Network Rail 153385 at Ince Moss Junction - 15th April 2025

British Rail Class 153 Super Sprinter 153385 wearing
Network Rail Inspection Train light blue livery is seen passing over Ince Moss Junction located at the north eastern end of the Liverpool Lime Street to Wigan North Western line via St Helens Central on the morning of Tuesday 15th April 2025.

The class 153 formally of East Midlands Railway has been converted and repurposed by Network Rail to be
Video Inspection Unit VIU3 153385 (veh.57385).

Today she was working another massive tour from Bolton to Derby via Hindley, Wigan, St Helens Central, Liverpool Lime Street, Latchford Sidings, Fiddlers Ferry, Newton Le Willows, Manchester Victoria, Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield Westgate and eventually Derby.

Its good to see a 153 again do very much like that livery too.

Information about this train below

The technology onboard is primarily used for remote monitoring and maintenance of the rail network, especially in areas with limited access or during emergencies. These units, often mounted on trains, use cameras and image recognition to detect defects and track condition, providing early warning for repairs or planned maintenance.


Remote Monitoring
VIUs allow Network Rail to monitor the railway even when it's difficult to manually inspect, such as during lockdowns or in areas with restricted access.

Defect Detection
Cameras and image recognition systems can identify issues like missing clips, track wear, or overhead line problems, helping to prevent derailments and other safety issues.

Early Warning
By identifying potential problems early, VIUs allow Network Rail to plan maintenance and repairs more efficiently, minimizing disruption and cost.

Data Transmission
VIUs can transmit data to a central system even in areas with poor reception or in tunnels, allowing for 24/7 monitoring, says Icomera.
Increased Safety:
VIUs contribute to a safer railway by detecting potential problems before they escalate,


This trip was being filmed by the driver Ben. His channel and video linked below.
https://youtu.be/dFbfs4uYVD0?si=hW7xLhQVbaLH1NYw

The official working today 153385
2Q33 0909 Bolton to Derby R.T.C.(Network Rail

Passed 1004
Running 15 early

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Filmed at Ince Moss Junction
Filmed Tuesday 15th April 2025

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