Railway Herald
Stone formerly had three foot crossings in close proximity to the station and all very dangerous due to the sharp curves. Trains to and from the Norton Bridge Line on the right of the picture proceed at slow speed due to the sharp curve through the station but trains on the direct line to Colwich pass at speeds up to 80mph. Whitebridge Lane was particularly dangerous and saw several fatalities in recent times and has now been closed along with the other two and a new footbridge has been provided which provides a grandstand view for photography. The building in the foreground was the former crossing keepers residence with typical North Staffordshire Railway architecture but has sadly fallen into disrepair over the years after it ceased to be occupied. The Churnet Valley Preserved Railway were some time ago interested in removing it to their premises but costs were prohibitive so its future must be in some doubt. Cross Country Super Voyager No. 221141 approaches the cottage on 31st August 2018 on 10.45 Bournemouth-Manchester Piccadilly.
Geoffrey Dingle
