| This type of signal was
introduced following an accident at Abbots Ripton on
January 21st, 1876, which occurred when snow held down a
signal arm indicating a false "line clear"
aspect. The somersault was so designed to avoid this
problem by being pivoted in the middle as described in
the following extract from a 1920's Model Railway News
handboook: "Signals & Signalling":
Similar to other parts of the Great Northern Railway's network, somersault signals were once quite common on the Boston - Skegness line but by 1995, only four remained in existence: the "Up Distant" and "Down Home" at Thorpe Culvert and "Down Distant" at Wainfleet and the "Down Home" at Bellwater Junction. They had all been replaced early the following year. Fortunately, a member of Permanent Way staff photographed those between Wainfleet and Thorpe Culvert for posterity as well as pictures of the stations and crossings on this stretch of line. They are reproduced below. For those with an interest in signalling, a site called The Signal Box contains a wealth of information and illustrations, including some of signal boxes in our region. Please note: These photgraphs were taken by an authorised member of staff in 1995 whilst the line was closed to traffic. Under no circumstances should anyone trespass on any railway line. |
