WHEN I travelled from Barnoldswick to Keighley – for Keighley Boys' Grammar School – I became very interested in railways.
Around 1960-61, just before steam gave way to diesel, I took this photograph from the Pull and Push as it approached Great Northern Junction.
The driver had balanced the single-line 'train staff and key' on his upturned finger, and as we approached the signalman at some speed, the driver released his hold and I ‘snapped’ the staff in mid air before the signalman took hold of it. This operation would be carried out several times a day, and both men had it off to a fine art.
I never knew the signalman’s name, although I got to know a few railwaymen at Keighley such as Ken Pratt, so if any reader can identify the ‘bobby’ I would be pleased to hear from them.
ROBIN HIGGINS
Barnoldswick
Email: marj.14higgins@gmail.com
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