IGNITING THE FLAME OF UNITY

1950

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

JANUARY 1950

EDITOR'S NOTES

CONSULTATION

Discussion has taken place with the Railway Executive during recent months on a number of occasions with regards to the need and staff, at levels, concerning questions of railway operation and management.

It is with pleasure that we are now able to record definite progress in connection with this vital subject. At the time of writing these notes, steps are being taken to issue to the members of the staff of British Railways a copy of a document, signed jointly on behalf of the Railway Executive and the Union concerned, explaining arrangements which have been agreed for closer consultation with the staff throughout the railway service. These arrangements have already been notified to our branches by Head Office circular. Our purpose in this column is to draw attention to the main features of the scheme, and to urge upon all the importance of wholehearted, constructive co-operation.

The Railway Executive has undertaken to give prior indication to the staff of contemplated lines of action; arrange for discussion of such proposals with the staff representatives at the appropriate level (i.e. L.D.C., Sectional Council, or Union Headquarters); give careful consideration to representation from the staff in regard to such proposals; notify the staff of the decisions reached by the management and in circumstances in which it is not practicable or desirable to give effect to staff representations they will, where necessary, be told the reasons.

In order that the new procedure may have the wildest possible scope, the agreement reached is not tied to any defined or restrictive list of subjects. It will afford opportunities for exchange of views on matters not already covered by the machinery of negotiation, whether involving general, departmental or local policy. Consultation may be initiated by either the staff or the management at the appropriate levels.

We have no hesitation in recording our conviction that the agreement should be taken by our members as evidence of a genuine desire on the part of the Railway Executive to bring its staff into co-operation on matters of policy for which, to quote the joint document already mentioned, "the responsibility for decision rests upon the Railway Executive in accordance with the Transport Act."

It is true that, in contradistinction to the attitude of the Railway Executive itself, complaints received seem to indicate that the approach to matters of mutual interest by some persons holding responsible positions at lower levels leaves much to be desired, and appears to betoken that such persons have no particular desire to see British Railways make the grade.

None the less, the new opportunities now offered for consultation should be grasped by our members with both hands. To do otherwise would be to stand aside from the duty of helping to ensure that the railways of Britain shall attain, as soon as possible, that higher standard of efficiency essential to the future welfare of staff and public alike.

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

JANUARY 1950

DISTRICT COUNCIL No.4

The last meeting of the year was held at Redhill on November 27th, 34 delegates being present, supported by E.C. Member Bro. R.G. Pavey, Organiser W.J. Cleaver, and Sectional Council Member Bro. A. Corke.

Bro. Pavey dealt briefly with Conciliation Board Findings; the General Secretary's health; the 1950 A.A.D. to be held at Folkestone; Joint Consultative Committee; Steel allocation to the railways; "C" road licences; road and rail services; E.C. to meet the R.E. to discuss pensions; Promotional Scheme; Machinery of Negotiation.

Bro. Cleaver reported on membership and organisational activities in his district, and asked all delegates to do their part to consolidate and improve the membership of the Society; also on lead plug failures; "Rest Day" rosters for shed staff; housing; L.D.C. terms of reference.

Bro. A. Corke reported that the Sectional Council has not met owing to the Secretary's illness, but he was prepared to answer any questions.

Delegates asked the three members questions, which were satisfactorily replied to.

A. GARRETT

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

JANUARY 1950

PORTSMOUTH (1) BRANCH

At the joint meeting of Portsmouth (1) and (2) branches, held on November 20, Bro. E. Wales, of Guildford, our S.C. member, gave a brief report on the A.A.D. Although he was unable to cover the whole of the agenda, the points he did explain proved very interesting to his listeners. He explained the set up of the new Dual Panel and answered questions on same. He was heartily thanked at the close of the meeting by all present.

At our branch meeting on December 4, the attendance was larger than usual, and an interesting morning spent. The election of branch officials took place, and some close voting was seen. Bro. Elston gave his report on the A.A.D., and covered many points that Bro. Wales was unable to deal with at the joint meeting. He also gave us the latest news of the Dual Panel, which proved very interesting as Fratton is one of the depots concerned. Bro. Elston was thanked for the very able manner in which he gave his report.
I now close, wishing one and all a very Happy New Year.

H. Hopgood
Branch Secretary

Mick White Collection

Tunbridge Wells West Station

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

MARCH 1950

THE EDITOR'S NOTES

Last month our editorial comments were concerned with the Parliamentary General Election campaign which was then about to commence and which now, as we close for press, is in its final phase.

Our purpose on the present occasion is to refer to a subject already noticed in this column, in the Locomotive Journal for December 1949; i.e., to another "General Election," the election of Employees' Side Representatives to the new Sectional Councils, which, at the beginning of next month, will take over in each of the six regions of British Railways the work which since nationalisation has continued to be done by four Group Councils set up in pre-nationalisation days.

THE FUNDAMENTAL ISSUE

So far as Sectional Councils No.2, which cater for our grades, are concerned, although we write in advance of the declaration of nominations, it is known that in most of the 27 Electoral Areas of British Railways the electors will have to decide by ballot between our Society's candidates and others.

With the responsibility placed upon them of ensuring the proper application of national agreements, the Regional Sectional Councils will have a most important role to play of the new Machinery of Negotiation. The fundamental issue for all who will be entitled to vote in these elections is whether they wish to entrust their interest
(a) to men who support the policy of the A.S.L.E.&F., framed by footplatemen and motormen to meet the specialised needs of staff in the line of promotion; or
(b) to candidates sponsored by a conglomerate organisation which in recent negotiations has shown more clearly than ever that, so far as it is concerned, the locoman at all events is definitely one of the "also rans."

With such an issue to be decided, and with loyalty to our calling and Society, there can be no room for doubt as to the verdict of the electors. Equally, however, there must be no room for complacency, for over confidence or for leaving anything to chance. In every contested Area our aim must be to ensure an overwhelming verdict in favour of the "Associated" candidates and policy. Let us all, between now and voting day, set ourselves unsparingly to work for this end.

PROMOTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

It is appropriate that special note should be made here of the new promotional scheme which has just been agreed and which will be applied through the media of the Sectional Councils.

The tasks of endeavouring to fuse four divergent sets of practices into a single uniform national scheme has been no easy one, in fact, it will be appreciated that the difficulties involved have been considerable. Our branches, all of whom have received copies of the new scheme, will have noted that it is based largely upon the proposals adopted by the 1948 A.A.D. In our view, it can be said with truth that success has attended the efforts which, taking a broad view of all the factors, have been made to achieve "the greatest good of the greatest number" arising from inevitable developments attendant upon unification of railways under nationalisation.

THE NEW PROMOTION AND REDUNDANCY

ARRANGEMENTS 1950

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL APRIL 1950

Driver Ken Ellis at Three Bridges with a train for Tunbridge Wells West

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

MARCH 1950

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BRANCH

A memorable event, especially for children, took place at the Baptist Hall on January 4 in the form of a Christmas Party for the children, arranged by the Branch Social Committee.

fifty children, aged 1 to 14, enjoyed an excellent tea provided by the ladies, followed by grand entertainment by the "Glen Iris Cabaret" concert party of 20 children under the able direction of Mrs. E. Cormack.

Bro. C. Waghorn, M.C., expressed the thanks of the Committee to all who had assisted, and then announced Father Christmas (Bro. S. Pike), who gave each child a present from the 8ft. Christmas Tree, which was flooded with coloured lights.

Light refreshments provided for all, completed a very enjoyable party.

Congratulations to the Social Committee and the ladies for arranging such a successfull party

C.R. CORNFIELD

BRANCH CHAIRMAN

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

MARCH 1950

PAGE 82

SELHURST BRANCH

Our series of social dances have now ended. Although not the financial success anticipated by the committee, some jolly evenings have been spent together. Our best thanks to all who supported them., especially to Mrs. and the Misses Boniface, and Bro. C. Vaughan for spot and raffle prizes; also Bro. Len Tavener, M.C.

All members and friends and surrounding branches are cordially invited to the Annual Re-union at S.R.A.C., East Croydon Station, on Good Friday, April 7th, 6.30 - 10.30 p.m. a grand programme is being arrange; tickets 2s.6d

Branch meetings have not been too well attended since the beginning of 1950. We have booked a larger room, so come along and keep in touch with current affairs. Every Thursday is Branch night.

Now the new Promotional and Redundancy scheme is in circulation to branches, all members are specially urged to make themselves acquainted with it. There are sweeping changes to take place in administration of the Electrical Section of the Motive Power Department. Motormen on the Southern Region are particularly involved.

Bro. Renshaw, the newly elected candidate in the Internal Ballot, will requite all the support that can be given on Sectional Council; my one regret is that I am not permitted to be with him - we have now only one representative. Thinking all who supported my nomination.

W. Boulton

PHOTOGRAPHER UNKNOWN

East Grinstead High Level Station

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

MARCH 1950

BRIGHTON BRANCH No. 2

It is very pleasing to note the attendance at branch meetings is increasing; it shows that some interest is now being taken in the branch and the work of the Society. Come and air your views at the meetings - 1st and 2nd Thursdays in each month - one for each shift. Help to send in resolutions for Housing and Pensions.

I hope all members read the February Journal, especially those who do not have contracted
out from paying the Political Levy.

Now we have a new committee and we are also hoping to have our own L.D.C. It is now up to you to get things moving; everyone will be welcome.

C. A. BATCHELOR

BRANCH SECRETARY

Above & Below

Ex-LB&SCR tanking engines photographed whilst shunting in Eastbourne yard.

The era was post Nationalisation and neither of the locos display the British Railways logo, but they do have their new British Railways prefixed number, indicating that they are both ex-Southern Railway engines

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

MARCH 1950

ORGANISING SECRETARY REPORT

W.J. CLEAVER DISTRICT NO.7

extracted and adapted from the report

At Littlehampton two electric trains, one departing and the other arriving, were in collision outside the station. Obviously the speed of the trains was considerably reduced and consequently passengers and motormen escaped serious injury. There is no doubt that the incoming train was running under clear signals and, although our motorman member working the departure train asserts that his starting signal was at clear, and had been in that position some minutes, the authorities will accept that the position of the points and locking gear rendered this impossible.

Mick White Collection

T.W.W. Engine Cleaners

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

APRIL 1950

THE EDITOR'S NOTES

REGIONAL BOUNDARIES

With effect from April 2nd, 1950, certain adjustments made by the Railway Executive will commence to operate in relation to the boundaries of six Regions which comprise British Railways. The lines involved are those which since nationalisation have penetrated from one Region into the boundary to another, and which can with advantage be transferred into the Region to which they more logically belong. The lines or stations which in the past belonged jointly to more than one railway company will now each be placed under the administration of a single region.

In practice the changes will be of an administrative and commercial character. On the opening side, pre-existing arrangements for traffic working are, in general, to be retained having to the heart cost and dislocation which would result if they were to become involved in the new adjustments.

As our members are aware, staff matters will be the responsibilities of the geographical Region in each case. In our view the British Railways authorities are entitled to commendation for the special steps which have been taken to familiarise the staff with the reasons for the changes (and the details of the charges themselves) by issuing an informative booklet on the subject to each employee, as well as a special explanation to each individual directly affected.

The adjustments made represent one example of what can be taken in hand under national-isation of railways with a view to simplification, economy, increased efficiency and better service. In extending full recognition to the need for development and change under national-isation our Society will, in the future as it has up to date, stand firm for the safe-guarding of the position of its members from end to end of the British Railways system.

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

APRIL 1950

ST. LEONARDS BRANCH

On February 26th, a joint meeting was held with branches from Eastbourne and Ore to hear a report on Promotion and Redundancy by our Executive Committee member, Bro. R.G. Pavey. The meeting was well attended, although it would have been encouraging to the branch officers to have seen the branch room overflowing with the younger members, who will be mostly affected by the scheme.

Members who did not come along missed hearing some valuable questioning and answers re items in the scheme.

Our electrical friends from Eastbourne and Ore asked many questions as to their position on the Dual Links when the scheme comes into operation, and Bro. Pavey answered all.

The officers of this branch send best wishes to all members who have transferred to other depots for promotion in the past.

D.W. SARGENT

BRANCH SECRETARY

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

APRIL 1950

PAGE 115

PORTSMOUTH (1) BRANCH

We held our monthly branch meeting in the staff canteen on Sunday March 5, and once again there was a good attendance. The secretary read out the agenda for the next A.A.D., and the items in it were discussed by the members. Bro. Elston then gave his report on the D.C. meeting. He said that the question of pension was still first priority and every effort was being made to get this question settled.

He then spoke on the new Promotional Scheme, but said it was only possible to give an outside of the scheme so as the members could get some idea of its contents, and that they would have another chance to have the scheme more fully explained as Bro Branson, the Sectional Council, Secretary, had promised to attend a special meeting at Fratton on Sunday March 26.

The secretary then asked all members to vote solidly for the “Associated” candidate at the forthcoming Sectional Council election. Our branch attendance is still improving, so keep it up Pompey!

W. Durant

Assistant Secretary

PHOTOGRAPHER UNKNOWN

K class on Bognor turntable 27th May 1950

KEN SLAUGHTER COLLECTION

Advertising the electrification of the Horsham to Shoreham line.

On 31st October, 1946, the Southern Railway announce a scheme to electrify the line, but was abandoned following the nationalisation of the railway in 1948.

The line never became electrified and closed on the 7th March 1966

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

JULY 1950

Page 116

ST. LEONARDS BRANCH

On February 26 a joint meeting was held with branches from Eastbourne and Ore to hear a report on Promotion and Redundancy by our Executive Committee member Bro. R.G. Pavey.

The meeting was well attended, although it would have been encouraging to the branch officers to have seen the branch room overflowing with the younger members, who will be mostly effected by the scheme.

Members who did not come along missed hearing some valuable questioning and answering re-items in the scheme.

Our electrical friends from Eastbourne and Ore asked many questions as to their position on the Dual Link when the scheme comes into operation, and Bro. Pavey answered all.

The officers from this branch send best wishes to all members who have transferred to other depots for promotion in the past.

D.W. SARGENT

BRANCH SECRETARY

Left ~ Right:

Eastbourne Enginemen Derek Carter, Pat ?Ray ?, Arthur Divall,

unknown Collins & Peter Dove

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

JULY 1950

BRIGHTON BRANCH No.2

It is nice to see the average attendance at the branch meetings being kept up. I hope all

members read the retiring paymaster’s farewell letter, three phrase being quoted, which I

think should be branch mottoes.

"Getting a kick out of life"; "By helping the other man"; and "Done with pleasure."

Now for the "Whispering Gang"; If these were to come to the branch and lay their

complaints, something could be done, instead of letting one man "take the can back."

A little surprise was given to our retiring chairman (Bro. B. Etherington) by Bro. A.

Pitfield, acting as chairman, who made a nice little speech in presenting a pipe, pouch and

2oz of tobaccoo for service rendered to the branch. Very good, Alfie! Now the Social and

Retirement Fund has started, let's make it a sucess.

C. A. BATCHELOR

BRANCH SECRETARY

JULIE TUPPEN COLLECTION

Three Bridges Driver Charlie Wilson

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

JULY 1950

ST. LEONARD’S BRANCH

On Sunday, July 9th, 1950, our General Secretary, M.J.G. Baty, visited our Branch with Bro. A.W. Lennard in the chair. Bro. Baty was introduced to members from Eastbourne and Ore branches, and he then addressed the meeting on current affairs, stating that the Society had an uphill battle and the we could be justly proud of its achievements.

Bro. Baty dealt with rates of pay of 1939 - 1950 for men in the line of promotion. Also mentioned that the E.C. were dealing appropriately with the 1950 A.A.D. decision relating to rates of pay for loco men, and the vexed question of pension.

Bro. Baty then made a presentation of a clock to Bro. W. Gander (“Bill”) on his retirement as a token from his workmates at St. Leonards, and in so doing, paid high tributes to Bro. Gander and his wife. On behalf of their many Society friends he wished them a long and happy retirement.

In reply, Bill sai he would like to thnk his workmates for the grand present which he would always treasure. Bill then sat down amid a great ovation, knowing the sincerity of the sentiments expressed.

A vote of thanks was extended to Bro. Baty, with the hope that we should again see him at St Leonards

D.W. Sargent,

Branch Secretary.

Horsham Driver Charlie Cook

Charlie. Born 5th November 1902 and started on the footplate on the 25th October, 1918, and moved to Horsham after the 1926 General Strike (May) when the juice arrived from Dartford to Charing Cross and Cannon Street. He moved with one driver, Chris Baker (13.08.1906), who was an LDC man and 2 firemen. Jim Counter (09.01.1919) and Frank Barham (17.06.1918).

Horsham was not his choice, as he lived in Kent but all the local vacancies had been taken bu senior men. The shedmaster asked him where he was going, to which Charlie replied I don't know. The Shedmaster said theres a place here called Horsham, they need 2 firemen but I expect they can do with 3 and that was that! As the Slades Green men were senior to some of the Horsham firemen when they arrived, it meant that somebody had to go back cleaning. Walter ‘Dickie’ Doel ended up being put back.

The other three Slade’s Green Enginemen that transferred to Horsham in 1926

Driver Chris Baker seniority date 13.08.1906. Chris was a fireman and driver at Slade’s Green, and the only driver to go to Horsham when it closed to steam in 1926. He was on the L.D.C. at Slade’s Green and Charlie Cooke and the other firemen were glad of his assistance when they all arrived at Horsham. ( SECR Book 1730).

Fireman Frank Barham seniority date 17.06.1918. Frank was a fireman at Slade’s Green and moved at the same time as Charlie to Horsham. Frank was known as ‘Captain Barham’, because he was a Captain in the Home Guard during WWII. He later ran the Firing School for all new cleaners progressing to fireman.

Fireman A. J. Counter seniority date 09.01.1919. Jim was a fireman at Slades Green, Jim moved to Horsham the same time as Charlie. He later ended up as a Motorman at Orpington. (SECR Book 2583)

PHOTOGRAPHER UNKNOWN

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

SEPTEMBER 1950

BRIGHTON BRANCH No. 2

A fairly good August attendance meeting was held, with Bro. C. Branson in attendance. As he spoke on L.D.C. representation and machinery of negotiations, I should have thought there would have been more members there, as complaints roll in "The Lobby" instead of in the branch room. Shift no.1 could be a lot better and all members on this shift will be made
welcome; now don't "moan" in the room, but give these meetings your complaints.
Bro. C. Branson answered all questions put to him and a hearty vote of thanks was given for
his attendance.

C. A. BATCHELOR

LOCOMOTIVE JOURNAL

OCTOBER 1950

BOGNOR BRANCH

Presentations to retiring Bognor regis railwaymen were made at a Smoking Concerty and Party at "The White Horse," Bognor Regis, on Friday March 24 1950, organised jointly by N.U.R., Railway sports club, A.S.L.E. & F.

On behalf of the Staff and N.U.R. Mr. Frank Rutter (Station Master) presented retirement cheques to Mrs. Harfield (Carriage Cleaner) and Bro. Pilcher (Stores issuer, Loco).

Mr. Cleaver (Organiser, A.S.L.E. & F.) gave a very interesting speech which was greatly appreciated by all present - also his remarks to retired members and their wives when making presentations of cheques to Bros. W. Hellyer, E. Pursley and J. Tribe and bouquets to retiring members wives.

Mr. E. Steel (Chairman, A.S.L.E. & F.) presided.

Entertainment was given by Miss Bailey (Soprano), Mr. Chapman (Tenor), Mr. V. Smith (Tenor), Mr. Baldwin (Tenor), Mr Volkes (Accordionist), Mr. Swift (Accomanpist), and Mr. King (Piano).

A grand evening came to an end at 11 p.m. with a very hearty vote of thanks to the organisers.

G.E. Freeman,

Vice Chairman.

Bob Walls Collection

T.W.W. Enginemen Vic Rumley

LITTLEHAMPTON
30th NOVEMBER 1950

EXTRACTED & ADAPTED FROM
BLOOD & CUSTARD WEBSITE

On the 30th November 1950, the 08:19 a.m. at Littlehampton, the 8:4 a.m. Bognor Regis to London Bridge (via Littlehampton) was entering platform 3 at 20 m.ph. under clear signals it collided with the two-coach 8:18 a.m. Littlehampton to Ford train which left platform 2 against a red starting signal.

PAUL EDWARDS COLLECTION

British Railway Shed Codes For Brighton

E.M.U.T., MIXED TRACTION & STEAM SHED

SHED CODES

Locomotive Shed Codes were introduce across British Railway in 1950, the following shed codes were introduced on the Brighton Section, with coding starting from Brighton.