Network Rail signaller Ian Roberton is carrying on a Starbeck tradition that dates back to when Queen Victoria was on the throne.
The railway first came to Starbeck in 1848 and its signal box plays a crucial role in the safe and efficient running of each train on the York to Leeds via Harrogate line.
Signalling is a complex traffic light system for the railway. The levers at Starbeck operate a mix of mechanical and electrical colour light signals which tell the train driver when it’s safe to proceed and what route their train will take.
Mr Roberton communicates with neighbouring boxes at Harrogate and Knaresborough to make sure trains remain a safe distance apart.
He also controls the barriers that stop cars from crossing whilst trains leave and enter the station.
The signaller uses a wide array of mechanical levers to communicate.
A traditional signal box
The Starbeck box is as traditional as a signal box can come. Mr Roberton pulls cast-iron levers that connect through a cable to the track.
With as many as nine trains passing through the station each hour, he’s busier than you might think.
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Mr Roberton, who is 40, began working for Network Rail at Starbeck in February this year after working in aviation. He is one of three signallers that work in the box and he works a combination of mornings and afternoons.
He was surprised at how complex and technical the job is.
“I had a wake-up call. You’re marrying technology that’s 100 years’ old with newer innovations.”
Whilst the Starbeck crossing can be the bane of motorists who are hurrying up and down Knaresborough Road, Mr Roberton emphasised its importance in keeping people safe.
He said he’s seen a few frustrated car drivers beep their horns at him but “it’s part of the job.”
Emergency situation
There was a recent emergency when a tree had fallen on the track towards York.
Mr Roberton was forced to stop the whole line until the tree was safely removed. He said seeing a situation to a safe conclusion is one of the most satisfying parts of the job.
“It emphasised whilst efficiency is important, safety is absolutely critical. It’s not just corporate spiel, safety is the number one mantra for Network Rail.”
The signaller’s view of Starbeck.
Being a signaller might be a dream job for a trainspotter, but Mr Roberton said he enjoys the technical aspect of it most of all.
“My dad used to work for the railways. He has a train set at home! And there are some diehards with a traditional veiwpoint about the railway.
“Most people either love trains or think they are always late. The truth is the railway has been the backbone of our country for two centuries.”
Despite technology replacing the need for some signal boxes, Mr Roberton believes there will always be a need for a signaller at the Starbeck crossing to think quickly in times of emergency.
