presence, praise his good works and worship his presence. We are certainly not worthy, or I'm not anyway.

[@doncoffey5820]

Haha, well I’m not sure I warrant that but I do appreciate your sentiment.

[@davidbarrett1487]

Thanks Don, that was very enjoyable & educational, you need extreme concentration and skill to be a driver, railways are totally fascinating, a big thanks to all the rail workers for the safe brilliant work they do. Great for us watching we see the landscapes & weather too! Regards Dave.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks for following Dave, the guys will see your comments.

[@tomward3656]

Another excellent, informative video Don. A big thanks to our driver, GBRF,& of course yourself. Thank you Don

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Tom, they’ll see your comments.

[@CliqueSpace]

Ooh lovely! I watched a four hour piece by Ben Elias a few days ago, and now I get to have another. I'm too pampered.

[@doncoffey5820]

Crikey, you spend some time watching route videos. I might be doing a joint venture with Ben soon.

[@Martin_Adams184]

Thank you, Don. Thank you also to our driver and to GB RailFreight. I've been a subscriber for several years, but like some others commenting here, I have found this video among your best. It's hard to nail exactly why; but it has something to do with a point you raised in your on-screen commentary quite early on. This is a long journey, and in some stretches there are few reference points so that, in the dark or in fog, it can be difficult to know exactly where you are. That's all true, even though there is not a boring second in this film. However, that general point is also turned into a virtue by caluculating exactly where in those "non-event" periods it is best to make your written commentary on operation , be it specific to the on-screen moment or of a more general nature. Those on-screen commentaries are unfailingly interesting to someone who, like me, has always been primarily interested in operations - how the railways work, etc. Happy Christmas to you and yours!

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Martin and I’m glad you appreciate them. If you look at the early videos they had little or no captions and so the videos have evolved to how they are now. I try to mention the things that interest or fascinate me. These are the things I’d be bending your ear with if you were with me in the cab. Additionally, I’ve learned to anticipate some of the questions that I predict will pop up in the comments. I think that’s what sets our channel apart and apart from the odd typo, I’m satisfied with the results. Of course it wouldn’t be anything without you guys watching and the amazing help I’m getting from inside the industry.

[@KeithJones-yq6of]

First class work again, Don; many thanks. Pulling upwards of 2500T of metal about the Network safely and for long periods is no easy task. Hats off to the Freight guys and Gals

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Keith, my mate will see your comment.

[@dja69]

As a subscriber to your channel for over 5 years, this is a remarkable journey. Thank you very much Don.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks and sincere thanks for following the channel.

[@edwardhugus2772]

Another great video, sir, Thank you from Pennsylvania, U.S.A. Edit: I forgot to mention, you ALWAYS give all of the pertinent info printed on your videos, ans it is greatly apprecuated, I know this is extra work, but it really makes your videos enjoyable and educational....especially for a foreigner. Back long long ago I had many questions (up? Down? Etc) and you always took the time to answer, thank you for everything!

[@doncoffey5820]

My pleasure Edward. I can’t fit everything into one video or you’d just be reading but by watching several, all the gaps will fill in.

[@curlewatblacktoft]

Another most enjoyable and informative journey Don. Many thanks again. Top notch!

[@doncoffey5820]

Much appreciated, thank you.

[@datguy6101]

Amazing video! I loved reading your commentary throughout! The yard at Wembley holds a special place in my heart as I would watch Virgin 390's zoom past on the bridge at 4:15:56 on the right of the screen, some 15 years ago when I was a young boy. Thank you!

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad it brought back memories for you.

[@HSTPaul]

Another great video along a great route. Thank you to all who made it happen.

[@doncoffey5820]

They’ll see your comment Paul, thanks.

[@vparry1]

Even by your very high standards, Don, that was outstanding. Thank you!

[@doncoffey5820]

Thank you kindly! Much appreciated 👍

[@paulthompson7999]

Don, regarding train lengths I have some experience from here in Australia. Interstate intermodal trains (Sydney & Melbourne to Adelaide & Perth and vice versa) are limited to 1800 metres (5905 feet), primarily because of the lengths of the crossing loops on the (predominantly) single line and travel at speeds up to 115km/hr (71mph). They have very little passenger traffic to contend with except perhaps in the suburbs of the some of the major cities. The ‘Privately Owned’ iron ore railways run only unit trains, some up to ~270 wagons and up to 2.8 kilometres (1.7 miles) in length. Can’t imagine running those through the centre of Manchester!!

[@doncoffey5820]

No I know Paul. I sometimes get semi mocking from US viewers which is why I included it in the video. We simply can’t handle trains of such lengths here, it would just stop the job. We do have trains of around 40 vehicles and 4000 tonnes but thats about it. Thanks for subscribing buddy, much appreciated.

[@SpacialKatana]

New route for me to watch, thanks Don & all involved I'm gonna enjoy this one 🙃👍

[@doncoffey5820]

Enjoy!

[@mr2646]

Thx Don from France. I enjoyed a lot this journey. I was thrilled. Your work is so perfect 👌

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for subscribing sir.

[@pererikakerjordet1735]

Excellent and educating as always Don! Greetings from Norway.

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it Per.

[@Melalmighty]

Another great video Don very imformative as usual. I’ve enjoyed watching all the video and like these freight journeys. Looking forward to the next one thank you Don.

[@doncoffey5820]

Coming on Boxing Day is Kings Cross to Hull so you don’t have to watch repeats on TV!

[@hoolihanmick5897]

Great video, I thoroughly enjoyed it, though, as with some others, it had to be viewed over a couple of days. Took me right back to cab rides in 66's with Freightliner Heavy Haul and EWS. I enjoyed seeing the rakes of 'AutoBallasters' in the NR sidings at Basford Hall. They have a special place in my heart as I project managed the original Tiphook/GE hopper conversions for 'Railtrack' and wrote the original operating manual for the wagons. Spent many a night ballasting on the WCML ( so it was nice to see it in daylight!) and then again, just sitting around for hours on end through the night waiting to get onto possessions! Great to see they are still around. The original wagons were built in '88 so 35 years on in that environment is not bad going. Keep up the great work Don. It's great viewing!

[@doncoffey5820]

Much appreciated. We’ve got plenty more freight to come.

[@paulthompson7999]

Don, what you refer to as ‘Wet beds’ (at 1:17:35) are called “Mud Holes” or “Bog Holes” here in Western Australia. They are often caused by discontinuities in the rail surface which with the passing of trains cause additional vibration into the track structure and in severe cases pumping of the sleepers. This causes degradation of the ballast and becomes a self-perpetuating problem both for the stability and drainage of the track. The white marking comes from a combination of broken down ballast and scoured concrete sleeper with any moisture around mixed in. Really enjoying the video btw!

[@doncoffey5820]

That’s it Paul and the only long term fix is to do what they call a deep dig where they completely recover the drainage.

[@melhadcroft2522]

Thanks Don and all those involved in the making of this video it has been a very enjoyable 4 hour watch I have a couple of questions hope you can answer First why not TP to Felixstowe direct why was this journey not pulled by electric traction and why ca I not find any videos of Freightliners out of Felixstowe Once again thanks for a fantastic trip I hope there are many more to come 😊

[@doncoffey5820]

Thats three Mel!!! If you look on a map, going via north London isn’t that far off direct and as in many cases, they plan the route which is easiest to handle the paths. They use Class 66 as their primary traction and the benefit is that if they need to divert it via non-electrified lines, there is no major panic. I don’t know about the Felixstowe vides, maybe somebody will cover it one day.

[@ramonwilliams5721]

Thank you Don for another great video, sorry to say just popped past 90 had a couple of dozes over three days. Just rewinded and carried on. hope you and family are well🚂🚂🚂🚂 2:49

[@doncoffey5820]

Don’t apologise Ramon, if I hadn’t needed to sit through the premier for live comments, I would have watched in bite sized pieces. All the best.

[@anthonyguter]

Superb video, well shot and highly informative.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Anthony.

[@morgidvmw0mdv]

Your best yet in my opinion even though it took me four nights to watch it all. I enjoy all your videos Don and they are for good causes. Well done and thanks. When the next one? cant wait.

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you liked it. The next one should be Kings Cross to Hull and I’m putting it out on Boxing Day. There might be a shorter stocking filler inbetween if I get chance.

[@johnkent-thanet-uk]

Splendid video and informative as always 👍👏🏻 Would dearly love something to Dollands Moor😉but realise its way off your patch. No harm in trying 😁

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, it becomes a logistics Issue John. I’d need nights out to start that far away but if there is a willing videographer somewhere, I’d happily send them a camera.

[@howardwilkinson2573]

Thank you, very enjoyable and well scripted as usual.

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it Howard.

[@rickschell7874]

Another enjoyable video. Watched it over 2 days. Great information about the route.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thank you Rick, much appreciated.

[@nctmihai]

congratulations for your amazing videos, very educational regarding UK's railways history, trains and engines, tunnels, bridges, viaducts, signals and signaling. thank you!

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you like them and thank you for subscribing.

[@robertbrierley7083]

Thanks for a very good video one of your best, It was also nice to see other bits like Brinklow where we hired a boat from a few years ago once again many thanks 😊

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you liked it Robert.

[@jug6760]

once again, brilliant, so informative

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you think so!

[@peterthill]

Very interesting ride. Thx for sharing 👍

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@davehenderson4137]

Wow, that was a long one ..... worth every mile though .... loved it .. living in Crewe I got to see parts of the town locals would never see .. watch this and similar trains regularly from Casey Lane nr Basford Hall South Junction , not that day I noted 😁

[@doncoffey5820]

Where were you Dave? Could have given us a wave!!!

[@brianknowles7130]

Many thanks again for a great vid. Really enjoyed it, brought back some good memories. thks

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it Brian.

[@Andrewjg_89]

Nice to see you almost reaching 50,000 subscribers.

[@doncoffey5820]

Getting there Andrew. All the best buddy.

[@cliverobinson8421]

Just playing catch up on the Trafford Park to Wembley journey. What a great way to spend 4+ hours on a dismal December day. Informative as ever and I could have watched it for longer- any chance of completing the journey to Felixstowe? It was good to see an inset photo of Etihad South- no prizes for guessing which team I support who play in sky blue and come from Manchester! Many thanks as ever Don and I'm off to Buxton next on the Leaf Fall Crew Trainer. Please keep them coming.

[@doncoffey5820]

I can’t promise Felixstowe because it’s way off my patch but GB Railfreight have promised me more journeys next year so we’ll see. I don’t do footie so I remain absolutely neutral on the subject. Enjoy the Buxton line, I level up there!

[@Johnny16781]

Great one again Don , Hope you are keeping well , looking forward to seeing you and Ben doing a joint one should be great

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, we’ve talked about it. Watch this space.

[@SaxonSuccess]

Excellent stuff! I did it in two stints though. I'm not as young as I used to be... 😊

[@doncoffey5820]

I don’t blame you, it was an epic and I nearly did it in two films but that would have changed the channel dynamic.

[@muskrat645]

Hi Don, will there be a part 2, the rest of journey to Felixstowe docks?. Be good to see. Great video as always. I was in S&T in the 80s at Watford Junction the signals were fixed in cages and we had to climb down into the cages to clean them.

[@doncoffey5820]

It isn’t planned. I have to get down there but I’m happy to send a camera out if the company could organise it.

[@paultquickbits6057]

Very informative enjoyable video 👍🏻👍🏻

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you enjoyed it Paul.

[@staffordstationngauge8359]

Thanks very much for the stafford south junction section.

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you appreciate it.

[@MM0IMC]

I've watched this marathon episode over two days, many thanks.👍

[@doncoffey5820]

Don’t blame you, it’s an epic for sure.

[@markpunt9638]

Fascinating - thank you. Goodness, overhead wiring is ugly! I had no idea. We have the third -rail down here. Hadn’t realise there are quite so many disused stations even though the lines are still there and used. Here, most of our closed stations are where the track bed had also been ripped up.

[@doncoffey5820]

Not sure where you are Mark but yes, I suppose the wiring does look cluttered, especially the newer heavier Series 1 equipment.

[@jon99t]

thank Don for another Great video💘

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you liked it Jon.

[@WaylandJoe]

Really enjoyed this one. Watched the first hour the other day and just catching up with the rest now. Seeing a few places, I worked at on the railway - Rugby on the Rugby to Nuneaton project as part of the WCML upgrade, Northampton, Cheddington (never found any sacks of money 😉) and at Tring. The worst weather I dealt with as a lookout, was up in Appleford, Oxfordshire and the fog was so thick, by the time everyone was in a place of safety, you couldn't see 10 feet, it came down so fast.

[@doncoffey5820]

If you do come across any bags, count me in! I know what you mean about the weather and of course if it comes in really bad we have to slow right down. Mostly, we can rely on the signalling.

[@robharris5245]

Another interesting video. Although I live in North Nottinghamshire I find the videos of the Highways and Byways of the railways of Northern England a complete mystery. It was nice to travel on the line from Milton Keynes as I used that for sixteen years. Don did you realise you passed over the site of the Great Train Robbery just south of Leighton Buzzard.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes I did and I forgot to mention it although we will do the route northbound one day. Keep an eye on the channel because I have a camera out with EMR who are filming all your local routes.

[@geoffdickinson5903]

On the subject of Risk Triggered Commentary I recall travelling on a train in Japan many years ago. I was sitting behind the driver and on the approach to every signal he would point a white gloved finger in the direction of the signal to confirm he had seen it. I picked up on that and started using it when driving and cycling. That was over 20 years ago and I’m still doing it.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, that s where it originates from and they have extremely good safety records. Glad you use it too.

[@chielrobijn8836]

That 's something you don't see anymore in the Netherlands: a posttrain. They stopped it in 1997 and all post is distributed by truck.

[@doncoffey5820]

We only have the main trunk routes. All the regional stuff is gone to road transport.

[@12crepello]

Thanks again Don for another excellent video. Most enjoyable, much more so with your superb commentaries. Like another of the comments, despite the excitement and sounds of diesel power, I find it frustrating that the whole journey was under 25Kv wires and yet was diesel hauled. I understand the last bit of the ongoing journey was not under wires, but surely this could be rectified by the urgent electrification of the Felixstowe Branch?

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes it probably does and it is probably on the wish list but it goes further than that because if something occurs, they will divert right across country and there lies the weakness of electric only locos. My mate who drove in our video responds - the new Class 99’s currently under construction will have very capable electric and diesel power that can switch and be utilised for both. If you consider the current options like the Eurolite Class 88, they only have a diesel assister for shunting or very low speed clearing the line. These 99s will cure all that.

[@benegeserit1]

Great video as always Don. I love the frequent journey & train information. I would say I know more about British railways than my Australian home rail networks. It is really like being in the cab without the risk. Thank you.

[@doncoffey5820]

Glad you are increasing your knowledge. I try to cover different themes in each video. All the best.

[@jamestappin4741]

Enjoyed that one (only just finished it). I must say I find it surprising that they prefer to route the train via London rather than cross-country via Peterborough and Ely, as it will have to go north again to Ipswich to get around the Orwell estuary. Also apropos of the AWS, I was amazed to find while reading about "Lady of Legend" that the first similar system, Great Western's ATC, was introduced in 1906 (and it used that same code, bell for clear, horn for caution or problem).

[@doncoffey5820]

They occasionally go cross country James and that’s why they use 66s but they also have to consider pathing so mostly use that southerly route.

[@StevenBoyd-yy6rw]

Excellent video Don

[@richardbW236]

Found I enjoy the freight videos as much as the passenger ones. More time to absorb the view and the soundtrack indicates more about what the driver is doing. UK should not be shy about its smaller trains. During the U.S. railways' darkest years (1970-80's) the Grand Trunk Western took the lorry (truck) business head on with short trains and diligent asset maintenance. Plus 3-4 person train crews. Much more reliable. The auto industry loved it. The GTW made tidy sums year after year. Not so their industry counterparts who took an opposite operating stance: all but the Chessie and the NW (both supported by heavy coal traffic) went bankrupt.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Richard, I try to cover questions and comments in the captions and we often get mocked about our smaller trains. We simply can’t handle them here. I appreciate your empathy.

[@mrcinerama3071]

Very interesting as usual Don. Only one regret: it would be interesting to locate BRIDEGO BRIDGE, the location of The Great Train Robbery in August 1963(I was 18.5 !) just in the North of Ledburn Junc. between Leighton Buzzard and Cheddington.

[@doncoffey5820]

We will be coming back one day so I might then.

[@markcf83]

I'll watch in bits and pieces over the coming days. If any remains in a few weeks I'll watch it on the NatEx coach.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thats a good way of doing it Mark!

[@timw.8452]

Superb video again, duly liked but even I had to watch it three chunks. One question at 3:37:40 , why is the signal placed on a bend, especially after a long stretch of straight track? To me - having never worked in the railway industry - it could hardly be be better placed to be misleading. Oh and by way it's Hinckley not Hinkley, near my place of birth. You aren't the first to get it wrong. An expensive sign on The M1 just south of the M6 junction had to be replaced because of this.

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks Tim, I’ll add a note in the video description. AS for these signals, well they do try to improve sighting in newer schemes but it isn’t possible. The standard calls for 8 seconds viewing at line speed or they have to mitigate with banner repeaters etc. The problem is exacerbated when you are approaching a red of course.

[@jamesalexander5588]

One of these came past me yesterday at Telford central. I've never been that close to one before and it was really loud but it was a nice sound.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, they have a certain sound that is never forgotten.

[@drfoop]

Another excellent video. I do like the occasions when you venture further south, although I have nothing against the railways in the north. What happens at Heamies Bridge? The fourth track scoots off to the right, and then returns as what appears to be a disused track. I was thinking it was up/down fast & slow, but I guess at this stage one of the lines is reversible.

[@doncoffey5820]

We’ve got Kings X to Hull on Boxing Day. That Heamies Bridge deviation is part of a big junction that allows northbound trains to leave without crossing over southbound lines. Have a look on Google Earth 👍

[@mikeuk4130]

Good to see beans replacing berries at last.

[@doncoffey5820]

According to Vinny who films the Freightliner videos, his 66s got better on berries than beans!

[@bertspeggly4428]

Great video, thanks. I enjoy the extensive annotations. Pity to see all those closed stations, is that Beeching?

[@doncoffey5820]

Not always Bert. Some closed long before Beeching for various reasons and in a lot of ways, we the general public just used other means of transportation so the writing was on the wall for them.

[@stevewoodjetts5567]

Stafford was also 'The Potteries" and Armitage was the home of what was called the 'Pot Bank' Armitage Shanks. (NB the spelling of Armitage)

[@doncoffey5820]

I wondered where it originated Steve. There will be a brand new Manchester to Stoke video on a classic 47 coming soon.

[@followthetrawler]

Thanks for sharing Don! I find it quite sad and a little ironic that the Container depot at Trafford Park sprawls all over the now defunct site of Westinghouse/AEI/GEC Traction and GEC Signals :( Used to work for Traction there in the 70's/80's - great times and an incredible training Quick question - how do the signallers track a trains progress through a section? Presume there is detection equipment somewhere?

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, the route is all track circuited so they can monitor the movement on screens. The modern way is axle counter which count them in and out of a section to show the train complete. It is more reliable than track circuits.

[@nigelparsons2104]

Thanks for this. Very enjoyable. A couple of questions. Don’t the trains have GPS to tell them where they are? Also what does Pass x miles mean. Thanks again.

[@doncoffey5820]

Hi Nigel. The trains do have GPS on them and of course they are permanently monitored by computer. The passing points in miles from the origin are just quoted to show where we are along the route.

[@jameswingrove7421]

I wonder (without googling) if the Lovell telescope was named after a certain Jim Lovell of Apollo 13 fame? Great video as always Don.

[@doncoffey5820]

I think it was too early but I could be wrong. Thanks James.

[@merlinonline67]

The thing that surprised me about this video was why Wembley? I remember seeing years ago on BBC Look East News how much money was spent upgrading the railway line from Felixstowe to Peterborough & Melton Mowbray for freight trains going to Manchester and Liverpool. So I would have expected a pathing down to Stoke then via the Derby line and onto the Castle Donington freight line a short trip on the MML then onto Peterborough via Melton Mowbray, then onto Felixstowe via Ely

[@doncoffey5820]

As you’ve alluded to, it’s all pathing and capacity. The beauty of the WCML is that there’s plenty of scope to put a train out of the way. Of course GBRf will soon have Class 99s and can utilise the electric traction.

[@simonpilk]

I have only watched in part so far but my question is approaching Sandbach. The crossover you took is heavily approach controlled as the southern 25 mph junction was taken. I know that Down Northern local was about but it seemed clear enough to use the North Jn at Sandbach which I think is 50 and is also flashed.

[@doncoffey5820]

Good question Simon. If you look at the footage, the Northern train was just passing the yellow at the North Jn signal so to use it he would have needed to be coming down for a red. It is true that it is 50 there but it wouldn’t be any quicker because there is still a 25 to get from the Down line to the Up Independent. I hope that makes sense.

[@malcolmelliott1876]

Excellent aa usual. Wondering why using a 66 when there are wires along the whole diagram?

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s a fair question. GBRf have commented that apart from 66s being their principal traction, using diesel allows them to divert via any cross country route if some sort of operating incident occurs. Of course, they are currently having Class 99 locomotives built which can operate under both conditions.

[@pauldelcour]

Wonderful. Impressive acceleration for such a long and heavy train. How does the driver know when the back has left a20 moh restrictive part?

[@doncoffey5820]

They have a train length indicator Paul. They set the length before departure and press a button as the pass the speed change. It beeps when the set length is reached. You’ll hear it if you listen out.

[@arthurcoppock4199]

Great video Don - not through it all yet, to be fair. :) The 10 mph on the Independents at Crewe seems way too restrictive. Even if we accept the tunnel is fragile, all the rest was just normal track and from what I could see signalled with 4-aspect colour lights. When Crewe was remodelled in the 80s were these restrictions in place for the diverted traffic?

[@doncoffey5820]

No, the main restriction as I understand it Arthur is that they can have more than one train in a signal section so it becomes line of sight stopping. A driver needs to be able to drive to the back of another train and be able to stop. It’s called “Permissive Working”.

[@gzk6nk]

Nice! Still watching. The M&B Manchester to Crewe actually opened in 1842, not 1848. I never knew about those 'wind up' signal gantries for maintenance. Thanks! The Trent Valley line was 4-tracked under WCML improvements for Virgin's VHF (Very High Frequency) service. That was back in the days when a forward-thinking TOC like Virgin added real value to the railway. These days DfT run the railway and they just cut costs and tell the TOCs what to do! Innovation is not in their dictionary! Anyone who hankers after the return of BR - we now have a totally state-run railway and it is the worst it has ever been. Bring back Virgin WC!

[@doncoffey5820]

Thanks for that. I’m not sure where I researched it to check what was said.

[@chaosball5096]

Be nice if I could see this in daylight lol always nights lol

[@doncoffey5820]

Something to look forward to 👍

[@georgemaund4964]

Great video.....thanks. At the slower speed of freight over, say, a Pendolino or a 350, you see so much more detail, and the location labels and rolling footnotes put it all in context. Could I ask a couple of questions? This video is four hours.....were there no scheduled stops, loopings, etc., we don't see, or did I miss them? If a continuous run, if you don't mind me asking, what provisions are there for a " physical needs break" (have a pee) and what are the equivalent to the HGV tachograph regs?

[@doncoffey5820]

Perfectly understandable question George. There was a stop on approach to Tring but I edited it out because of cross cab talk. My mate got down lineside but my trained bladder lasted until we got on the train home! We can drive up to 4.5 hours without a scheduled break and above in times of disruption. Freight isn’t as predictable as passenger and of course, on a passenger train we can access a toilet if need. I’d say its a lifestyle you need to get used to.

[@sigil5772]

Thanks for another great video Don. I wish people who think driverless trains are imminently possible would watch your videos, like in this one where you rejoin the WCML and signals are changing within feet of approach, or showing green when it's obvious that there's still something in front; I can't imagine the smartest computer being able to correctly interpret that situation. As for "reading through," I've done that in a car, confusing two close-together zebra crossings and nearly knocking someone over. Of course, the police witnessed it... 😲

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, we are way off driverless without huge investment that would make HS2 look cheap! Glad you appreciate the difficulties of reading signals.

[@paulefc1971]

Can't believe that they still havent recovered the OOU down Slow line at Norton Bridge, still see the remnants of NB62 points!!

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, I think sometimes it cost far more to recover them than leave the bee.

[@popkinson]

No ULEZ cameras for two stroke diesels yet ! Mr Khan is missing a trick there. 🤣

[@doncoffey5820]

I think he’d approve of the number of trucks it keeps out!!!

[@fulcrumspigot455]

Wow. AB still in operation at Stockport.

[@fulcrumspigot455]

Ex signalman!

[@fulcrumspigot455]

Retired I should say.

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes, it was meant to be upgraded some years ago but it keeps getting put back because of compatibility between those unsold signals towards Crewe. Thanks for your work as a signaller.

[@stevelewis6531]

Great video. Why do they not load the containers say from front to back, why are there gaps that seem at random intervals?

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s a good question but some are lifted off and some left on and vice versa so the gaps appear. Occasionally you see them mostly full or mostly empty. The other question is whether they are loaded. Apparently, container logistics and movement is a very complex issue.

[@lewisstonier6457]

Do the signallers contact the driver to advise of route alterations before hand? Or do the drivers just follow the signals, aware that they might be diverted and not surprised when they are?

[@doncoffey5820]

Both. There are locations like Slate Lane where the driver knows to take either but if it was really unusual or off the driver’s route card, they would stop and challenge it.

[@ADAMEDWARDS17]

Thank you for another brilliant film. A question: At Sandbach North Junction a 50mph turnout is clearly visible but the train is routed via the 25mph turnout south of the station. Surely using the faster junction would make more sense as less fuel is consumed getting back up to line speed after the junction and the big frieght is out of the way of the passenger trains a little faster? What am I missing here, if not doing a route to keep the driver reminded of it?

[@doncoffey5820]

Someone else noticed it Adam. If you look, our train was just passing the signal for it as the Northern service came the other way so to use that junction, our train would be stopping for a red. In fact, even if it did use that junction at 50, it would still have to slow to 25 to go Down Wilmslow to Up Independent so not much gain by using the North Junction.

[@BrianJ.Tamplin]

Superb Video, Thanks Don. Why were so many stations closed, was it lack of use?

[@doncoffey5820]

Yes it was I’m afraid. We are very critical of Dr Beeching but in fact, we had just stopped utilising the railway and of course in the post war years, the motor vehicle was developed to a very competitive stage. The railways couldn’t compete on a local level.

[@class87srule]

Wondered why a diesel electric was running so far under the wires.😮

[@doncoffey5820]

Hopefully that was answered for you.

[@donnagray9579]

How does diesel work on an electrified line?. Could the electric be used to supplement the power? Not a question I expect an answer to in the comments but, perhaps, addressed in a future video. Thanks

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s sometimes a necessary thing Donna. The class 66 is GBRf’s principle traction and works equally well on an electrified line as a non electrified. However, GBRf are aware of the environmental implications and have order a fleet of Bi mode locos that can switch between electric and diesel. They should be here late next year or 2025.

[@SamiltonAdventures]

Interesting you've mentioned the class 390's running speeds. If they ran the ECML, I wonder if the approach to York would permit them their flat out 140 mph top speed. Also, in my opinion the 390 units are FAR more attractively designed than the 80X classes used on express routes elsewhere in the UK.

[@doncoffey5820]

I like the 80x sets but the 390s have been really good. You’ll see in the Kings Cross to Hull video that all of the ECML is good for 140 and it even has flashing green signals. However, it needs the whole infrastructure upgrading so I suspect we’re a long way away from 140mph.

[@markparry63]

Apologies Don, i thought I'd commented when i first watched it. Thoroughly enjoyed it mate. Any idea of the new locos' provisional class number?

[@doncoffey5820]

They will be Class 99 Mark 👍

[@TrysilBoy]

Hi Don, I've scanned through others' questions and can't see the answer so apologies if you've had this before. A query on the route diversion (avoiding the Styal Line). Was there radio comms or is the driver's route knowledge as such that if signalled one way that they must be heading to Stockport? It depends on what the driver sees when they get there and both are an option? Tremendous video as ever!

[@doncoffey5820]

I believe I mentioned it in the video but in case I didn’t, the driver and the signaller can make that call. In our case, the signaller had just sent a stopper down the Styal Line so they took the decision to send it via Stockport. If Stockport had a “situation”, they’d reject it and the train would end up following the stopper.

[@everhope6364]

What happens if he doesn't get the 2nd train length indicator beep? does he stop the train? great video don many thanks. 👍

[@doncoffey5820]

No, he would wait until such a time he was sure the back of the train was inside the speed limit.

[@neilwatson4461]

Genuine question, Don, and not one i might want the answer to, but on a journey like this, how does the driver go about having a comfort break?

[@doncoffey5820]

There’s an explanation about that in the latest Tunstead to Peterborough video Neil 👍

[@fatwalletboy2]

Is there a,lack of electric traction as it seems crazy to me to run a diesel under a fully electrified 200 plus mile journey?

[@doncoffey5820]

The 66 is GBRf’s principal traction so every driver is trained on it. It also allows the train to be diverted if necessary.

[@splidge2000]

Thanks for another excellent vid - enjoying it. Could you just clarify your point about running in floods? Do you mean that trains are allowed to run at 5mph if the railhead is not visible, or not at all? Thanks.

[@doncoffey5820]

Up to the railhead (the bulge at the top of the rail) we can run normally. If any of the railhead is covered we run at 5 mph and if the rail is completely covered we have to stop and report it. Then someone from Network Rail will decide what happens next. They usually stop trains.

[@alunfrancis8501]

Great Video Don. One question why is the train routed from Manchester to Felixstowe via Wembley. Isn't there a more direct cross country route available?

[@doncoffey5820]

A good question Alun. Getting them from A to B is a complex planning process and route capacity has to played off against distance. In fact my mate Roger who drove it says they do occasionally get routed cross country either for engineering reasons or easing the capacity of the WCML.

[@benegeserit1]

Ha! “Unauthorised Contact” = “train crash”! How about this one Don? At the Space X Starship launch yesterday, the 2nd stage experienced a “Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly”!! … I.E. it blew up! 😱😂😂

[@doncoffey5820]

Oh crikey, I hope nobody was hurt with falling debris. Glad you appreciate my dry humour!

[@davidgrimshaw7825]

Don, Enjoy your videos. What are the 4 or 5 rapid high pitched beeps which occur randomly?

[@doncoffey5820]

That’s the vigilance device David. The driver keeps a pedal depressed and after 60 seconds of no inputs to the driving controls that bleeper sounds. The pedal must be released and depressed again or the brakes will apply.

[@ljbyrne7]

I'm really enjoying the video Don. It's on my patch to start with because I live in Cheadle. It's also great to watch while I'm doing my physio on the treadmill. A question though. Approaching Slade lane junction (16.10), how does your driver know that he is going to be routed through Stockport and not up the Styal line on this occasion? Has it been pre-planned or is there some radio communication from the signaller to the cab? Keep up the good quality videos. And this one also benefits my favourite charity the Alzheimer's Society. Credit to you. Leo

[@doncoffey5820]

There are certain locations where the driver knows there is an option but if it was really unusual or off the driver’s route card, he would stop and challenge it. I checked with the signallers and they said, if there is a stopper on the Styal Line they will send it to Stockport at their discretion.

[@Dave58282]

I note the comment about knowing your location in poor visibility - I wonder if locos should be fitted with SatNav in case of the need to be able to quickly identify the exact location?

[@doncoffey5820]

There are systems on trial that do follow and advise the driver of location so they can self monitor his or her progress. You will see that in the Wakefield to Knowsley video if I remember rightly.

[@dumitrulangham1721]

This might be a wired question but what happens if the driver needs to use the bathroom while on the journey? Are there two drivers so if the driver needs to use the bathroom he can without having to stop the train at a station?

[@doncoffey5820]

It’s a question of planning and train drivers are quite good at it. They either have planned stopping places or they get creative. A signal at danger in a remote location can be a help or they can take a suitable receptacle into the engine room. It’s something you get used to.

[@Vortigan07]

How long does it typically take to learn a route such as this? I imagine that you have to know it inside out and back to front.

[@doncoffey5820]

I don’t know without asking him but I suspect quite a while. He probably did it in stages.

[@thomasbracht1727]

Why is this train pulled by a diesel locomotive although there is a overhead wire all the way?

[@doncoffey5820]

In case it gets diverted. You don’t want a train like that stranded. 👍

[@Delta-pantages]

Do these locomotives have sat nav, so a driver can double check his location in poor weather?

[@doncoffey5820]

No, it’s all route knowledge but some companies have a tablet that the driver can monitor progress and times.

[@timh8587]

How does the driver know when the rear of the train has passed through a speed limit?

[@doncoffey5820]

It is explained at Stafford but the length is entered into the computer before starting and the driver presses a button to set it at the speed change point.

[@andyhinds542]

As I have seen this driver's eye view for myself thousand of times, I'm watching it at X2 speed to hurry things along a bit. At least you're on greens through Manchester; that doesn't happen that often!

[@doncoffey5820]

It hardly ever happens to me Andy!