Signals at Abergele & Pensarn

24/9/05

Abergele station looking towards Llandudno Jct. The up fast line was removed some years ago, but the down fast remains. Note the banner repeater (for the down fast starter) is about to be replaced with a modern, theatre-light version (more on this below).

This is the view beyond, from the footbridge in the above picture. The gantry that formerly carried the up homes has now been replaced with a single signal whose sighting board obscures its arm. The signalman has pulled up for a non-stopping train on the down fast.

Beyond the station towards Llandudno Jct

The station looking towards Rhyl. The signalbox is conveniently positioned in the centre of the layout so the points at each end remain within the 350-yard limit for rod operation. Behind the signalbox and the far footbridge, the up starter and down homes can be seen.

A closer view of the signalbox, resplendent in all that nice paintwork!

The view towards Rhyl from the above footbridge. The unusual construction of the down splitting homes can be clearly seen, and the up starter on the left.

A face-on view of the down homes, as another fast train is signalled through.

A closer view of the up starter.

The down fast starter banner repeater, and its soon-to-be replacement. The black shroud is needed to allow the latter to be easily visible rather than appear against the window frames of the signalbox, but has had to be shaped like a Greek Ω to allow room for the S&T engineer to climb the ladder to reach the rear of the signal unit.

A parting shot back towards Llandudno Jct from the up platform.

More photos of North Wales signalling, compiled by relief signaller Alan Roberts, can be found at Signalling Around the Junction and Signalling Over Wales on the Llandudno Junction Steam Locomotive and Carriage Shed website.