First Capital (Dis)Connect
Posted at March 21, 2007 17:12 (UTC) from London, UK
The morning started great today until I got to the train station from where I usually take a train into Moorgate to get to work. The trains are operated by First Capital Connect. However, just a few minutes I arrived on the platform, they announced that all trains to Moorgate have been suspended until further notice due to a broken down train at Drayton Park. Oh well, ok today we need plan B to get to work. And not only I was thinking that. Just seconds after the announcement a migration started from the overground platforms down to the underground platforms of the Piccadily and Victoria Lines. (BTW: I think the Victoria Line is the best underground line: reliable, fast and very frequent, usually every two minutes).
Ok, got on the first train. Good. Quick ride to Highbury & Islington then further down to King's Cross Sts Pancras. Usual minor delays on that section on our way into the station. Ok, got off and over to the Thameslink platforms to catch a train to Blackfriars. This route is also operated by First Capital Connect and surprise surprise what can I hear: Due to a broken down train in the Bedford area, all southbound trains are subject to severe delays. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Fantastic. At the end I got on the next southbound train, just.
It's not the first time that this happened. Actually, over the last months there were quite a few broken down trains on First Capital Connect services. What a suprise, that they didn't run short of working trains, which is often a reason for delays as well. Maybe they should consider a re-branding: First Capital Disconnect. I think that would be more appropriate. The worst thing in such situation is that the staff in the front row, i.e. on the platforms, usually get the kicking by the frustrated passengers while the company's managers are protected in their offices, thinking of new ways to improve share holder value. Unfortunately, to many times these new ways are well known old ones: Let's increase the fares.
Welcome to the world of public transport in Britain .
First Capital Disconnect - Your Journey. Your Choice. Your Railway.
It's Springtime
Posted at March 21, 2007 12:12 (UTC) from London, UK
Spring is here and since today it's official: the winter ended last night and spring is taking over. A great time of the year to explore London and its hidden secrets. The picture above was taken in Regents Park last Sunday, so not spring quite yet by then but you could already feel its power over the last week though the last days were more like the beginning of winter.
Nevertheless, today is a beautiful day with blue sky and a lot of sun (though not as warm as it was last week). Welcome Spring.
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