Inside the signal box standing the test of time

The landscape of Surrey's railways have changed significantly since the end of the 19th Century – but one signal box has stood the test of time.

Still used to direct dozens of trains a day, the platform-level signal box in Haslemere has been a staple of the station since it was first built in 1895.

But, with its operational days numbered, operators inside the signal box are lamenting the "end of an era" after 130 years.

Volunteers are now looking at how to protect it for future generations.

Stepping into the signal box, the interior remains largely unchanged and transports you back to the 19th Century heyday of the railways.

Despite now being electrified, giant multicoloured levers are still integral to ensuring trains and passengers make their way to the destination safely.

The box is staffed around the clock, and Gary Pannell and his team are the ones in charge of pulling the levers through long days and lonely nights.

He said: "There's a responsibility and a duty.

"These levers have seen so much change and yet the main function is essentially the same.

"It can be lonely but in a way in the early morning you almost exclusively have this world to yourself and everyone else is in bed."

Modern touches are now mingled with original features within the signal box – a computer screen aids operators but communication bells are still in place to ring between signal boxes.

Now, however, it's the end of the track for the signal box's operating days. In November, its functions will move to Basingstoke Rail Operations Centre and the Grade II listed box will take on a new role.

The Haslemere Signal Box Trust aims to preserve it for future generations as a visitor attraction and, with the 200th anniversary of the railways on the horizon, it's purpose will now shift from ploughing forward to looking back.

Mr Pannell added: "It is a great shame, it's the end of an era. Unfortunately I've seen other signal boxes go as well.

"It will be different to this but essentially the same principle. I just accept that it's the way it is but I'm grateful I had the chance to work there."

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