This simulation recaptures the fascination of working a busy box on the four-track Midland main line,
and is based as closely as possible on the layout and signalling arrangements in use between 1935 and
1987.
Although the track layout is a relatively simple one, there are no less than
8 block instruments to be worked for the main lines, plus the single-line token
instrument for the Cambridge branch.
Operating is far from straightforward, since many trains had to be crossed
over at Kettering Junction between the Main/Fast lines and the Slow/Goods
lines, including express passenger trains to Nottingham via the Manton line.
This simulation will provide many hours of enjoyment - we are certainly pleased
with it!
The authentic 1956 weekday timetable is full of interest - plenty of
steam-hauled expresses between London St. Pancras and Nottingham, Derby,
Manchester, Sheffield and Leeds, not forgetting named trains such as the
Thames-Clyde Express and the Waverley heading for Scotland.
Freight traffic is heavy, including long coal trains between Toton and Brent.
And the infrequent service of all-station stopping trains still served the
single-track branch to Huntingdon and Cambridge, which diverged from the main
line at Kettering Junction.
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