Addlestrop

This article explains

“Ministers have asked Network Rail (NR) to explain how train passengers were left “stranded in very uncomfortable conditions” in ultra-high temperatures. A series of incidents on mainline services led to delays and cancellations last night and again this morning as temperatures touched 32C (90F).”

It makes me reflect on the current debate about HS2 the proposed High Speed Rail Link from London to Birmingham and the impact it might have on the countryside it runs though. It makes me think more broadly about rural transport and the need for local authorities to see it more in terms of innovation around community solutions than shoring up bus approaches as the only option. I have an emerging toolkit on some of these almost to hand if you are interested. Most strongly however it appeals to my love of literature and an opportunity to quote from one of the best and less well remembered war poets (this poem – a virtual prize for anyone who can identify it’s author) was written before he go embroilled in the Great War

“Yes, I remember Adlestrop –
The name because one afternoon
Of heat the express-train drew up there
Unwontendly. It was late June.

The steam hissed. Someone cleared his throat.
No one left and no one came
On the bare platform. What I saw
Was Adlestrop – only the name”

Notwithstanding the heat people in balmy times a hundred years ago were much more philosophical about trains, travel and time!