Doncaster signal box stalwart retires after nearly 50 years on the railway

A signaller has retired after almost half a century working on the railway – with most of his career spent at the unique workplace of Keadby Canal Signal Box.

Mick Brooks, whose last day with Network Rail was Friday 16 October, began his career as a train register lad assisting the signallers at Stainforth in June 1977.

The box had eight block bells, a level-crossing control panel and a 70-lever frame.

Mick said: “I sat in the middle listening for the bells describing the trains. When they all went off, I felt like Quasimodo!”

After around three years, Mick became a relief crossing keeper, covering locations including Medge Hall and Godnow Bridge.

Five years later, he secured a signalling role at Ranskill signal box on the East Coast Main Line, witnessing the electrification of the route during his time there.

In the early 1990s, he moved to Keadby – one of the most unusual signal boxes in Britain.

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As well as controlling trains on the South Humberside route, the signaller keeps canal traffic moving by operating the adjacent Keadby Sliding Bridge – a rare movable railway bridge believed to be the only operational sliding bridge of its type on the national rail network.

Grandad-of-two Mick, 65, of Thorne near Doncaster, said: “I always wanted to work at Keadby. It feels like I’ve seen it all there, from bathtub racing in the canal, sea cadets in the summer, and no end of people fishing and boating.

“In the quieter times at Keadby, when there’s no-one else around, you notice the wildlife come out – deer, swans, squirrels, badgers and even the odd snake!

“I watched the demolition of the old brick power station nearby when I was given the honour of staying on duty in the signalbox while everyone else was evacuated from the area.

“My beloved Keadby Bridge has seen many changes over the years, and I’ll hopefully keep up with how it’s progressing.”

Mick’s grandad, dad and uncle worked in the rail industry before him – and two of his three children have followed suit.

He said: “I’ve seen so many changes and it’s been a brilliant experience. I’ve gone from old-fashioned signalling to modern technology, but I’ve loved my job right to the end.”

Karen Duffy, Network Rail operations director, said: “Mick’s 49 years of service are an incredible achievement and demonstrate his outstanding dedication to the railway.

“His knowledge of Keadby Bridge and the surrounding railway is exceptional, and countless colleagues have benefited from his experience, enthusiasm and commitment.

“We would like to thank Mick for everything he has contributed during his long career and wish him a happy and well-deserved retirement.”