scotland (4K)
The Friends of the Far North Line
Cairdean Na Loine Tuath
the campaign group for rail north of Inverness - lobbying for improved services for the local user, tourist and freight operator

View From The Signal Box

My views from the signal box are many varied ones for this issue.

If I had been looking into the morning southbound train on the 28th July I would have been well aware that there was something special happening with upwards of 140 passengers, some of whom found it more convenient to stand and circulate amongst the many friends and supporters of the Far North Line as they made their way to Inverness for the 125th Anniversary celebrations. If I had been looking out at the departure of the Kyle train then I would have been fearing for the safety of those same people who were in danger of spilling off the platform as they jostled to get a good view of the naming ceremony.

I would then have been impressed by the sight of a 4 coach unit heading north with the invited guests of ScotRail and Railtrack settling down for an enjoyable day out with the prospects of an airline style lunch and refreshments being served to them at their seats.

Casting my eye around the view I catch sight of some Safeway lorries arriving in Inverness having headed up the A9 from the south, not just one, not two or three, but six! Such was the view I had whilst travelling south on a Monday morning which left me wondering as to why there were so many when the train movements were obviously taking place. Is it an indication of the massive volume of traffic that is just waiting to come off the road when suitable equipment is available - I hope so.

One last view I would like to see would be of visitors to and users of the line making use of our publicity leaflets that are now on display at the three manned stations. Our thanks go to the local railway staff for this facility.

Roger Piercy - Newsletter Editor