Update: thanks to ChrisP for identifying this as a distance post. The '1/2' and the two black lines indicate a point half a mile from a major station or junction. Unfortunately, I still don't remember which station (between London and Portsmouth): any ideas?
I took this picture from a train window while sat at a station somewhere between London and Portsmouth a few weeks ago.
Of course, I now can't remember which station - but more importantly, why was there a sign saying '1/2' at all? (No comment on the spray paint 'enhancement'.)
I took this picture from a train window while sat at a station somewhere between London and Portsmouth a few weeks ago.
Of course, I now can't remember which station - but more importantly, why was there a sign saying '1/2' at all? (No comment on the spray paint 'enhancement'.)
6 comments:
You were half way there or half way back?
Not even halfway down the platform!
I think it is a distance post, showing that the point is half a mile from an important station. Info here http://www.railsigns.co.uk/sect26page1/sect26page1.html.
Interestingly, it seems that the spray paint 'enhancement' is actually official - it is the alternative code for the half mile point.
Thank you for solving that mystery! Now all I have to do is remember where it was and work out what's half a mile away.
Thank you also for explaining the stripes. They did seem rather minimal for graffiti, but it's sad to think that official painters couldn't do a neater job.
I have a book of track diagrams for this area handy, which includes mileages.
Assuming you went from Waterloo via the standard South West Trains route (via Woking and Guildford), the stations that occur very near a 1/2 mile post are Hilsea, Havant, Witley, Godalming and Farncombe.
All mileages on this line are measured from Waterloo as far as Havant, which along with the Portsmouth branch is measured from Brighton.
The centre of the platforms at Havant is 37 1/2 miles from Brighton exactly, so that would be my guess.
Mr Thant, thank you for solving two mysteries, that sounds a very convincing guess!
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