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Journey by Journey => TransWilts line => Topic started by: grahame on January 01, 2018, 11:36:56



Title: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 01, 2018, 11:36:56
I'm looking for a reduced cancellation rate from the awful results last month ... logging my data here to keep track.

1st January 2018

Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

I'm going to treat today as a practise run ... as I have been told that things should get really very much better from return to general work on 2nd January ... here's hoping ...

P.S. Whilst any cancellation is regrettable, the cancellation of the 11:47 / 12:47 round trip is perhaps the least regretted one all day - at a quiet time of day, and followed by another service around 40 minutes later.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 03, 2018, 06:18:11
3rd January

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.

08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
Facilities on the 08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 03, 2018, 20:25:20
3 Jan (continued)

Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
Facilities on the 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.

NOT a problem with this train


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on January 03, 2018, 20:36:37
So much so - it didn't happen!

Quote
2M18 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 is now running as scheduled.

This train will now be formed of the usual number of coaches.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on January 03, 2018, 20:41:36
So to summarise, on 3 January 2018, a single 153 worked 2M04, 2M05, 2M06, 2M07, 2M10 and 2M11.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 03, 2018, 20:50:22
So to summarise, on 3 January 2018, a single 153 worked 2M04, 2M05, 2M06, 2M07, 2M10 and 2M11.

I only logged one round trip this morning (the peak busy one, of course) and the evening train which is part of a different diagram - 2M04, 2M05 and 2M18.    I am very much aware that my logging is likely to leak like a sieve and miss short formations, short runs and occasionally cancellations - grateful for other confirmed holes / gaps being reported.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 03, 2018, 20:53:49
I only logged one round trip this morning (the peak busy one, of course) and the evening train which is part of a different diagram - 2M04, 2M05 and 2M18. 

So much so - it didn't happen!

Quote
2M18 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 is now running as scheduled.

This train will now be formed of the usual number of coaches.


So that's now just one round trip down by one carriage.   

At least if we're playing with two balls carriages and one gets dropped, we can go on playing with one ball carriage


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on January 03, 2018, 20:54:23
I think the 19:32 was a false alarm.  There was a set swap sent out mid afternoon to specifically avoid a short-formed train.  150261 should have done the honours.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Rob on the hill on January 03, 2018, 20:58:35
I only logged one round trip this morning (the peak busy one, of course) and the evening train which is part of a different diagram - 2M04, 2M05 and 2M18. 

So much so - it didn't happen!

Quote
2M18 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 is now running as scheduled.

This train will now be formed of the usual number of coaches.


So that's now just one round trip down by one carriage.   

At least if we're playing with two balls carriages and one gets dropped, we can go on playing with one ball carriage


Still needs one driver however many balls carriages!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on January 03, 2018, 21:21:48
So that's now just one round trip down by one carriage.   
Three round trips I believe, but at least they all ran today...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 03, 2018, 21:45:19
So that's now just one round trip down by one carriage.   
Three round trips I believe, but at least they all ran today...

Thanks for the follow ups .. really appreciate help with the logging


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on January 05, 2018, 00:05:05
Looking like there will be a 153 on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon service on Friday.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 05, 2018, 03:27:06
Looking like there will be a 153 on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon service on Friday.

Hmmm ... hope it steps up during the day ... we have a national rep from a central body visiting in the afternoon.

Yesterday's 15:18 from Swindon loaded 50 into Melksham; -15 +8 -> 58/23.  2 car, but no yet got the significant education traffic back from the Christmas holiday. 

We were alerted to the chance of 2 car not being available all the time in the first week, and 2 to 1 car drop far more acceptable than 1 to 0.  Still good to log, thank you.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 05, 2018, 07:00:36
5th January 2017

As predicted

Quote
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.

Facilities on the 08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.


The 07:33 Westbury to Swindon is a very heavily loaded train which needs to be two carriages consistently for us to continue to grow.    Only slightly behind the 17:36 from Swindon in being 2 cars rather than 1 this year (and it's behind because there's an 07:04 off Westbury which spreads the morning peak a little).

The 08:49, frankly, will cope at 1 carriage at the moment.   It's one of our poor performers.

Code:
Due Station
08:49 Swindon
09:06 Chippenham
09:15 Melksham
09:33 Trowbridge
09:42 Westbury

For Newbury electrification works weeks (March 12, April 23, June 4, and also later in year) this train is rescheduled:

Quote
08:49   Swindon to Westbury    Runs earlier at 08:28 arriving earlier into Westbury at 09:14
from https://www.gwr.com/travel-updates/planned-engineering/newbury2018
which I take to mean something like:

Code:
Due Station
08:28 Swindon
08:46 Chippenham
08:57 Melksham
09:06 Trowbridge
09:12 Westbury

I am told that timing would really help people who work in Trowbridge - one major employer at least there works flexitime  with core hours (when people must be in) from 09:30.   

New connections at Westbury would lead to a much earlier arrival into Salisbury, and the 12:09 Weymouth arrival would become 11:00 - saleable as a day trip through the summer, which it hasn't been (except on engineering-free Sundays!)

Connectional arrivals at Bath (from Melksham) would step forward to 09:34 (from 10:06) and at Bristol Temple Mead to 09:51 (from 10:28).






Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on January 05, 2018, 07:36:52
Afraid it has now gone from two coaches to no coaches.

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on January 05, 2018, 07:41:46
2M03 just left Westbury at 07:38 for Swindon. SWR 158 unit. Effectively in the path of the 07:33 service. Broken down train at Bradford on Avon causing major problems with crew and stock displaced.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on January 05, 2018, 07:52:29
2M03 just left Westbury at 07:38 for Swindon. SWR 158 unit. Effectively in the path of the 07:33 service. Broken down train at Bradford on Avon causing major problems with crew and stock displaced.



Further to the above. 5C03 has failed, which is the unit for the 1B04 06:45 Frome to Cardiff. 1F01 is trapped behind and assisting the failed train from the rear. 1F01 also conveys the units for the 2O66 06:54 Westbury to Weymouth and the 2E17 07:23 Warminster to Great Malvern. On top of this, several incoming crews for workings from Westbury are trapped because of the failure.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 05, 2018, 08:15:34
2M03 just left Westbury at 07:38 for Swindon. SWR 158 unit. Effectively in the path of the 07:33 service. Broken down train at Bradford on Avon causing major problems with crew and stock displaced.

In effect, the 07:04 cancelled and the 07:33 running as 2 cars.

Quote
Cancellations to services between Bath Spa and Westbury
Due to a broken down train between Bath Spa and Westbury the line towards Westbury is blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be cancelled or delayed by up to 40 minutes. Disruption is expected until 08:15 05/01.

Noting that the 08:49 from Swindon to Westbury which was down from 2 cars to 1 car is now cancelled (down to zero cars!).  Not sure how that fits in with "disruption until 08:15" - looks to me like "disruption until 09:42"  :-\

With only one unit at Swindon and departures required for both Cheltenham Spa and Westbury, it's the Cheltenham Spa service that's the winner.   I can understand why, seeing as the 07:36 Paddington to Cheltenham Spa - which would have been the next Swindon to Cheltenham Spa service (08:36 ex SWI) - is also cancelled.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 05, 2018, 08:54:49
Just to summarise (for when we look back, 5th January)

07:33 Westbury to Swindon - cancelled (but 07:04 delayed to run in its place, so in effect 07:04 cancelled)
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 - cancelled. "This is due to a broken down train."

Noting that the broken down train was actually off the TransWilts - it was at Bradford-on-Avon


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on January 05, 2018, 09:58:00
153380 for the 2M06 09:48 Westbury to Swindon and 2M07 10:47 Swindon to Westbury. If it stays on the diagram it should then form the 2M10 12:20 Westbury to Swindon and 2M11 13:29 Swindon to Westbury. The good news is that 158766 should be on the rest of the Westbury to Swindon circuits.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: xraydelta1 on January 05, 2018, 10:05:56
Just to summarise (for when we look back, 5th January)

07:33 Westbury to Swindon - cancelled (but 07:04 delayed to run in its place, so in effect 07:04 cancelled)
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 - cancelled. "This is due to a broken down train."

Noting that the broken down train was actually off the TransWilts - it was at Bradford-on-Avon

The guard for the 07:04 Cheltenham service was stuck on the broken down Portsmouth service, hence the knock-on effect on the TransWilts.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 05, 2018, 10:30:31
153380 for the 2M06 09:48 Westbury to Swindon and 2M07 10:47 Swindon to Westbury. If it stays on the diagram it should then form the 2M10 12:20 Westbury to Swindon and 2M11 13:29 Swindon to Westbury. The good news is that 158766 should be on the rest of the Westbury to Swindon circuits.

Excellent news for the afternoon ... the 15:18 and 17:36 off Swindon are the two trains that have been really desperate for extension.   The 07:33 is also important and that was right for the wrong reason this morning ... that 09:48 that's one car is the 4th run in terms of busyness of the six round trips (12 individual runs) that have been getting so busy to put people off, but that one's more leisure traffic so seasonal and this week is l-o-w season!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 07, 2018, 11:17:55
7th January

Quote
23:30 Swindon to Warminster due 00:18
23:30 Swindon to Warminster due 00:18 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: rogerw on January 07, 2018, 18:11:12
And also the outward working.

20:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 22:41 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 10, 2018, 11:57:46
Delighted that this thread has been quiet for a couple of days  ;D

I was at the station when the 11:13 to Westbury called this morning (Wednesday, mid January, cool but nice weather). Happy to see 15 get on and 5 get off what I expect to be one of the quieter trains of the day.  Mix of regular users, and newcomers.   Newcomers seem to very commonly be happy to have help / advise in using the TVM or being assured they can buy with cash on the train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 11, 2018, 09:26:10
Quote
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

However - signalling system fixed and ran via Melksham according to a later update.    Fingers crossed it didn't turn too many people off ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 15, 2018, 19:26:52
Monday 15th Jan

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 21, 2018, 21:05:41
Quote
Alterations to services between Chippenham and Swindon
Due to heavy rain flooding the railway between Chippenham and Swindon all lines are blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be delayed by up to 30 minutes or diverted. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

19:57 Swindon to Westbury held up at present ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: tomL on January 21, 2018, 21:15:26
Quote
Alterations to services between Chippenham and Swindon
Due to heavy rain flooding the railway between Chippenham and Swindon all lines are blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be delayed by up to 30 minutes or diverted. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

19:57 Swindon to Westbury held up at present ...

It's currently 'sandwiched'  between 1C26 and 1C27. Looks like 1C27 is about to reverse towards Swindon.

https://www.opentraintimes.com/maps/signalling/swindon


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 21, 2018, 21:28:13
Quote
Alterations to services between Chippenham and Swindon
Due to heavy rain flooding the railway between Chippenham and Swindon all lines are blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be delayed by up to 30 minutes or diverted. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

19:57 Swindon to Westbury held up at present ...

It's currently 'sandwiched'  between 1C26 and 1C27. Looks like 1C27 is about to reverse towards Swindon.

https://www.opentraintimes.com/maps/signalling/swindon

Looks like 1C27 reversed to RWB and going through on the less flooded up line!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: ellendune on January 21, 2018, 21:44:48
Quote
Alterations to services between Chippenham and Swindon
Due to heavy rain flooding the railway between Chippenham and Swindon all lines are blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be delayed by up to 30 minutes or diverted. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

19:57 Swindon to Westbury held up at present ...

It's currently 'sandwiched'  between 1C26 and 1C27. Looks like 1C27 is about to reverse towards Swindon.

https://www.opentraintimes.com/maps/signalling/swindon

Looks like 1C27 reversed to RWB and going through on the less flooded up line!

Well trying to has not moved for a while!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: tomL on January 21, 2018, 21:58:07
Looks like its gotten worse. Back to Swindon for road replacement to Bath and Chippenham (and through to Westbury, I assume).


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: ellendune on January 21, 2018, 22:07:51
2M16 is now back in Platform 2 at Swindon

1C27 is moving back towards Swindon

1C26 has not moved yet


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 22, 2018, 07:12:53
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to heavy rain flooding the railway earlier today.

Looks like they left the train in the bay at Swindon last night and that it's more OPERATIONALLY CONVENIENT to cancel a service rather than send it back down attached to the 06:10 this morning. Shame.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 22, 2018, 07:53:06
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to heavy rain flooding the railway earlier today.

Looks like they left the train in the bay at Swindon last night and that it's more OPERATIONALLY CONVENIENT to cancel a service rather than send it back down attached to the 06:10 this morning. Shame.

I'm now noting that all the class 1 (first class) long distance trains that got caught up appear to be working AOK this morning, but our class 2 (second class) train (the peak one of the day - 07:49 at Melksham, next train 10:04) was cancelled.  I expect  ;D all possible means of running it were looked into including:
* Diverting last night via Parkway and the Rhubarb loop when the one via Chippenham was impassible
* Running it down early this morning
* Attaching it to the 06:10 off Swindon to be at Westbury in time
* Using another train - maybe short forming a Bristol to allow the Swindon peak train to run


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on January 22, 2018, 08:35:20
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to heavy rain flooding the railway earlier today.


I share your frustrations, Grahame, more importantly WAS road replacement transport provided  ::)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 22, 2018, 09:26:01
I share your frustrations, Grahame, more importantly WAS road replacement transport provided  ::)

Good question - I don't [yet] know ... I may well hear at some point.

Many passengers who use that service are regulars, and about a quarter of them drive to the station and park. Alas, cancellation of this train has not been an unusual occurrence, so many have backup plans and some are thoughtful and also able to offer lifts. 

Further, they are quite able to argue the toss with the person on the help point if (s)he is a tosser and tells them that because the Trowbridge to Swindon train is cancelled, they should walk to the nearest bus stop on the Trowbidge to Swindon bus and use that - which would be good advise if it wasn't a 2.5 mile walk! Other advise of "wait for the next train" not very good either for this service!

Westbury and Trowbridge passengers will be advised to go via Bath Spa and it's normal for GWR to accept "via Melksham" tickets via Bath in this circumstance.  Those with cycles hate the diversion, as they're then required to get a cycle reservation, one leg becoming a high speed service!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 22, 2018, 13:46:24
Quote
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 has been previously delayed, is being further delayed at Chippenham and is now expected to be 24 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

NOT a big problem ... relieved to see the blue line on our map is a delay rather than anything else.   I suspect the signalling system got a bit wet yesterday!!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on January 22, 2018, 19:11:10
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to heavy rain flooding the railway earlier today.

Looks like they left the train in the bay at Swindon last night and that it's more OPERATIONALLY CONVENIENT to cancel a service rather than send it back down attached to the 06:10 this morning. Shame.

If there were any spare drivers available at Gloucester or Westbury, something like that might have been possible, but I am not sure that there was. Platform 2 is too short to accommodate 2x 2 car sets so just running straight in to platform 2 and attaching would not be possible. The set would also have required mobilising (starting up and building up air) and preparing for service, which requires a driver to check the train systems (such as doors, lights, horn and safety systems) are functioning correctly and then leave a certificate in the cab to confirm this has taken place. This takes 20 minutes for a two car set. As it was, the driver for the 07:33 service from Westbury was sent up on the 07:04 service to Swindon to prepare the set for the return working (just as well that they are scheduled to book on for duty before the 07:04 departed). Unfortunately the guard is scheduled to book on for duty after the 07:04 service has departed. I understand that a guard was taken from another duty and sent from Gloucester to Swindon to restart the service with the 08:49 departure from Swindon. It is just a shame that it was the busiest northbound service that was lost.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 23, 2018, 09:50:06
If there were any spare drivers available at Gloucester or Westbury, something like that might have been possible, but I am not sure that there was. ....

Yeah ... I suspect not, and there will be good reasons why none of the other suggestions would work either  ;D

Much of it comes down to lack of "buffer" resource at time that things go wrong.   Where those times are exceptional, it's prudent to run a tight ship, but at times recently it's felt that the exception is when things are all working right.

Interesting to note your comment about the conductor not clocking on until after the 07:04 had left, and the way that was successfully turned around - THANK YOU to whoever made the plans.   I do muse in comparing to what we occasionally did when we needed earlier staffing at the hotel - a guest checks in and asked for early breakfast, and a quick text / email to the morning person "can you come in 30 minutes earlier".  Saved a lot of faffing about re-organising rotas - worked well for everyone. I suppose that's the sort of thing you can do in a private business ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 06, 2018, 07:47:29
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 has been cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Further Information
Due to a fault on this train the Melksham single line is closed. Customers for Melksham are requested to change at Trowbridge / Chippenham for taxi replacement. Customers at Melksham are requested to wait for Taxis, which will convey them to Westbury (via Trowbridge) and Chippenham for onward rail travel.
Customers for all other stations are requested to circulate via Bath Spa and wait for the next available service
Last Updated:06/02/2018 07:40

Quote
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Further Information
Due to a fault on this train the Melksham single line is closed. Customers for Melksham are requested to change at Trowbridge / Chippenham for taxi replacement. Customers at Melksham are requested to wait for Taxis, which will convey them to Westbury (via Trowbridge) and Chippenham for onward rail travel.
Customers for all other stations are requested to circulate via Bath Spa and wait for the next available service
Last Updated:06/02/2018 07:40



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on February 06, 2018, 08:35:30
...........Turbo trouble already?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 06, 2018, 09:04:52
...........Turbo trouble already?

No details ... I headed out on the 06:36 this morning.  It would be amazing if there weren't a few teething troubles - but I emphasise a few.   We are holding our breath having heard all the reports from The Beach, but are slightly re-assured since the structure of the TransWilts stops isn't so intense!    Platform time and noticeably gentle approaches are being compensated by better running on the stretches between stations.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 06, 2018, 15:53:06
I got my laptop out at Westbury - just arrived on the infamous 15:28 from Warminster - at there's a thick blue streak on the top map for the TransWilts  :-\

Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
Facilities on the 15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.


16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04
Facilities on the 16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

These are things we can live with ... not a problem, though I expect  few comments (but no-one really upset) on the 17:36.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on February 06, 2018, 16:48:54
I got my laptop out at Westbury - just arrived on the infamous 15:28 from Warminster - at there's a thick blue streak on the top map for the TransWilts  :-\

Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
Facilities on the 15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.


16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04
Facilities on the 16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

These are things we can live with ... not a problem, though I expect  few comments (but no-one really upset) on the 17:36.


I hope you don't have to get used to hearing that excuse as frequently as those of us on LTV!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 07, 2018, 15:52:46
I hope you don't have to get used to hearing that excuse as frequently as those of us on LTV!

This is what we're hearing today ...

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.

20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.

So that's full service Monday,  88% of trains ran Tuesday (some short formed), 88% running today. 
Tuesday - next train wait (maximum) 135 minutes - though taxis / circulate via Bath promised
Wednesday - next train wait overnight as it's the last train of the day. Alternative not yet advised.

Both days - repairs / broken down issues.  OK for crew, though contact tell me if you want a job as train crew, Westbury based, GWR are advertising externally. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 08, 2018, 15:31:00
Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Customers travelling from Melksham station are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations.

Lovely ... that's one of the trains that's getting really busy!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 08, 2018, 15:48:37
Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Customers travelling from Melksham station are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations.

Lovely ... that's one of the trains that's getting really busy!

Looking back ...

Quote
2M12 1404 Frome to Westbury
Great Western Railway service
This service was cancelled between Westbury and Swindon due to a problem with the traction equipment (MD).


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 08, 2018, 19:13:00
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 19:30
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 19:30 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 7 minutes late.
This is due to a points failure.

18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It is being delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 7 minutes late.
This is due to a points failure.

So that's 4 down out of 18 so far today ... 22% cancellation at Melksham.   Seems to be train and now track failures this week ... let's see if the last pair of trains run.





Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on February 08, 2018, 20:07:23
1932 Westbury to Cheltenham has also had to divert via Bathampton Junction due to the points fault at Bradford Junction.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 08, 2018, 20:16:32
1932 Westbury to Cheltenham has also had to divert via Bathampton Junction due to the points fault at Bradford Junction.

Let's see if the 20:06 can get through


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on February 08, 2018, 20:38:00
Let's see if the 20:06 can get through
Looks as if it has  :)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 09, 2018, 19:14:10
The end of the first five days of the Turbos ... and a bit of a shaky start.  Teething troubles, I hope, and I have feedback (which is much appreciated) on various issues that have arisen.

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be terminated at Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this trai

18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be terminated at Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:09/02/2018 18:51

Turbos again tomorrow too (Saturday) ... not sure about Sunday with all the engineering.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on February 09, 2018, 20:24:51
The end of the first five days of the Turbos ... and a bit of a shaky start.  Teething troubles, I hope, and I have feedback (which is much appreciated) on various issues that have arisen.

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be terminated at Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this trai

18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be terminated at Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:09/02/2018 18:51

Turbos again tomorrow too (Saturday) ... not sure about Sunday with all the engineering.

.......so that's the IETs , the Electrostars, and the Turbos all suffering from "teething troubles"........must be those brand new HSTs turn next! 😂


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 09, 2018, 20:41:09
.......so that's the IETs , the Electrostars, and the Turbos all suffering from "teething troubles"........must be those brand new HSTs turn next! 😂

Issues that have arisen are High Viz and everyone's working to ensure that the problems do not endure!   Also been hit by infrastructure failures at Westbury and at Bradford Junction this week ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on February 10, 2018, 06:20:32
Only three of the three car turbos which have been cascaded to the west have selective door opening and the plan has been to keep them on services south of Westbury due to the number of short platforms.

A special case has been made for Melksham and Stonehouse to be served by using the "one door" only method in the short term while more units are converted. 

This has led to some problems in keeping the correct units on the correct diagrams and has reduced flexibility.  It has also been a learning curve for crew.  When a train is in trouble most drivers will want to "muck in" and get it moving again by getting their hands dirty and while classroom settings can help with some situations it takes time to build up experience.   A case in point happened earlier this week when a driver successfully got a unit moving again but it took some lengthy phone calls while he was talked through the process.

The good news is the necessary parts to convert more of the units to selective door opening are due any day and once fitted will give a greater pool from which to run the services both north and south of Westbury.

Of course it hasn't been perfect this week.  With one unit on the TransWilts running a two hourly service it isn't like the Severn Beach line where there are two.  If one of those fails it is usually possible to run an hourly service over at least part of the line with the other set already on the line.  A failure on the TW almost always involves finding another set. 

Where services have run the timekeeping has been good thanks to the better performance of the units which hasn't been the experience on the line through Clifton Down with its shorter running time between stations.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 12, 2018, 13:01:56
Some unusual goings on this morning ... 07:33 from Westbury curtailed at Trowbridge due to train fault (and 08:49 Swindon to Westbury came up cancelled) but then 2Z04 turned up as a new service from Melksham at 07:49 to Swindon.  Good on GWR to have a replacement in place ... I suspect it's the train that's still on the line which is a 150/1 that could do with a good clean.   I missed the fun in person having been on the 06:36 for the third time in 8 days.   I'll turn into a regular user at this rate!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on February 15, 2018, 09:44:41
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34

11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41

12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 15, 2018, 10:32:26
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34

11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41

12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Any cancellation is regrettable.  This one is the best one to loose as it's at a quiet time of day, and the next one isn't all that much later ... an extra service shortens our normally-two-hour gap to have the train in the right place at both peak ends of the day.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 05:08:53
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 will be terminated at Swindon.
It will no longer call at Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury, Dilton Marsh, Warminster, Salisbury, Romsey and Southampton Central.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be started from Swindon.
It will no longer call at Westbury, Trowbridge, Melksham and Chippenham.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

So today ...

First northbound - 08:19 into Swindon

First southbound - 09:42 into Westbury


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on February 16, 2018, 06:57:14
Asks another question - is the direct train to Southampton Central now restored?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: JayMac on February 16, 2018, 07:54:57
Asks another question - is the direct train to Southampton Central now restored?

Funny that its become a through service today only when there's a need to cancel. Every other day this week and next it was/is two seperate services.

Looks like deliberate manipulation by GWR to massage cancellation statistics. One cancelled service instead of two.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 08:08:47
Asks another question - is the direct train to Southampton Central now restored?

Funny that its become a through service today only when there's a need to cancel. Every other day this week and next it was/is two seperate services.

Looks like deliberate manipulation by GWR to massage cancellation statistics. One cancelled service instead of two.

It was showing as a change to split earlier this week on Journeycheck ... think it's entered as split as a daily change about a week ahead but has got missed at least once.  Suspect oversight not massage.

The 06:10 off Swindon used to be a joke and loss to Westbury wouldn't have been a problem except to the only user.   You're now looking at a couple of dozen passengers, and busy too (with nothing for another hour) south of Westbury - typically loads to about 60 passenger though this week (being half term) it is around 30 passengers (and it appears today, one driver!) down.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: JayMac on February 16, 2018, 08:24:30
It was showing as a change to split earlier this week on Journeycheck ... think it's entered as split as a daily change about a week ahead but has got missed at least once.  Suspect oversight not massage.

Poor oversight is just as bad.

Or maybe the rostering problem was known about earlier this week - couldn't find enough staff for today. So the change was made to make it a through service knowing that it was likely to be cancelled.

Whatever the reason, just one more example of GWR's incompetence. The truth is that it makes no difference to the inconvenienced passengers whether it's cock-up or conspiracy.

TransWilts has done a fantastic job cultivating passenger growth, despite GWR doing its best to turn people off rail travel.

Here's a thought. Overcrowding here and elsewhere was becoming a real concern of passengers. By making the service unreliable you turn folk away. Overcrowding problem goes away...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on February 16, 2018, 08:42:00
Looks like a train did start from Westbury to Southampton at 07:01 - it is now on its way back from Southampton to Great Malvern.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 09:56:08
Quote
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 12:15:00
Here we go again ....

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

18 journeys in a  day ... 4 cancelled between Swindon and Westbury, and two more running short.   First train from Swindon 149 minutes after it should be, last train 84 minutes before it should be ...




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on February 16, 2018, 12:20:50
As these are the last trains of the day on the Transwilts, will road transport be provided?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 12:44:00
As these are the last trains of the day on the Transwilts, will road transport be provided?

The 20:06 is the last train of the day ... and passengers for Melksham who request it should be offered alternative road transport  from Chippenham.   

Passengers from Swindon and Chippenham to Trowbridge and Westbury will be advised to travel via Bath Spa.   The first train after 20:06 from Swindon will be at 20:30, getting to Westbury at 21:36 (v 20:49 scheduled); passengers arriving at Swindon early for the 20:06 may not be so badly delayed, as the 20:00 from Swindon has a fast connection from Bath Spa.

Passengers from Melksham will probably need to use the help point ...

All this will of course be crystal clearly told to all prospective passengers  ;D

Although the 18:32 is the last train on a Saturday (you may remember my tale of woe from last weekend) there is a further train northbound about an hour later.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 12:45:35
It always strikes me as utterly incredible how the absence of one properly qualified person (to drive a train) can inconvenience so many, and can require so may others to help sort it out too!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on February 16, 2018, 14:01:56
Very late advice but the 12:47/14:04 appear to have been reinstated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 15:35:02
Very late advice but the 12:47/14:04 appear to have been reinstated.

Real Time trains says

Quote
This service was cancelled between Frome and Frome due to unknown cause ().

 ;D ;D

14 minute delay at Westbury - I suspect awaiting driver - but far better to run it than not.    I do worry about just how much traffic (and passenger confidence) is lost when a train is cancelled and re-instated. Taking my travel experiences over the last seven days into account, I note that some 50 years ago, Dr. B. Ching would have found these excellent times to do his passenger counts.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on February 16, 2018, 18:32:29
Quote
passengers arriving at Swindon early for the 20:06 may not be so badly delayed, as the 20:00 from Swindon has a fast connection from Bath Spa.

But will passengers arriving at Swindon on the 19:00 from Paddington be provided with this info before it's too late?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 20:13:51
Quote
passengers arriving at Swindon early for the 20:06 may not be so badly delayed, as the 20:00 from Swindon has a fast connection from Bath Spa.

But will passengers arriving at Swindon on the 19:00 from Paddington be provided with this info before it's too late?

Or could let them use this one as it's being diverted  ;D

Quote
19:03 London Paddington to Penzance due 00:45
19:03 London Paddington to Penzance due 00:45 will be diverted between Reading and Taunton.
It will no longer call at Newbury.
It is being delayed between Reading and Taunton and is now expected to be 26 minutes late.
This is due to a broken down train.

Pretty unhappy tonight at Westbury - see Berks and Hants board ... just terminated a broken HST at platform 1 by the looks of things ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 16, 2018, 22:36:51
Quote
passengers arriving at Swindon early for the 20:06 may not be so badly delayed, as the 20:00 from Swindon has a fast connection from Bath Spa.

But will passengers arriving at Swindon on the 19:00 from Paddington be provided with this info before it's too late?

Here is the advise offered ...

Quote
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on 20:32 Weston-super-Mare service from Swindon (20:46 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 21:07 service towards Weymouth which calls at Trowbridge (21:28) and Westbury (21:36).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.

And that is hugely better / more thorough than information / advise I've seen before - thank you whoever added it


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Trowres on February 16, 2018, 23:31:20
...although I wonder if the 21:07 from Bath was advertised as "Weymouth" as this was known to be terminating at Westbury due to crew shortage.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on February 17, 2018, 08:47:11
Here is the advise offered ...

Quote
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on 20:32 Weston-super-Mare service from Swindon (20:46 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 21:07 service towards Weymouth which calls at Trowbridge (21:28) and Westbury (21:36).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.

And that is hugely better / more thorough than information / advise I've seen before - thank you whoever added it
Agreed it is helpful that when GWR cancel a service they give the affected passengers as much help and advice possible. Sadly this doesn’t happen enough from what’s seen on Journey Check.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on February 17, 2018, 11:34:24
Quote
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20

11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
12:36 Swindon to Westbury due 13:20

12:36 Swindon to Westbury due 13:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20

13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20

14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Swindon Town at home this afternoon too....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on February 17, 2018, 13:46:48
1332 Westbury to Swindon and return were re-instated


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 17, 2018, 14:23:59
1332 Westbury to Swindon and return were re-instated

However ... business turned away and lost.    I have received some irate messages this morning - about the unreliability of the service with so many cancellations, and about seeing the train cancelled, making their way to Chippenham (hassle, cost) because National Rail said it was cancelled ... just to find it was running!

I don't think the re-instated service will show up in the various measures as anything but running, will it?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: JayMac on February 17, 2018, 16:45:52
Cancelling should be added to the statistics whatever actually happens.

Passengers should also be compensated if their train is cancelled, but subsequently runs after they've made alternative plans.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 23, 2018, 06:14:26
Purely for the record - 2 cars not 3 on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon and the 08:49 (should be 08:36) back.  As a single carriage train just two months ago, this was one of the trains that was holding back growth because more people couldn't fit on it.  However, two is plenty ( at the moment  ;D ) .

Last night (logged elsewhere) the 17:36 was reported as "1 carriage not 3" and that is serious - busiest train of the day. "At least it ran".  Not sure if it really was a 153, or something else with a carriage out of use.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on February 23, 2018, 10:00:06
Purely for the record - 2 cars not 3 on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon and the 08:49 (should be 08:36) back.  As a single carriage train just two months ago, this was one of the trains that was holding back growth because more people couldn't fit on it.  However, two is plenty ( at the moment  ;D ) .

Last night (logged elsewhere) the 17:36 was reported as "1 carriage not 3" and that is serious - busiest train of the day. "At least it ran".  Not sure if it really was a 153, or something else with a carriage out of use.

The 1736 was 153329


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on February 27, 2018, 14:50:50
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01


15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 27, 2018, 18:17:04
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01

15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

The up train from Frome also cancelled from Westbury to Swindon.

Real time trains says "This service was cancelled between Westbury and Swindon due to a problem with the train" which is not quite the same as saying "a fault on this train", and is more accurate.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on February 28, 2018, 13:31:50
Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12 will be cancelled.
This is due to train crew being delayed by service disruption.
Last Updated:28/02/2018 13:18


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 01, 2018, 20:08:25
Quote
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 01, 2018, 21:37:02
Quote
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:06 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

19:32 ex Westbury also lost, and I'm pretty sure the 18:32 was too.   18:48 ex Swindon took a long time. (Due 19:30 but arrives 21:06 at Westbury, having sat for 90 minutes in the platform at Trowbridge.)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 02, 2018, 05:49:14
Text from mobile display, 05:45 on 2.3.2018

Quote
Departures from Melksham
TimeDestinationPlatExpected
06:36Westbury1Cancelled
07:20Cheltenham Spa1Cancelled
07:49Swindon1Cancelled
09:15Westbury1On time


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 02, 2018, 10:25:28
from http://train.fyi

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/applog_20180302_01.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 02, 2018, 10:29:07
Also

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 19:30

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 19:30 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

(18:48 off Swindon, 19:15 Melksham)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 02, 2018, 16:03:34
from http://train.fyi
(http://www.wellho.net/pix/applog_20180302_02.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 03, 2018, 08:28:12
Interesting to note that the local service is lost because of the weather, but yet the line's open for the train that's on a placement move to serve the Stroud Valley line.

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/applog_20180303_01.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 03, 2018, 08:34:34
I wonder if a decision has been made to swing the points at Bradford, Thingley and Thingley East junctions as little as possible in the current climate.

They have proved to be unreliable in kinder conditions as it is.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: rogerw on March 03, 2018, 09:19:05
The only slightly good news is that the X34 is running today, but only using main roads so that a journey from Melksham to Chippenham or Trowbridge is, at least, possible


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 03, 2018, 09:34:37
The only slightly good news is that the X34 is running today, but only using main roads so that a journey from Melksham to Chippenham or Trowbridge is, at least, possible

And for when we look back ... note that the Wilts Police report for the record:

Quote
On 03/03/18, the below roads are currently still affected by the harsh weather conditions:

CLOSURES
A346 Chiseldon
A4361 Wroughton to Avebury
A303 Willoughby Edge
A303 at Mere
A338 Grafton to Burbage
A345 Old Sarum
A361 Beckhampton
B3083 Winterbourne to Shrewton
A350 Lords Hill, (just outside Warminster)
B390 Cape Hill to Chittern

PARTIAL CLOSURES
A342 one lane open
A338 Burbage to Collingbourne (One lane open)
M4 two lanes open


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 03, 2018, 19:18:14
I went down to Melksham Station (perfectly easy to get too - and I am VERY cautious with my lack of balance).  Just a single car in the car park (not surprised - no outbound trains this morning) and the information display says:

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/twxx0303_02.jpg)

Checking back with our maps on the forum, that familiar tic at about 70 degrees is appearing out from the sea of blue indicating cancellations and / or changes on Swindon to Westbury, with no other blue lines into either of those points.  And  although the line's to all intents and purposes closed, it's clearly not important enough to be listed as such

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/twxx0303_01.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Trowres on March 03, 2018, 23:32:38
For the record, Grahame, that 16:48 service was shown as "on time" until several minutes after it should have departed from Westbury (there was nothing in the platforms at Westbury at that time). The staff version of the Melksham display then changed to show the 16:48 as a Trowbridge-Swindon service. It even managed to show it as about 3 minutes late (if I recall correctly), which would give someone more confidence than the default "on time"... then it changed to the "Delayed" shown on your photograph.

As noted in the Snow topic under "Smoke and Mirrors", the information provision leaves much to be desired.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 03:57:06
(http://www.wellho.net/pix/dmap_20180304.jpg)

Quote
Alterations to services between Westbury and Melksham

Due to severe weather between Westbury and Melksham the line is disrupted.
Train services running through these stations may be suspended. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

Customer Advice

The line between Swindon and Westbury is currently closed due to the continued poor weather conditions. We are unable to run a train service because of the weather, we will also be unable to use taxis or buses. Road conditions will not be safe for road transport to be used as an alternative and we advise you not to travel on these routes.

Further Information
An update will follow within the next 5 hours.
Last Updated:04/03/2018 03:44

Hmmm ... seems from the map that problems are very localised.    Must have turned really bad in the last few hours, and in just this little bit of Wiltshire - buses were running (restored) along the parallel main road yesterday, and traffic looked fine to me when I was out.

The message would be more believable if it said "haven't got around to checking the line yet" or "we're short of staff because everyone's been putting in extra hours to do what they can elsewhere in the bad weather"


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 04:35:35
Hmmm ... seems from the map that problems are very localised.    Must have turned really bad in the last few hours, and in just this little bit of Wiltshire - buses were running (restored) along the parallel main road yesterday, and traffic looked fine to me when I was out.

OK - don't feel quite so unloved now ...

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/dmap_20180304_2.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 07:17:49
Wiltshire Police

Quote
On 03/03/18 at 11.30pm the only road currently closed is the A346 between Ogbourne St George and Chiseldon. This will remain closed overnight when vehicles will hopefully be removed tomorrow and the snow cleared.

Journey Check

Quote
Alterations to services between Westbury and Melksham
Due to severe weather between Westbury and Melksham the line is disrupted.
Train services running through these stations may be suspended. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
(at 05:26)

Cancellations to services between Westbury and Weymouth
Due to severe weather between Westbury and Weymouth the line is closed.
Train services running to and from these stations have been cancelled. Disruption is expected until 12:00 04/03.
(at 05:26)

Cancellations to services between Swindon and Gloucester
Due to severe weather between Swindon and Gloucester fewer trains are able to run on all lines.
Train services running through these stations may be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
(at 06:47)

Other journey check line warnings:
Quote
Alterations to services between Reading and Gatwick Airport
Cancellations to services between Hanborough and Worcester Foregate Street
Cancellations to services on all routes


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on March 04, 2018, 07:21:03
.......especially for you Graham! 🙂


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on March 04, 2018, 07:26:15
I expect today is being used as a recovery day to get things in place to operate a near normal service for the first day of the working week.

The thaw has continued overnight so would expect most train train crew that were rostered to work today would be able to get in.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 07:46:36
.......especially for you Graham! 🙂

No ... for the people who make the 250k journeys per annum on the TransWilts perhaps, having forgotten a mention in dispatches over the last few days.   "Even" the 08:30 Westbury to Swindon train on Sundays carried regular commuters ...

Perhaps my post triggered someone to note that oversight and put in an entry to help keep us informed for our line to the level they have been doing for other lines. If that's the case and the person's reading - THANK YOU.     Entries of major disruption appear in dribs and drabs - sensible to get as much data out as early as possible - just a bit unlucky that the initial snapshot I got was of pretty well no problems remaining except on the TransWilts, old data for having been cleared for a fresh start.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on March 04, 2018, 10:27:52
.......especially for you Graham! 🙂

No ... for the people who make the 250k journeys per annum on the TransWilts perhaps, having forgotten a mention in dispatches over the last few days.   "Even" the 08:30 Westbury to Swindon train on Sundays carried regular commuters ...

Perhaps my post triggered someone to note that oversight and put in an entry to help keep us informed for our line to the level they have been doing for other lines. If that's the case and the person's reading - THANK YOU.     Entries of major disruption appear in dribs and drabs - sensible to get as much data out as early as possible - just a bit unlucky that the initial snapshot I got was of pretty well no problems remaining except on the TransWilts, old data for having been cleared for a fresh start.

.......I wasn't being entirely serious Graham, but I am sure that your scrutiny keeps them on their toes!  ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 11:43:37
.......I wasn't being entirely serious Graham, but I am sure that your scrutiny keeps them on their toes!  ;)

Totally understood ... but what an excellent hook you provided for me to keep TransWilts' passengers on the radar!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 13:27:47
Quote
Alterations to services between Westbury and Melksham

Due to severe weather between Westbury and Melksham the line is disrupted.
Train services running through these stations have been suspended. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

Customer Advice

The line between Swindon and Westbury is currently closed due to the continued poor weather conditions. We are unable to run a train service because of the weather, we will also be unable to use taxis or buses. Road conditions will not be safe for road transport to be used as an alternative and we advise you not to travel on these routes.

Further Information
An update will follow within the next 5 hours.
Last Updated:04/03/2018 11:08

Gobsmacked.  No remaining evidence of severe weather.  Buses and taxis that are NOT on rail replacement duty running perfectly   ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 13:31:25
And a public Facebook post says

Quote
So annoying isnt it same as with this snow that’s disappeared yet they’re still not using the line today and won’t say on tomorrow yet either! Which isn’t helpful when my daughter catches the 7.05 train!! GWR won’t even answer my question about whether she can go via Bath instead with her season ticket!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on March 04, 2018, 14:16:54
There does come a point after a major weather event where you can’t but help it’s being used as an excuse not to run a service for operational convenience. I can’t think that any train crew who sign on a Westbury or Bristol due to work today had any difficulties getting to work.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 15:17:20
There does come a point after a major weather event where you can’t but help it’s being used as an excuse not to run a service for operational convenience. I can’t think that any train crew who sign on a Westbury or Bristol due to work today had any difficulties getting to work.

Customers getting pretty fed up here as they don't understand (neither do I) what the problem is.

I have asked what the problems are on Twitter and so have others ... they seem to be so busy today that they're selectively replying. I tried calling GWR customer support - option 4 - but all it does is put you back to the main menu and offer the same options again ... tried National Rail and the lady there assured me that the 06:36 Melksham to Westbury is scheduled and will run tomorrow.  I came away with the right words, but an uneasy feeling that the information may not be certain.  I would have felt far better if there had been a few extra words like "the line has been closed due to bad weather but will be re-opened by that time"  rather than asking me to repeat "Melksham" three times.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 15:36:21
Reply on Twitter:

Quote
"Hello. Staff are currently clearing platforms from snow and ice. No confirmation on whether the lines will be open tomorrow just yet but we will post information here on Twitter on this as soon as we can. Natalie"

I can tell them that Melksham station is clear (been there!) and all the others are open for other trains ... so should be OK, right?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 04, 2018, 22:00:38
Posted a few minutes ago

Quote
Delays to services between Westbury and Melksham
Following severe weather earlier between Westbury and Melksham the line will be reopened shortly.
Train services running through these stations are returning to normal. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
Last Updated:04/03/2018 21:47

Weather today has been AOK.   Don't understand what the problem was with running a train service ....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 04, 2018, 22:08:28
I agree.  Better get some sleep just in case the 06:10 runs.   ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on March 05, 2018, 08:59:47
Posted a few minutes ago

Quote
Delays to services between Westbury and Melksham
Following severe weather earlier between Westbury and Melksham the line will be reopened shortly.
Train services running through these stations are returning to normal. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
Last Updated:04/03/2018 21:47

Weather today has been AOK.   Don't understand what the problem was with running a train service ....

I believe there was a shortage of trancrew yesterday following the disruption. Staff getting in to work wasn't the problem. It was staff returning home following the disruption. I am told there were crews stranded in Bristol, Yeovil, Salisbury and even Poole (trying to return from Weymouth) for one and even two nights with some crews who booked on for duty on Thursday afternoon not getting home until Saturday evening. Understandably, those affected then declined to work the Sunday. Whether the Melksham service was pulled to keep other routes staffed I do not know, however it would explain why the weather was the reason given for the cancellations.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 05, 2018, 12:21:12
Posted a few minutes ago

Quote
Delays to services between Westbury and Melksham
Following severe weather earlier between Westbury and Melksham the line will be reopened shortly.
Train services running through these stations are returning to normal. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
Last Updated:04/03/2018 21:47

Weather today has been AOK.   Don't understand what the problem was with running a train service ....

I believe there was a shortage of trancrew yesterday following the disruption.  ....

I could believe that - indeed it's what I would have guessed.   Except we were told "We are unable to run a train service because of the weather, we will also be unable to use taxis or buses. Road conditions will not be safe for road transport to be used as an alternative" and that does not fit with displaced train crew message.

We've had a visitor here in Melksham today ... he arrived at Westbury by train late yesterday and took a taxi to Melksham, which does make me wonder just how sensitive GWR's road transport is  ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 06, 2018, 07:15:36
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

NOT a problem ...

We have "HQ" - ACoRP representative - with us this afternoon.   At least she's likely to see that things don't run purrrrfecly!

06:10 off Swindon as a 2 car 158.   Looking at the Westbury sidings, I'm guessing a 150/2 for the 07:33.   Handing out leaflets about next week's replacement of trains by buses during the day.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 08, 2018, 06:44:27
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

Only the busiest up train of the day ... that's the 07:49 off Melksham, next train 10:04.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 08, 2018, 09:17:38
..and the next pair...

Quote
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33

09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to train crew being delayed by service disruption.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31 will be cancelled.
This is due to train crew being delayed by service disruption.

No crew but for a different reason


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 08, 2018, 09:20:53
..and the next pair...

Quote
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33

09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to train crew being delayed by service disruption.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31 will be cancelled.
This is due to train crew being delayed by service disruption.

No crew but for a different reason

Geeze! ....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 08, 2018, 09:38:34
..and the next pair...
Quote
Geeze! ....

So that's no train calling from 07:19 until 12:06 ... with the "blame game" of delay attribution putting assigning the issue in each case to GWR ...

Trying not to take this personally this morning - however, 'm on my way from Swansea to Melksham ... thank goodness I spotted BobM's post just as my train approached Cardiff as that's allowed me to connect back into the Portsmouth train and I can get the bus from Bath.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 08, 2018, 09:44:36
Hate to tell you this - they have both just been re-instated.....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 08, 2018, 09:56:43
Hate to tell you this - they have both just been re-instated.....

Not sure what emoticon to use for that ....

 :) ;) :D ;D >:(  :o 8) ??? ::) :P :-[ :-X :-\ :-* :'(

Mixed emotions!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 08, 2018, 10:12:10
Hate to tell you this - they have both just been re-instated.....

Not sure what emoticon to use for that ....

 :) ;) :D ;D >:(  :o 8) ??? ::) :P :-[ :-X :-\ :-* :'(

Mixed emotions!

OK ...

Change at Cardiff (done when I first heard), Bristol and Chippenham and I'll be in Melksham at 11:13 as planned.   So it's  ;D ;D ;D

Might even have done it that many-change way if I had had the dogs with me ... and I've switched from a hard seat from Swansea to a softer one from Cardiff.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 08, 2018, 10:30:37
The 09:48 left 26 minutes late so the 10:47 return is likely to be at least 15 minutes late starting.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 08, 2018, 12:15:33
The 09:48 left 26 minutes late so the 10:47 return is likely to be at least 15 minutes late starting.

MADE IT!!   ... just 9 late into Melksham.   A 166 on a 153 schedule does rather well.   Passenger numbers disappointing - about 25 on the train, 2 off and 3 on at Melksham.  Always a quiet one this - flagging it up as cancelled, after the earlier one was cancelled too, probably suppressed numbers.

On that note - Melksham station car park on Tuesday - 8 + 2 + 18 = 28 vehicles parks late morning
on Thursday - 2 + 0 + 11 = 13 vehicles parked.  Reduction due (I would be pretty sure) due to train cancellations.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on March 08, 2018, 18:14:54
The 09:48 left 26 minutes late so the 10:47 return is likely to be at least 15 minutes late starting.

MADE IT!!   ... just 9 late into Melksham.   A 166 on a 153 schedule does rather well.   Passenger numbers disappointing - about 25 on the train, 2 off and 3 on at Melksham.  Always a quiet one this - flagging it up as cancelled, after the earlier one was cancelled too, probably suppressed numbers.

On that note - Melksham station car park on Tuesday - 8 + 2 + 18 = 28 vehicles parks late morning
on Thursday - 2 + 0 + 11 = 13 vehicles parked.  Reduction due (I would be pretty sure) due to train cancellations.
The 07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa service departed from Westbury 56 minutes late after the original 166 had engine problems and had to be swapped for another. Train terminated at Gloucester. I wouldn't be surprised to hear that some people chose to drive to Chippenham instead, especially if the help point was just saying 'delayed' with no estimate for the arrival of the train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 09, 2018, 04:04:51

The 07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa service departed from Westbury 56 minutes late after the original 166 had engine problems and had to be swapped for another. Train terminated at Gloucester. I wouldn't be surprised to hear that some people chose to drive to Chippenham instead, especially if the help point was just saying 'delayed' with no estimate for the arrival of the train.


Ah ... many thanks for that update.   The Help Point is very good at just saying "delayed" at Melksham, and on past form the folks on the information button might not have been able to provide much more detailed updates.   I suspect that many regulars clubbed together, those with cars giving lifts to other to Chippenham, with others simply driving off ...

It's on mornings like that we really could do with a knowledgeable semi-formal presence - for example a community cafe / volunteer who could help organise / co-ordinate and perhaps be on the devices to the Faceoook or Twitter teams.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 14, 2018, 17:33:38
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.
Last Updated:14/03/2018 17:20


Also note from Monday (12th) ... 19:35 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa cancelled due to Conductor being taken Ill.   

With only three northbound and four northbound trains this week - less than half the normal number - wouldn't you think they could fine enough trains and staff who weren't ill to operate the remaining skeletal service?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on March 14, 2018, 18:23:05
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.
Last Updated:14/03/2018 17:20


Also note from Monday (12th) ... 19:35 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa cancelled due to Conductor being taken Ill.   

With only three northbound and four northbound trains this week - less than half the normal number - wouldn't you think they could fine enough trains and staff who weren't ill to operate the remaining skeletal service?

17:36 Swindon to Westbury cancelled because of a medical emergency at Chippenham. 16:30 Bristol TM to Paddington still sat in the up platform at Chippenham as at 18:00. Air ambulance attending so unfortunately sounds serious. Services being thinned out to allow some services to run reversible between Thingley and Wootton Bassett. Not helped by additional diverted freight and passenger services. Empty stock for the 17:36 from Swindon diverted from Thingley back to Bathampton to Westbury. 17:03 Paddington to Penzance will call additionally at Chippenham. It already calls at Swindon and Westbury.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 14, 2018, 18:55:03
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.

With only three northbound and four northbound trains this week - less than half the normal number - wouldn't you think they could fine enough trains and staff who weren't ill to operate the remaining skeletal service?

17:36 Swindon to Westbury cancelled because of a medical emergency at Chippenham. ...

Thanks for that clarification.

I can understand rather better with a medical emergency ... when your told (and not the first, second, third, fourth time ...) that there's a train fault, you tend to believe there's train fault !!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: JayMac on March 14, 2018, 20:43:50
Sending your bus ticket to GWR as a consequential loss claim I presume?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on March 14, 2018, 22:30:24
The 19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa service was diverted via Bathampton (not calling at Melksham), with congestion on the single line cited. Not a good evening for Melksham services.

With the line an important secondary route and invaluable during diversions, the singling and reduction of the route between Bradford and Thingley junctions to effectively one signalling block section is a major constraint to capacity if trains are not running exactly to schedule.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on March 14, 2018, 23:20:06
Further to my previous post, I have been monitoring the Melksham single line occupancy for this evening. Between 18:30 and 21:30, the line has been pretty much running beyond capacity with multiple delays caused by late running. The trains are listed in the order that they actually ran, with the times the Melksham single line was effectively occupied. I have included Thingley East Jn as this is the location of the crossover for trains coming off of the single line, meaning a down train can't go beyond there if there is a train coming up from Bradford Junction.

1C91 17:03 Paddington to Penzance.
Thingley East Jn 18:30
Thingley Jn 18:32
Bradford Jn 18:42

7C66 17:50 Wootton Bassett to Merehead
Thingley East Jn 18:44
Thingley Jn 18:46
Bradford Jn 19:03

2O00 17:41 Cheltenham to Southampton
Thingley East Jn 19:13
Thingley Jn 19:14
Bradford Jn 19:25

7A15 17:05 Merehead to Acton
Bradford Jn 19:33
Thingley Jn 19:48
Thingley East Jn 19:49

7C64 14:39 Acton to Merehead
Thingley East Jn 19:51
Thingley Jn 19:53
Bradford Jn 20:07

6C48 17:11 Appleford to Whatley
Thingley East Junction 19:57
Thingley Jn 20:10
Bradford Jn 20:24

1C94 18:57 Paddington to Plymouth
Thingley East Junction 20:26
Thingley Jn 20:28
Bradford Jn 20:37

1A97 16:00 Penzance to Paddington
Bradford Jn 20:38
Thingley Jn 20:49
Thingley East Jn 20:49

6A21 18:25 Whatley to Acton
Bradford Jn 20:55
Thingley Jn 21:11
Thingley East Jn 21:13

1C96 19:44 Paddington to Plymouth
Thingley East Jn 21:16
Thingley Jn 21:18
Bradford Jn 21:27

1A98 20:26 Taunton to Paddington
Bradford Jn 21:28
Thingley Jn 21:39
Thingley East Jn 21:41.

This is without the 2M18 19:15 Frome to Cheltenham service, which was diverted via Bathampton because of the congestion. It should have occupied the single line as follows:
Bradford Jn 19:40
Thingley Jn 19:56
Thingley East Jn 19:58

For details of the delays to the services listed, please see Real Time Trains. Bear in mind that the above list doesn't include the delays caused to other services at Thingley and Bradford junctions as a consequence of being stuck behind those trains waiting for the single line. The bottleneck the single line causes is clearly shown.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 15, 2018, 00:47:42
Further to my previous post, I have been monitoring the Melksham single line occupancy for this evening. Between 18:30 and 21:30, the line has been pretty much running beyond capacity ...

That is an immensely useful log, thank you.  In general, not helped by the lack of lay-bys for trains waiting for the single line (or waiting to get off it) at either end, which knock on to delaying trains on the London - Bristol or Cardiff - Portsmouth main lines. In particular tonight, there were the very unusual goings on a Chippenham, (mis?)reported initially as a train fault which meant that the evening started on the wrong footing.   From Royal Wootton Bassett to Bathampton, the two running lines are bi-directionally signalled and I've heard of "wrong line running" to clear traffic around an obstructed platform at Chippenham - even wrong line running through Box tunnel f I have read right!

Noting that a train that was due to call at Melksham actually reversed at Bathampton ... that's not all that rare.  Is is possible for other trains to reverse at Bathampton - HSTs and 800s.  Even freights, though I guess they would take a long time to run round on the loop if signalling could cope!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on March 15, 2018, 08:11:44
There were also problems caused by a passenger being taken ill at Chippenham and waiting for an ambulance


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 15, 2018, 08:19:34
There were also problems caused by a passenger being taken ill at Chippenham and waiting for an ambulance

Indeed - not quite that simple either:
... there were the very unusual goings on a Chippenham, (mis?)reported initially as a train fault ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 06:47:41
Major problems - engineering work overruns and a swathe of cancellations this morning.  Unclear what GWR are doing to carry the passengers who are expecting  a train service this morning.   Engineering works overrunning are not new, so there will be a contingency plan, right??


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 06:55:52
Quote
@GWRHelp - Most trains cancelled from Trowbridge to Chippenham, and Melksham calls. What alternatives are you offering? Ticket acceptance via Bath and /or buses?

Quote
Alterations to services between Westbury and Pewsey
Due to engineering works not being finished on time between Westbury and Pewsey all lines are blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be diverted. Disruption is expected until 13:00 16/03.
Further Information
An update will follow within the next 2 hours.
Last Updated:16/03/2018 05:27

Noting not a word  about disruption between Westbury and Swindon.   However, today's cancellations listed:

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33
09:56 Cardiff Central to London Paddington due 12:00
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
12:30 London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads due 14:07
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41

Sample full entry

Quote
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 will be cancelled.
This is due to engineering works not being finished on time.
Last Updated:16/03/2018 04:24

As I'm writing ... reply to my tweet

Quote
Hi there. Swindon to Melksham services will be cancelled. Up & Down services diverted via Melksham to call additionally at Swindon. We have mini buses on standby to run from Melksham when required. Rachel

No answer on ticket acceptance via Bath Spa / on what people to / from Trowbridge should do.  But then Twitter has its limits and I'm sure that Rachel has rather a lot on her plate today.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on March 16, 2018, 07:04:16
.... Rachel has rather a lot on her plate today.

A Cornish Cream Tea by any chance ???


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 16, 2018, 07:06:32
Points have been damaged at Heywood Road effectively shutting the Berks & Hants line at the Westbury end.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on March 16, 2018, 07:19:52
Points have been damaged at Heywood Road effectively shutting the Berks & Hants line at the Westbury end.

Quick off the mark there Bobm, I've been waiting for you to post piccys of the modified Mk3's delivered to Laira earlier this week and was thinking you're slow off the mark on that event.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 07:28:14
.... Rachel has rather a lot on her plate today.

A Cornish Cream Tea by any chance ???

No, but now that you've reminded me I'll stop for a Wiltshire Buttered Breakfast!



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on March 16, 2018, 07:37:52
Chiltern Railways and Virgin West Coast are accepting tickets by any reasonable route.

That is a familiar message posted when disruptions occur at other locations on the GWR network.

As there is no other operator in this neck of the woods that could provide a reasonable alternative route at a time of disruption I as a holder of a ticket via Melksham would travel via Bath and if I was asked to pay an excess I would refuse and would argue my case in court citing the duty of the rail operator to get me to my destination in times of disruption as set out in the T & C's.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 08:52:17
Chiltern Railways and Virgin West Coast are accepting tickets by any reasonable route.

That is a familiar message posted when disruptions occur at other locations on the GWR network.

As there is no other operator in this neck of the woods that could provide a reasonable alternative route at a time of disruption I as a holder of a ticket via Melksham would travel via Bath and if I was asked to pay an excess I would refuse and would argue my case in court citing the duty of the rail operator to get me to my destination in times of disruption as set out in the T & C's.


Not sure where that message came from - I took a look and couldn't see it.

Having been on the periphery of customer information provision, I can appreciate the issues the team has to get correct information and complete information out quickly - indeed you'll find me sometimes posting here to at least says something, and then editing to refine.  I suspect the GWR team do the same - though they will have far more tools at their hand to do i quicker and more accurately than we could.

In total agreement that TOCs should be required to get you there during interruptions - either "on the day" stuff or during planned engineering - with reasonable efficiency and without charging you more for their failure to provide normally timetabled service.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on March 16, 2018, 09:13:31
Major problems - engineering work overruns and a swathe of cancellations this morning.  Unclear what GWR are doing to carry the passengers who are expecting  a train service this morning.   Engineering works overrunning are not new, so there will be a contingency plan, right??

If theres nothing arranged & you need to be somewhere jump in a cab and send in a claim to GWR.....remember they can't hide behind not paying for consequential losses any more.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 09:27:53
Major problems - engineering work overruns and a swathe of cancellations this morning.  Unclear what GWR are doing to carry the passengers who are expecting  a train service this morning.   Engineering works overrunning are not new, so there will be a contingency plan, right??

If theres nothing arranged & you need to be somewhere jump in a cab and send in a claim to GWR.....remember they can't hide behind not paying for consequential losses any more.

My emphasis - I think you need to take reasonable steps to check that nothing HAS been arranged.   You also need to limit your extra costs / be prudent in spending GWR's money.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on March 16, 2018, 10:13:09
Major problems - engineering work overruns and a swathe of cancellations this morning.  Unclear what GWR are doing to carry the passengers who are expecting  a train service this morning.   Engineering works overrunning are not new, so there will be a contingency plan, right??

If theres nothing arranged & you need to be somewhere jump in a cab and send in a claim to GWR.....remember they can't hide behind not paying for consequential losses any more.

My emphasis - I think you need to take reasonable steps to check that nothing HAS been arranged.   You also need to limit your extra costs / be prudent in spending GWR's money.

Taking into account that I, and hundreds of thousands of others, make a pretty chunky contribution to "GWRs money" ourselves, I think it's fair that I/we will be able to be more prudent in spending it if and when GWR become more prudent in wasting our and our Businesses time hanging around for cancelled trains & the contingencies thereon.

Taking into account the amount of "GWR money" that is wasted on vanity projects and pointless advertising, you may find it more fruitful to challenge them on that particular issue.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 13:46:52
And another! ... looks like the over-run is over-running.  Was to be back by 05:00. then 13:00 now says "delays until 14:00" but this cancellation takes it until after 15:00.    I wonder if the 15:18 Swindon to Westbury will run?

Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be cancelled.
This is due to engineering works not being finished on time.

Taking into account that I, and hundreds of thousands of others, make a pretty chunky contribution to "GWRs money" ourselves, I think it's fair that I/we will be able to be more prudent in spending it if and when GWR become more prudent in wasting our and our Businesses time hanging around for cancelled trains & the contingencies thereon.

Taking into account the amount of "GWR money" that is wasted on vanity projects and pointless advertising, you may find it more fruitful to challenge them on that particular issue.

My suggestion of being prudent was not on any moral grounds, but rather on the grounds of helping you make a clear-cut case for claiming back.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 16, 2018, 14:33:57
I wonder if the 15:18 Swindon to Westbury will run?

Nope ...

Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to engineering works not being finished on time.

I think last train was 06:10 from Swindon (may have been a return trip at lunch time though?).

Hope it's worthwhile.   Please remind me what benefits the Newbury blockades and their overruns bring the TransWilts  :(


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on March 16, 2018, 15:00:56
The 08:41 from Weston to Cardiff has done well this week
Cancelled 4 out of 5 days - apparently shortage of rolling stock due to a higher number than expected number of trains requiring repairs


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 16, 2018, 19:53:04
Just to complete a miserable working week - the 18:48 left Swindon 37 minutes late on its way to Southampton via Melksham and Westbury.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 17, 2018, 03:24:40
Looks like no trains Saturday or Sunday ... Saturday was to be trains Westbury to Chippenham and then buses, Sunday was to be buses.  Threat / expectation of poor weather and lack of extra resource to clear junctions to operate points is reason given for the lack of Saturday trains. 

Described on Facebook as follows:

Quote
I have been alerted that due to poor forecast weather on Saturday / Sunday, in association with the diversion of all London to Bristol and South Wales trains via Trowbridge, there will be "no service between Westbury and Chippenham tomorrow" as "NR unable to provide staff for points at Thingley junction and Bradford junctions". Message to me late last night, so means no Saturday trains. Slight paraphrasing in my quote.

Suggest check with GWR in the morning for travel plans. Buses planned for Sunday anyway - and may be set up for Saturday / in both cases if it's considered safe with the weather. Sorry - very embarrassing; rail industry locally is failing to provide the level of consistent reliable service that it should and falling over with a bit on snow. Discussion for later - this post is to alert potential passengers.

Snowy picture from 2 weeks ago to help promote this post - I really can't put up a picture of a train! TransWilts doing its utmost to press for performance improvement - but we can only seek to persuade and promote improvements - we have no position of enforcement. The last week has been exceptionally difficult - we do look forward to a much better week to come, and based on engineering plans we have some hope that much better will be delivered when trains return on Monday.

Better share the picture too:

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/nojunction.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 04:45:06

Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Westbury due 06:53
05:17 Gloucester to Westbury due 06:53 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42
08:49 Swindon to Westbury due 09:42 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on March 19, 2018, 06:59:33
Alterations to services between Swindon and Westbury
Due to severe weather between Swindon and Westbury the line towards Melksham is closed.
Train services running through these stations have been suspended. Melksham will not be served. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 07:19:38
Alterations to services between Swindon and Westbury
Due to severe weather between Swindon and Westbury the line towards Melksham is closed.
Train services running through these stations have been suspended. Melksham will not be served. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.


Quote
Customer Advice
If you are travelling between Trowbridge and Chippenham, your ticket is valid via Bath Spa.

THANK YOU, GWR ... (see "Frequent Poster" thread ... really bad practise when this doesn't happen when trains not running to the biannual printed timetable and people are surcharged!)

And if you're going using the intermediate station at Melksham, bus service x34 is running - though it does not go anywhere near the station in Chippenham after the first coupld of inbound buses until the 15:15 outbound.   Goodness only knows about fare acceptance or about buses from GWR.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 09:58:56
After some suggestions that trains would resume with the 09:48 off Westbury .. it appears not. Cancelled
09:48 ex WSB
10:47 ex SWI
11:47 ex WSB
12:47 ex SWI
according to Journey check.

On the ground reports of confusion as to what's happening from Trowbridge!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 10:46:29
After some suggestions that trains would resume with the 09:48 off Westbury .. it appears not. Cancelled
09:48 ex WSB
10:47 ex SWI
11:47 ex WSB
12:47 ex SWI
according to Journey check.

On the ground reports of confusion as to what's happening from Trowbridge!

Quote
Delays to services at Westbury
Due to a fault with the signalling system at Westbury some lines are blocked.
Train services running through this station may be delayed by up to 60 minutes. Disruption is expected until 12:00 19/03.
Further Information
An update will follow within the next 2 hours.
Last Updated:19/03/2018 10:12

and

Quote
Alterations to services between Swindon and Westbury
Due to severe weather between Swindon and Westbury the line towards Melksham is closed.
Train services running through these stations have been suspended. Melksham will not be served. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
Customer Advice
Limited road transport is in operation. If you are travelling between Trowbridge and Chippenham, your ticket is valid via Bath Spa.
Further Information
An update will follow within the next 2 hours.
Last Updated:19/03/2018 09:58

and 12:20, 13:29, 14:04, 15:18, 16:21 and 17:36 all cancelled.    First trains of the day - 18:32 from Westbury and 18:48 from Swindon? 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 13:29:10
First trains of the day - 18:32 from Westbury and 18:48 from Swindon? 

Nope - the 18:48 from Swindon (that's the 17:41 from Cheltenham Spa) now reported

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 19:30
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 19:30 will be cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

In better news, the freight loops at Hullavington (near Chippenham on the Swindon to Parkway line) are back in use, so the better weather is coming our way!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 18:10:35
Sings - "When will I see you trains again ...."

I had planned to be on the 06:36 from Melksham tomorrow (Tuesday) morning ... headed for an appointment in Swansea at 10:00.  Phone call to check to GWR ... "that train is currently showing as cancelled due to severe weather. If the weather improves overnight it might be re-instated".  Gobsmacked.

I asked about alternatives ... apparently their may be a bus, but the connecting train at Trowbridge won't be held.

Suggestion I call again - "we're here from 6 O'Clock in the morning" ...

Final whips of snow here are melting away ... road traffic is normal ...

For regular travellers, I'm told that at least one of the morning trains going the other way - up to Swindon - is expected to run according to the data that S** - who's based in Cheshire - has on her system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 19, 2018, 19:17:42
Tonight ...

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 has been cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on March 19, 2018, 20:49:01
Tonight ...

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 has been cancelled.
This is due to severe weather.

GWR Twitter told somebody at approx 1730 that it was hoped that services would soon resume, so it appears the snowdrifts blocking the line between Thingley Junction and Bradford Jcn are still there :) :)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 21, 2018, 04:48:19
Full service back on 20th March - to my knowledge all 18 trains ran for the 3rd day this month.

15 on the 06:46 when it arrived into Trowbridge  (15/5)
15 on the 20:06 when it left Swindon (16/7)

Two sub-standard loadings

I suspect the 06:36 off Melksham was quiet because no-one knew if it was running ... even late the previous evening, "GWR" in Cheshire told of bad weather and to check with them when they came on duty at 6 a.m.

And the 20:06 off Swindon may have been missing a few connecting passengers ... although the 20:00 Bristol was expected at 20:03 on the board pictured, you can't believe everything you read ... Real Time Trains gives an eventual time for it of 20:33

Impassioned plea from customers  to me (as community rail person) - "We rely on the TransWilts trains ... can you DO something".   Well - I am trying; I'm understanding some of the issues that GWR have, but in school report form i would have to be "often put the effort in, but sometimes could do better - and a little more effort could make them do a lot better. But they're not dealt the easiest hand either".


(http://www.wellho.net/pix/dcswi_20180320.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 22, 2018, 08:37:39
22nd March 2018

Quote
Train Cancellations
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:03
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12

13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.
Further Information
Passengers for Westbury should travel via Bath Spa.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 22, 2018, 09:51:07
Both now re-instated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 22, 2018, 09:52:14
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:03
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:03 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

Found a driver - thank you  ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 22, 2018, 09:55:13
Good to see Journeycheck showing the reinstatement rather than just deleting it from the cancelled list.

Note also the 12:47 ex Swindon will terminate at Westbury and not continue to Frome with the return, rather obviously, also starting from Westbury.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 23, 2018, 15:32:45
Today ..

14:04 Frome to Swindon cancelled (missed that one of journey check as I was down at the station TRYING to travel!)

Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to urgent repairs to the track
.

These things happen - but again awful communication;  Seven people at Melksham Station at 14:20 ready for the 14:29 to Swindon.   Regular user was speaking on the help point when I got to the station ... left his number and they called him back to say a taxi would be sent.  Half an hour later (!) a couple phoned in and were told that nothing had been arranged, but they would get onto it now, and a few minutes later I called in (to check it really was in the system) and to ask when the taxis would arrive - was given an e.t.a. of 15:30.   When I enquired why it takes so long, told it's because of the traffic and road conditions!!

Anyway - about 5 past 3, taxi turns up and three school kids get out and walk away from the station.   I ask the driver if she's rail replacement and taking people on to Chippenham - yes, she's rail replacement but no, she can't take people on because she's got another job in Trowbridge.   Quick call around, and one person is for Bristol so put him in that taxi back to Trowbridge.   About ten past, another taxi turns up / rail replacement from Trowbridge and he CAN take people on to Chippenham; four go with him.   One person has walked off, leaves just me ... I phone and cancel my appointment and come back home to log another epic rail replacement failure.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 23, 2018, 15:37:11
As a postscript...

I was at Swindon and there were two people sitting in the waiting room by platform 2 biding their time for the 15:18 and hadn't spotted the cancellation notice on the screen in the corner.  They were heading for Melksham so I suggested they crossed over to platform 4 and took the next train to Chippenham.   They seemed a little reluctant to move so I am not sure if they took the advice or not.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 23, 2018, 17:21:49
As a postscript...

I was at Swindon and there were two people sitting in the waiting room by platform 2 biding their time for the 15:18 and hadn't spotted the cancellation notice on the screen in the corner.  They were heading for Melksham so I suggested they crossed over to platform 4 and took the next train to Chippenham.   They seemed a little reluctant to move so I am not sure if they took the advice or not.

Each person let down is a personal story ...

Two people headed for a hospital appointment in Swindon that they were going to miss ...

First time users - first trip out by train to Melksham having just given up driving and looking to get home ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on March 27, 2018, 14:30:50
Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03

14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 has been cancelled.
This is due to the train for this service having broken down.

Further Information

Due to the train for this service having broken down the Melksham single line is closed. Customers for Melksham are requested to change at Trowbridge for taxi replacement. Customers at Melksham are requested to wait for Taxis, which will convey them to Chippenham for onward rail travel.

Customers for all other stations are requested to circulate via Bath Spa and wait for the next available service.

For more detailed information please contact a member of station staff or make use of the Customer Help Point systems available.

Please allow more time for your intended journey.

Last Updated:27/03/2018 14:19

Quote
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01

15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.

This is due to the train for this service having broken down.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on March 27, 2018, 15:51:13

Quote
Train Cancellations
15:00 Bristol Temple Meads to London Paddington due 16:40
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01

If the 15:00 to Bristol to London is cancelled and that should connect into the 15:35 at Chippenham, makes sense if you have that cancelled too as no-one will be in Chippenham to make the connection anyway  ;D

So glad I caught the earlier train 'cos it was late!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on April 05, 2018, 11:08:35
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34

11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41

12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03

14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 05, 2018, 11:55:20
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34

11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


etc

At least that's the service that's followed by another one about half an hour later!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 07, 2018, 15:52:33
Quote
15:06 Westbury to Swindon due 15:50
15:06 Westbury to Swindon due 15:50 is being delayed at Westbury.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on April 07, 2018, 16:07:20
Finally left 41 minutes late.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on April 08, 2018, 05:53:15
Quote
19:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 21:44

19:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 21:44 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 08, 2018, 06:16:57
Quote
19:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 21:44

19:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 21:44 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Portsmouth - Cardiff is Portsmouth - Swindon today; Bath to Bristol closed.  Just that one cancelled via TransWilts so far, but Swindon to Bath shuttles decimated, and significant cancellations on Westbury to Bath shuttles.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on April 08, 2018, 06:34:19
I expect GWR will produce a ‘Line Update’ for services (if you can use the word) to/from Bath Spa on Journey Check once they’ve finished listing all the cancelled and altered services. Very disappointing and going back to the debate of why produce a revised timetable if you’ve absolutely no hope of running it?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 08, 2018, 07:47:52
I expect GWR will produce a ‘Line Update’ for services (if you can use the word) to/from Bath Spa on Journey Check once they’ve finished listing all the cancelled and altered services. Very disappointing and going back to the debate of why produce a revised timetable if you’ve absolutely no hope of running it?

Four hours after those cancellations were announced and no "line update".

Sense for an achievable timetable would be hourly Swindon - Portsmouth change at Trowbridge for Bath Spa, Hourly Bath Spa to Westbury with extensions to Weymouth, with London to Devon / Cornwall trains with extra stops at Westbury for Bath Passengers to Reading and London.   Biggest issue?  Accessible interchange at Trowbridge.  Some trains may need more that 3 carriages, but that won't effect crew needs on the types in use.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on April 08, 2018, 08:56:06
Were you aware of this one?

08:15 Westbury to Swindon due 09:04


08:15 Westbury to Swindon due 09:04 will be terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 29 minutes late.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 08, 2018, 09:22:50
Were you aware of this one?

08:15 Westbury to Swindon due 09:04


08:15 Westbury to Swindon due 09:04 will be terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 29 minutes late.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Became aware a few minutes ago ... though not of the reason.   The turn around at Chippenham is to allow the return train to Portsmouth to be on time. Bus organised on to Swindon, I am told.  Whether the bus comes from the bus company based in Chippenham who have 40 vehicles and drivers and use few if any of them on Sundays, from First in Bath, or from West Bromwich or Timbuktu, I know not.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on April 08, 2018, 09:25:53
With the consequence

Quote
09:18 Swindon to Portsmouth Harbour due 11:53

09:18 Swindon to Portsmouth Harbour due 11:53 will be started from Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

There should have been Bath shuttle from Swindon due into Chippenham a few minutes before which would have provided a life-line for anyone from Swindon who got to the station early enough for the 09:18 - but that was cancelled too.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on April 08, 2018, 09:39:44
Whether the bus comes from the bus company based in Chippenham who have 40 vehicles and drivers and use few if any of them on Sundays, ....

How dare you say that Grahame, disturbing those drivers when their having their weekly Sunday morning lie-in when they work jolly hard the rest of the week providing a reliable bus service from Melksham to surrounding villages and nearby towns something the local rail operator is incapable of doing.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on April 08, 2018, 13:36:57
Just noticed this..

Quote
20:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 22:39

20:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 22:39 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.

It will call additionally at Melksham.

This is due to a shortage of train drivers.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on April 08, 2018, 17:19:05
Quote
17:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 19:42

17:08 Portsmouth Harbour to Swindon due 19:42 will be terminated at Westbury.

It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Chippenham and Swindon.

This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
20:19 Swindon to Portsmouth Harbour due 22:52

20:19 Swindon to Portsmouth Harbour due 22:52 will be started from Westbury.

It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.

This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 14, 2018, 21:20:55
Quote
21:14 Westbury to Chippenham due 21:39
21:14 Westbury to Chippenham due 21:39 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

21:42 Chippenham to Westbury due 22:08
21:42 Chippenham to Westbury due 22:08 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

Always useful when the last train of the day runs  ;D

The usual last train on a Saturday is 18:32 from Westbury ... extra added today. Then cancelled. Then re-instated.  The last train from Swindon on a Saturday is 21:06.   Now what would be good as regular is that 21:14 coming back from Swindon at 22:14.

I gave the train a miss this evening ... 20:10 bus from Bath.   Full.  Shows that people do want to get to Melksham of a Saturday evening.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 09:32:16
Quote
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/04/2018 09:21

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/04/2018 09:21


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 10:32:13
Quote
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33
09:48 Westbury to Swindon due 10:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/04/2018 09:21

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/04/2018 09:21

Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:03
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:03 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.

13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.
Last Updated:17/04/2018 10:25

Two different failures on the same day, or same problem and someone selected the wrong excuse from a set of options?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on April 17, 2018, 10:36:03
Don't forget Graham, good news is around you!  ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 10:57:19
Don't forget Graham, good news is around you!  ;)

Indeed ... little steps back and big steps forward.   Remember just how much quicker and frequent  trains are between Reading and London now that they were 100 years ago, and smile and say "oh never mind" when 1 or 10 are cancelled or take an hour or two longer that they should!   :D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 12:19:47
Never rains but it pours!!

Quote
Due to a fault with the signalling system between Trowbridge and Chippenham the line towards Melksham is blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

Quote
Train Cancellations
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
12:16 Greenford to West Ealing due 12:29
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:03
12:32 West Ealing to Greenford due 12:44
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:12
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 12:37:57
Never rains but it pours!!

Quote
Due to a fault with the signalling system between Trowbridge and Chippenham the line towards Melksham is blocked.
Train services running through these stations may be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

Tweet to @GWRHelp

Noting line Trowbridge towards Chippenham blocked and 17:36 Swindon to Westbury (other way) cancelled. Please run up train via Bathampton rather than needlessly cancelling peak service. Thank You

Should be plenty of time - train has half an hour in Swindon, and as I understand it problem's with the crossover onto the branch at Trowbridge, so southbound can run.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on April 17, 2018, 13:13:12
As usual, GWR Journey Check doesn't give any travel advice for passengers


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 13:17:34
As usual, GWR Journey Check doesn't give any travel advice for passengers

Further Twitter chat (still no advice, but discussion complete) ...

Quote
Noting line Trowbridge towards Chippenham blocked and 17:36 Swindon to Westbury (other way) cancelled. Please run up train via Bathampton rather than needlessly cancelling peak service. Thank You

Hi. Sorry for the disruption. If operationally possible this would be looked at. Lewis

 Thanks - can you clarify - does that mean "we will take a look" or "we have taken a look and not possible"?  If you look and it is possible, would you actually then do it?

If possible it would be done but at the moment if doesn't look operationally possible. If this changes details will be updated on our website. Lewis

OK ... odd ... been done before.  Lots of taxis from Chippenham tonight then ;-)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on April 17, 2018, 14:01:18
The issue with your sensible suggestion Grahame is almost certainly the lack of a train to form the service; a fault on a Turbo headed for Weymouth this morning resulted in the morning Transwilts unit being utilised to cover this failure (this train being otherwise idle due to the fault at Bradford Junction), with the unit which would have worked the afternoon Transwilts services being redeployed on the Westbury - Bristol Parkway - Bath - Parkway - Westbury circuit.

Of course, if the broken Turbo could be repaired then your proposed work-around would potentially work...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 14:13:52
The issue with your sensible suggestion Grahame is almost certainly the lack of a train to form the service; a fault on a Turbo headed for Weymouth this morning resulted in the morning Transwilts unit being utilised to cover this failure (this train being otherwise idle due to the fault at Bradford Junction), with the unit which would have worked the afternoon Transwilts services being redeployed on the Westbury - Bristol Parkway - Bath - Parkway - Westbury circuit.

Ah - that figures.    Broken down train AND broken track, but reason given is purely the track.   That way, it looks like Network Rail's problem, and presumably any penalties and costs go against Network Rail's account not GWR's!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 14:22:54
Quote
Customer Advice

Buses are being provided to run at the times of the trains from Westbury and Chippenham.

Replacement road transport services are conveying passengers between Westbury and Chippenham via Trowbridge and Melksham in both directions until further notice. Please see signage at the station for the location of the rail replacement bus stop and local bus stop information.

Nice to know / have confirmed.

Deadly for passengers from SWINDON who will have to leave there earlier than usual in order to be at Chippenham in time for the bus.  15:00 for 15:18, 17:30 for 17:36, 20:00 for 20:06 ... I suspect the 18:48 WILL run as its an important service a through train north to south


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on April 17, 2018, 20:30:41
Appears that 2O00 1741 Cheltenham to Southampton ran through normally, but 2M18 1932 Westbury to Cheltenham was diverted.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 17, 2018, 21:01:03
Appears that 2O00 1741 Cheltenham to Southampton ran through normally, but 2M18 1932 Westbury to Cheltenham was diverted.

What I would have expected - the important through trains, and the crossover at Trowbridge out of action.  Yet impractical to divert a northbound local train during the day even to let the peak return service run.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 18, 2018, 07:07:54
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:18/04/2018 06:48

NOT a major problem - insignificant compared to yesterday, when only one train out of 14 scheduled managed to travel along the line between Trowbridge and Chippenham after 10 a.m.    But symptomatic of the broken railway we have at present.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 22, 2018, 09:45:55
Quote
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.
Additional Information
Customers should use the next service, the 19:41 from Westbury to Cheltenham Spa which calls at Trowbridge (19:46), Melksham (19:57), Chippenham (20:08) and arrives Swindon at 20:25.

Quote
19:53 Swindon to Westbury due 20:36
19:53 Swindon to Westbury due 20:36 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.
Additional Information
Customers travelling from unstaffed stations are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations. This will enable us to get suitable road replacement transport to customers as quickly as possible.

Considering the chaos all around with a sea of cancellations on other lines, we have gotten off lightly - and the customer service information on Journey Check is streets ahead of what it's been in the past.

Locally (from experience of running a hotel in Melksham) we could source suitable transport to get people to Chippenham or Trowbridge from an unexpected (standing) start in around 15 to 20 minutes at the worst.   I am delighted to read that sped is of the essence now in sourcing road replacement, as the previous system used by GWR routinely took four times linger than what I know is possible.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 24, 2018, 08:35:15
From last night

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19 has been previously delayed, is being further delayed between Chippenham and Melksham and is now expected to be 14 minutes late.
This is due to congestion.
Last Updated:23/04/2018 18:10


17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be terminated at Swindon.
It will no longer call at Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury, Dilton Marsh, Warminster, Salisbury, Romsey and Southampton Central.
This is due to train crew being delayed by service disruption.
Further Information
Passengers are requested to utilise the next available service.

Down from 18 to 7 trains this week ... and can't even find the staff to run all of those

The next train to Westbury after the 18:48 last night was the 06:10 this morning ... to be fair, there was also a rail replacement bus for the later train, due into Westbury at 21:16 when the train which was short of a conductor (ran empty, I understand) should have got there at 19:30.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 25, 2018, 09:21:23
And again ... can't even manage all 7 services ...

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
This is due to a late running freight train.

Further Information
Customers travelling from unstaffed stations are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations. This will enable us to get suitable road replacement transport to customers as quickly as possible.

There seems to be something of a question mark as to whether anyone will want to travel from Melksham (the unstaffed station left out ... and something of an assumption that they'll notice the cancellation in good time and know to call.

Realitically, a call from GWR to get a local taxi to the station when they first knew of the issue ... or better still to have one of their five extra staff employed to chat to each other at Trowbridge based at Melksham while the chaos is ongoing ... would be far better for customer service ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 25, 2018, 16:35:40
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19 will be starting late from Swindon.
This is due to the ambulance service dealing with an incident.
Last Updated:25/04/2018 16:24


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 26, 2018, 18:46:45
And for today ...

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be diverted between Gloucester and Westbury.
It will no longer call at Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham and Melksham but will call additionally at Bristol Parkway.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on April 26, 2018, 19:38:04
And for today ...

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be diverted between Gloucester and Westbury.
It will no longer call at Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham and Melksham but will call additionally at Bristol Parkway.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


That's some diversion.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 26, 2018, 20:57:55
And the return working ... at least it covered as far as Swindon; does not count as a TransWilts cancellation

Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Swindon and Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Kemble, Stroud and Stonehouse.
It is being delayed between Swindon and Gloucester and is now expected to be 17 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on April 27, 2018, 07:48:36
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
Facilities on the 11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34.
Toilet facilities are not available. Disabled toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Toilets are not available.

We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.

Quote
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41
Facilities on the 12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41.
Toilet facilities are not available. Disabled toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Toilets are not available.

We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.

A little inconvenient ... but when compared to no train, a minor issue ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 01, 2018, 11:30:39
Quote
Train Cancellations
11:15 Avonmouth to Bristol Temple Meads due 11:49
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41

Due to a fault on the train ... just 3 cancellations across the whole GWR area, and two are on TransWilts.  For last month, the service group that includes the TransWilts was the worst performing on "ppm" - official.  And whatever passengers on other lines feel - we've had it worsererer  >:(


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 01, 2018, 12:20:42
Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.

Big relief - looks like they've fixed it or found a new(er [replacement]) train at Westbury


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 01, 2018, 13:49:48
Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.

Big relief - looks like they've fixed it or found a new(er [replacement]) train at Westbury

Spoke too soon

Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

So it's lunch time now ... next train from Swindon to Westbury at about twenty to six this evening.  And someone suggested that the North Cotswolds line was bad!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 01, 2018, 15:42:51
The pain continues....

Quote
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04 will be cancelled.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Additional Information
Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Chippenham or Swindon should travel on the 16:42 Gloucester service (16:47 from Trowbridge) and change at Bath Spa for the 17:44 service to London Paddington which calls at Chippenham (17:55) and Swindon at 18:11.

Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Melksham should contact station staff or use the Customer Help-Point.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport to Chippenham from the station car park.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on May 01, 2018, 17:16:04
Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.

Big relief - looks like they've fixed it or found a new(er [replacement]) train at Westbury

Spoke too soon

Quote
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03
14:04 Frome to Swindon due 15:03 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01
15:18 Swindon to Westbury due 16:01 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

So it's lunch time now ... next train from Swindon to Westbury at about twenty to six this evening.  And someone suggested that the North Cotswolds line was bad!

You at least get road transport from Melksham..............I don't see too many taxis being laid on from Paddington to Great Malvern or Hereford?  :)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 01, 2018, 17:38:12
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:19 will be started from Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.

It will be delayed at Chippenham.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Additional Information
This service will be started from Chippenham but will be delayed. Customers at Swindon should travel to Chippenham on the 17:31 Taunton service.

Fully expected the 17:36 to be cancelled outright.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 01, 2018, 17:44:08
Fully expected the 17:36 to be cancelled outright.

Fingers crossed that people were in time for the 17:31 and alerted ... if coming through from London to stay on the train - but excellent not to have cancelled the train completely.  Thank you.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 04, 2018, 06:32:17
Lots of these today.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31
Facilities on the 10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:04/05/2018 06:17

Slight "heartstopper" moment when I saw the map at the top of the page as the train above is my steed for the day!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on May 04, 2018, 20:53:54

Well at least they weren't cancelled


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 04, 2018, 21:53:03

Well at least they weren't cancelled

Perfectly happy with two carriages at present  ;D   on a scale of 1 to 100, where 100 is a cancellation of the 17:36, this would struggle to be a 2.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 05, 2018, 21:15:25
Quote
20:02 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 21:50

20:02 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 21:50 will be reinstated.

It will be terminated at Gloucester.

It will no longer call at Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge and Westbury.

This is due to trespassers on the railway earlier today.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 06, 2018, 06:37:57
Quote
16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:05
16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

17:28 Swindon to Westbury due 18:11
17:28 Swindon to Westbury due 18:11 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

19:53 Swindon to Westbury due 20:36
19:53 Swindon to Westbury due 20:36 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 06, 2018, 07:37:47
Just going back to last night's 20:02.

After terminating at Gloucester it did carry on to Westbury but without a guard or passengers.   At least it had a driver.

(http://www.mbob.co.uk/rforum/swi5m24.png)

Seen here on Opentraintimes while said driver changed ends at Swindon


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 06, 2018, 09:34:04
08:28 Westbury to Swindon reported 45 minutes late - "train late from depot".   Hope the return trip makes a Weymouth connection at Westbury as Sunday is the only day of the week that there are (in theory) connections both ways.

Edit to correct text


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 06, 2018, 09:43:37
08:28 Westbury to Swindon reported 5 minutes late - "train late from depot".   Hope the return trip makes a Weymouth connection at Westbury as Sunday is the only day of the week that there are (in theory) connections both ways.

Terminated at Chippenham with the return starting back from there.  Suspect news was too late for anyone in Swindon to catch the earlier Penzance train to meet it.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 06, 2018, 09:56:05
08:28 Westbury to Swindon reported 5 minutes late - "train late from depot".   Hope the return trip makes a Weymouth connection at Westbury as Sunday is the only day of the week that there are (in theory) connections both ways.

Terminated at Chippenham with the return starting back from there.  Suspect news was too late for anyone in Swindon to catch the earlier Penzance train to meet it.

Pretty unhappy regular commuters at Trowbridge for Swindon ... and they will be double happy when they find their return train cancelled though lack of crew.  Although it's a Sunday morning, there are people who live in West Wilts and live in Swindon, and rely on public transport to reach their jobs.   Modal change of the sort we (CRP) have set out to foster but which seems at times to be a battle.   Talk of overcrowded buses this weekend (and not rail replacement ones!) too.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 06, 2018, 10:05:41
Quote
09:26 Swindon to Westbury due 10:08
09:26 Swindon to Westbury due 10:08 will be started from Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to this train being late from the depot.

Quote
08:47 Warminster to Bristol Temple Meads due 09:44
08:47 Warminster to Bristol Temple Meads due 09:44 has been delayed at Warminster and is now 48 minutes late.
This is due to this train being late from the depot.

Oops ... although the latter isn't on Swindon to Westbury, it's the granting on a TransWilts request for an earlier train from Warminster on a Sunday - and these early Bank Holiday Sunday runs are important marketing for a service that's looking at a new market ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 06, 2018, 14:20:25
16:20 Westbury to Swindon and 17:28 return both re-instated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 06, 2018, 15:18:08
16:20 Westbury to Swindon and 17:28 return both re-instated.


Let's hope their earlier cancellation notice hasn't put too many people off.

Although I'm not around and travelling today, I do have incoming messages about trips people are taking - not only regulars but "my first time on a senior card" and "can you help me / tell me which platform"


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 07, 2018, 18:29:30
Quote
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:18
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:18 will be cancelled.
This is due to vandalism on this train.

20:36 Swindon to Westbury due 21:19
20:36 Swindon to Westbury due 21:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to vandalism on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on May 07, 2018, 18:35:03
Quote
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:18
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:18 will be cancelled.
This is due to vandalism on this train.

20:36 Swindon to Westbury due 21:19
20:36 Swindon to Westbury due 21:19 will be cancelled.
This is due to vandalism on this train.

Hadn't noticed those two.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 17, 2018, 07:10:52
Logging for the record ... but NOT a problem

Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05
Facilities on the 07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:17/05/2018 06:54


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: chuffed on May 17, 2018, 08:13:59
08:41 Weston-Super-Mare to Bristol Parkway due 09:35
Facilities on the 08:41 Weston-super-Mare to Bristol Parkway due 09:35.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 8 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:17/05/2018 06:55

Does this make up for all the other times this train has been short formed ? I hope the passengers really spread themselves and their luggage around !


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 17, 2018, 08:22:28
Quote
Will be formed of 8 coaches instead of 3.
Does this make up for all the other times this train has been short formed ?

In some rail staff eyes, yes.

A decade ago (so no current managers implicated!) I was protesting at the cancellation of the 07:19 morning train to Swindon and was told that the second train (the 19:47) had been 5 carriages rather than 2, so we had actually been provided with more capacity rather than less that day ...  it may have been said in jest, but it was such a dry joke I think he was actually serious!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 20, 2018, 08:30:00
Nice sunny day ... perfect for a day out from Melksham to Weymouth .... and you can get back as far as Westbury, so it's almost a complete trip.

Quote
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

OK - I admit it. I DO know that you'd also be bustituted Dorchester to Weymouth ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on May 20, 2018, 13:45:06
Nice sunny day ... perfect for a day out from Melksham to Weymouth .... and you can get back as far as Westbury, so it's almost a complete trip.

Quote
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

OK - I admit it. I DO know that you'd also be bustituted Dorchester to Weymouth ...

Should be reinstated as a driver has agreed to stay on and do some overtime. If the diagrams don't change, Melksham will be graced with not one but two 153 units on that service!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 20, 2018, 15:57:26
Bit of a moving target today ...

Quote
15:28 Swindon to Westbury due 16:08
15:28 Swindon to Westbury due 16:08 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 21, 2018, 13:33:24
Should be reinstated as a driver has agreed to stay on and do some overtime. If the diagrams don't change, Melksham will be graced with not one but two 153 units on that service!

Almost like old times ...

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/aloldt1.jpg) 

.... a very quiet station, engineering poster telling you what had happened for the last three weeks, help point showing a boot screen.    And a 153 (well - 2 of them).   They feel like old friends so I popped down to the station.  Stopped around to see the train headed the other way and that reminded me what progress we have made. See http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=19843.msg238313#msg238313


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 25, 2018, 12:12:36
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 has been cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.

Quote
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a broken down train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on May 25, 2018, 12:29:46
Should be reinstated as a driver has agreed to stay on and do some overtime. If the diagrams don't change, Melksham will be graced with not one but two 153 units on that service!

Almost like old times ...

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/aloldt1.jpg) 

.... a very quiet station, engineering poster telling you what had happened for the last three weeks, help point showing a boot screen.    And a 153 (well - 2 of them).   They feel like old friends so I popped down to the station.  Stopped around to see the train headed the other way and that reminded me what progress we have made. See http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=19843.msg238313#msg238313

Not sure how to upload pictures to this site (can't see how)
But they added another green unit onto these 2 for a service out of WSM this morning


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 25, 2018, 13:07:37
Not sure how to upload pictures to this site (can't see how)

We're not an image hosting service ... but images can be included from your own website or other image hosting.   There are free services available - see http://twcrp.info/t19774 for a recent discussion in "News and Assistance"

Quote
But they added another green unit onto these 2 for a service out of WSM this morning

There's all sorts turning up at the moment ... this turn up on Wednesday ...

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/whatevernext_1.jpg)

and I even wonder if we might sometime see something like this

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/whatevernext_2.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on May 25, 2018, 15:16:10
(https://preview.ibb.co/jyJYqo/20180525_082703.jpg) (https://ibb.co/no4jwT)

(https://preview.ibb.co/hkHZVo/20180525_082705.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fT8xi8)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 26, 2018, 07:02:37
Saturday afternoon service already thinned out from the norm due to engineering ... now further thinned out leaving a four hour gap.  Always strikes me as really un-bright to cancel trips on already-sparse services!

Quote
14:05 Westbury to Chippenham due 14:30
14:05 Westbury to Chippenham due 14:30 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train guards.

Quote
14:42 Chippenham to Westbury due 15:08
14:42 Chippenham to Westbury due 15:08 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train guards.
Last Updated:26/05/2018 06:49


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 26, 2018, 07:30:39
Saturday afternoon service already thinned out from the norm due to engineering ... now further thinned out leaving a four hour gap.  Always strikes me as really un-bright to cancel trips on already-sparse services!

The compounded effect of engineering and crew shortage cuts ...

"Normal" Saturday - if they still exist. 
I want to go to Swindon ... can get to Melksham Station by 13:00. Train at 13:48, gets to Swindon at 14:20

Today.
I want to go to Swindon ... can get to Melksham Station by 13:00. Train to Chippenham at 16:20 get there 16:30.  Bus at 17:07, scheduled to arrive at Swindon at 17:47.

Amazing how it can take me three and a half hours longer on a 25 minute local transit!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 31, 2018, 08:20:52
Quote
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 31, 2018, 08:28:29
It's day 151 of 2018 ... and I note that this thread already has 243 posts on the subject of "2018 cancellations and amendments".   

How sad for our little line that basically has one train shuttling up and down with a couple of other trains that pass through in the early morning and early evening.  Four hour gaps in services both ways again today, notified 30 minutes after the final northbound train before the suspension until lunch time had left.   Forget all this "T minus 12" stuff - it's "T plus" today!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 31, 2018, 08:46:40
Another one bites the dust ...

I would expect the 08:53 service from Swindon to be diverted via Bathampton to avoid the single line.  :(

Ah yes ...

Quote
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.
Last Updated:31/05/2018 07:58

That's a gap from 06:36 to 13:14 at Melksham, with both the 09:18 and 11:12 not calling


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 31, 2018, 08:51:41
Problems on the Berks & Hants - West of England services being diverted via Swindon and Melksham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: SandTEngineer on May 31, 2018, 09:00:17
Reported as total loss of signalling between Southcote Junction and Thatcham ::)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on May 31, 2018, 09:02:06
.. which has the added complication of a number of level crossings along that stretch.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on May 31, 2018, 20:35:19
And this makes 4 trains fully or partly cancelled out of 18 today ....

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will no longer call at Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Presumably has a driver but no Train Manager?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on May 31, 2018, 21:39:19
And this makes 4 trains fully or partly cancelled out of 18 today ....

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will no longer call at Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Presumably has a driver but no Train Manager?

Ran ECS so looks like shortage at the back end


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 01, 2018, 18:53:38
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to congestion.

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be started from Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to congestion.
Last Updated:01/06/2018 17:32

As long as there's a good connection, this might be a sensible move.   Certainly not a major problem ....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on June 01, 2018, 19:27:32
I got a text at 19:22 to say the 18:32 would be run through to Swindon.  RTT says the train departed Chippenham 19 minutes late, so obviously a late decision.

20:08 also re-instated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 04, 2018, 06:24:46
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Further Information
Passengers for Chippenham and Swindon are requested to circulate via Bath Spa. Passengers at Westbury and Trowbridge for Melksham please speak to a member of staff.
Passengers at Melksham will be provided with replacement road transport.

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Last Updated:04/06/2018 06:08

Looks like they have enough trains to run everything else in the area, of course!

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/asat0618.jpg)

Following trains already cancelled this week to hand the line over to daytime freight and expresses ... at least we've had a bit of notice

Talk about "T-12" being the ideal ... this was T-0.0074 and really messes people about!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 04, 2018, 06:26:15
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 is being delayed between Swindon and Chippenham and is now expected to be 1 minute late.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.
Last Updated:04/06/2018 06:18

Shock, horror    ;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on June 04, 2018, 17:33:32
Sent off my letter demanding apology for the 1 minute delay this morning. Despicable company.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on June 04, 2018, 18:03:42
No apologies needed, the train ran to time through that area anyway, did leave Westbury a few minutes late though


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on June 05, 2018, 07:12:10
From JourneyCheck 05/06/2018

11:27 London Paddington to Penzance due 17:33

Additional 11:27 London Paddington to Penzance due 17:33 will be diverted between Reading and Taunton.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.

Last Updated:05/06/2018 04:15


OK if this is an additional service and was planned to operate via Westbury but why put up the reason given over 7 hours before the service is due to commence operating rather than to admit to yet another f***-up.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 07, 2018, 16:13:10
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train earlier today.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on the 18:00 Bristol Temple Meads service from Swindon (18:14 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 18:36 service towards Portsmouth Harbour which calls at Trowbridge (18:54) and Westbury (19:01).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on June 07, 2018, 17:16:20
At least clear instructions were given on what to do or what’s been provided.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 07, 2018, 18:07:40
At least clear instructions were given on what to do or what’s been provided.

Totally agreed.

Having cut the timetabled service from 18 trains to 7 for engineering works, a further cut on the day to 6 - with the extra train being removed being the peak service - is a little frustrating!



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: eightonedee on June 07, 2018, 21:46:02
From JourneyCheck 05/06/2018

11:27 London Paddington to Penzance due 17:33

Additional 11:27 London Paddington to Penzance due 17:33 will be diverted between Reading and Taunton.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.

Last Updated:05/06/2018 04:15


OK if this is an additional service and was planned to operate via Westbury but why put up the reason given over 7 hours before the service is due to commence operating rather than to admit to yet another f***-up.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 08, 2018, 06:43:09
Quote
4 Train Cancellations
06:06 Exeter St Davids to Exmouth due 06:38
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41

"Fault with the signalling system" ....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 08, 2018, 07:55:32
Quote
4 Train Cancellations
06:06 Exeter St Davids to Exmouth due 06:38
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41

"Fault with the signalling system" ....

Quote
Alterations to services at Swindon
Due to a fault with the signalling system at Swindon fewer trains are able to run on some lines.
Train services running through this station may be delayed by up to 20 minutes or revised. Disruption is expected until 09:30 08/06.
Additional Information
Owing to signalling problems in the Swindon area the number of trains passing through the station has had to be reduced either by cancellation of diversion via alternative routes. This will affect services between London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads, London Paddington and South Wales & Swindon and Westbury via Melksham.

Those services still operating through the Swindon area will be subject to delay.
Last Updated:08/06/2018 07:47


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on June 08, 2018, 07:59:54
Axle counters have failed around Wootton Bassett Junction.

Paddington-Cardiff shuttles also cancelled.   Alternate Bristol TM-Paddington services diverted via Newbury.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 09, 2018, 19:37:32
Quote
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:22
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Additional Information
Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Chippenham or Swindon should travel on the 19:45 Bristol Temple Meads service (19:51 from Trowbridge) and change at Bath Spa for the 20:49 service to London Paddington which calls at Chippenham (21:00) and Swindon at 21:15.

Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Melksham should contact station staff or use the Customer Help-Point.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport to Chippenham from the station car park.
Last Updated:09/06/2018 16:46


Quote
20:35 Swindon to Westbury due 21:20
20:35 Swindon to Westbury due 21:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Additional Information
Customers should use the next service, the 21:10 from Swindon, which calls at Chippenham (21:27), Melksham (21:36), Trowbridge (21:46), Westbury (21:53).


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 18, 2018, 18:52:27
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 is being delayed at Westbury and is now expected to be 21 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

Thank you for letting us know ... not a huge problem if the WebTIS is working.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on June 19, 2018, 00:11:47
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 is being delayed at Westbury and is now expected to be 21 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

Thank you for letting us know ... not a huge problem if the WebTIS is working.

For the record, it was diverted via Bathampton (fail to call at Melksham) as it missed its path on the single line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 19, 2018, 07:35:26
Most of the day like this:

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.
Last Updated:19/06/2018 06:42

NOT appropriate for the 15:18 or the 17:36 off Swindon



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on June 19, 2018, 07:49:11
Not just the IETs being cut in half then!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on June 19, 2018, 08:05:02
With more of the 153s going off lease soon the concern is one coach may turn into no coaches.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 19, 2018, 08:31:34
Not just the IETs being cut in half then!

Indeed ... and on a Monday to Thursday evening this is going to lead to people being unable to board.   This happened last Friday too. Friday's much the quietest day of the week - yet even last Friday (when this happened too) it was a struggle, with crew walking along the outside of the train coach banging on the windows and gesticulating to people to move up.   Ended up rammed all the way through, with a couple of GWR managers (it's a popular train for Swindon to Exeter home runs) in the rear cab!

GWR do acknowledge there's a problem; TransWilts is one of four services highlighted as having suffered disproportionately in the last year due to engineering works and their knock-ons.   In the last (financial) year to March 2018 we lost the majority of services on 30 days out of 363 - and that shows on the graph that Mark Hopwood displayed at the Community Rail conference on Friday.

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/afi1.jpg)

Raw numbers - down from 247k to 241k journeys; with complete service that would have scaled up to 262k - though even there we were restricting marketing due to lack of capacity on the 15:18 and 17:36 off Swindon.

The growth is there to be had ... but frankly we've got a long haul.  The very occasional drop to a 153 can be passed off as "at least we have a train"; should it become frequent, it will be seen as a broken promise to add capacity and an unpleasant experience undertaken by only the desperate.  For 2018/19 we already have a promise of 30 days with the majority of services lost due to the ongoing Newbury blockades and  even stability of numbers is challenging.  A crying shame when - with a reliable service to the GB timetable though out the year, we should be growing 20%.  And the challenge will be added to by the January 2019 timetable change when it looks like some well established connectional flows will be broken.


With more of the 153s going off lease soon the concern is one coach may turn into no coaches.

Indeed. It's a question of priorities, isn't it?  Cycle and luggage coaches to Fort William, or enough capacity to carry commuters from Exeter to Barnstaple or Swindon to Melksham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 21, 2018, 07:19:35
Looks like this pretty well all day ... and I have a report to suggest it happened yesterday too.   Makes 3 weekdays in the last 5.

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.

Reminder to GWR - your MD acknowledged last Friday that the TransWilts is one of four services that has been especially badly hit by the effects of the railway upgraded and that attention was being giving to bringing us and the other three services back up to at least the level of the others.   This reduction back to a single carriage on the 17:36 (and the previous train at 15:18 too) is a step in the wrong direction.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: ellendune on June 21, 2018, 08:06:11
Looks like this pretty well all day ... and I have a report to suggest it happened yesterday too.   Makes 3 weekdays in the last 5.

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.

I certainly saw that the 17.36 was a 153 when I was passing through the station yesterday. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on June 21, 2018, 08:10:22
I travelled in on the service which forms it.  It was 153318.

Seems some Severn Beach services are also down to one coach today as well.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Trowres on June 21, 2018, 09:49:10
21st June 2018.

The 08:53 Swindon-Westbury has been cancelled (train fault)

Also the 09:46 Westbury-Swindon and the 10:47 Swindon-Westbury.




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on June 21, 2018, 11:08:29
Looks like this pretty well all day ... and I have a report to suggest it happened yesterday too.   Makes 3 weekdays in the last 5.

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.

I certainly saw that the 17.36 was a 153 when I was passing through the station yesterday. 

153s are back out in force today. The 1220 Westbury to Swindon service is pencilled in for 153370 after being pinched from the rear of the 06:49 Worcester Shrub Hill to Weymouth service at Westbury following the failure of 166215 at Swindon after arriving with the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon service. Unfortunately unable to run the 0948 Westbury to Swindon service and return using the 153 as the crew are stuck in Swindon on the failed 166 unit.

Hopefully, the other Trans Wilts diagram will be formed of 2x153 units (153361 and 153369) as from the 1147 Westbury to Swindon service as another 153 is being sent across from Bristol to Westbury on 2F97. If so this should help with the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury service later.

As an aside, 153361 is still in FGW blue livery with its 'Connecting Wiltshire' vinyls on the side so would be making an appearance on its 'home' line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 23, 2018, 07:20:26
Quote
13 Train Cancellations
04:25 Swansea to London Paddington due 08:00
06:57 West Ealing to Greenford due 07:09
07:12 Greenford to West Ealing due 07:23
07:27 West Ealing to Greenford due 07:39
07:42 Greenford to West Ealing due 07:53
07:57 West Ealing to Greenford due 08:09
08:12 Greenford to West Ealing due 08:23
09:18 Paignton to London Paddington due 13:14
16:48 Westbury to Swindon due 17:31
17:00 Brighton to Bristol Temple Meads due 20:28
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:20
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20

We're not totally alone in having cancellations today ... but once again the TransWilts is the only line left without services due to lack of train crew late afternoon and evening.   A single train in one direction - 21:06 from Swindon as I recall - looks like it has survived


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on June 23, 2018, 09:28:14
What is with a majority of PAD to CNM terminating st Swindon today?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 24, 2018, 15:25:44
Two more of ours along loads of long distance stuff:

Quote
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
19:55 Swindon to Westbury due 20:35

Both lack of crew



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 26, 2018, 12:25:28
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32 has been cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.

Quote
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a points failure.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on June 26, 2018, 17:52:48
Points failure on the Berks & Hants line at Woodborough. 

Led to some pretty long delays for West of England services. The 10:03 from London Paddington was reversed back to Pewsey where it sat for nearly two hours before going forward. Train eventually terminated at Truro to form its return working.  (Handy that - its my train home!)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on June 27, 2018, 20:10:55
09:46 Westbury to Swindon and 10:47 Swindon to Westbury cancelled because of congestion at Swindon caused by a points failure in the Uffington area.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on June 28, 2018, 07:09:31
Broken down train - these two cancelled this morning;

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15

08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 28, 2018, 07:44:00
Broken down train - these two cancelled this morning;

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15

08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41

Looks like we're bottom of the pile again ... everything else in the area running.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on June 28, 2018, 09:44:38
Quote
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32

09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on June 28, 2018, 10:39:47
Broken down train - these two cancelled this morning;

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15

08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41

Looks like we're bottom of the pile again ... everything else in the area running.

A number of services cancelled out of Weston this morning, had to wait just under an hour for a train


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on June 28, 2018, 12:09:28
Quote
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32

09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

......not a good day for the Transwilts

12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10

Cancelled due to train faults


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Rob on the hill on June 28, 2018, 12:24:55
Quote
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32

09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28

10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

......not a good day for the Transwilts

12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10

Cancelled due to train faults

Looks to be the same unit plying between Westbury and Swindon which failed to leave Westbury DMU sidings at 0713.
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/C43787/2018/06/28/advanced


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 29, 2018, 06:45:59
Lots of these today ...

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
Facilities on the 17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 1 coach instead of 2.
Last Updated:29/06/2018 06:24

... at least we have something.  Promises to be a hot and uncomfortable journey.


As from 1st July ... in correspondence from GWR
Quote
If you see one of the 5 remaining cl.153s at Melksham something has gone wrong!
with the majority of TransWilts services switching to 2 car 165 units which are starting in the area


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 30, 2018, 11:09:08
Quote
15:06 Westbury to Swindon due 15:50
15:06 Westbury to Swindon due 15:50 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train driver being taken ill.
Last Updated:30/06/2018 10:04

16:00 Swindon to Westbury due 16:43
16:00 Swindon to Westbury due 16:43 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train driver being taken ill.
Last Updated:30/06/2018 10:04


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on June 30, 2018, 18:50:40
Quote
Cancellations to services between Salisbury and Westbury
Following a broken down train between Salisbury and Westbury the line towards Westbury has now reopened.
Train services running through these stations may be cancelled or delayed by up to 30 minutes. Disruption is expected until 19:30 30/06.
Customer Advice
Customers should look at alternative routes to their destinations using South Western Railway via any reasonable route and Cross Country services between Reading and Southampton due to further cancellations we will have to make throughout the evening.
CrossCountry are conveying passengers between Reading and Southampton Central in both directions until further notice. Arrangements have been made for Great Western Railway rail tickets to be accepted for these journeys.
South Western Railway are conveying passengers via any reasonable route until further notice. Arrangements have been made for Great Western Railway rail tickets to be accepted for these journeys.

Not only between Salisbury and Westbury ... I joined the crowd at Trowbridge Station at around 16:30 of the 16:54 (as it was today) to Melksham.   Lots of "delayed"s and even trains shown as coming, at one point our train was expected within a few minutes.    Then like everything else cancelled.   I don't know when the Bath / Bristol folks got away ... I let other Melksham / Chippenham passengers know about the last bus which we took- 17:29 from Trinity Church, 18:05 into Melksham.  Fare £4.50 single.

Automated boards and announcements of questionable accuracy and relevance.   Help point lady answering down to a scripted response rather than up to helping customers.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 01, 2018, 09:50:44
Quote
09:22 Swindon to Westbury due 10:02
09:22 Swindon to Westbury due 10:02 will be cancelled.
This is due to engineering works not being finished on time.

The 08:28 Westbury to Swindon and 08:30 Westbury to Warminster also cancelled, the 08:48 Warminster to Bristol started late at Westbury. 

I was at Westbury and seeing another very un-clever set of goings on and circumstances, with limited staff doing their very best to find out what was going on, help people many of whom were on their first legs of long journeys, and deal with a last minute set / platform switch.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 01, 2018, 10:20:06
Today is the day that (I was promised!) the new platform would come into use at Melksham.   Pity there are so few trains to use it ...

Quote
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
19:55 Swindon to Westbury due 20:35
19:55 Swindon to Westbury due 20:35 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

That makes 4 out of 13 gone so far ... 31% cancellation rate


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on July 01, 2018, 10:29:46
I was at Westbury and seeing another very un-clever set of goings on and circumstances, with limited staff doing their very best to find out what was going on, help people many of whom were on their first legs of long journeys, and deal with a last minute set / platform switch.
Not a good customer experience is it making your journey stressful worrying about missing your next connection(s).

Most if not all of us here are pretty savvy at trying to sort ourselves out in the event of delays and cancellations but if you are an infrequent rail traveller, elderly or vulnerable person you are heavily reliant on rail staff...if you can find one or they are not busy just trying to do their jobs.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Western Pathfinder on July 01, 2018, 19:11:29
Quote
Cancellations to services between Salisbury and Westbury
Following a broken down train between Salisbury and Westbury the line towards Westbury has now reopened.
Train services running through these stations may be cancelled or delayed by up to 30 minutes. Disruption is expected until 19:30 30/06.
Customer Advice
Customers should look at alternative routes to their destinations using South Western Railway via any reasonable route and Cross Country services between Reading and Southampton due to further cancellations we will have to make throughout the evening.
CrossCountry are conveying passengers between Reading and Southampton Central in both directions until further notice. Arrangements have been made for Great Western Railway rail tickets to be accepted for these journeys.
South Western Railway are conveying passengers via any reasonable route until further notice. Arrangements have been made for Great Western Railway rail tickets to be accepted for these journeys.

Not only between Salisbury and Westbury ... I joined the crowd at Trowbridge Station at around 16:30 of the 16:54 (as it was today) to Melksham.   Lots of "delayed"s and even trains shown as coming, at one point our train was expected within a few minutes.    Then like everything else cancelled.   I don't know when the Bath / Bristol folks got away ... I let other Melksham / Chippenham passengers know about the last bus which we took- 17:29 from Trinity Church, 18:05 into Melksham.  Fare £4.50 single.

Automated boards and announcements of questionable accuracy and relevance.   Help point lady answering down to a scripted response rather than up to helping customers.
. listed below is the service which I and others got on at Trowbridge yesterday afternoon having said goodbye to Grahame,a three car 166 with no working Aircon ,and two thirds full of most displeased passengers by the time it got to us,that's bad enough but then compounded by our Halt outside Bath Spa at the entry to platform signal,for the best part of an hour whilst a passenger that had collapsed on the service in front of us was dealt with by the paramedics that had been tasked to attend it got so hot it was dangerous and I had to persuade the train crew to open the doors of the middle carriage to prevent persons who were not well from passing out,to my surprise they got them open quickly and then staffed the doors to prevent anyone detraining,along with the driver getting out and taking a position on the trackside,having at last reached Bath an hour later ,platform staff were there to offer assistance to those that needed it and to provide plenty of bottled water which was most welcome, as an aside to this story I am pleased to report that I've at last found a use for The Famous Five ,or at least their posters ,which when removed from the mounts ,make for a useful fan substitute
All in all a dreadful experience yesterday,made much more bearable by the actions of the staff of GWR who did their upmost under extremely difficult conditions,for which my heartfelt thanks.

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/C47989/2018/06/30/advanced.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 01, 2018, 19:21:15
That does indeed sound grim.

I was lucky today with my train travel, even benefitted from catching a late running train which got me to my next destination earlier than I had planned.

One of my trains was the 12:57 from London Paddington to Penzance.  I was on it between Reading and Westbury.  Apparently one coach had aircon problems and while mine was warm it wasn't unbearable.   There was however no catering due to staff shortage.  Thankfully complimentary bottles of water were made available and frequent announcements advertising their availability.

I am glad I got off at Westbury though - the platform looked about three deep as we pulled in and it took a good three minutes to get everyone on board despite exhortations "to use all the available doors".


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 02, 2018, 10:59:23
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21

18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49

20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on July 02, 2018, 13:22:43
There are quite a few cancellation in the Bristol/Westbury areas and even Portsmouth Hbr today due to shortage of train crews


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on July 02, 2018, 16:48:27
There are quite a few cancellation in the Bristol/Westbury areas and even Portsmouth Hbr today due to shortage of train crews
The ‘Brightons’ have gone for a burton.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 03, 2018, 14:10:07
Quote
14:10 Frome to Swindon due 15:07

14:10 Frome to Swindon due 15:07 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
15:19 Swindon to Westbury due 16:00

15:19 Swindon to Westbury due 16:00 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 03, 2018, 14:44:34
Quote
14:10 Frome to Swindon due 15:07

14:10 Frome to Swindon due 15:07 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
15:19 Swindon to Westbury due 16:00

15:19 Swindon to Westbury due 16:00 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

This has gone way, way beyond a joke.  Complete service only 1 day in the last 10. That was 25th June, and we may have missed logging; I am giving GWR the benefit of the doubt.

On 29th June they put a one car on the 17:36.  Now I love the 153s, but there's a reason they're no longer supposed to be on that service - and that's because they can't cope.    All other days are significant cancellations, and with Chippenham Station seemingly moving towards being an unstaffed halt, arranging alternative transport is likely to be as poor as it is at Trowbridge.




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 03, 2018, 15:00:48
Quote
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:07

16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:07 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Further Information
Swindon   will be terminated at   Westbury
Westbury   is cancelled   
Swindon   is cancelled   
Westbury   is cancelled   

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Further Information
Swindon   will be terminated at   Westbury
Westbury   is cancelled   
Swindon   is cancelled   
Westbury   is cancelled   


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 04, 2018, 16:32:54
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central (via Melksham) due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Now partially re-instated

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be reinstated.
It will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on July 04, 2018, 21:20:22
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central (via Melksham) due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Now partially re-instated

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be reinstated.
It will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a fault on this train.

The SWR hire 158


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 04, 2018, 21:23:45
Indeed 158 888


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 06, 2018, 20:54:57
2O00 again ... but this time a much more minor problem at the far north of its run.

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be started from Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa.
This is due to a points failure.

Serious for people from Cheltenham Spa and north thereof to Stonehouse and south thereof, mind you!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 07, 2018, 09:34:54
Quote
20:02 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 21:50
Facilities on the 20:02 Cheltenham Spa to Westbury due 21:50.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

Talc  ;D - see http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20049.msg241443#msg241443


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 07, 2018, 12:43:09
Quote
15:06 Westbury to Swindon due 15:50

15:06 Westbury to Swindon due 15:50 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
15:22 Swindon to Warminster due 16:21

15:22 Swindon to Warminster due 16:21 will be started from Westbury.

It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on July 07, 2018, 13:16:36
Shortage of train crew, around 15:00 today, hmmmmmmmm ::)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 07, 2018, 13:27:29
Quote
16:32 Westbury to Swindon due 17:22

16:32 Westbury to Swindon due 17:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on July 07, 2018, 14:35:57
Shortage of train crew, around 15:00 today, hmmmmmmmm ::)

In the old days in the rugby fraternity it was known as "International Flu"  ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 07, 2018, 16:54:29
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:20

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham should travel on the 18:01 service towards Bristol Temple Meads (18:16 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 18:36 Portsmouth Harbour service which calls at Trowbridge (18:54) and Westbury (19:02).

Customers requiring Melksham should contact station staff or use the customer help point.

Replacement road transport will be provided for customers at Melksham.

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22

18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Additional Information
Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Chippenham or Swindon should travel on the 18:46 from Westbury (18:52 from Trowbridge) towards Bristol Temple Meads and change at Bath Spa for the 19:43 Bristol Temple Meads to London Paddington which call at Chippenham (19:56) and Swindon (20:12).

Customers requiring Melksham should contact station staff or use the customer help point.

Replacement road transport will be provided for customers at Melksham.


Quote
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20


19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham should travel on the 20:01 service towards Bristol Temple Meads (20:16 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 20:36 Portsmouth Harbour service which calls at Trowbridge (20:54) and Westbury (21:02).

Customers requiring Melksham should contact station staff or use the customer help point.

Replacement road transport will be provided for customers at Melksham.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on July 07, 2018, 19:56:52
Rather strange that the inbound train had two members of staff who left their kit on the 150, still on after departure time. Yes, it was Swindon platform 2.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 07, 2018, 20:10:01
Which inbound train was that?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 08, 2018, 07:12:59
Shortage of train crew, around 15:00 today, hmmmmmmmm ::)

In the old days in the rugby fraternity it was known as "International Flu"  ;)

One has to wonder if this offers an explanation. From The BBC (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44754366)

Quote
How England v Sweden interrupted a nation

England fans up and down the country interrupted weddings, holidays and other sporting events to make sure they caught England take on Sweden in the World Cup quarter-finals.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 08, 2018, 21:04:30
Quote
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28 will be terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Kemble, Stroud, Stonehouse and Cheltenham Spa.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 59 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Well at least it's running ... I expect quite a lot of that rather busy 166 that went down this morning will have come back up from Weymouth and changed onto this!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 09, 2018, 13:11:23
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 09, 2018, 13:23:46
With a limited service over the next few weeks starting today due to the latest Newbury works, it is not a good start to have the busiest evening service cancelled.  (I do agree that is stating the obvious but it is so frustrating.)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 09, 2018, 18:40:29
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be started from Salisbury.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury, Dilton Marsh and Warminster.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.

Proper service 18 trains per day.  Scheduled reduced to 7 trains due to engineering. Can't even find enough trains in working order to run them ... last southbound train today, 08:28 from Swindon.   Northbound gap 07:21 to 19:32.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 09, 2018, 20:04:10
Gets worse

Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa (via Melksham) due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 10, 2018, 05:37:53
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05

07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14

08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 10, 2018, 14:36:11
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa (via Melksham) due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.

Edit: Now reinstated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: ray951 on July 10, 2018, 16:20:45
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa (via Melksham) due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be cancelled.
This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs at the same time.

Given that there are no trains running to Oxford and Newbury shouldn't there be more than enough trains for everybody else to have a reliable service?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 10, 2018, 16:46:27
Given that there are no trains running to Oxford and Newbury shouldn't there be more than enough trains for everybody else to have a reliable service?

Yes!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 11, 2018, 06:10:36
Quote
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00 will be diverted between Taunton and Reading.
It will no longer call at Westbury but will call additionally at Bristol Temple Meads.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.
Last Updated:11/07/2018 05:07

OK ... it wasn't / isn't due to stop at Swindon (pity), so questionable as to whether this is a "TransWilts Cancellation" to be logged.  But what on earth could they be investigating 6 hours ahead (due Westbury 11:05) that calls for a diversion via Bristol?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on July 11, 2018, 06:48:47
Quote
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00 will be diverted between Taunton and Reading.
It will no longer call at Westbury but will call additionally at Bristol Temple Meads.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.
Last Updated:11/07/2018 05:07

OK ... it wasn't / isn't due to stop at Swindon (pity), so questionable as to whether this is a "TransWilts Cancellation" to be logged.  But what on earth could they be investigating 6 hours ahead (due Westbury 11:05) that calls for a diversion via Bristol?

Have you asked GWR? As you know the reason given for delays/cancellations/alterations etc often has very little to do with reality.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 11, 2018, 07:30:07
Have you asked GWR? As you know the reason given for delays/cancellations/alterations etc often has very little to do with reality.

Asking more out of interest in case anyone might know.  Further though suggests it might be a crew issue - either a need to swap over crew on the way at Bristol (hence the stop) or a route knowledge issue.

For the engineering works, we requested GWR to help local traffic by stopping a couple of the west country expresses that run via the TransWilts and have 'allowances' built into their schedules.  Very selective and careful requests, but "not possible" for reasons I'm not totally clear on.   At least that denial means we don't have a "real" cancellation today!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on July 11, 2018, 07:48:59
Quote
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00 will be diverted between Taunton and Reading.
It will no longer call at Westbury but will call additionally at Bristol Temple Meads.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.
Last Updated:11/07/2018 05:07

OK ... it wasn't / isn't due to stop at Swindon (pity), so questionable as to whether this is a "TransWilts Cancellation" to be logged.  But what on earth could they be investigating 6 hours ahead (due Westbury 11:05) that calls for a diversion via Bristol?

Could be path is required for an engineering train involved with Oxford works, just a thought.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on July 11, 2018, 08:24:48
For the engineering works, we requested GWR to help local traffic by stopping a couple of the west country expresses that run via the TransWilts and have 'allowances' built into their schedules.  Very selective and careful requests, but "not possible" for reasons I'm not totally clear on.   At least that denial means we don't have a "real" cancellation today!

Its "not possible" until GWR "need to", but that is another story.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on July 11, 2018, 10:13:09
Meant to post this one earlier in the week but forgot



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 11, 2018, 10:41:57
Have you asked GWR? As you know the reason given for delays/cancellations/alterations etc often has very little to do with reality.

Asking more out of interest in case anyone might know.  Further though suggests it might be a crew issue - either a need to swap over crew on the way at Bristol (hence the stop) or a route knowledge issue.

For the engineering works, we requested GWR to help local traffic by stopping a couple of the west country expresses that run via the TransWilts and have 'allowances' built into their schedules.  Very selective and careful requests, but "not possible" for reasons I'm not totally clear on.   At least that denial means we don't have a "real" cancellation today!

This has now appeared under Additional Information on JourneyCheck


Quote
Additional Information
Due to a timetabling conflict on the single track line between Westbury and Chippenham, it is not possible to run this train via Westbury this morning without causing significant delay to multiple services in the Westbury area. In order to minimise the impact to as few customers as possible the decision has been taken to divert this train away from its originally timetabled route. As such the train will not be able to stop at Westbury. This alteration is expected to apply all week.

The cause of this timetabling conflict is still being investigated.

Customers due to travel from Westbury to Reading and London Paddington are advised to travel on the 11:10 Westbury to Cardiff Central service, and change at Bath Spa for onward rail connections to Reading and London.

Customers travelling to Westbury are advised to change at Bristol Temple Meads and travel on the 11:22 Bristol Temple Meads to Portsmouth (via Westbury) service.

Customers who arrive at their destination more than 60 minutes after originally scheduled as a result of this alteration may be eligible for delay compensation. Please retain tickets and visit the GWR website for further details.

According to RTT the train ran via Bristol yesterday (but didn't call) but did run via Westbury on Monday.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on July 11, 2018, 10:47:56
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00 will be diverted between Taunton and Reading.
It will no longer call at Westbury but will call additionally at Bristol Temple Meads.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.
Last Updated:11/07/2018 05:07

Now a fuller explanation ;-

Additional Information
Due to a timetabling conflict on the single track line between Westbury and Chippenham, it is not possible to run this train via Westbury this morning without causing significant delay to multiple services in the Westbury area. In order to minimise the impact to as few customers as possible the decision has been taken to divert this train away from its originally timetabled route. As such the train will not be able to stop at Westbury. This alteration is expected to apply all week.

The cause of this timetabling conflict is still being investigated.

Customers due to travel from Westbury to Reading and London Paddington are advised to travel on the 11:10 Westbury to Cardiff Central service, and change at Bath Spa for onward rail connections to Reading and London.

Customers travelling to Westbury are advised to change at Bristol Temple Meads and travel on the 11:22 Bristol Temple Meads to Portsmouth (via Westbury) service.

Customers who arrive at their destination more than 60 minutes after originally scheduled as a result of this alteration may be eligible for delay compensation. Please retain tickets and visit the GWR website for further details.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 11, 2018, 19:16:01
This certainly does count as a cancellation....

Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will no longer call at Melksham.
This is due to congestion.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 11, 2018, 19:38:58
This certainly does count as a cancellation....

Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will no longer call at Melksham.
This is due to congestion.


or does it?

Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 is now running as scheduled.
Last Updated:11/07/2018 19:34

Yes,  in my view that counts as a cancellation.   Having told people "find another way" ... to turn it back on after i was due to set out ....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 11, 2018, 19:39:07
..and again re-instated!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on July 12, 2018, 06:44:31
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00
06:47 Penzance to London Paddington due 13:00 will be diverted between Taunton and Reading.
It will no longer call at Westbury but will call additionally at Bristol Temple Meads.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.
Last Updated:11/07/2018 05:07
Now a fuller explanation ;-

Additional Information

Due to a timetabling conflict on the single track line between Westbury and Chippenham, it is not possible to run this train via Westbury this morning without causing significant delay to multiple services in the Westbury area. In order to minimise the impact to as few customers as possible the decision has been taken to divert this train away from its originally timetabled route. As such the train will not be able to stop at Westbury. This alteration is expected to apply all week.

The cause of this timetabling conflict is still being investigated.

Customers due to travel from Westbury to Reading and London Paddington are advised to travel on the 11:10 Westbury to Cardiff Central service, and change at Bath Spa for onward rail connections to Reading and London.

Customers travelling to Westbury are advised to change at Bristol Temple Meads and travel on the 11:22 Bristol Temple Meads to Portsmouth (via Westbury) service.

Customers who arrive at their destination more than 60 minutes after originally scheduled as a result of this alteration may be eligible for delay compensation. Please retain tickets and visit the GWR website for further details.

Again today, why investigate today what we already knew yesterday.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 12, 2018, 07:36:58
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05

07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to the fire alarm sounding in a signalbox earlier today.

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14

08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to the fire alarm sounding in a signalbox earlier today.

Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on the 09:01 Bristol Temple Meads service from Swindon (09:15 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 09:36 service towards Portsmouth Harbour which calls at Trowbridge (09:54) and Westbury (10:01).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 12, 2018, 07:45:46
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05

07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to the fire alarm sounding in a signalbox earlier today.

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14

08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to the fire alarm sounding in a signalbox earlier today.

There are only two trains cancelled across the whole of the GWR area.   Why should incidents such as this have such a narrow effect?   Melksham Box closed in the 1960s, and Bradford Junction box in 1990. Thingley was gone around that time too.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 12, 2018, 08:08:01
There are only two trains cancelled across the whole of the GWR area.   Why should incidents such as this have such a narrow effect?   Melksham Box closed in the 1960s, and Bradford Junction box in 1990. Thingley was gone around that time too.

Further report suggests it's Westbury panel box where the alarms went off - all signals back to danger / all trains stopped while they investigated.    Source currently believed to be external to railway - Westbury is / was "blanketed in smoke from Salisbury Plain where the army have been carrying out an exercise".


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: stuving on July 12, 2018, 09:24:50
There are only two trains cancelled across the whole of the GWR area.   Why should incidents such as this have such a narrow effect?   Melksham Box closed in the 1960s, and Bradford Junction box in 1990. Thingley was gone around that time too.

Further report suggests it's Westbury panel box where the alarms went off - all signals back to danger / all trains stopped while they investigated.    Source currently believed to be external to railway - Westbury is / was "blanketed in smoke from Salisbury Plain where the army have been carrying out an exercise".

It's not just the exercises per se, but the army have set fire to the plain itself (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-44804272). The report talks about smoke spreading to Steeple Ashton, Trowbridge, Bradford on Avon, Frome, Shepton Mallet and Wells

Standard policy is not to attempt fire-fighting on live firing ranges, for obvious reasons. However this may have consequences that haven't been through through, such as "in very dry weather, don't do exercises likely to ignite vegetation".


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on July 12, 2018, 11:31:20

It's not just the exercises per se, but the army have set fire to the plain itself (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-44804272). The report talks about smoke spreading to Steeple Ashton, Trowbridge, Bradford on Avon, Frome, Shepton Mallet and Wells

Standard policy is not to attempt fire-fighting on live firing ranges, for obvious reasons. However this may have consequences that haven't been through through, such as "in very dry weather, don't do exercises likely to ignite vegetation".
It's been absolutely awful at times these past two weeks whenever the wind comes in from the east. The fire brigade cannot intervene and would be dangerous for them to do so as it's MOD land.

I totally support the army doing training exercises whatever the weather but using live ammunition when the ground is tinder dry is not a good idea. Causing many people issues with smoke when we've got to have our windows open because it's so warm.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 12, 2018, 11:33:50
Yes the MOD advice on Twitter for affected residents to stay indoors and close windows and doors provoked a predictable, and very understandable, response.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Clan Line on July 12, 2018, 12:04:53

Standard policy is not to attempt fire-fighting on live firing ranges, for obvious reasons. However this may have consequences that haven't been through through, such as "in very dry weather, don't do exercises likely to ignite vegetation".

Any sort of Military exercise where things "go wrong" are of much more use than one where everything goes like clockwork. This is when we might actually find out that our optical equipment, on our guns/tanks, doesn't work very well in grass smoke - despite the manufacturer saying that it would !
Are we to assume that a potential enemy would only attack when vegetation wont catch fire; or when it's not muddy ? I seem to recollect one adversary setting fire to all the oil wells - our forces couldn't see a thing !!  I bet we never thought of that one in advance - now, had there been oil wells around Imber.........who knows ?
I know it's not very pleasant - I have just shut my windows - but are our armed forces expected to train only when there is absolutely no possibility of  "upsetting the neighbours" ?  For a few days every 20 years - surely not that unreasonable ?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 12, 2018, 12:10:47
I don't think the majority of people would disagree with you.  I think people were more incensed that having set fire to the heathland it was left to burn over last weekend after training had been suspended.  Clearly fire fighting on foot was not an option but many have suggested dropping water from the air.  Who knows that could form a basis for different training which could then be put to use on places like Saddleworth Moor where the forces were recently drafted in.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on July 12, 2018, 12:17:28
MOD have recently tweeted:
https://twitter.com/mod_dio
We have reviewed the risks of continuing live firing on Salisbury Plain training area and have made the decision to cease artillery live firing on the Salisbury Plain training area until further notice.  We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on July 12, 2018, 13:53:05
(I realize this is going way off topic)

Full Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service statement on Salisbury Plain fires:

Quote
Smoke from the on-going fire on the Salisbury Plain impact area has been affecting large parts of West Wiltshire to as far away as Bath in the last 24 hours.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Control room received dozens of 999 calls overnight, and firefighters were mobilised multiple times to incidents where alarm systems were triggered by the smoke.

Unfortunately, because the fire itself is within the live firing range, the Service is unable to tackle the blaze. Over the last two weeks, crews have been called to the Shrewton and Market Lavington areas to prevent the flames from spreading outside of the impact area, but it is unsafe for them to access the main fire. It also can’t be accessed by aircraft carrying water, due to the safety restrictions of the impact zone.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “The fire is well within the impact zone, we have fire wardens monitoring the site and, if the flames start to spread outside of that area, we can bring in the Fire and Rescue Service to assist.

“We fully appreciate the inconvenience caused to the communities in and around the Plain. The fire itself is not a risk to property, but we do recognise that the smoke is very unpleasant.”

“The MOD takes the safety of our military personnel and the public seriously and we would like to reassure local residents and others that we are doing everything possible to reduce the risks. We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates.”

Public Health England has advised: “Residents in areas affected by smoke should stay indoors, and keep their doors and windows closed. Motorists who have to travel through the smoke should keep windows closed and switch on air conditioning systems to recycle or recirculate air. If people need to be outdoors, they are advised to avoid areas affected by any smoke or ash, or to limit the time that they spend in them.”

They added: “Smoke can irritate air passages, the skin and the eyes, leading to coughing and wheezing, breathlessness and chest pain. It can also worsen existing problems such as asthma and people with asthma should carry their inhaler with them at all times. Anyone concerned about their symptoms should contact NHS 111.”

The MOD has advised that live firing on Salisbury Plain has been stopped until further notice.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: johnneyw on July 12, 2018, 15:27:46
Today's Bristol Post saying a million and a half minutes of delays in a year on GWR trains and there's only half a million minutes in a year.

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/million-half-minutes-delays-year-1774689


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 12, 2018, 15:33:26
Today's Bristol Post saying a million and a half minutes of delays in a year on GWR trains and there's only half a million minutes in a year.

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/million-half-minutes-delays-year-1774689


On average three trains being delayed at any one time??


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: stuving on July 12, 2018, 16:39:51
Today's Bristol Post saying a million and a half minutes of delays in a year on GWR trains and there's only half a million minutes in a year.

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/million-half-minutes-delays-year-1774689


On average three trains being delayed at any one time??

Yes, but only in this specific sense of "being delayed":

"a train counts as being delayed between its scheduled arrival time and its actual arrival time, that being an interval equal to the recorded delay time for that service"


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 13, 2018, 10:19:49
Quote
13:33 Swindon to Westbury due 14:14
13:33 Swindon to Westbury due 14:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on the 14:00 Bristol Temple Meads service from Swindon (14:14 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 14:35 service towards Portsmouth Harbour which calls at Trowbridge (14:53) and Westbury (15:00).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 13, 2018, 10:20:07
I *think* it might be a fault on another train.  The unit doing the Swindon/Cheltenham shuttles has broken down so it looks like this unit will work up from Westbury as usual but then go onto the Cheltenham diagram.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 13, 2018, 10:50:13
I *think* it might be a fault on another train.  The unit doing the Swindon/Cheltenham shuttles has broken down so it looks like this unit will work up from Westbury as usual but then go onto the Cheltenham diagram.

That seems a logical explanation, and makes some sense.   The days of a spare 153 sitting at Temple Meads and one at Gloucester during the day are gone ... pared down and reduced robustness!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 14, 2018, 13:25:54
Quote
15:22 Swindon to Warminster due 16:21
15:22 Swindon to Warminster due 16:21 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Dilton Marsh and Warminster.
This is due to a speed restriction because of high track temperatures.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 14, 2018, 13:28:15
Wonder if it is a speed restriction or the need to keep the points at Warminster (needed to turn back) normalised.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 14, 2018, 13:31:21
Wonder if it is a speed restriction or the need to keep the points at Warminster (needed to turn back) normalised.

Just quoting wot I woz 'told'.   Yes, I would expect it to b a case of not asking for trouble with overheated points!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on July 14, 2018, 16:36:22
Wonder if it is a speed restriction or the need to keep the points at Warminster (needed to turn back) normalised.

The points at Warminster are being left normal as part of the 'Key Route Strategy' when the temperature is forecast to reach a certain temperature (usually for several hours after noon). Other examples are the closure of passing loops such as those at Woodborough and Hullavington and the closure of the Westbury avoiding line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 14, 2018, 19:48:22
Thanks RA. I suspected as much.  The strictures of Journeycheck obviously don’t allow for KRS!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 15, 2018, 05:46:03
Quote
8:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Additional Information
Passengers are advised to travel as early as possible, and to consider switching their travel plans to Monday 16 July. To help with this, ticket restrictions have been removed from services on Monday 16 July
Due to a number of factors including on-going engineering work; the World Cup Final taking place; the continuing good weather, and the start of the school holidays in some regions there is a significantly reduced number of available staff.

Advice on your ticket
To assist you with your journey ticket restrictions have been removed from services on Saturday 14 and Monday 16 July, enabling you to travel with Advance fare and off peak tickets on other services. If you choose not to travel as a result of the revised timetable, you will be entitled to a full refund on their unused ticket (the 10 administration fee is also waivered). To claim a refund please check our Refunds and Compensation page for more information: https://www.gwr.com/help-and-support/refunds-and-compensation/unused-ticket-refunds.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 15, 2018, 05:46:54
Quote
19:55 Swindon to Westbury due 20:35
19:55 Swindon to Westbury due 20:35 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 15, 2018, 16:23:45
Quote
16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04

16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59

17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 16, 2018, 06:44:03
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train for this service having broken down.
Additional Information
Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Chippenham or Swindon should travel on the 07:38 Great Malvern service (07:44 from Trowbridge) and change at Bath Spa for the 08:14 service to London Paddington which calls at Chippenham (08:25) and Swindon at 08:41.

Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge travelling to Melksham should contact station staff or use the Customer Help-Point.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport to Chippenham from the station car park.

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train for this service having broken down.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on the 09:01 Bristol Temple Meads service from Swindon (09:15 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 09:36 service towards Portsmouth Harbour which calls at Trowbridge (09:54) and Westbury (10:01).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: railfan26 on July 16, 2018, 11:48:20
Deleted


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on July 16, 2018, 13:35:14
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a speed restriction because of high track temperatures.
Last Updated:16/07/2018 10:38
Due   Station   Status
17:11   Westbury   Not Stopping
17:13   Dilton Marsh   Not Stopping
17:20   Warminster   Not Stopping

Cardiff Portsmouths stopping Dilton Marsh in lieu.  Reasons already posted in Post #355


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 16, 2018, 13:51:24
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a speed restriction because of high track temperatures.
Last Updated:16/07/2018 10:38
Due   Station   Status
17:11   Westbury   Not Stopping
17:13   Dilton Marsh   Not Stopping
17:20   Warminster   Not Stopping
Cardiff Portsmouths stopping Dilton Marsh in lieu.  Reasons already posted in Post #35

That is typically a very quiet train indeed, as it runs just 10 minutes behind the Portsmouth; it does carry a few more passengers back from Warminster at 17:28, as in that direction it splits the hour (17:03 and 18:01 calls on Portsmouth - Cardiff)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 19, 2018, 18:37:16
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Gloucester and is now 17 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

Note for any readers who deal with train regulation.  We would much have trains 15 to 20 minutes late than not at all, even if the delay knocks on to our end of service!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 19, 2018, 18:46:45
Problem is being that late it would hold up those very important express trains which are using “our” single line. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on July 19, 2018, 18:52:11
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Gloucester and is now 17 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

Note for any readers who deal with train regulation.  We would much have trains 15 to 20 minutes late than not at all, even if the delay knocks on to our end of service!

Disgraceful !


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 22, 2018, 16:03:20
Quote
16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04

16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train for this service having broken down.

Further Information
Customers travelling from unstaffed stations are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations

Quote
17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59


17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59 will be cancelled.

This is due to the train for this service having broken down.

Further Information
Customers travelling from unstaffed stations are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 22, 2018, 19:37:59
Quote
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:39 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 30 minutes late.
This is due to this train being late from the depot.

At least they found a train.  THANK YOU.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 23, 2018, 17:02:02
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be reinstated.

It will be started from Westbury.

It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.

This is due to a broken down train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 23, 2018, 17:08:43
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be reinstated.
It will be started from Westbury.

So that's the quietest segment of the service ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 25, 2018, 15:38:28
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 25, 2018, 16:03:01
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Eh?  The only signalling fault I was aware of earlier today was on the North Cotswold Line.   Has someone got "Melksham" and "Moreton" mixed up??


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 25, 2018, 16:06:45
Problems at North Somerset junction for a while.  Several services diverted from Swindon to Temple Meads via Hullavington. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 25, 2018, 16:15:40
Problems at North Somerset junction for a while.  Several services diverted from Swindon to Temple Meads via Hullavington. 

Hmmm ... OK. But it does seem odd that long distance diversions earlier on are all cleared now (if I look at Journey Check) - yet somehow there's a knock-on to the TransWilts, who's trains don't even run over North Somerset Junction!

I appreciate that we've got engineering works going on at Newbury at the moment, and it's far more of an operational nuisance than normal to run the 17:36.   Sad to see that the nuisance factor seems to correlate with the reliability factor.




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 25, 2018, 16:22:36
Does seem odd.   

Due to the engineering work the unit that forms the 17:36 comes empty stock from Bath Spa.  Earlier it runs from Westbury to Castle Cary and then to Bristol Parkway before coming back to Bath.  All three trips were also cancelled.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 25, 2018, 20:16:36
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will no longer call at Trowbridge, Melksham and Chippenham.

It is being delayed at Westbury.

This is due to train crew being delayed.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 26, 2018, 20:36:47
Fingers crossed today ... but I would like to see TransWilts running at even the worst of the reported cancellation rates and - yes - I know they are 10 times higher than they should be.

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/p1904.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 27, 2018, 07:10:48
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

No problem ... school holidays mean this will be quieter than normal into Southampton.   

This is the 06:10 Swindon to Westbury - one of only 2 trains a day that ran prior to December 2013.   At that point it was a bit of a "joke" - the single regular passenger who used it from Swindon said the timing was excellent (for his use) giving it a 100% rating in certain statistics.  These days, with sensible round trip day commutes available, there's up to about 30 passenger by the time it reaches Westbury, and it grows thereafter.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 27, 2018, 07:35:36
For the record it was shown as 2 instead of 3 yesterday as well.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on July 27, 2018, 08:19:56
Fingers crossed today ... but I would like to see TransWilts running at even the worst of the reported cancellation rates and - yes - I know they are 10 times higher than they should be.

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/p1904.jpg)

Appalling figures. At least there's a higher discount however it should be much higher to reflect the standard of service.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 27, 2018, 13:55:32
Quote
13:32 Westbury to Castle Cary due 13:56
13:32 Westbury to Castle Cary due 13:56 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Fingers crossed.   During the engineering works, this is the train that then goes to Bristol Parkway, to Bath Spa, then to Swindon to form the 17:36 peak TransWilts train to Westbury


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 27, 2018, 19:09:13
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will no longer call at Melksham.

This is due to a late running freight train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 27, 2018, 19:54:21
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will no longer call at Melksham.

This is due to a late running freight train.

Yep, freight has priority .... even empties to Merehead Quarry!
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H43509/2018/07/27/advanced


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on July 27, 2018, 21:09:26
It’s getting to the point wher  I wonder when are these “improvements” going to come in.

The answer is new timetable, but that does not sort staffing issues and GWRs ability to do maintenance at more convenient times. You still are going to have half trains as people will still need to be trained, and maintained. TransWilits gets at least on average two amendments or cancellations per day and none of this would “work” with a new timetable.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 27, 2018, 22:08:07
It’s getting to the point wher  I wonder when are these “improvements” going to come in.

The answer is new timetable, but that does not sort staffing issues and GWRs ability to do maintenance at more convenient times. You still are going to have half trains as people will still need to be trained, and maintained. TransWilits gets at least on average two amendments or cancellations per day and none of this would “work” with a new timetable.

For TransWilts, I would expect to see the percentage of cancellations drop - but be still way above franchise targets - as the Newbury electrification works come to an end.   Getting back to being close to the real timetable is probably a few months off, and a few months longer for the main line.

The "new timetable" as drafted needs serious adjustment (again, from  TransWilts viewpoint) - thank goodness for the 5 month postponement as it gives rail, local government and community a sporting chance to actually fix a few things for everyone's (including, ironically, the railway's) benefits.  See http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20084.0 if you're a TransWilts board member.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 28, 2018, 03:47:49
Saturday, 28th July 2018

Services cancelled: 4 (blame attribution will be all 4 to GWR)
Services still running: 12 (at present!)
Performance factor: 75%
Performance target: 99.5%

Dear Great Western Management.   

I'm disgusted.   This is not a one-off - it's time and time again and it's taking you far longer to fix than you said it would.  These are the ONLY cancellations shown so far for today on the whole of your network, and that's after public promises from your MD (who I'm pretty sure has other plans today!) that efforts would be especially made on 4 services across the whole franchise to bring them back up to even the currently-low standard of the other services.

Ironic that you choose to cancel yet again on the day of the Melksham Carnival, where unpaid volunteers are walking through the town promoting your services (to generate you income) - a real slap in the face to them.

Quote
4 Train Cancellations
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:20

08:36 Swindon to Westbury due 09:20

11:37 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20

12:54 Swindon to Westbury due 13:42

12:54 Swindon to Westbury due 13:42 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Last Updated:28/07/2018 03:32




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 28, 2018, 04:16:11
Those four cancellations have now been joined by five from the other old favourite - the North Cotswold line - also due to staff shortage.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: JayMac on July 28, 2018, 06:03:28
Along with a severely curtailed service to/from Weymouth. Just what's needed when SWR services to/from Weymouth are also disrupted due to strikes.

Have Westbury based GWR staff come out in sympathy for their SWR colleagues?  :P

At least the rain will be keeping some daytrippers at home. GWR's inability to ensure adequate staffing levels will put off the rest.

And still there is silence from Mark Hopwood to the general public on the woeful performance of the company he's supposedly running.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 28, 2018, 06:14:18
Those four cancellations have now been joined by five from the other old favourite - the North Cotswold line - also due to staff shortage.

And another round trip gone on the TransWilts ... and two of the three peak afternoon trains off Weymouth to Westbury.  That's three of the four old favourites.

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:20
08:36 Swindon to Westbury due 09:20
09:45 Westbury to Swindon due 10:35
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:31
11:37 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20
12:54 Swindon to Westbury due 13:42

So that's 62.5% against a 99.5% target.  Oops.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on July 28, 2018, 06:48:01
Along with a severely curtailed service to/from Weymouth. Just what's needed when SWR services to/from Weymouth are also disrupted due to strikes.

Have Westbury based GWR staff come out in sympathy for their SWR colleagues?  :P

At least the rain will be keeping some daytrippers at home. GWR's inability to ensure adequate staffing levels will put off the rest.

And still there is silence from Mark Hopwood to the general public on the woeful performance of the company he's supposedly running.
Disappointed to see the poor service being offered on the Weymouth line today, not only services running short but also short formed as well. Not good with SWR services not running between Yeovil and Weymouth. The weather may put a few off but it’s not forecast to be a washout today; that comes tomorrow.

I expect GWR will have to arrange coaches to cover the 1608 and 1830 trains between Weymouth and Westbury?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 28, 2018, 08:14:33
Remind me why ... if class 2 trains are cancelled at Dilton Marsh, Oldfiled Park or Keynsham, stop orders can be added to class 1 trains that pass through shortly thereafter, why that can't / don't do that for Melksham (e.g. 1C75 for 2M52).

You can now get 3 carriages of an HST or IET on the platform, and today there is almost no freight on the line and (!!!) no local trains, so the line capacity issue is also a very lame excuse if tried!

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/killedservice_20180728.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 28, 2018, 08:44:32
There's your photo Graham - the moment the three coaches of IET 1C75 fit next to the platform as it passes through!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on July 28, 2018, 09:01:37
I hope it doesn't detract from the success of the carnival Graham, I know how much effort goes into organising these events in small towns.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 28, 2018, 09:04:58
And still they keep (not) coming

Quote
14:15 Westbury to Swindon due 15:05

14:15 Westbury to Swindon due 15:05 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
16:07 Swindon to Westbury due 16:50

16:07 Swindon to Westbury due 16:50 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:19

19:32 Westbury to Swindon due 20:19 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
18:14 Swindon to Westbury due 18:58

18:14 Swindon to Westbury due 18:58 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Quote
20:36 Swindon to Westbury due 21:20

20:36 Swindon to Westbury due 21:20 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 28, 2018, 09:07:33
With today's cancellations I am really drawn to Graham's post which opened this thread back in January.

I'm looking for a reduced cancellation rate from the awful results last month ... logging my data here to keep track.

1st January 2018

Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41
12:47 Swindon to Frome due 13:41 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a shortage of train drivers.

I'm going to treat today as a practise run ... as I have been told that things should get really very much better from return to general work on 2nd January ... here's hoping ...

P.S. Whilst any cancellation is regrettable, the cancellation of the 11:47 / 12:47 round trip is perhaps the least regretted one all day - at a quiet time of day, and followed by another service around 40 minutes later.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bradshaw on July 28, 2018, 09:41:23
They seem to have restored some of the Weymouth services. When I looked earlier this morning there were quite a few stopping short.
Now there is only one, the 18.30 Weymouth.
It might seem like Melksham has been hit by this restoration of Weymouth services.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 28, 2018, 10:29:11
I hope it doesn't detract from the success of the carnival Graham, I know how much effort goes into organising these events in small towns.

Thank you;   I doubt it will effect the success of the carnival as that's very much "by the town, for the town".  It will dampen the spirits of the walkers, especially if challenged on reliability by anyone in the crowd as we hand out timetables.

I was at the station to video the first IET from Paddington in passenger service headed beyond Taunton.   Ironically, the video is "spoiled" by the people walking across in front of me ... waiting for the 10:01 train which wasn't going to turn up.    Found myself helping make arrangements for 8 people who were at the station and relying on GWR to transport them, but for whom the cancellation and alternatives were far from clear.   Putting "CANCELLED" on a TV Screen is not enough, especially when it turns out that no alternative plans had been made, plan was to be reactive rather than proactive.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on July 28, 2018, 12:35:51
Advice for passengers posted on Journey Check at 1225


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 28, 2018, 13:02:04
Advice for passengers posted on Journey Check at 1225

Quote
Cancellations to services between Westbury and Swindon
Due to a shortage of train crew between Westbury and Swindon fewer trains are able to run on all lines.
Train services running through these stations will be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.
Customer Advice
Owing to a shortage of train crew there is a heavily reduced service on the Melksham branch line (1) today. Customers at Westbury and Trowbridge for Chippenham and Swindon and vice-versa are requested to circulate for Bath Spa. Passengers at Westbury and Trowbridge for Melksham are requested to speak to Station Staff. Customers at Melksham will be provided with a Taxi to Chippenham/Trowbridge as appropriate (2). Passengers at Swindon and Chippenham for Melksham are requested to speak to Station Staff.
Last Updated:28/07/2018 12:40

1. Bloomin funny branch line with HSTs and IETs and heavy freight flying through.  Me thinks it sounds far better to say "branch line" than to admit they have withdrawn stopping trains from what's a significant main line at the moment!

2. That's if they know how to get in touch and who to ask ... nothing / no-one at the station to tell them.   Just seeing the work "cancelled" on a display screen is not sufficient to tell people that they must press the "help" button,  choose the "looking for information" option, then state that the information they want is about when and how transport will be provided, ... only at which point is it ordered.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on July 28, 2018, 18:21:10
Along with a severely curtailed service to/from Weymouth. Just what's needed when SWR services to/from Weymouth are also disrupted due to strikes.

Have Westbury based GWR staff come out in sympathy for their SWR colleagues?  :P

At least the rain will be keeping some daytrippers at home. GWR's inability to ensure adequate staffing levels will put off the rest.

And still there is silence from Mark Hopwood to the general public on the woeful performance of the company he's supposedly running.
Disappointed to see the poor service being offered on the Weymouth line today, not only services running short but also short formed as well. Not good with SWR services not running between Yeovil and Weymouth. The weather may put a few off but it’s not forecast to be a washout today; that comes tomorrow.

I expect GWR will have to arrange coaches to cover the 1608 and 1830 trains between Weymouth and Westbury?

No coaches. GWR Twitter telling people the next train after the 1830 is at 2014, otherwise to use the Help Point or speak to station staff.   In other words, abandoning their passengers and passing the buck to whoever staffs the Help Point line or to SWR staff.     Hanging them out to dry in other words


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on July 28, 2018, 21:22:07
Taxi & send bill to GWR citing Consumer Rights Act.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 09:01:53
Quote
16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04

16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59

17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 29, 2018, 09:05:56
Two down. 11 still standing at time of writing. 81.8%.  Target 99.5%.  Regional 4 week performance around 95%. Service gap over 4 hours.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on July 29, 2018, 09:11:23
Quote
16:20 Westbury to Swindon due 17:04 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.
17:18 Swindon to Westbury due 17:59 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 09:11:23
Two down. 11 still standing at time of writing. 81.8%.  Target 99.5%.  Regional 4 week performance around 95%. Service gap over 4 hours.

False Alarm - both now re-instated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 29, 2018, 09:53:09
Another one to keep an eye on ... 8 minute connection at Westbury to Weymouth.  Perhaps a good job it's not a bright sunny day that's brought out the crowds.

Quote
09:22 Swindon to Westbury due 10:02
09:22 Swindon to Westbury due 10:02 is being delayed at Swindon.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 09:55:55
Only good news is the connection is delayed too....

Quote
09:20 Bristol Temple Meads to Weymouth due 11:45

09:20 Bristol Temple Meads to Weymouth due 11:45 will no longer call at Freshford, Avoncliff, Bradford-On-Avon and Trowbridge.

It has been delayed at Bristol Temple Meads and is now 20 minutes late.

This is due to this train being late from the depot.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 10:18:59
Train from Swindon now due into Westbury at 10:37 and the one to Weymouth at 10:57.  Hopefully the guard on the TransWilts service is aware and can make re-assuring announcements.  Also note the Weymouth train is not calling at Trowbridge.

The 08:22 Paddington to Penzance arrived at Westbury 13 minutes early after not having to wait for the TransWilts service to clear the single line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on July 29, 2018, 10:50:08
Tree blocking the railway between Yeovil and Weymouth anyway, services currently being delayed


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 10:57:24
Quote
10:15 Westbury to Swindon due 10:59

10:15 Westbury to Swindon due 10:59 was terminated at Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Quote
11:30 Swindon to Westbury due 12:12

11:30 Swindon to Westbury due 12:12 will be started from Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 10:58:31
Tree blocking the railway between Yeovil and Weymouth anyway, services currently being delayed

08:23 from Bristol has hit the tree near Maiden Newton.  No reports of any injuries.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 29, 2018, 11:02:17
Quote
10:15 Westbury to Swindon due 10:59

10:15 Westbury to Swindon due 10:59 was terminated at Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Quote
11:30 Swindon to Westbury due 12:12

11:30 Swindon to Westbury due 12:12 will be started from Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Moving target today!

Quote
11:00 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:35
11:00 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:35 will be starting late from Weymouth.
This is due to a tree blocking the railway.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on July 29, 2018, 11:09:36
Quote
10:15 Westbury to Swindon due 10:59
10:15 Westbury to Swindon due 10:59 was terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system earlier today.

Really, its 11:10 and has only just departed Westbury!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 29, 2018, 12:46:15
Quote
11:00 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:35

11:00 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:35 will be started from Dorchester West and terminated at Westbury.

It will no longer call at Weymouth, Upwey, Trowbridge, Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.

It is being delayed at Dorchester West.

This is due to a tree blocking the railway.

Quote
13:36 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54

13:36 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54 will be started from Westbury.

It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.

This is due to a tree blocking the railway earlier on this train's journey.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 29, 2018, 13:16:01
I'm having trouble keeping up this weekend!

Round trips from Westbury (quoting normal times not variations due to engineering) today:

08:28 - Ran, but return service 30 minutes late from Swindon
10:30 - Ran but very late from Westbury and turned back at Chippenham - didn't get as far as Swindon
12:37 - Cancelled (this is the trip from / to Weymouth - only got as far as Westbury
14:35 - no news yet
16:52 - Cancelled for lack of staff, but now reinstated
18:45 - no news yet
19:41 - no news yet; single journey booked to carry on to Cheltenham Spa

Yesterday - looks like 5 trains out of 16 ran. 
Melksham time
- calls towards Chippenham at 08:38 and 17:36
- calls towards Westbury at 16:33, 18:40 and 21:39.
Noting that the 16:33, 17:36 as 18:40 calls were announced as cancelled and then re-instate, probably resulted in thin loading though I did chat with one person who said "quite a lot of people - remarkably busy!".


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on July 29, 2018, 14:17:37
Quote
14:29 Westbury to Swindon due 15:13 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Running ECS to Swindon (http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/O25210/2018/07/29/advanced)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 29, 2018, 14:19:33
Quote
14:29 Westbury to Swindon due 15:13 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Running ECS to Swindon (http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/O25210/2018/07/29/advanced)


I need a "thank for for posting" button that shows an appreciation of the post but not of the news it contains!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Zoe on July 29, 2018, 19:52:37
The 1957 to Plymouth (1C96) is going to be starting from Reading today due to the late arrival of the inbound service.  JourneyCheck says that it will be held at Reading to await the arrival of the 2000 from Paddington to Weston-super-mare (1C29) which is a very good plan since this is the last train of the day to Plymouth (excluding the sleeper).


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 29, 2018, 20:12:06
The 1957 to Plymouth (1C96) is going to be starting from Reading today due to the late arrival of the inbound service.  JourneyCheck says that it will be held at Reading to await the arrival of the 2000 from Paddington to Weston-super-mare (1C29) which is a very good plan since this is the last train of the day to Plymouth (excluding the sleeper).

Indeed. The current services are very much less complete and stable than they ought to be, and those failures cause massive upset to people's journeys ... however, there are also some shining beacon examples of mitigation of issues such as this one - some darned good people doing what they can with a broken system and a lack of available resources.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on July 29, 2018, 20:53:32
The 1957 to Plymouth (1C96) is going to be starting from Reading today due to the late arrival of the inbound service.  JourneyCheck says that it will be held at Reading to await the arrival of the 2000 from Paddington to Weston-super-mare (1C29) which is a very good plan since this is the last train of the day to Plymouth (excluding the sleeper).

Indeed. The current services are very much less complete and stable than they ought to be, and those failures cause massive upset to people's journeys ... however, there are also some shining beacon examples of mitigation of issues such as this one - some darned good people doing what they can with a broken system and a lack of available resources.

Passengers on the late incoming train are complaining on Twitter about being kicked off at Reading without, of course, being unable to see the bigger picture.    The train was full and standing also


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 30, 2018, 08:02:58
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 is being delayed at Chippenham.
This is due to a passenger being taken ill on this train.

A totally correct reason for a delay. I wish the passenger the best of attention and treatment and a speedy recovery.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 30, 2018, 08:25:26
Quote
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05
07:21 Westbury to Swindon due 08:05 is being delayed at Chippenham.
This is due to a passenger being taken ill on this train.

A totally correct reason for a delay. I wish the passenger the best of attention and treatment and a speedy recovery.

Knock-on:

Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14 will be starting late from Swindon.
This is due to a passenger being taken ill on this train earlier in its journey.

and a separate delay:

Quote
06:44 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
06:44 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 has been previously delayed but is now 5 minutes late from Swindon.
This is due to a late running train being in front of this one.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bradshaw on July 30, 2018, 08:39:28
0828 ex Swindon, no longer calling at Melksham due to delay (30/7)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 30, 2018, 08:54:47
0828 ex Swindon, no longer calling at Melksham due to delay (30/7)

Oh geeeeeze ....

The base reason today is a "good" one - a passenger being taken ill and delaying the up train to Swindon.   But the cancellation at Melksham as a knock-on effect shows just how limited the resources are to be able to recover quickly from incidents.   We've really not got the capacity in place to meet even the reduced timetable that's running at present.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 30, 2018, 09:05:31
Suspect the Melksham call was sacrificed so as not to delay the diverted Up Golden Hind (05:05 ex Penzance) on the single line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 30, 2018, 09:35:12
Suspect the Melksham call was sacrificed so as not to delay the diverted Up Golden Hind (05:05 ex Penzance) on the single line.

I expect you're right.

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/scales.jpg)

On - and the next train has "gone" too:

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on July 30, 2018, 09:42:04
And

Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Frome.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

TransWilts section running OK (or at least scheduled to do so as I write) and through traffic from the Heart of Wessex would be very limited as this is an "engineering times special" linkage, so here more for the record than because significant TransWilts passenger disruption.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 30, 2018, 10:13:44
17:36 was then re-instated five minutes later.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 31, 2018, 19:23:57
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33

19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Melksham.

It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 7 minutes late.

This is due to congestion.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on July 31, 2018, 20:09:02
Text at 20:07 to say the above train would now run via Melksham....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Trowres on July 31, 2018, 23:22:44
...it passed Bradford Jn at 2006, so that's about 5 minutes notice for any Melksham hopefuls to run back to the station.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 02, 2018, 08:47:45
Quote
08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14
Facilities on the 08:28 Swindon to Westbury due 09:14.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

Not a problem - two is plenty!

I travelled up to Swindon on the up working - 07:37 at Melksham - also 2 coaches, 150126.   Thought we had seen the last of the 150/1s our way - but never mind, far more suitable that a 153, which would not have coped.

Melksham estimates - 15 off and 35 on.  Actual number of passengers on from Melksham, 89.  Big flow off and even more on at Chippenham - around 110 into Swindon.  104/50

Reports of 15:15 (ish) rail replacement bus from Chippenham, and some up from Trowbridge, being crowded.  Rather confirms that people need the service.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 06, 2018, 17:02:01
Quote
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:03
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:03 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 15 minutes late.
This is due to a broken down train.

Not a big issue ... 2 on the scale 1 to 10.   Hope it doesn't grow from the seed into something bigger!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 06, 2018, 17:39:12
Freight train broke down just east of Bedwyn.  Two services from the west diverted via Melksham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 07, 2018, 07:06:04
Old joke - "Minor inconvenience" ... not really a big issue at all when compared to other things!

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10
Facilities on the 13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10.
Toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.

Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
Facilities on the 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33.
Toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.
Last Updated:07/08/2018 06:50

Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: tomL on August 08, 2018, 22:52:30
2M17 2008 Swindon - Westbury (GW) seems to have been cancelled at Chippenham this evening.

A broken down train at Trowbridge trapping a freight train on the Melksham line.

edit: https://www.opentraintimes.com/schedule/C42878/2018-08-08



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 09, 2018, 01:28:46
2M17 2008 Swindon - Westbury (GW) seems to have been cancelled at Chippenham this evening.

A broken down train at Trowbridge trapping a freight train on the Melksham line.

edit: https://www.opentraintimes.com/schedule/C42878/2018-08-08


It sat at the down platform at Chippenham for some considerable time ... to the extent that the following HST to Bristol (or might have been an IET) ran wrong line from Royal Wootton Bassett, delaying the next up train out at Thingley ...

I suspect that the freight failed blocking Bradford as it came off the single line.   Fun evening!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 09, 2018, 02:00:37
I suspect that the freight failed blocking Bradford as it came off the single line.   Fun evening!

Freight took three hours from Chippenham to Trowbridge ...  and held up some others

Quote
20:48 Bristol Temple Meads to Weymouth due 23:13
20:48 Bristol Temple Meads to Weymouth due 23:13 has been delayed at Bristol Temple Meads and is now 158 minutes late.
This is due to a broken down train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 09, 2018, 05:45:52
The original cause of the problem was the 18:30 Cardiff to Portsmouth. That came to a stand near Trowbridge and eventually had to be rescued by another Pompey unit after passengers from both trains had been evacuated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 12, 2018, 13:32:44

Quote
11:00 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:20 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Trowbridge, Melksham, Chippenham and Swindon.
It has been delayed at Weymouth and is now 60 minutes late.
This is due to a tree blocking the railway earlier today.

Quote
13:30 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54
13:30 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a tree blocking the railway earlier today.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 13, 2018, 12:20:46
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.
Last Updated:13/08/2018 11:58

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on August 13, 2018, 13:05:31
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.
Last Updated:13/08/2018 11:58

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.


A power car problem at Theale. Melksham service pulled (again) to free up paths for diverted West of England services. Be interesting to see if any services did actually divert via Melksham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 13, 2018, 14:17:47
A power car problem at Theale. Melksham service pulled (again) to free up paths for diverted West of England services. Be interesting to see if any services did actually divert via Melksham.

Astonishing ...

Other blue lines on the CoffeeShop map today indicate lack of toliets on the train - not a thick wadge of cancellations, thank goodness!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 13, 2018, 18:41:49
A power car problem at Theale. Melksham service pulled (again) to free up paths for diverted West of England services. Be interesting to see if any services did actually divert via Melksham.

1Z40 07:32 Newquay to Paddington was held outside Westbury for a while before diverted through Melksham.  Would have passed through around 12:15.

1A79 06:47 Penzance to Paddington was held at Newbury before going booked route around an hour late.

1C30 12:03 Paddington to Penzance was held at Reading before going booked route and calling addtionally at Theale.  Left Reading 35 late but was 54 late at Exeter and reached Penzance (magically) a minute short of an hour late.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on August 13, 2018, 23:14:09
A power car problem at Theale. Melksham service pulled (again) to free up paths for diverted West of England services. Be interesting to see if any services did actually divert via Melksham.

1Z40 07:32 Newquay to Paddington was held outside Westbury for a while before diverted through Melksham.  Would have passed through around 12:15.

1A79 06:47 Penzance to Paddington was held at Newbury before going booked route around an hour late.

1C30 12:03 Paddington to Penzance was held at Reading before going booked route and calling addtionally at Theale.  Left Reading 35 late but was 54 late at Exeter and reached Penzance (magically) a minute short of an hour late.

Many thanks bobm.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on August 13, 2018, 23:18:05
Another one that nearly slipped through the net: The 17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central service was cancelled at Swindon and restarted from Westbury because of no available guard.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 14, 2018, 02:27:56
Another one that nearly slipped through the net: The 17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central service was cancelled at Swindon and restarted from Westbury because of no available guard.

Thank you.

I really must add a "noted" button alongside the "like" button  :-\


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 15, 2018, 12:25:45
 
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:15/08/2018 11:48

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:15/08/2018 11:48


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on August 18, 2018, 17:03:33
I'l save Graham a job - all cancelled, no staff - looks like a "16 seater minibus" is being provided instead, which'll be cosy!


16:32 Westbury to Swindon due 17:22
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:20
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 18, 2018, 17:12:33
Will with Swindon Town playing at home.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on August 18, 2018, 17:41:03
Will with Swindon Town playing at home.

…...well at least they have a victory to celebrate and discuss as they wait for hours to get home!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 18, 2018, 17:45:54
Second time in their three league games this season they have come from behind to win.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 18, 2018, 17:46:05
I'l save Graham a job ...

Just back on that bus from Westbury after the Imber bus. Great day on the plain.  Exhausted.  More in the morning.

Many thanks with the logging here!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 20, 2018, 07:14:34
Short formations this morning ...

05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
Facilities on the 07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

... not a problem at present provided that nothing slips below two carriages ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 21, 2018, 06:18:43
And today ...

07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 25, 2018, 10:08:44
Quote
09:30 Westbury to Swindon due 10:20
09:30 Westbury to Swindon due 10:20 was terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Quote
10:36 Swindon to Westbury due 11:20
10:36 Swindon to Westbury due 11:20 will be started from Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:25/08/2018 10:02


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 25, 2018, 17:27:37
The 10:36 was later re-instated to start from Chippenham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 27, 2018, 16:48:02
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.

This is due to a broken down train.

Additional Information:

Customers should use the next service, the 19:32 from Westbury to Swindon, which calls at Trowbridge (19:38), Melksham (19:47), Chippenham (20:01) and arrives Swindon at 20:25.




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 27, 2018, 16:53:47
Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.

This is due to a broken down train.

Additional Information:

Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should take the next service, the 20:32 from Swindon towards Weston-super-Mare (20:47 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 21:36 service to Portsmouth Harbour which calls at Trowbridge (21:54) and Westbury (22:03).

Customers at Swindon travelling to Melksham should travel on the next service, the 20:32 from Swindon towards Weston-super-Mare, and change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Chippenham travelling to Melksham should speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided with road transport to Trowbridge and Westbury.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 29, 2018, 19:08:55
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Melksham.

It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 1 minute late.

This is due to a late running freight train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on August 30, 2018, 18:03:41
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44

17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 was terminated at Gloucester.

It will no longer call at Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury, Dilton Marsh, Warminster, Salisbury, Romsey and Southampton Central.

This is due to a fault on this train.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 31, 2018, 06:43:41
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

And the same for lots of subsequent trains.  Not a problem - two will be plenty, thank you.  For the record, these days one would be a sever problem - even on a Saturday we can have a hundred passengers on a contra-flow train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 31, 2018, 06:47:59
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Melksham.

It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 1 minute late.

This is due to a late running freight train.

Curious report from a passenger displaced into a taxi to get back to Melksham ... GWR telling him that the train was actually running through Melksham but not stopping because of time constraints.    Anyone able to fill me in on this - what happened?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on August 31, 2018, 10:42:07
Quote
19:15 Frome to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Melksham.

It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 1 minute late.

This is due to a late running freight train.

Curious report from a passenger displaced into a taxi to get back to Melksham ... GWR telling him that the train was actually running through Melksham but not stopping because of time constraints.    Anyone able to fill me in on this - what happened?

Doesn't appear to have gone through Melksham
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/C42880/2018/08/29/advanced

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/search/advanced/MKM/2018/08/29/1947


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on August 31, 2018, 20:08:49
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 was terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury, Dilton Marsh, Warminster, Salisbury, Romsey and Southampton Central.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.

Quote
18:48 Swindon to Southampton Central due 20:44
An additional train service has been planned to operate as shown 18:48 Swindon to Southampton Central due 20:44.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 01, 2018, 06:48:23
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:20
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.

Quote
08:36 Swindon to Westbury due 09:20
08:36 Swindon to Westbury due 09:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.

Quote
09:30 Westbury to Swindon due 10:20
09:30 Westbury to Swindon due 10:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.

Quote
10:36 Swindon to Westbury due 11:20
10:36 Swindon to Westbury due 11:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 01, 2018, 06:53:25
Two more

Quote
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.

Quote
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 07:56:11
Quote
Train Cancellations
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:20
08:36 Swindon to Westbury due 09:20
09:30 Westbury to Swindon due 10:20
10:36 Swindon to Westbury due 11:20
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20

So there's a single train at 08:22 from Westbury to Swindon then nothing to 15:06
First train of the day Swindon to Westbury at 15:22

"This is due to the train conductor being taken ill."

Things like this happen. But they happen to GWR far far far too often.  I used to run a 24 business operation, and staff occasionally called in sick or even had to be sent home.   And we had contingency plans in place so that we would not let our customers down - a qualified stand in ... .  You would think that GWR could do the same considering they are running over a thousand services a day, wouldn't you?

Today is day one of two of the Melksham Food and River Festival, with crowds expected in the King George V Park that's a ten minute walk from the station. 



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 01, 2018, 07:59:25
Swindon Town at home this afternoon too.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 08:14:15
Swindon Town at home this afternoon too.

As there is no alternative advise on JourneyCheck, I have asked on Twitter:

"@GWRHelp - what advise for people travelling to our food and river festival in Melksham today?"

"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 08:19:01
Swindon Town at home this afternoon too.

As there is no alternative advise on JourneyCheck, I have asked on Twitter:

"@GWRHelp - what advise for people travelling to our food and river festival in Melksham today?"

"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"

Quote
Replying to @transwilts
Hello, always best to check their journey before and after the event: https://www.journeycheck.com/greatwesternrailway/ …. Train times can be checked here: https://www.gwr.com/plan-journey . Natalie


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 01, 2018, 08:24:06
Quote
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20

13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

Quote
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20

14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 08:33:37
"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"

Quote
I can see there's cancellations due to crew being ill. There will be staff at Swindon so passengers will have to go to the station as normal and speak to staff upon arrival. They will be best placed to look into alternatives and assist. Nat


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Lee on September 01, 2018, 08:38:58
...And if you're a sitcom writer looking for new ideas...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on September 01, 2018, 08:47:36
"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"

Quote
I can see there's cancellations due to crew being ill. There will be staff at Swindon so passengers will have to go to the station as normal and speak to staff upon arrival. They will be best placed to look into alternatives and assist. Nat

Get a taxi, send the bill to GWR quoting the relevant legislation.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on September 01, 2018, 08:50:10
Swindon Town at home this afternoon too.

As there is no alternative advise on JourneyCheck, I have asked on Twitter:

"@GWRHelp - what advise for people travelling to our food and river festival in Melksham today?"

"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"

Quote
Replying to @transwilts
Hello, always best to check their journey before and after the event: https://www.journeycheck.com/greatwesternrailway/ …. Train times can be checked here: https://www.gwr.com/plan-journey . Natalie


Couldn't be more useless advice if they tried better.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 08:54:58

Quote
Replying to @transwilts
If they are travelling from Melksham to Swindon then the 0838 ran and the service at 1148 is also expected to run. One after that will be at 1348 and that's also expected to run. There is a Customer Help Point at Melksham if help is needed.

Looks like two services now re-instated.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on September 01, 2018, 08:58:45
"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"

Quote
I can see there's cancellations due to crew being ill. There will be staff at Swindon so passengers will have to go to the station as normal and speak to staff upon arrival. They will be best placed to look into alternatives and assist. Nat

Get a taxi, send the bill to GWR quoting the relevant legislation.


What is the legislation ? reference(s) please.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 09:10:37
Summarising ... two round trips re-instanted as I write

First Westbury to Swindon services at 08:22 and 11:32 this morning (07:32 and 09:32 lost)
First Swindon to Westbury service at 12:36 (08:36 and 10:36 lost).

Sales and negotiating technique manual, chapter one:

"If you have bad news, overplay it at first ... then people will be grateful when you switch it to less bad news"

"If you need to buy a little time to sort things out, play dumb and answer something you weren't asked"

I have no evidence to support (or to not support) whether these techniques were wilfully employed ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on September 01, 2018, 09:14:16
"@GWRHelp - what advise for Swindon Town fans from Trowbridge and Melksham travelling to the home game today?"

Quote
I can see there's cancellations due to crew being ill. There will be staff at Swindon so passengers will have to go to the station as normal and speak to staff upon arrival. They will be best placed to look into alternatives and assist. Nat

Get a taxi, send the bill to GWR quoting the relevant legislation.


What is the legislation ? reference(s) please.

I believe it's the Consumer Rights Act.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 11:31:46

Quote
Replying to @transwilts
If they are travelling from Melksham to Swindon then the 0838 ran and the service at 1148 is also expected to run. One after that will be at 1348 and that's also expected to run. There is a Customer Help Point at Melksham if help is needed.

Looks like two services now re-instated.


And one cancelled again

Quote
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the police dealing with an incident.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 01, 2018, 12:26:14
Quote
12:36 Swindon to Westbury due 13:20 will be started from Chippenham.

It will no longer call at Swindon.

This is due to this train being late from the depot.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on September 01, 2018, 13:16:56

Quote
Replying to @transwilts
If they are travelling from Melksham to Swindon then the 0838 ran and the service at 1148 is also expected to run. One after that will be at 1348 and that's also expected to run. There is a Customer Help Point at Melksham if help is needed.

Looks like two services now re-instated.


And one cancelled again

Quote
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the police dealing with an incident.

Is this police presence due to a protest by passengers protesting about the lack of travelling advice ?  ;D ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 13:47:23
Quote
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20

13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

Quote
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20

14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20 will be reinstated and will now run as scheduled.

and gone again

Quote
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20
13:32 Westbury to Swindon due 14:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.

Quote
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20
14:36 Swindon to Westbury due 15:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the train conductor being taken ill.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on September 01, 2018, 14:53:05
How can you rely on a service that’s cancelled then reinstated then cancelled again? Simple answer...you can’t and that’s a shame.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: IndustryInsider on September 01, 2018, 15:46:48
A manager was found to run it, hence the reinstatement, then it was discovered they didn’t have route knowledge for a required diversionary route so it was cancelled again.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 16:37:23
How can you rely on a service that’s cancelled then reinstated then cancelled again? Simple answer...you can’t and that’s a shame.

A manager was found to run it, hence the reinstatement, then it was discovered they didn’t have route knowledge for a required diversionary route so it was cancelled again.

Today's goings on show ... regrettably ... serious systemic flaws.    You expect and can forgive things going wrong occasionally, but this is reply number 480 in a thread that started at the beginning of the year - that's about 2 posts per day - just about cancellations and amendments on a line which basically has one train pootling up and down all day, with just a couple of other through services.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on September 01, 2018, 16:48:44
Shambolic.

Is there any reason why that train can't be DOO?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 17:13:02
Shambolic.

Is there any reason why that train can't be DOO?

Where I have seen DOO in use there have been mirrors and cameras that are missing all along the line, and fare collection systems which give nearly everyone an opportunity to purchase before they travel.  I suspect there are signalling, communication, staff contract and other issues too which you and me as passengers would not be aware of. It is very frustrating to loose the service as we have in effect done today for the lack of either of the two staff scheduled to operate it through sickness, or lack of route knowledge, or because of a passenger disturbance, or a train late from the depot (yes, all of those today!), but I would not see an on train staff reduction as a door that is (or should be at present) to be pushed to see if it will open.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on September 01, 2018, 17:24:05
Shambolic.

Is there any reason why that train can't be DOO?

Where I have seen DOO in use there have been mirrors and cameras that are missing all along the line, and fare collection systems which give nearly everyone an opportunity to purchase before they travel.  I suspect there are signalling, communication, staff contract and other issues too which you and me as passengers would not be aware of. It is very frustrating to loose the service as we have in effect done today for the lack of either of the two staff scheduled to operate it through sickness, or lack of route knowledge, or because of a passenger disturbance, or a train late from the depot (yes, all of those today!), but I would not see an on train staff reduction as a door that is (or should be at present) to be pushed to see if it will open.


I suspect the bruvvers would object too?...……...that being the case, it's even more incumbent on GWR to have a robust standby/contingency plan in place...….no doubt there are some very happy taxi drivers today! (but not so many happy Swindon fans!)  ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 17:30:50
To remind any rail industry readers of the very real effect on passenger journeys of things like today ...

Quote
Customer @GWRHelp my cheap day out to Swindon has doubled in cost due to the last minute cancellation of the Westbury train. @transwilts no improvement. Now going via Bath.

That train cancelled as well. No crew again?

GWR Hello, sorry to see this. Which service were you intending to travel on please? Your ticket is valid on the next available service if there is a cancellation. Natalie

Customer Sat at TRO. No trains at all coming as they are all in WSB. Next train at 12.15 will have the passengers of 3 trains on it. Am going to Bath to get to Swindon. Tickets already twice the price. See why I'm not happy?!

GWR Thank you. Sorry for the cancellation. This is due to police dealing with an incident. You can claim a full abandoned journey refund on your unused ticket from your point of purchase. Natalie

1. "Next available train" not much good for a day out if you've gone for the 08:36 but the next train isn't until 12:36.

2. If the direct train is cancelled, "via Melksham" tickets should be accepted via Bath Spa.  Have this promise from GWR and indeed it's in as an easement during engineering.   They need to tell their tickets sales staff, twitterers, and TVMs and not just keep the "concession" a secret!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on September 01, 2018, 20:39:02

Quote
Replying to @transwilts
If they are travelling from Melksham to Swindon then the 0838 ran and the service at 1148 is also expected to run. One after that will be at 1348 and that's also expected to run. There is a Customer Help Point at Melksham if help is needed.

Looks like two services now re-instated.


And one cancelled again

Quote
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20
11:32 Westbury to Swindon due 12:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to the police dealing with an incident.

I'm just wondering if anybody used the Help Point and, if so, what would they have been told.   How, by using this means, would a means of travelling straight away be available.   GWR have been quoting that taxis would be available to convey  passengers from Melksham but I have read on Twitter tonight that the taxi company wont do it now because GWR haven't paid their bills.   How much substance there is in this, I don't know.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 01, 2018, 21:48:25
I'm just wondering if anybody used the Help Point and, if so, what would they have been told.   How, by using this means, would a means of travelling straight away be available.   GWR have been quoting that taxis would be available to convey  passengers from Melksham but I have read on Twitter tonight that the taxi company wont do it now because GWR haven't paid their bills.   How much substance there is in this, I don't know.

The morning trains on a Saturday have been loading well - 99 passengers on the 08:36 off Swindon the other week, and that afternoon the trains were cancelled.   At first the help point suggested waiting for the next train, but when we grumble about that being 2 hours they ordered up taxis ad three of them arrived in about 20 minutes. 

Most taxi drivers are in that business because they prefer a job that pays straight away without the need to claim and wait (even for the shortest period) and account.  And that's the opposite of the way big companies work, so there's often just a small pool available.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on September 02, 2018, 11:23:51
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28


19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on September 02, 2018, 16:56:12
19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28


19:41 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:28 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

There will be nobody coming off the 1756 from Weymouth as that is cancalled as well


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 03, 2018, 09:16:47
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 has been delayed between Westbury and Swindon and is now 16 minutes late.
This is due to this train being late from the depot.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: xraydelta1 on September 03, 2018, 09:23:53
This excuse is nonsense. It left 1 late from Salisbury and arrived 7 late into Westbury (having twiddled its thumbs at Dilton) as the signaller moved empty stock around in front of it for some reason, using the same platform. Then it got stuck behind a late running Paddington @ Chippenham.

Source: I was on it ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on September 03, 2018, 13:25:26
This excuse is nonsense. It left 1 late from Salisbury and arrived 7 late into Westbury (having twiddled its thumbs at Dilton) as the signaller moved empty stock around in front of it for some reason, using the same platform. Then it got stuck behind a late running Paddington @ Chippenham.

Source: I was on it ;)

5E17 is attributed as the cause of 11 minutes of the delay. This normally comes off of the rear of the 05:44 Bristol TM to Portsmouth service, being detached at Westbury. Today it appears that the set was outstabled at Westbury overnight (I suspect extra stock at Westbury overnight with the list of cancellations on Sunday) requiring an extra unscheduled empty stock move from the sidings. The signalling at Westbury doesn't allow a train to be routed into platform 3 from the Frome or Warminster lines if there are movements coming out of the sidings as there is insufficient overlap beyond the platform starting signal on platform 3 (this has been the case since the 1984 track rationalisation of the Westbury station area).


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 03, 2018, 14:59:45
Shambolic.

Is there any reason why that train can't be DOO?

Where I have seen DOO in use there have been mirrors and cameras that are missing all along the line, and fare collection systems which give nearly everyone an opportunity to purchase before they travel .....


As a follow up and from other research, I have just come across a page that maps where DOO is in use.

https://www.kingqueen.org.uk/category/accessibility/transport-accessibility/trains/


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 03, 2018, 15:18:17
The signalling at Westbury doesn't allow a train to be routed into platform 3 from the Frome or Warminster lines if there are movements coming out of the sidings as there is insufficient overlap beyond the platform starting signal on platform 3 (this has been the case since the 1984 track rationalisation of the Westbury station area).

That signal positioning has also been a problem for HSTs calling at Platform 3.  If it isn't showing a proceed aspect when the train arrives, the whole of an 8 carriage train won't fit on the platform. Trains used to stop with the powercar past the signal if it was cleared - not sure if they still do.

(http://www.mbob.co.uk/rforum/wsb3.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 03, 2018, 15:29:49
The signalling at Westbury doesn't allow a train to be routed into platform 3 from the Frome or Warminster lines if there are movements coming out of the sidings as there is insufficient overlap beyond the platform starting signal on platform 3 (this has been the case since the 1984 track rationalisation of the Westbury station area).

That signal positioning has also been a problem for HSTs calling at Platform 3.  If it isn't showing a proceed aspect when the train arrives, the whole of an 8 carriage train won't fit on the platform. Trains used to stop with the powercar past the signal if it was cleared - not sure if they still do.

(http://www.mbob.co.uk/rforum/wsb3.jpg)


The junction at the north end of Westbury station is to be relayed over Christmas as the track has come to the end of its useful life.

There are calls for changes to the track and signalling layout to meet modern requirements    Does anyone know if the Christmas opportunity is being taken to resolve issues, or is a bull-at-a-gate approach, with it being relayed exactly as-is even knowing that there are elements of the layout that really need attention and could be dealt with as part of this process?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on September 03, 2018, 19:55:12
Could they also reopen the old platform 1 whilst they are at it? Too much to hope for I know. But with Westbury station completely closed over Christmas what a golden opportunity instead of having to close the station again at a later date to bring this platform back into use.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 03, 2018, 20:02:45
Could they also reopen the old platform 1 whilst they are at it? Too much to hope for I know. But with Westbury station completely closed over Christmas what a golden opportunity instead of having to close the station again at a later date to bring this platform back into use.

It's appearing that the left hand (regular renewal) and the right hand (upgrade) may not talk to each other - with the result that both waste money over the years.   I have a meeting set up next Monday - I hope I'm not told that we should have raised the idea before we knew there was an opportunity to raise the idea. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 04, 2018, 18:13:50
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 is being delayed at Swindon.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Can't have been too late - it was gone when I arrived at 17:48 ....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 04, 2018, 18:30:35
Systems claim it left at 17:49 - 13 minutes late.   Was 19 late by Chippenham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Clan Line on September 04, 2018, 21:21:17
Could they also reopen the old platform 1 whilst they are at it? Too much to hope for I know. But with Westbury station completely closed over Christmas what a golden opportunity instead of having to close the station again at a later date to bring this platform back into use.

http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20116.msg245039#msg245039


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 05, 2018, 07:21:30
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 9 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.
Additional Information
Customers travelling from unstaffed stations are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point systems available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950 detailing the total number of passengers travelling, and their intended destinations.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 05, 2018, 08:13:22
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 7 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 05, 2018, 08:43:11
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 37 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on September 05, 2018, 12:55:09
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 37 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Not a good start to the 170th anniversary of the commencement of passenger services on the Thingley Junction to Westbury route.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 05, 2018, 16:39:08
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on September 05, 2018, 17:07:25
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

But the 1736 ex Swindon is running which is the same unit.    This makes me think it's being nicked for something and leaving the Trans Wilts to suffer.    There is again no advice for passengers and when GWR do say use the Help Point at Melksham they are placing the responsibility onto the passenger to sort it out.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 05, 2018, 17:13:48
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

But the 1736 ex Swindon is running which is the same unit.    This makes me think it's being nicked for something and leaving the Trans Wilts to suffer.    There is again no advice for passengers and when GWR do say use the Help Point at Melksham they are placing the responsibility onto the passenger to sort it out.

1. There is sometimes a unit switch at Westbury

2. A "fault" can be "not enough fuel" which allows one service to run but not the next.

3. I can't believe I'm making excuses when performance so far this month has been shambolic!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on September 05, 2018, 17:36:25
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:05/09/2018 16:02

But the 1736 ex Swindon is running which is the same unit.    This makes me think it's being nicked for something and leaving the Trans Wilts to suffer.    There is again no advice for passengers and when GWR do say use the Help Point at Melksham they are placing the responsibility onto the passenger to sort it out.

1. There is sometimes a unit switch at Westbury

2. A "fault" can be "not enough fuel" which allows one service to run but not the next.

3. I can't believe I'm making excuses when performance so far this month has been shambolic!

The 1645 Bristol Parkway to Warminster is cancelled (unit fault) and it's next working, 1818 Warminster to Cheltenham is starting at Westbury.    I read something into that.

FOLLOW UP
Have tracked and this was the case.    Trans Wilts not a priority for GWR


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 06, 2018, 06:50:21
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

Not a problem (at least until south of Warminster, where it becomes a school train)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 17, 2018, 06:17:23
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.

Not a problem (at least until south of Warminster, where it becomes a school train)

Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Problem today - got completely all the way.  Schools back.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 17, 2018, 08:48:37
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Trowbridge and is now 25 minutes late.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/09/2018 08:11

That's 2 out of 3 peak trains gone this morning.

Someone's having trouble organising a pissup in a brewery!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 17, 2018, 19:14:11
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Trowbridge and is now 25 minutes late.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/09/2018 08:11

That's 2 out of 3 peak trains gone this morning.

Someone's having trouble organising a pissup in a brewery!

Quote
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 11 minutes late.
This is due to animals on the railway.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: tomL on September 17, 2018, 19:18:07
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Trowbridge and is now 25 minutes late.
This is due to a points failure.
Last Updated:17/09/2018 08:11

That's 2 out of 3 peak trains gone this morning.

Someone's having trouble organising a pissup in a brewery!

Quote
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 11 minutes late.
This is due to animals on the railway.



Guess the unit was held up at Bath by the rogue Swan...  ::) ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 17, 2018, 19:30:56
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be delayed at Westbury and is expected to be 25 minutes late.
This is due to animals on the railway.

I'm trying to work out where the animals might be if it's delayed at Westbury, when previous train heading in the opposite direction was delayed at the same place, and diverted.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on September 17, 2018, 19:39:37
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be delayed at Westbury and is expected to be 25 minutes late.
This is due to animals on the railway.

I'm trying to work out where the animals might be if it's delayed at Westbury, when previous train heading in the opposite direction was delayed at the same place, and diverted.
Website says Bath Spa.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 20, 2018, 16:57:06
 
Quote
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:03
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:03 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 15 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

While I'm logging ... 09:46 Westbury to Swindon this morning - 12 late due to late running (?)  freight train on the single line.
Two Tracks, Now!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 21, 2018, 07:54:26
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 has been cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 21, 2018, 09:05:16
Quote
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41 will be starting late from Swindon.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 21, 2018, 09:09:27
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 has been cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Following train ...

Code:
Westbury 3 0733 0734 1m late
Trowbridge 1 0739 0739 0741 0743 4m late
Melksham 1 0748 0749 0751 0752 3m late
Chippenham 2 0759 0800 0831 0834 34m late
Swindon 2 0815 0902 47m late

So passengers due into Swindon on the 07:04 (at 07:48) eventually got there at 09:02 .... not a clever morning.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 06:59:00
Quote
10:30 Westbury to Swindon due 11:14
10:30 Westbury to Swindon due 11:14 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
11:28 Swindon to Westbury due 12:08
11:28 Swindon to Westbury due 12:08 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Last Updated:23/09/2018 06:28

With the 08:30 replaced by a bus / connection failing at Chippenham (1 hour 39 minute journey Melksham to Swindon v 28 minutes)  we have a first train service at 12:30.   I wonder if the bus that fails to make the connection off the 08:30 is being kept on to run a rail replacement for the 10:30 ... no comment on Journey Check about passenger alternatives, I note.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 08:31:49
Quote
18:45 Westbury to Swindon due 19:27
18:45 Westbury to Swindon due 19:27 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Quote
19:53 Swindon to Westbury due 20:34
19:53 Swindon to Westbury due 20:34 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 09:39:15
Quote
Further Information
Road replacement transport will be requested. Customers with 'Via Melksham' tickets may use their tickets via Bath Spa at reasonable times before and after the cancelled service.

For more detailed information please contact a member of station staff or make use of the Customer Help Point systems available. Please allow more time for your intended journey.

Last Updated:23/09/2018 09:19

A step in the right direction - a customer aware addition.  Thank you.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 11:42:50
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 30 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 12:17:05
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 30 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.

update ...

Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on September 23, 2018, 13:31:12
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 30 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.

update ...

Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 13:43:31
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(

I could see that coming 1.6 kms off!!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 23, 2018, 13:49:07
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(

I could see that coming 1.6 kms off!!

Mind you ... not totally sure what's going on. Real Time Trains shows it as still running but very late indeed, and the return working having left Swindon just one minute late ... that will be the first train of the day to call at Melksham!   Not sure where the return working appeared from - they've not started turning out new trains from the shops in Swindon again have they?


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on September 23, 2018, 14:28:31
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(

I could see that coming 1.6 kms off!!

Mind you ... not totally sure what's going on. Real Time Trains shows it as still running but very late indeed, and the return working having left Swindon just one minute late ... that will be the first train of the day to call at Melksham!   Not sure where the return working appeared from - they've not started turning out new trains from the shops in Swindon again have they?
It's not the same set booked to return from Swindon. The units on the Golden Valley and Trans Wilts are booked to swap over, although today the unit came empty from Bristol.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Western Pathfinder on September 23, 2018, 14:36:46
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(

I could see that coming 1.6 kms off!!


Or even 80 Chains away !.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on September 23, 2018, 17:15:31
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(

I could see that coming 1.6 kms off!!

Mind you ... not totally sure what's going on. Real Time Trains shows it as still running but very late indeed, and the return working having left Swindon just one minute late ... that will be the first train of the day to call at Melksham!   Not sure where the return working appeared from - they've not started turning out new trains from the shops in Swindon again have they?
It's not the same set booked to return from Swindon. The units on the Golden Valley and Trans Wilts are booked to swap over, although today the unit came empty from Bristol.

It's so they can change over the Yate turn rounds to go back to the Marsh due to the Bristol Parkway blockages


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on September 23, 2018, 18:28:52
Quote
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41
11:20 Weymouth to Swindon due 13:41 is being delayed at Weymouth and is now expected to be 60 minutes late.
This is due to this train hitting an obstruction on the line.
Terminating at Westbury as well.  :(

I could see that coming 1.6 kms off!!

Mind you ... not totally sure what's going on. Real Time Trains shows it as still running but very late indeed, and the return working having left Swindon just one minute late ... that will be the first train of the day to call at Melksham!   Not sure where the return working appeared from - they've not started turning out new trains from the shops in Swindon again have they?
It's not the same set booked to return from Swindon. The units on the Golden Valley and Trans Wilts are booked to swap over, although today the unit came empty from Bristol.

It's so they can change over the Yate turn rounds to go back to the Marsh due to the Bristol Parkway blockages
That makes sense. Many thanks.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 24, 2018, 08:54:36
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Dilton Marsh, Warminster, Salisbury, Romsey and Southampton Central.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

TransWilts train ... running Swindon to Westbury tonight, but not beyond


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 24, 2018, 17:14:52
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 will be terminated at Westbury.
It will no longer call at Dilton Marsh, Warminster, Salisbury, Romsey and Southampton Central.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

TransWilts train ... running Swindon to Westbury tonight, but not beyond


And today's cancellations on the line itself:

Quote
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 24, 2018, 19:29:10
And today's cancellations on the line itself:

Quote
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a points failure.

Cancellations were on the line.   The points failure was at Bathampton Junction.....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 26, 2018, 20:51:49
Been in.a meeting ... I suspect this is just the tail end of cancellations ...

Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.
Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on 20:32 Weston-super-Mare service from Swindon (20:47 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for services towards Trowbridge and Westbury.

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.

Headed back to Melksham from Bristol - using the b-u-s from Bath!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 26, 2018, 21:00:26
Been in.a meeting ... I suspect this is just the tail end of cancellations ...


Afraid it was

Quote
18:34 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 will be cancelled.

This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Additional Information:

Customers should use the next service, the 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa service, which calls at Trowbridge (19:38), Melksham (19:47), Chippenham (20:01) and arrives Swindon at 20:20. Customers may also travel via Bath Spa.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 27, 2018, 12:45:41
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02

12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be cancelled.

This is due to a fault on this train.

Last Updated:27/09/2018 12:16

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10

13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be cancelled.

This is due to a fault on this train.

Last Updated:27/09/2018 12:16


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 28, 2018, 07:14:47
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Gloucester, Stonehouse, Stroud, Kemble, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Last Updated:28/09/2018 04:17


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on September 29, 2018, 11:08:10
Five cancellations across GWR - here are four of them.

Quote
16:32 Westbury to Swindon due 17:22

16:32 Westbury to Swindon due 17:22 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Last Updated:29/09/2018 11:02

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:20

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:20 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Last Updated:29/09/2018 11:02

Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22

18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Last Updated:29/09/2018 11:03

Quote
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20

19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Last Updated:29/09/2018 11:03


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on September 29, 2018, 11:21:25
Swindon Town at home too, cancelling the 1736 won't be appreciated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on September 30, 2018, 11:20:50
A series of these this evening ...

Quote
17:52 Swindon to Westbury due 18:34
Facilities on the 17:52 Swindon to Westbury due 18:34.
Toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.

When compared to other problems, we could perhaps suggest this is just a minor inconvenience


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 02, 2018, 19:51:01
Quote
When compared to other problems, we could perhaps suggest this is just a minor inconvenience

And another relatively minor issue.

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 has been previously delayed but is now 15 minutes late from Swindon.
This is due to checking reports of an obstruction on the line earlier today.
Last Updated:02/10/2018 19:27

Showing as 20 late at Stonehouse ... 15 late Swindon ... I expect (paths allowing) more like 10 late from Westbury. Will be interesting to take a look back on Real Time Trains


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 02, 2018, 21:34:17
Quote
When compared to other problems, we could perhaps suggest this is just a minor inconvenience

And another relatively minor issue.

Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 has been previously delayed but is now 15 minutes late from Swindon.
This is due to checking reports of an obstruction on the line earlier today.
Last Updated:02/10/2018 19:27

Showing as 20 late at Stonehouse ... 15 late Swindon ... I expect (paths allowing) more like 10 late from Westbury. Will be interesting to take a look back on Real Time Trains

21 Late on the South Cotswold. 15 late on the TransWilts. 5 late at Warminster and 2 late (GBTT) into Southampton.  There you go - when is 20 minutes late considered to be "on time" for performance purposes!  ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Zoe on October 03, 2018, 10:46:58
Quote
07:30 London Paddington to Penzance due 13:13
07:30 London Paddington to Penzance due 13:13 will be diverted between Reading and Taunton.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Bath Spa and Bristol Temple Meads.
It has been previously delayed but is expected to be 7 minutes late from Taunton.
This is due to this train being late from the depot.
This train will now be formed of the usual number of coaches.
Looks like the decision was made to wait for a second 5 car unit to become available and divert via the Berks and Hants to make up time at the expense of serving stations via Bristol.  I doubt this was an easy decision but the alternative would have been a 5 car unit on the return working (1A93) which serves Plymouth and Exeter at busy times.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 04, 2018, 06:57:02
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:04/10/2018 06:37

No problem ... until Warminster after which it will be getting a bit cosey!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on October 04, 2018, 07:27:32
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:04/10/2018 06:37

No problem ... until Warminster after which it will be getting a bit cosey!

Was busy down my end as well, we need these five car 800s urgently!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Zoe on October 05, 2018, 15:00:48
Quote
12:04 Penzance to London Paddington due 17:15 will no longer call at Tiverton Parkway and Taunton.
It has been delayed at Penzance and is now 7 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 5 coaches instead of 10.
I wonder if the Tiverton Parkway and Taunton calls have been removed  since with just 5 cars on a Friday afternoon Penzance to London service,  anyone at Tiverton Parkway and Taunton may not even be able to physically board the train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on October 08, 2018, 14:34:30
There isn't a full service this week because of the last of the Newbury closures but.....

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17

17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.

This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.

Additional Information
Customers at Swindon and Chippenham travelling to Trowbridge or Westbury should travel on the 18:00 Bristol Temple Meads service from Swindon (18:15 from Chippenham) and change at Bath Spa for the 18:36 service towards Portsmouth Harbour which calls at Trowbridge (18:54) and Westbury (19:01).

Customers travelling to Melksham should change at Chippenham and speak to station staff.

Customers at Melksham will be provided road transport from the station car park.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 08, 2018, 15:50:09
Looks like an epidemic.  Three separate diagrams ... samples from each

Quote
12:51 Great Malvern to Weymouth due 17:10
12:51 Great Malvern to Weymouth due 17:10 will be terminated at Yeovil Pen Mill.
It will no longer call at Thornford, Yetminster, Chetnole, Maiden Newton, Dorchester West, Upwey and Weymouth.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.

Quote
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.

Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on October 08, 2018, 17:30:07
Looks like an epidemic.  Three separate diagrams ... samples from each

Quote
12:51 Great Malvern to Weymouth due 17:10
12:51 Great Malvern to Weymouth due 17:10 will be terminated at Yeovil Pen Mill.
It will no longer call at Thornford, Yetminster, Chetnole, Maiden Newton, Dorchester West, Upwey and Weymouth.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.

Quote
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20
17:11 Westbury to Warminster due 17:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.


Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be cancelled.
This is due to a member of on-train staff being taken ill.


The 1728 Warminster to Bristol TM (Return of 1711) starting Westbury.   I smell a rat linking it to the cancellation of the Trans Wilts service


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on October 08, 2018, 18:13:36
Due to the Newbury closure the 17:36 is formed from a train which runs empty from Bath Spa.

It looks that train left Bath but only went as far as Bathampton loop and then shunted back to form the service to Bristol Parkway which should have started from Westbury at 16:19.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Trowres on October 08, 2018, 21:38:01
I have a recollection of seeing that manoeuvre used on another day fairly recently.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bradshaw on October 09, 2018, 08:49:51
Curiously, the 12.51 ex Great Malvern was terminated at Yeovil Pen Mill but it’s return working, the 17.30 ex Weymouth was started from Westbury. So the former returned ecs to Westbury DMU sidings as the 5Z80.
Presumably the member of staff who became ill was the guard and the train could not proceed and was taken back to Westbury.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 11, 2018, 08:43:51
Yesterday - 07:02 Melksham to Swindon at 07:15 (normally at 07:19 but changed due to engineering). People delighted to be dragged out of bed 20 minutes earlier jus to wait for the normal time  ;D

Today, that train

Quote
06:44 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
06:44 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 25 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

Not (I suppose) a TransWilts issue but still part of the general malaise and non-adherance to published timetables on services that run on and through the TransWilts.  No clue as to the real cause of the delay - just a statement that suggests it's a knock-on from other problems which are not specified.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bradshaw on October 11, 2018, 12:44:55
The 06.30 Cheltenham to London was cancelled throughout (RTT), problem with train. If the crew were on this train, that could be the reason, with another crew having to be sourced.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on October 15, 2018, 06:13:26
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 15, 2018, 06:18:14
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41
08:53 Swindon to Westbury due 09:41 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Yep, here we go again ... first two trains also changed / missing Melksham; first train there 10:02 and no note on journey check of any alternative plans.

Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 7 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 9 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: TaplowGreen on October 15, 2018, 07:20:58
Cancellations to services at Melksham
Due to a fault with the signalling system at Melksham all lines are blocked.
Train services running through this station may be cancelled or diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham. Disruption is expected until 12:00 15/10.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on October 15, 2018, 07:24:31
To note Journeycheck was updated at 06:45 to advise road transport had been ordered to and from Melksham for the cancelled services.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 15, 2018, 07:31:07
To note Journeycheck was updated at 06:45 to advise road transport had been ordered to and from Melksham for the cancelled services.

Quote
Cancellations to services at Melksham

Due to a fault with the signalling system at Melksham all lines are blocked.

Train services running through this station may be cancelled or diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham. Disruption is expected until 12:00 15/10.

Customer Advice

During this disruption if you wish to use local buses as an alternative means of transport and the local bus is not accepting Great Western Railway tickets please keep the bus ticket and send it, together with your rail ticket, to us for a refund.

Road transport has been requested but our providers are struggling to resource transport currently.
Last Updated:15/10/2018 07:15


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 15, 2018, 10:08:10
Quote
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32 is being delayed at Westbury and is now expected to be 10 minutes late.
This is due to this train being late from the depot.
Last Updated:15/10/2018 09:49

Compared to the 4 trains that were supposed to call at Melksham earlier but did not, this is a minor issue!

First train of the day ... at a commuter town of 25,000 ... now expected at 10:14.   Please don't count passengers on this evening's return 17:36 from Swindon and tell me numbers are down ... of course they will be!  :'(


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: SandTEngineer on October 15, 2018, 10:23:09
Looks like its a track circuit/axle counter failure on the branch.  Don't understand why it would take until 1200 to fix..... ::)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Phantom on October 16, 2018, 09:53:30
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-45864908

Rail passengers have been delayed on more than half of all services from 10 of Britain's busiest stations this year, research has found.

Manchester Oxford Road took the "undesirable crown" of performing worst, according to Which?

It found York, Gatwick Airport and Birmingham New Street all saw less than 40% of trains arrive on time.

A rail commuter in London said people face "a daily battle simply to get from A to B".

Which? said even small delays could have "a knock-on effect" on passengers' ability to complete their journey.

The consumer group looked at services at the 10 busiest stations in London and the 20 busiest outside the capital from the start of January until the end of September.

Dire knock-on effects
Using data from performance tracking site On Time Trains, the group found 68% of services were delayed at Manchester Oxford Road, rising to 77% during peak times.

The city's two largest stations, Piccadilly and Victoria, also suffered a high percentage of late services.

A Which? spokesman said the "timetable chaos earlier this year", caused by the implementation of new schedules by train operator Northern, had had "dire knock-on effects for [Manchester] passengers' personal and professional lives".

The data also showed the percentage of service cancellations at each station.

London King's Cross saw the highest rate of cancellations - 6% - while Manchester Oxford Road and Gatwick Airport were once again among the worst performing.

Highest percentage of delayed services

Manchester Oxford Road - 68%
York - 65%
Gatwick Airport and Birmingham New Street - 60%
Bristol Temple Meads 58%
Manchester Piccadilly - 56%
Clapham Junction and Sheffield - 54%
Manchester Victoria - 51%
Woking - 50%

Highest percentage of cancellations
London King's Cross - 6%
Manchester Oxford Road, Gatwick Airport, Cambridge - 5%
Bristol Temple Meads, Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Edinburgh Waverley, London Bridge, London Paddington, London St Pancras - 4%


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 17, 2018, 08:44:32

Rail passengers have been delayed on more than half of all services from 10 of Britain's busiest stations this year, research has found.

The data also showed the percentage of service cancellations at each station.

Highest percentage of cancellations
London King's Cross - 6%
Manchester Oxford Road, Gatwick Airport, Cambridge - 5%
Bristol Temple Meads, Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Edinburgh Waverley, London Bridge, London Paddington, London St Pancras - 4%


Back of a fag packet calculation for Melksham - around 6,200 services shown to call in the GB timetables at published last December and May this year, but only just over 5,000 estimated to have actually called. 

As far as passengers who (want) to use them are concerned, they would consider that to be around 20% cancellations.  No train, no alternative a few minutes away, having to drive or get on a bus or into a taxi - less convenient and much slower. The rail industry would probably describe just over a half as "engineering changes" ... and come up with a cancellation rate of around 8% to 10%; such changes are better for the passenger who can at least plan ahead, but they are still a cancellation of a service which as a result has been reduced below the SLC (service level commitment) in the franchise.

However - bright morning in Wiltshire ... London to Reading is "up the Swanny" but the only problem on the TransWilts is the 06:12 from Swindon being 2 carriages rather than 3.   Not an issue - though it might be later in that train's diagram as it wanders around The West

(http://www.wellho.net/pix/brighttw.jpg)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 17, 2018, 09:53:23
The more general issue of reliability - with Temple Meads comping out worst of the big stations - is now under discussion in "Bristol Commuters" - http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20529.0 - which seems a logical place to continue it.

By all means follow up with comments on my TransWilts specific stuff here on the TransWilts board.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 18, 2018, 08:01:42
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 17 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 19, 2018, 12:13:37
Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28 has been delayed at Trowbridge and is now 43 minutes late.
This is due to trespassers on the railway earlier in this train's journey.

Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32 has been cancelled.
This is due to trespassers on the railway.

Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be starting late from Westbury.
This is due to trespassers on the railway.

Quote
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40 will be started from Westbury.
It will no longer call at Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.
This is due to trespassers on the railway earlier today.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 21, 2018, 09:05:59
Quote
08:28 Westbury to Swindon due 09:12
08:28 Westbury to Swindon due 09:12 has been delayed at Westbury and is now 24 minutes late.
This is due to engineering works not being finished on time.

At least it's running  ;D ;D


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 22, 2018, 09:01:42
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 79 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 22, 2018, 09:19:05
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 79 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Bit of a mess ... due in Swindon at 07:48 - just arriving as I write, just before 09:15.

This is the 07:20 (Melksham time) train ... it left there at 08:45.   I'm pretty sure that passengers would have dropped back to the 07:49 (Melksham time) which made it there at 08:07 ... into Swindon at 08:34, when they would been planning for 07:48.

The return train from Swindon (08:53) is also delayed - by six minutes - looks like that's because the London to Swansea service that connects into it is running quarter of an hour late. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on October 22, 2018, 10:01:46
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 79 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Don't quite follow he train fault unless that was another factor contributing to delay.    The SWR hire 158 left Salisbury 19L and arrived Westbury 66L. with everything along this route heavily delayed due to sigalling problems between Salisbury and Warminster.   There was a blockage through this area over the weekend so ?  connected


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on October 22, 2018, 20:40:30
Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Cheltenham Spa.
It has been delayed at Westbury and is now 79 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Don't quite follow he train fault unless that was another factor contributing to delay.    The SWR hire 158 left Salisbury 19L and arrived Westbury 66L. with everything along this route heavily delayed due to sigalling problems between Salisbury and Warminster.   There was a blockage through this area over the weekend so ?  connected

The bulk of the delay was caused by a 'wrong side' signalling issue where a preceding train 'disappeared' from the track circuits. As it is in the middle of leaf fall season, the lack of trains over the route for several days to effectively clean the railhead meant that there was substantial contamination in several places along the line. If the contamination is severe enough, this can have the effect of electrically insulating the wheels of a train from the rails, and therefore the track circuit failing to show occupied when there is a train in the section. Any train that has 'disappeared' from the track circuits will be stopped for the driver to inspect the wheelsets for contamination. Subsquent trains will be signalled through affected areas by turning the line into one long block section. A following train will be held back until the preceding train is confirmed to be clear of the affected areas and is correctly operating subsequent track circuits.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on October 24, 2018, 09:40:11
Whole series of these today ... not a massive issue in the run of things ... public loos on all stations served except Melksham so people can probably hold on

Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28
Facilities on the 10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28.
Toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on October 31, 2018, 12:47:05
Quote
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40

12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40 will be cancelled.

This is due to a fault on this train.




Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 02, 2018, 20:26:44
Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed previously and is expected to be 20 minutes late from Chippenham.
This is due to a fire next to the track.


Quote
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49
20:08 Swindon to Westbury due 20:49 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 8 minutes late.
This is due to a fire next to the track.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 05, 2018, 19:07:52
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 is being delayed at Westbury and is now expected to be 10 minutes late.
This is due to train crew being delayed.

I always shudder when I see a TransWilts line on the map at the top of these pages.   Fortunately, this is a minor issue when weighed against what else we've had to endure.

By the time it gets off the single track at Thingley East, the Southampton train should have been on its way down - a knock on delay.  However, that train's running a few late and we'll have a train ballet at Chippenham where they seamlessly flow past each other.   And the Southampton's scheduled to wait a few minutes at Westbury, so could well be back on time from there.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 06, 2018, 09:51:17
Quote
16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:03
Facilities on the 16:21 Westbury to Swindon due 17:03.
Toilet facilities are not available.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Toilets are available in coaches X.

We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.
Last Updated:06/11/2018 09:11


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 08, 2018, 06:47:11
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 26 minutes late.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.

Wonder if it's the train or the line ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on November 08, 2018, 09:15:58
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 26 minutes late.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.

Wonder if it's the train or the line ...

According to a Tweet to GWR from a passenger, the train had to reverse and run into another platform due to being too long.  My theory is that as it seems to be detaching a unit at Westbury this week as a means of getting units out of Gloucester due to the Filton Blockade, it was routed into Platform 2 Bay in error.   Due to run as 5E17 to Warminster to work 2E17  0723 Warminster to Bristol TM


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 08, 2018, 09:40:27
According to a Tweet to GWR from a passenger, the train had to reverse and run into another platform due to being too long.  My theory is that as it seems to be detaching a unit at Westbury this week as a means of getting units out of Gloucester due to the Filton Blockade, it was routed into Platform 2 Bay in error.   Due to run as 5E17 to Warminster to work 2E17  0723 Warminster to Bristol TM

Ah - which explains why that train from Warminster was also late for the same reason.

I'm surprised that in these days one sophisticated systems, there's nothing in the signalling that check train lengths into the Swindon bay ... it's not the first time ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: stuving on November 08, 2018, 09:52:58
I'm surprised that in these days one sophisticated systems, there's nothing in the signalling that check train lengths into the Swindon bay ... it's not the first time ...

One of the few times I had any professional dealing with railways was investigating the use of a transponder system to detect and measure exactly where trains are. There are obviously ways to do that, but for a really reliable system the ideal is multiple senors based on different principles. What interest we got for the idea was to detect and count vehicles, both within the train and from fixed equipment. I was told then that the top of the wish list for better detection was train length - traditional signalling can't measure it directly. That came from someone doing metro systems, but I'm sure the same is true of heavy rail. Of course an axle counter does this too, but AFAIK the actual counts never get sent onwards to the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 12, 2018, 12:56:29
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
It is being delayed at Westbury.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 12, 2018, 13:04:08
Quote
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02
12:20 Westbury to Swindon due 13:02 will be terminated at Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
It is being delayed at Westbury.
This is due to a fault on this train.

and to balance that ...

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be started from Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Swindon.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Last Updated:12/11/2018 12:55


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on November 12, 2018, 13:06:38
13:29 now reinstated.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 25, 2018, 14:50:15
Quote
13:38 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54
13:38 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 22 minutes late.
This is due to a late running train being in front of this one.

Yep, that IS a TransWilts train ... don't be fooled by "Weymouth"  ;D

Delighted at the continued integration of diagrams


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 25, 2018, 15:05:09
Quote
13:38 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54
13:38 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 22 minutes late.
This is due to a late running train being in front of this one.

Yep, that IS a TransWilts train ... don't be fooled by "Weymouth"  ;D

Delighted at the continued integration of diagrams

Just checked ... the West of England main line (or whatever we call it) is wriggling today - London, Reading, Chippenham, Westbury rather than London, Reading, Newbury, Westbury which is double tracked all the way and has the capacity for the West Country.   Hardly surprised at a bit of congestion in the circumstances; the 22 minutes grew to 30 minutes while the Weymouth train waited for the single track section ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: SandTEngineer on November 25, 2018, 15:11:32
Quote
13:38 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54
13:38 Swindon to Weymouth due 15:54 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 22 minutes late.
This is due to a late running train being in front of this one.

Yep, that IS a TransWilts train ... don't be fooled by "Weymouth"  ;D

Delighted at the continued integration of diagrams

Just checked ... the West of England main line (or whatever we call it) is wriggling today - London, Reading, Chippenham, Westbury rather than London, Reading, Newbury, Westbury which is double tracked all the way and has the capacity for the West Country.   Hardly surprised at a bit of congestion in the circumstances; the 22 minutes grew to 30 minutes while the Weymouth train waited for the single track section ...
Oh for those intermediate section signals... ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 25, 2018, 15:31:45
Real good example ok knock-on effects

The 08:30 Exeter to Paddington started on time, but lost time along the way and was around 20 minutes late into Paddington - so the return service to Liskeard left about quarter of an hour late.  That meant that that 11:05 Weymoth to Swindon got held up waiting for it (the Liskeard train) to clear the single line at Trowbridge, and as a result was about quarter of an hour late into Swindon.

Managed to get away headed back 22 minutes late (I'm guessing it was waiting for a gap it could jump into) ... and being so late at Chippenham, it was held near there so that another express coming up from Plymouth could come through the single line; by the time it got away and to Melksham it was 30 minutes late.    It's scheduled to pass the next train off Weymouth at Yeovil Pen Mill, but I'm suspecting that it will pass it somewhere near Castle Cary, so at least the won't be get another knock on.  30 minutes being a good delay, as it moves the point at which the trains now pass all the way to the main line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on November 25, 2018, 17:11:30
Good to note today's post is the first in this thread for nearly a fortnight - and I don't think we have missed recording any cancellations...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 25, 2018, 17:32:39
Good to note today's post is the first in this thread for nearly a fortnight - and I don't think we have missed recording any cancellations...

Ironic really as Melksham Station as late as last Thursday was sporting a big notice telling people that daytime trains ere replaced by buses for the week --- which they weren't. GWR has a well tested mechanism in place now for getting engineering poster in place - but i seems no system to take them down if the engineering doesn't happen, even if it's reported!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Adelante_CCT on November 25, 2018, 19:39:50
 
Quote
Just checked ... the West of England main line (or whatever we call it) is wriggling today - London, Reading, Chippenham, Westbury rather than London, Reading, Newbury, Westbury which is double tracked all the way and has the capacity for the West Country

Testing the overhead for the first time between Newbury and Reading/Scours Lane


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 25, 2018, 20:04:30
Quote
Just checked ... the West of England main line (or whatever we call it) is wriggling today - London, Reading, Chippenham, Westbury rather than London, Reading, Newbury, Westbury which is double tracked all the way and has the capacity for the West Country

Testing the overhead for the first time between Newbury and Reading/Scours Lane

And THAT ... if I have my sums right, took our database over quarter of a million - http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20743 . How great that it's a positive post!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on November 26, 2018, 12:13:45
According to a Tweet to GWR from a passenger, the train had to reverse and run into another platform due to being too long.  My theory is that as it seems to be detaching a unit at Westbury this week as a means of getting units out of Gloucester due to the Filton Blockade, it was routed into Platform 2 Bay in error.   Due to run as 5E17 to Warminster to work 2E17  0723 Warminster to Bristol TM

Ah - which explains why that train from Warminster was also late for the same reason.

I'm surprised that in these days one sophisticated systems, there's nothing in the signalling that check train lengths into the Swindon bay ... it's not the first time ...

Time for a new platform at Swindon it seems, Time to fill in the old Platform 2, and build a new one opposite platform 1,Renumber that 2, And the new platform 1. There is enough room, also a track is in place, just needing two extra signals.

This would be a worthwile expense, As it would give Swindon 4 through Platforms, like Filton Abbey Wood.Just had a look at google maps and found that the east end of Swindon would need some slight remodeling, The west end just needs a crossover to the Kemble line, this would mean all the London to Cheltenham and back Trains would use the Platform especially if a half hourly was implemented. That frees up the other 3.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 27, 2018, 06:59:31
Quote
05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09
Facilities on the 05:17 Gloucester to Southampton Central due 08:09.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Will be formed of 2 coaches instead of 3.
Last Updated:27/11/2018 06:20

Not an issue north of Warminster. Progressively busier as it becomes a peak train (into Southampton)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 27, 2018, 07:12:19
Time for a new platform at Swindon it seems, Time to fill in the old Platform 2, and build a new one opposite platform 1,Renumber that 2, And the new platform 1. There is enough room, also a track is in place, just needing two extra signals.

This would be a worthwile expense, As it would give Swindon 4 through Platforms, like Filton Abbey Wood.Just had a look at google maps and found that the east end of Swindon would need some slight remodeling, The west end just needs a crossover to the Kemble line, this would mean all the London to Cheltenham and back Trains would use the Platform especially if a half hourly was implemented. That frees up the other 3.

Swindon coped with an hourly service reversing at platforms 1 or 3 headed from the North East or Scotland to Plymouth (and vice versa) during the Filton Bank closure, and once the through Paddington to Cheltenham Spa service becomes hourly with the "west unit" train no longer sitting in the bay most of the time, the bay will be cleared to become the standard TransWilts platform again.

Far more useful, and much more simple, would be to relay the fourth track along the existing platform face at Westbury which becomes even more of a bottleneck if / when the hourly extra MetroWest services from Severn Beach or Avonmouth start running to there.  Platform already there ... no need for new platform or access subway / footbridge / slopes / lift as the Swindon suggestion would have.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: WelshBluebird on November 27, 2018, 11:58:26
Swindon coped with an hourly service reversing at platforms 1 or 3 headed from the North East or Scotland to Plymouth (and vice versa) during the Filton Bank closure, and once the through Paddington to Cheltenham Spa service becomes hourly with the "west unit" train no longer sitting in the bay most of the time, the bay will be cleared to become the standard TransWilts platform again.

The main problem with the XC services at Swindon during the blockade was that, for at least the ones I noticed, they were timed to wait at Swindon for between 5 and 10 minutes. This caused delays to me twice during the last couple of weeks whilst my train had to wait for the platform to become available. Shouldn't matter if are talking about "normal" services through Swindon that don't hang around, but it does need to be thought about.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Clan Line on November 27, 2018, 19:07:25

Far more useful, and much more simple, would be to relay the fourth track along the existing platform face at Westbury which becomes even more of a bottleneck if / when the hourly extra MetroWest services from Severn Beach or Avonmouth start running to there.  Platform already there ... no need for new platform or access subway / footbridge / slopes / lift as the Swindon suggestion would have.

It has been quoted as £10M to restore the old Platform 1 at Westbury to passenger use !! The idiots who did this should pay out of their pensions to do it ...................


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: SandTEngineer on November 27, 2018, 19:29:20
I wonder if passive provision for Westbury Platform No.1 reinstatement has been made for in the upcoming total S&C renewal of the North Junction?  Thinking over, probably not...... ::)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 27, 2018, 19:31:54
I wonder if passive provision for Westbury Platform No.1 reinstatement has been made for in the upcoming total S&C renewal of the North Junction?  Thinking over, probably not...... ::)

I understand it has not been ... very very sore topic ... best not get me or the passenger community going on that subject.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 27, 2018, 19:36:35
I wonder if passive provision for Westbury Platform No.1 reinstatement has been made for in the upcoming total S&C renewal of the North Junction?  Thinking over, probably not...... ::)

I understand it has not been ... very very sore topic ... best not get me or the passenger community going on that subject.

Hang on ... couple of words got left out.  Should read

very very very very


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Timmer on November 27, 2018, 21:18:18
I wonder if passive provision for Westbury Platform No.1 reinstatement has been made for in the upcoming total S&C renewal of the North Junction?  Thinking over, probably not...... ::)

I understand it has not been ... very very sore topic ... best not get me or the passenger community going on that subject.
Yeah you’ll get me started as well  >:( Closing Westbury for all that time over Christmas/New Year and reinstating the old platform 1 is not part of the work taking place. Pathetic, what a waste. Surely doing the work at the same time would reduce the 10 million price tag along with further disruption to passengers if and when it does happen. As I say, what a wasted opportunity.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 29, 2018, 10:31:16
Quote
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28
10:47 Swindon to Westbury due 11:28 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It will be delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 6 minutes late.
This is due to a safety inspection of the track.
Additional Information
Customers travelling from Melksham are requested to make use of the Customer Help Point available, or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484 950.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Reginald25 on November 29, 2018, 10:56:33
Routing Chippenham to Trowbridge, presumably by Bath? Is this a routing that has been used much previously. At least the TransWilts service wasn't cancelled, but I wonder what the help desk did when called!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 29, 2018, 11:03:57
Routing Chippenham to Trowbridge, presumably by Bath? Is this a routing that has been used much previously. At least the TransWilts service wasn't cancelled, but I wonder what the help desk did when called!

It'll reverse at Bathampton Junction.

And "via Melksham" tickets WILL be accepted.

I was at Melksham Station for the 09:15 to Westbury / handful of people around and help point working.  I hope the help had a clear message on it.

From last night's Melksham Rail User Group meeting, in circumstances like this it would be excellent if there were a tannoy system on the platform (good place for one as no residential neighbours to grump at the noise), and it would / will be superb once we have the Melksham Station Hub opened (and volunteer staffed by MRUG on a daily basis).


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on November 29, 2018, 12:55:30
Routing Chippenham to Trowbridge, presumably by Bath? Is this a routing that has been used much previously. At least the TransWilts service wasn't cancelled, but I wonder what the help desk did when called!

It'll reverse at Bathampton Junction.

And "via Melksham" tickets WILL be accepted.

I was at Melksham Station for the 09:15 to Westbury / handful of people around and help point working.  I hope the help had a clear message on it.

From last night's Melksham Rail User Group meeting, in circumstances like this it would be excellent if there were a tannoy system on the platform (good place for one as no residential neighbours to grump at the noise), and it would / will be superb once we have the Melksham Station Hub opened (and volunteer staffed by MRUG on a daily basis).

Its now a case for Two Track Now for Melksham, I notice on opentraintimes that it only has a single line and platform, I suppose the problem is that there would be the cost of an extra platform and footbridge and a shelter.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on November 29, 2018, 14:42:47
Routing Chippenham to Trowbridge, presumably by Bath? Is this a routing that has been used much previously. At least the TransWilts service wasn't cancelled, but I wonder what the help desk did when called!

It'll reverse at Bathampton Junction.


It looks like, after all, the train did call at Melksham as it was used to inspect the line.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 29, 2018, 14:57:22
Its now a case for Two Track Now for Melksham, I notice on opentraintimes that it only has a single line and platform, I suppose the problem is that there would be the cost of an extra platform and footbridge and a shelter.

Good question ... worthy of its own thread which I have just written (including background) at http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20765.0


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on November 30, 2018, 21:09:41
Quote
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44
17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central due 20:44 has been delayed between Chippenham and Trowbridge and is now 13 minutes late.
This is due to congestion.
Last Updated:30/11/2018 19:43

One has to ask then - why the $%^& was it dispatched on time from Swindon - missing by a couple of minutes the advertised connection from London and leaving someone (me, sorry, this i.e. personal) having to hang around for a train 80 minutes later.

For those who don't know "Train 2O00" ... it's scheduled to sit for 10 minutes at Westbury anyway ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 02, 2018, 18:38:37
Quote
17:52 Swindon to Westbury due 18:34
17:52 Swindon to Westbury due 18:34 has been delayed at Swindon and is now 11 minutes late.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation
.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 03, 2018, 11:11:35
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to animals on the railway.
Last Updated:03/12/2018 11:03


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 03, 2018, 11:20:46
And another

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be cancelled.
This is due to animals on the railway.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 03, 2018, 11:23:44
And another

Quote
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10
13:29 Swindon to Westbury due 14:10 will be cancelled.
This is due to animals on the railway.

And I think this is the source of the problem.

Quote
08:50 Great Malvern to Westbury due 11:35
08:50 Great Malvern to Westbury due 11:35 will be terminated at Bristol Temple Meads.
It will no longer call at Keynsham, Oldfield Park, Bath Spa, Freshford, Avoncliff, Bradford-On-Avon, Trowbridge and Westbury.
It is being delayed at Cam & Dursley.
This is due to animals on the railway.

13:29 cancelled ... next train 15:19  :'(


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on December 03, 2018, 12:03:39
Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to animals on the railway.
Last Updated:03/12/2018 11:03
11:47 now reinstated by stepping up the unit for 12:20 from Westbury to Swindon, which is now cancelled instead.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bradshaw on December 03, 2018, 13:58:16
Cross Country Twitter account at 11.38

UPDATE: Services are being diverted between Cheltenham Spa and Bristol Temple Meads, as the deer was hit and caused a fault on a train which cannot be rectified.



Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: RA on December 07, 2018, 20:16:08
Freight train 6L21 has lost its air at Newbury, closing the up line. To allow main line services to divert via Melksham, the 17:41 Cheltenham Spa to Southampton Central and 19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa services were both diverted via Bathampton instead of running via Melksham.
The 20:08 Swindon to Westbury service will also divert via Bathampton.

No train service at Melksham between the departure of the delayed 18:48 service to Swindon and the arrival of the 07:49 service tomorrow morning. The single track line and limited signalling sections again constraining capacity when something goes awry on the Newbury route.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 07, 2018, 20:41:33
No train service at Melksham between the departure of the delayed 18:48 service to Swindon and the arrival of the 07:49 service tomorrow morning. The single track line and limited signalling sections again constraining capacity when something goes awry on the Newbury route.

Thank you for logging - three cancellations as far as Melksham is concerned.

Co-incidentally, I was at Melksham Station for the first three trains this morning (and very wet it was at 06:30!) - used by a total 63 passengers to or from Melksham.  Logged as an ongoing reminder that - in spite of the unreliability that's been thrown at us this year - the service is now a vital one to many.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 07, 2018, 21:02:47
From Network Rail - http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/service_disruptions/208377.aspx

Quote
Route affected

Trains between Penzance / Plymouth / Paignton / Exeter St Davids / Taunton / Westbury / Bedwyn / Newbury and Reading / London Paddington

Description

A broken down freight train at Newbury is causing delays of up to 60 minutes, cancellations and alterations to trains between Westbury and Reading.

Some High Speed trains will be diverted between Westbury and Reading via Melksham.

We anticipate disruption will continue until 22:00.

Alternative travel advice:

Road transport is in operation between Bedwyn and Newbury to help you with your journey.

Check before you travel:

You can check your journey using the National Rail Enquiries real-time Journey Planner

You can find the location of your bus replacement by checking station signs or by searching for your station on our station information pages

Advise on transport between Chippenham and Trowbridge?? 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 08, 2018, 19:14:07
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 has been cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Your ticket is valid for travel on train services via Bath Spa.

Limited replacement road transport will be provided between Trowbridge, Melksham and Chippenham for customers travelling to and from Melksham.

Quote
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a fault on this train.
Additional Information
Your ticket is valid for travel on train services via Bath Spa.

Limited replacement road transport will be provided between Trowbridge, Melksham and Chippenham for customers travelling to and from Melksham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on December 09, 2018, 07:36:48
New timetable.... but

Quote
08:11 Warminster to Swindon due 09:04
08:11 Warminster to Swindon due 09:04 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Last Updated:09/12/2018 07:30

Quote
09:26 Swindon to Westbury due 10:06

09:26 Swindon to Westbury due 10:06 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Last Updated:09/12/2018 07:30


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 09, 2018, 07:39:37
New timetable.... but

Quote
08:11 Warminster to Swindon due 09:04
08:11 Warminster to Swindon due 09:04 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.

Last Updated:09/12/2018 07:30

Quote
09:26 Swindon to Westbury due 10:06

09:26 Swindon to Westbury due 10:06 will be cancelled.

This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Last Updated:09/12/2018 07:30

... but same old problem.

Only cancellation across the whole patch too ... that's familiar, but noting that it was only flagged up at 07:30 so it could be last minute staff sickness.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 12, 2018, 17:27:16
Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be starting late from Westbury and is expected to be 10 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on a train in front of this one.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 15, 2018, 15:14:21
Quote
15:22 Swindon to Westbury due 16:07
Facilities on the 15:22 Swindon to Westbury due 16:07.
Toilet facilities are not available at both ends.
This is due to vandalism on this train.
Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 16, 2018, 07:13:01
LOTS of these today ... I will admit to waking with a sinking feeling until I realised the were positive amendments.

Quote
20:00 Swindon to Westbury due 20:42
Facilities on the 20:00 Swindon to Westbury due 20:42.
Will be formed of 3 coaches instead of 2.
Last Updated:16/12/2018 07:02


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 16, 2018, 12:41:29
Quote
15:22 Swindon to Westbury due 16:07
Facilities on the 15:22 Swindon to Westbury due 16:07.
Toilet facilities are not available at both ends.
This is due to vandalism on this train.
Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.


Why would anybody want to vandalise bogs, they are very useful?.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 17, 2018, 07:33:20
Why would anybody want to vandalise bogs, they are very useful?.

Some people just want to make an impression and be noticed as being angry with society, or brave / macho with their friends.  Public conveniences with the facilities they need to provide and a natural lack of supervision have long been a target. Was the a rhetorical question or did you really want an answer??

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
Facilities on the 07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15.
Will be formed of 3 coaches instead of 2.
Last Updated:17/12/2018 06:25

Don't get one for hours ... then 3 come along at the same time.  Oh - wait - that's the bus complaint.  Lots of these today; I won't be logging them all - just to note.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on December 17, 2018, 07:45:01
In railway terms toilet vandalism also includes blocking them with too much toilet paper - either accidentally or deliberately.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 18, 2018, 10:06:59
Quote
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32
09:46 Westbury to Swindon due 10:32 will be delayed at Chippenham.
This is due to a problem currently under investigation.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: rogerw on December 18, 2018, 10:55:39
This was caused by the late running of the Bristol - Paddington service which has left Swindon 38 late.  However everything is at a standstill in the Wootton Bassett area following the failure of the 0830 Paddington to Bristol, including up services.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Rob on the hill on December 18, 2018, 11:03:20
1C06 stuck west of Wootton Bassett junction:
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/C54328/2018/12/18/advanced


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: rogerw on December 18, 2018, 11:09:49
1047 Swindon - Westbury and the 1147 return service now both cancelled. 2M06 still stuck at Wootton Bassett.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Rob on the hill on December 18, 2018, 11:15:07
The broken down train has 8 coaches, so assume it to be an HST. Reported to have hit an obstruction.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 18, 2018, 11:52:34
1047 Swindon - Westbury and the 1147 return service now both cancelled. 2M06 still stuck at Wootton Bassett.

Thanks Roger .... copying one of the logs here to make it stand out for if and when I come back and analyse the thread.

Quote
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32
11:47 Westbury to Swindon due 12:32 will be cancelled.
This is due to a broken down train.

Sounds like the failure is not a TransWilts train but the TransWilts is the service to be thinned out ...  :( :o


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: rogerw on December 18, 2018, 11:58:16
As the 0946 Westbury arrived at Swindon 50 mins late I suppose the choice was lose one round trip or disrupt the service for hte rest of the day.  Heavy delays on most services at Swindon this morning


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 18, 2018, 18:11:03
Quote
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17
17:36 Swindon to Westbury due 18:17 will be diverted between Chippenham and Trowbridge.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It is being delayed at Swindon.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 18, 2018, 19:28:58
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 was diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed due to the diversion and is now 7 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 18, 2018, 19:59:37
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:21 was diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been delayed due to the diversion and is now 7 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Is this fault in the Westbury area?.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: JayMac on December 18, 2018, 20:04:01
Track circuit failure on the single line through Melksham.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 18, 2018, 20:07:50
Track circuit failure on the single line through Melksham.

Thanks, time to redouble then, if bidirectional this would,nt of delayed trains.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 18, 2018, 20:10:50
Track circuit failure on the single line through Melksham.

Again!   Showing signs of its age .. no longer the sleepy backwater it was a few years ago ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 18, 2018, 20:15:15
Track circuit failure on the single line through Melksham.

Again!   Showing signs of its age .. no longer the sleepy backwater it was a few years ago ...

Graham do you think network rail will redouble the lines and improve the route through Melksham, or do you think they are waiting for Melksham,s council tax payers to foot the bill?.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: CMRail on December 18, 2018, 20:38:41
Track circuit failure on the single line through Melksham.

Again!   Showing signs of its age .. no longer the sleepy backwater it was a few years ago ...

Graham do you think network rail will redouble the lines and improve the route through Melksham, or do you think they are waiting for Melksham,s council tax payers to foot the bill?.

We would l wish,
We would all never get in the near future.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 19, 2018, 06:50:54
Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will be starting late from Westbury and is expected to be 5 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.

5 minutes late ... no great problem


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 19, 2018, 07:00:33
Track circuit failure on the single line through Melksham.

Again!   Showing signs of its age .. no longer the sleepy backwater it was a few years ago ...

Graham do you think network rail will redouble the lines and improve the route through Melksham, or do you think they are waiting for Melksham,s council tax payers to foot the bill?.

There's not a simple choice one way or the other.  Many parties and many funding sources come together for improvements.   Melksham's councils are certainly prepared to put some money where their mouth is in support of developing public transport and improvements; not only the significant and documented match funding for the Melksham Station Hub, but also considerable other work such as on bus shelters which is also ongoing and in the public record of the Town Council, and indirectly in financial support for developing the neighbourhood plan, which makes a point of being public and sustainable / green transport friendly.

The line as a whole passes though Melksham and the majority of traffic is not to or from the town and funding of major resource reliability and capacity are beyond the town's resources and it would not be reasonable to expect the local council tax payers to stump up.   Just as the council tax payers of Dawlish are not expected to pay for all the work on the sea wall there.   A variety of other wider funders are involved.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: bobm on December 19, 2018, 07:41:21
Not a good morning

Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It is being delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 9 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It is being delayed at Westbury by 5 minutes, will be further delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 14 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 19, 2018, 13:48:27
Quote
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40
12:49 Swindon to Frome due 13:40 has been delayed at Chippenham and is now 15 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on December 19, 2018, 13:51:40
Not a good morning

Quote
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05
07:04 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 09:05 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It is being delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 9 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

Quote
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15
07:33 Westbury to Swindon due 08:15 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It is being delayed at Westbury by 5 minutes, will be further delayed due to the diversion and is expected to be 14 minutes late.
This is due to a fault on this train.


Advice for Melksham passengers - Zilch


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 19, 2018, 20:22:31
Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham.
It will no longer call at Melksham.
It has been previously delayed, is being further delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 52 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.
Last Updated:19/12/2018 20:18


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 19, 2018, 20:56:16
update ...

Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham and terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Melksham and Cheltenham Spa.
It has been previously delayed, is being further delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 52 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

... sadly a complete lack of customer information.

I happened to be down at Melksham Station (change of community poster) and the train said "delayed" on the board ... and a few minutes later just disappeared.  No advise given .. a gentleman who had to get back to Swindon asked "what do I do now ...." .... system certainly wasn't telling him ...


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on December 19, 2018, 21:18:04
update ...

Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham and terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Melksham and Cheltenham Spa.
It has been previously delayed, is being further delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 52 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

... sadly a complete lack of customer information.

I happened to be down at Melksham Station (change of community poster) and the train said "delayed" on the board ... and a few minutes later just disappeared.  No advise given .. a gentleman who had to get back to Swindon asked "what do I do now ...." .... system certainly wasn't telling him ...


Well Grahame, I hope you did.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 19, 2018, 21:23:34
update ...

Quote
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33
19:32 Westbury to Cheltenham Spa due 21:33 will be diverted between Trowbridge and Chippenham and terminated at Gloucester.
It will no longer call at Melksham and Cheltenham Spa.
It has been previously delayed, is being further delayed between Trowbridge and Chippenham and is now expected to be 52 minutes late.
This is due to a fault with the signalling system.

... sadly a complete lack of customer information.

I happened to be down at Melksham Station (change of community poster) and the train said "delayed" on the board ... and a few minutes later just disappeared.  No advise given .. a gentleman who had to get back to Swindon asked "what do I do now ...." .... system certainly wasn't telling him ...


Is that, That track circuit fault again?. Is this the train, 2M18 I,m tracking it, it is now approaching Kemble.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: martyjon on December 20, 2018, 11:33:12
What do you make of this one.

11:10 Weymouth to Gloucester due 14:31

Facilities on the 11:10 Weymouth to Gloucester due 14:31.

Toilet facilities are not available at both ends.
This is due to a fault on this train.

Additional Information
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause


How can a fault on the train affect the provision of toilet facilities at Weymouth and Gloucester and of course Westbury where the unit returns to after this duty.
 ;) ;) ;) ;)


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: brooklea on December 22, 2018, 09:32:06
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Quote
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20
19:36 Swindon to Westbury due 20:20 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.
Could have been even worse! The 16:32 from Westbury to Swindon and 17:36 from Swindon back to Westbury were also showing as cancelled, but have now been reinstated.

No further advice for intending travellers on these trains again.....


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 22, 2018, 09:47:19
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

[snip]

No further advice for intending travellers on these trains again.....

Better not say "wait for next train" ... 4th January 2019 at 07:04!


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: phile on December 22, 2018, 16:57:05
Quote
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22
18:32 Westbury to Swindon due 19:22 will be cancelled.
This is due to a shortage of train crew.

[snip]

No further advice for intending travellers on these trains again.....

Better not say "wait for next train" ... 4th January 2019 at 07:04!

Seem to have been re-instated


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 25, 2018, 14:30:24

Far more useful, and much more simple, would be to relay the fourth track along the existing platform face at Westbury which becomes even more of a bottleneck if / when the hourly extra MetroWest services from Severn Beach or Avonmouth start running to there.  Platform already there ... no need for new platform or access subway / footbridge / slopes / lift as the Swindon suggestion would have.

It has been quoted as £10M to restore the old Platform 1 at Westbury to passenger use !! The idiots who did this should pay out of their pensions to do it ...................

How would it cost that much?. I remember in 1984 when a parcel platform in Gloucester was brought back into use, the only cost was, Platform 4 signs, Footbridge, new wooden T.R.T.S. cupboard, then was opened.


I have just realised after posting on the Westbury track thread, That it looks like the cost is to include resignalling.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 25, 2018, 16:24:19
How would it cost that much?. I remember in 1984 when a parcel platform in Gloucester was brought back into use, the only cost was, Platform 4 signs, Footbridge, new wooden T.R.T.S. cupboard, then was opened.

I think that re-opening Melksham Station in 1985 was done on the cheap - a cost of a few thousand.  The cost of slewing the track over at Staverton to the platform that's there and re-opening that station - broadly equivalent today - and you would be lucky to get change from a couple of million.

I have been shocked by how prices have risen in the rail industry from 2005 to 2018 - the (unconfirmed) cost quoted to me for adding a Swindon to Westbury daytime service as an option in the 2005 franchise versus what it cost for the 2013 trial ... with intermediate year's costings confirming the rapid rise over that period.

With Westbury, the question is "cost for what".  I could describe two very, very different schemes with very, very different price tags for a fourth platform face.   But without them being parts of official plans, none of these schemes appears to have reached the dizzy, dizzy heights where anyone at Network Rail would notice them and my understanding is that there is no passive provision being made during the current works with, already, the hint as a fourth platform is asked for of a response "but you wouldn't want a long stoppage to do it, would you" even though the relaying and enhancement were described as "entirely separate projects with no implications on each other" when the plan to relay to current layout popped up a few months ago.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 26, 2018, 18:41:21
How would it cost that much?. I remember in 1984 when a parcel platform in Gloucester was brought back into use, the only cost was, Platform 4 signs, Footbridge, new wooden T.R.T.S. cupboard, then was opened.

I think that re-opening Melksham Station in 1985 was done on the cheap - a cost of a few thousand.  The cost of slewing the track over at Staverton to the platform that's there and re-opening that station - broadly equivalent today - and you would be lucky to get change from a couple of million.

I have been shocked by how prices have risen in the rail industry from 2005 to 2018 - the (unconfirmed) cost quoted to me for adding a Swindon to Westbury daytime service as an option in the 2005 franchise versus what it cost for the 2013 trial ... with intermediate year's costings confirming the rapid rise over that period.

With Westbury, the question is "cost for what".  I could describe two very, very different schemes with very, very different price tags for a fourth platform face.   But without them being parts of official plans, none of these schemes appears to have reached the dizzy, dizzy heights where anyone at Network Rail would notice them and my understanding is that there is no passive provision being made during the current works with, already, the hint as a fourth platform is asked for of a response "but you wouldn't want a long stoppage to do it, would you" even though the relaying and enhancement were described as "entirely separate projects with no implications on each other" when the plan to relay to current layout popped up a few months ago.

So your thinking then, that this work in Westbury is a waste of money and would of probably been better spent on two tracks for the Melksham line.

I suppose a part of the estimated cost may be including new signals, track works, removing that fence, putting in a platform edge and tactiles, T.R.T.S cupboards, cis screens and off and cd/ra indicators, lastly new signs.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: ellendune on December 26, 2018, 19:06:33
So your thinking then, that this work in Westbury is a waste of money and would of probably been better spent on two tracks for the Melksham line.

Renewals done at the appropriate time can never be a waste of money. If they are not done then reliability suffers even more than it has.

A lost opportunity to make passive provision for a future without incurring significant additional cost - perhaps

I suppose a part of the estimated cost may be including new signals, track works, removing that fence, putting in a platform edge and tactiles, T.R.T.S cupboards, cis screens and off and cd/ra indicators, lastly new signs.

If the reports of a major signal cable run under the proposed new line is correct then relocating that could be a significant cost.

Assuming that the existing line is well used (as some have suggested) then slewing it over or building the platform out is not an option. 

In which case a new line would be required - or rather the platform line would need to be reinstated. New switches and crossings are really expensive and I presume that at least two would be required for such a project in addition to all the signalling changes. 


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on December 26, 2018, 19:37:15
So your thinking then, that this work in Westbury is a waste of money and would of probably been better spent on two tracks for the Melksham line.

The current work at Westbury needs doing. No question.  There have been speed restrictions in place there for a while as the track has gone beyond the end of its economic life, there have been failures, etc.

What I question is the apparent separation of maintenance and upgrade.  £x million now on relaying the track followed by another £x million on upgrade in a couple of years strikes me as poor value compared to a single spend of, say £1.5x now on doing both at the same time.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: SandTEngineer on December 26, 2018, 20:07:29
Diverting cables is not a technically difficult job.  You can stage it and spread the work over a reasonable period.  Its been done before in more complex places than Westbury.

The Reception line is currently used to hold freight trains during loco and crew changes, and is very well used, so not a good idea to use it as the Platform line.  As I stated in a few posts before, there is space for a new track adjacent to the platform face and it could initially be made into a single ended bay platform to overcome capacity constraints.

We of course don't know the reasons for not including the proposals in the current works, but I suspect that the S&C renewal is being funded from the OPEX budget whereas the bay platform work would be funded from the CAPEX budget and the source of funding for the latter would have to be provided by the DfT for that purpose.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on December 28, 2018, 19:21:16
Diverting cables is not a technically difficult job.  You can stage it and spread the work over a reasonable period.  Its been done before in more complex places than Westbury.


Yes it had to be done, when the Kemble line was redoubled in 2014. They had to move cable runs and some metal cabinets, lastly signals, which were replaced at the same time.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: Dispatch Box on January 11, 2019, 19:22:46
Graham have you started one of these for 2019, can't seem to find it yet?.


Title: Re: 2018 cancellation and amendment log
Post by: grahame on January 11, 2019, 19:25:37
Graham have you started one of these for 2019, can't seem to find it yet?.


It's at http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=20898.0

Also experimenting at http://www.mrug.org.uk/record.html ... but need to be patient on that to see how things percolate through the system.



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