I think the cancellations on the Golden Valley are partially due to a defective rail between Kemble and Swindon

Quite a few shortforms again today, but of all the services to choose, this one on a Friday has to be one of the most brainless;

19:04 London Paddington to Plymouth due 22:23


Facilities on the 19:04 London Paddington to Plymouth due 22:23.
Will be formed of 5 coaches instead of 9.

It stopped only at Reading and Exeter. It did the same thing as it came straight back to Royal Oak as ECS^▸ (Empty Coaching Stock) (5Z20), for some reason. (Dropping off railway staff?).

I just caught it leaving Reading P11 at 14:48, and was puzzled as to what this funny-looking "not for public use" train was (from too far to see the details). Two things were odd: some red signs or symbols high up on the side of each carriage, and a wider silver-white stripe along the waist (possibly above the usual narrow one). The signs would make sense for this special, but what was that stripe about (assuming I didn't imagine it)? I've not found any clear side-on pictures of it (as usual).

The up sleeper failed near Ivybridge last night and had to be rescued by the Rail Head Treatment train.  Carriages were taken back to Plymouth and passengers moved to an IET^▸ (Intercity Express Train).  Arrival in London was just over two hours late.

For today:

Under investigation ?     You only have to look at another part of Journey Check to see that it was due to "Ambulance services attending".   

This service was cancelled throughout due to an unexpected number of passengers joining/alighting the service (RB).