REVOLUTIONARY new train technology - which could make the UK high speed rail network safer for train crews and passengers - was tried out for the first time last week on a specially adapted train on the West Somerset Railway.

It was the first live demonstration of the experimental train protection and warning system developed by the Thales Group, a French multinational company, which continuously updates the train’s position, warns drivers of hazards and, if necessary, applies emergency brakes.

Hauled by two WSR diesels, the train made a series of runs on the heritage line between scheduled services at varying speeds between Bishops Lydeard and Crowcombe Heathfield to demonstrate the safety system to experts from train operators and rolling-stock owners.

Thales’ product line manager Alex Stockhill said: “The demonstration, last Thursday, showed that the technology does exist and it works. We think this system, if deployed across the UK, can make a big difference.”

The system involved continuous positioning sensors, radar and a global navigation satellite system. Mr Stockhill said: “It’s been really good working with WSR. They gave us access to their track so we could carry out testing in safe conditions.

“It’s taken very little time to arrange because they are in total control of their own track, so we’ve been able to react quickly and collaboratively with them.”

The demonstration tested the system’s response, how it could be fitted quickly and cheaply into the driver’s cab and how the train behaved as it approaches a possible hazard on the track. Visiting experts also heard about other applications possible for the system.

“These demonstrations have been down to strong collaboration between all the stakeholders”, Mr Stockhill said.

“We have to continue working collaboratively and quickly on projects like this, which we’ve been able to set up and demonstrate inside six months.”