Network Rail has called on former signallers on the Western Route to help keep the railway running during the Coronavirus crisis.

The railway is continuing to run around the clock, keeping signal boxes and control centres open.

This allows key workers to get to their places of work and keeps freight trains on the move to deliver goods and supplies.

For those wanting to return to the railway, there is no limit on how long ago you worked in the role, even if it was ten years ago. Appropriate accelerated refresher training will be provided.

Network Rail is also interested to hear from former signallers who have worked on preserved railways.

For those people wanting to express interest in the call for Western Region signallers, you need to email Network Rail directly [email protected]; you also need to outline your experience briefly.

What did the officials say?

Mike Gallop, route director for Network Rail, Western, said:

“Keeping our passengers, customers and colleagues safe and the efficient running of the railway are key aspects to Network Rail at all times and this has never been more true than now.

“Network Rail, throughout this pandemic, has maintained a safe and reliable network across the Western route, and indeed across the whole country, and we plan to continue to do so, which is why we are planning for all scenarios.

“Having a strong team of signallers to cover signal boxes and panels on the Western route is essential for the whole of Britain. It keeps trains moving so that fuel reaches our powers stations, goods reaches our shops and supermarkets, military equipment is relocated for strategic needs, such as helping to build the London Nightingale Hospital and, crucially, key workers are able to get to work and petrol reaches the pumps.”

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