Signal theft discovered by staff when trying to clear line for freight train

A semaphore signal arm on the Ely-Peterborough line was stolen in mid-April.

The signal on the westbound line a few hundred metres west of Whittlesea station was stolen on the night of April 17/18.

The theft led to trains being cautioned through the area for almost two weeks until the signal was repaired on April 30 and incurring delays.

British Transport Police (BTP) was investigating the theft which was discovered at around 0500 on Friday April 18.

It’s understood the signaller noticed the issue when they tried to clear the line for a freight train. The driver then confirmed the signal arm was missing.

A BTP spokesman told RAIL it received a report of criminal damage to a signal, that had occurred overnight, at around 0800 on April 18.

“Officers carried out extensive enquiries, however the investigation has been closed pending new information or lines of enquiry. Anyone with information is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 151 of 18 April.”

In March Network Rail replaced the semaphores on the eastbound line at Whittlesea. The westbound signals are set to be replaced with colour lights at the end of May.