Last update 22 March 2021
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In the days before widespread telephone use (and even longer before email), the fastest way to send a message across the country was by the electric telegraph (telegram). The public telegraph system was a costly system generally charged on the number of words transmitted, but the railways' internal systems were not constrained in this way. However, for speed and clarity the railway companies devised a set of code words for regularly-used messages, each with a precise meaning. Some codes are proper words in their own right (ALERT) and some an easy shorthand (WARNPASS for 'warn passengers' or EMCAR for 'empty carriage'). Others bear little resemblance to their message (DEBRIS or OHIO). Code words were generally decided early on as simple and/or memorable words and those that remain are largely unchanged since then. Acronyms were not generally used in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, though some codes have since had meaningful terms applied and brought into official use.
Codes changed over the years as requirements came and went, and individual railway companies had their own code systems, often with standard words across the industry. Some of the codes are still used in the industry (such as SPATE for a temporary speed restriction withdrawn before published time) and in enthusiast slang, for example CAPE or FOOTEX.
Codes used to describe particular wagon or carriage types amounted to hundreds and are generally not included here. This page intends to capture operational and infrastructure codes.
The bulk of this listing is derived from a 1 July 1939 booklet published by the Great Western Railway, supplemented by a 1980s British Rail code book (catalogue number BR30064) and other information as found. The GWR book showed (and distinguished between) cross-industry terms and those specific to its own operations. Other companies are sure to have had their own equivalents.
The 'In use' column has entries thus:
(blank) = cross industry term used in 1939 † = cross industry term used in 1939 and still used by BR in the 1980s (company, year) = company specific term used in the year stated
It will be seen that as well as many cross-industry terms, BR later adopted some GWR-specific codes.
The GWR booklet opens thus, with its distinctive capitalisation:
To facilitate the transmission of Telegraph Messages, a Code of Phrases in common use in telegrams sent on the Companies' business has been prepared, each phrase being represented by a distinctive word, and that word only is to be sent instead of the complete phrase which it represents. … In telephoning, all Code words should be spelt out.
It then provided a helpful guide to the phonetic alphabet that bears no resemblance to the standard one used today:
A for Alfred. B " Bertie. C " Charles. D " David. E " Edward. F " Frederick. G " George. H " Harry. I " Isaac. J " Janet. K " King. L " Louisa. M " Mary. N " Nellie. O " Olive. P " Peter. Q " Queen. R " Robert. S " Sarah. T " Thomas. U " Uncle. V " Violet. W " William. X " Xmas. Y " York. Z " Zero.
Approaching 50 years later, BR's book was prefaced thus:
The code words for phrases in regular use contained in this booklet must be used, where applicable in message transmitted via National Teleprinter Network, Telex or TOPS, but not in messages to members of the public.
In 1939 most codes covered different passenger and train operating scenarios, plus train maintenance. There was very little about infrastructure maintenance. By BR-days, the greater proportion of codes concerned signalling-related issues.
Codes are presented alphabetically with known spelling mistakes in the source information corrected. It is interesting to note that the code word RESPOND does not demand an answer from the recipient.
| Code | Description | In use |
|---|
| ABACK | How many of the following vehicles have you on hand and when and where are they loading? | |
| ABASE | Quantity of timber now lying at your station belonging to the following party requires loading at once. How many timber trucks do you require? Do you want travelling crane? | GWR, 1939 |
| ABREAST | When and for what traffic is the following stock applied for on truck report wanted? | GWR, 1939 |
| ABSENT | Insert the following omitted from our invoice. give marks or any other particulars | GWR, 1939 |
| ACACIA | Special train as under left (or leaving) at .......... | † |
| ACK | Acknowledge receipt | † |
| ADCA | Covered truck conveying motor car, accompanied by passengers. | |
| ADEX | Advertised day excursion | † |
| ADON | Advise me when this has been done. | |
| ADOUR | Wire if following now in order. | |
| ADPENSE | If no additional expense incurred. | GWR, 1939 |
| AFLOW | Traffic loaded and waiting. | GWR, 1939 |
| AGILE | If traffic mentioned handed you at station and time named, wire best arrivals your route. | |
| AJAX | No train signalled 2-6-2 or 2-6-3 must be allowed on running lines or sidings on both sides of load. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-2. | BR, 1980s |
| ALASKA | Arrange for the necessary boxes to be open to pass following train .......... | |
| ALBANY | Wire time and date and where following were handed to undermentioned company. | |
| ALERT | Provide pilotman between points named for guard of .......... to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| ALERT | Provide conductor between points named for guard of .......... | BR, 1980s |
| ALMOND | Complaint is made by following of difficulty in passing .......... Note, arrange and report. | GWR, 1939 |
| ALOP | May the following work be allowed to proceed? | GWR, 1939 |
| AMAR | Excess width to be maintained to the 6ft side throughout. | GWR, 1939 |
| AMBER | Cancel my communication respecting .......... | † |
| AMBPASS | Withdraw notice intimating that restricted train service is in operation, but continue to exhibit WARNPASS notice. | BR, 1980s |
| ANCHOVY | Collect fare from passenger without ticket in undermentioned train hence state class. | |
| ANTINOR | Arrange to change engines at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| APE | Following on our invoice or waybill should have been entered 'paid'. Deliver free; clearance authority will be sent. | |
| APOLLO | Can you arrange to load firm's name timber on date ..........? State whether fixed or travelling crane | GWR, 1939 |
| APPLE | Send the following engine here. | GWR, 1939 |
| APRICOT | See undermentioned firm and press for payment of following account. | |
| AQUA | Barge (or boat) with undermentioned tons on board left following for .......... Arrange all water you can spare to enable easy passage. | GWR, 1939 |
| ARAB | Wire how many passengers for following in undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 |
| ARAMIS | Send me full report of repairs required to following engine. | GWR, 1939 |
| ARCAD | Note and advise all concerned that passengers must, until further notice, be informed that they book at their own risk to .......... | |
| ARDEF | Wire me early if traffic passing by service quoted. | |
| ARGOT | Wire if consignees advised or recognised. | |
| ARGUS | Barge (or boat) proceeding with difficulty. Let down all water you can spare and make good your own length, reporting to me what you can do. | GWR, 1939 |
| ARMADA | Freight train alterations. | GWR, 1939 |
| ARNO | Undermentioned notice received. | † |
| ARROW | Reply on following subject. | † |
| ARROWROOT | Train alterations. Send times today. | GWR, 1939 |
| ASH | Arrange for special delivery of. | |
| ASPEC | Arrange treat as special. | GWR, 1939 |
| ASTER | Exceeding one wagon daily from any one station. | |
| ATHOS | The following engineman and fireman belonging to your station leaving here with through train at .......... Arrange to meet them with food. | GWR, 1939 |
| ATLAS | Joint enquiry at following place and time. Arrange attendance your men concerned and acknowledge receipt. | GWR, 1939 |
| AUTOMATIC | Auto engine will work in place of motor on .......... Arrange trailer. | GWR, 1939 |
| AVAIL | Following engine here for .......... at .......... time. Can you provide loading? | GWR, 1939 |
| AVDEM | Senders have given usual indemnity and request goods be delivered to .......... | |
| AVON | Following traffic for undermentioned station will travel as under. Arrange forward first means. | |
| AXIS | Reserve following accommodation. | † |
| BABOON | Your wire for undermentioned live stock; following licences are necessary. | |
| BACKMO | Road motors left at time shown below with the following consignments. Arrange return load and wire when leaving and particulars of load. | |
| BAFFLE | Nothing to indicate sender or consignee. | |
| BALL | Arrange for time bill clerk come to .......... place .......... time .......... date .......... in connection with .......... train service. | GWR, 1939 |
| BALLOON | Time guard came on duty. | GWR, 1939 |
| BANDON | Return bank engine immediately upon its arrival at your station. | GWR, 1939 |
| BANTAM | Return special goods train hence at .......... | |
| BANYAN | List not to hand. The following stations told to wire you particulars. | GWR, 1939 |
| BARLEY | What is being done for undermentioned place or places, which have no empties to load the following? | GWR, 1939 |
| BARN | No passengers in undermentioned train for .......... | |
| BASS | Say if you have any corrections for .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BAST | See undermentioned local authority, ascertain whether place named is within its jurisdiction and reply. | GWR, 1939 |
| BASTION | Your wire, no licence is necessary for the following animals. | |
| BASUTO | Engine (or other vehicle) on line and line clear at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BAT | Return time table extracts today certain or must go to press without your particulars. | |
| BAY | Passengers in undermentioned train for .......... | † |
| BEACH | The following entered on 'goods on hand without account' return, week ending ..........; if still on hand wire weight, marks and full description. | GWR, 1939 |
| BEAKER | the following from you detained here. Wire train licence is coming by. | GWR, 1939 |
| BEAR | Referring to consignment, as under, to your station, collect the following 'paid on' omitted, and advise when done. | |
| BEDOUBLE | Reserve double bedroom for .......... | |
| BELFRY | Undermentioned horse hence by passenger train as follows. Wire when you are returning your sick or lame horse. | GWR, 1939 |
| BENIN | Consignee and charges are as follow. | |
| BEPPO | Following engines sent you today at .......... Return men and tools and advise time leaving. | GWR, 1939 |
| BERSEC | Reserve second class sleeping berth in two berth compartment for .......... ACK. | BR, 1980s |
| BESINGEN | Reserve gent's single bedroom for .......... | |
| BESINLA | Reserve lady's single bedroom for .......... | |
| BICHET | Special .......... train left (or will leave) at .......... with following trucks for .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BIGEND | Big end bearing, inside diameter. | GWR, 1939 |
| BILADE | Traffic as under, entered as shown, can now be released. Shippers hold bills of lading. | GWR, 1939 |
| BILBERRY | Alterations for next month. | GWR, 1939 |
| BILTONG | Arrange special collection today on account of Woodley and Co. of Cardiff and despatch by first train in refrigerator cars consigned to Woodley and Co. at the places named, the following consignment of meat. | GWR, 1939 |
| BIRCH | Wire time and date following wagons arrived at and/or left at your station. | |
| BITTERN | How many of the following have you sent to ..........? | |
| BLACKBIRD | The goods are not entered upon tranship or road van list given. | GWR, 1939 |
| BLOCKADE | All lines being blocked at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BLOCSID | The adjoining lines to be blocked when working from running line to siding and vice versa. | BR, 1980s |
| BLOX | All adjoining lines to be blocked when using crossovers, junctions and running connections. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s NR, 2016 |
| BOA | How many of the following can you send to ..........? | |
| BOG | Bank engine not required for undermentioned train. Only single engine load on. | GWR, 1939 |
| BONAR | Consignment hence .......... give date under our bond, ensure prompt delivery intact to .......... give name of warehouse enable cancellation bond. If damaged call in Customs or Excise officer immediately. ACK. | |
| BONDAGE | Customs papers not received ex bonded warehouse. See senders and advise them goods detained here. | |
| BONDMAN | Time engineman came on duty. | GWR, 1939 |
| BONN | Engine and guard leave at the undermentioned time to work special from .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BORAX | Arrange following alterations in opening and closing signal cabins. | |
| BOUGH | Has undermentioned a credit account with you and may I transfer? Holding traffic, wire instanter. | GWR, 1939 |
| BOVINE | Empties waiting power at undermentioned station. Arrange to clear at once. Special if necessary. Wire what done. | GWR, 1939 |
| BOWL | Wire departure time. | GWR, 1939 |
| BOXALL | Please supply containers of the type mentioned below for loading at the station named on the date given. | GWR, 1939 |
| BOXER | The following telegram must be telegraphed box to box to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BOYNE | There is no water at the following station. Instruct drivers. | |
| BREAM | Following in hand for want of better address. Send full particulars at once, to enable delivery to be effected. Now addressed .......... | |
| BREKDON | Following wagons said stopped for repairs at your station. Wire date repaired and reforwarded, or if still on hand, state when repairs likely to be effected. | |
| BRILL | No alterations affecting you. | GWR, 1939 |
| BROKER | Wire if since repaired, when released and forwarded, or what is position. | |
| BROMIDE | Wire full details of despatch. | LNER |
| BROOM | If an excursion is arranged in connection with the undermentioned, how many passengers do you estimate would take advantage of it from your station? | GWR, 1939 |
| BUCK | Following entered as shown should have been invoiced to address given. Dispose of accordingly and reply. | |
| BUD | The undermentioned has a ledger account at this station. | GWR, 1939 |
| BUFFO | Following which we entered 'paid' should be carriage 'to pay'. Collect charges and advise by letter when done. | |
| BULLET | Bullion by following train for .......... insert consignee's name and destination station consisting of .......... insert number and description of packages. Watch specially during transfer at your station/arrival and delivery. | BR, 1980s |
| BUNKER | Class of engine. Home depot .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| BUSCOM | Reserve .......... seats on omnibus connecting with undermentioned train ex-Paddington. | GWR, 1939 |
| BUSH | No trace goods mentioned on hand. | GWR, 1939 |
| BYRAG | The following traffic may be accepted by arrangement only. | BR, 1980s |
| CABBAGE | Do you agree to following? | † |
| CABDO | Reserve twin-berth cabin and wire number. | GWR, 1939 |
| CABO | Reserve single-berth cabin and wire number. | GWR, 1939 |
| CABOB | Wire stations to which following being loaded, number to each place and how many empty left on hand. | |
| CABOR | Reserve four-berth cabin and wire number. | GWR, 1939 |
| CABUS | Cab apparatus, double line. | GWR, 1939 |
| CAD | I can supply the following materials. | GWR, 1939 |
| CALPIN | Train(s) as under start(ed) short of origin. Combination of CALVIN and PINE | BR, 1980s |
| CALVIN | Following train will run as under. Advise all concerned. | |
| CALVIN | Train(s) as under start(ed) short of origin and terminate(d) short of destination. Code sometimes given as KELVIN | BR, 1980s |
| CAMEL | Arrange to provide stock for the undermentioned train. | |
| CAMEO | Senders pressing for definite reply. | |
| CANARY | Following received from your station unentered. Wire instructions and particulars of charges and send invoice (or waybill) or copy by next train. | |
| CAPE | Undermentioned train(s) will not run. Advise all concerned.
Sometimes erroneously claimed as derived from cancelled at point of entry |
† |
| CAPON | Send train times today for .......... | |
| CAPRA | Certificate of date named holds good. | GWR, 1939 |
| CAPSTAN | Work stopped for want of the following. | |
| CARATE | Am asked to quote cartage rate on .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| CARBON | Can the following travel safely between points named? | † |
| CARMINE | Have all ready for timber loaders coming .......... | |
| CARP | Wire particulars of actual payments, value of forwarded 'to pay' and received 'paid' traffic of the following firm for twelve months ending .......... Also state general policy with company. | GWR, 1939 |
| CARSEV | Provide truck load ..........'s owner's name car through tunnel, on .......... trains .......... date. | GWR, 1939 |
| CASTEN | I have paid the following ammount to your credit through daily cash account 110 .......... (date). Form 8103 following. | GWR, 1939 |
| CASTOR | Down main line blocked. | GWR, 1939 |
| CAWCROS | Extreme caution must be exercised when passing from main line to loops and sidings and vice versa and when in loops and sidings. | BR, 1980s |
| CAWSTAB | Should the load require to be recessed, great care must be taken to ensure that the load will clear structures and traffic on adjacent tracks. | BR, 1980s |
| CEDAR | Instruct driver and guard of undermentioned train as follows. | |
| CENEND | Loaded centrally, equally ended and suitably checked. | GWR, 1939 |
| CENEND | Loaded centrally, equally ended and suitably under-run. | BR, 1980s |
| CENSOR | Secure by our route on return journey the following. | |
| CENTIPEDE | Can you send .......... class saloon to place named for use on given date? | GWR, 1939 |
| CERTO | Send certificate of origin or customs sale form no .......... Goods held pending receipt. | |
| CHAD | Relying on your concurrence I have agreed to convey the following party between the stations and on the date named at the fares quoted below. | GWR, 1939 |
| CHARCOAL | It has been agreed to stop the following train at the station named to take up or set down the undernoted party. Advise all concerned. | |
| CHARIOT | Following train will stop at your station to take up or set down undernoted party. See that no avoidable delay occurs. | |
| CHARTER | Guaranteed excursion. | BR, 1980s |
| CHAUCER | Following wagons have arrived without labels. Wire consignee and destination. | |
| CHESS | You may debit this station giving particulars. | |
| CHETA | Your enquiry re undermentioned. Following is address of .......... | |
| CHICORY | Cannot trace delivery. Wire full description, marks and contents and say who complains. | |
| CHIK | Following missing, urgently wanted. Have special enquiries made and if with you forward immediately and reply. | † |
| CHINA | Wire time special will leave and how many on. | GWR, 1939 |
| CHOPPER | Weather foggy here. Instruct drivers and guards of following trains to light their head and tail lamps respectively state whether up or down trains. | GWR, 1939 |
| CHROME | May travel as described subject to following restrictions. | BR, 1980s |
| CHUTE | Proceed to the following station for relief duty. Wire acknowledgement. | |
| CHUTNEY | if any trace, wire reply. If no trace, reply by urgent train message. | GWR, 1939 |
| CICERO | Special train(s) will run as under. Advise all concerned. | † |
| CIGAR | Send man here at once to attend to following. | |
| CIRC | Water circulating pump. | GWR, 1939 |
| CIRCUMA | Trains must be diverted in accordance with instructions shown in notice of diversion of trains to alternative routes. | GWR, 1939 |
| CIRCUMA | Trains must be diverted to alternative route(s). | BR |
| CISTERN | Repeating my wire (or letter) the following still not to hand; wire result of your tracing. | GWR, 1939 |
| CLATO | Wire third-class fare for circular tour as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| CLAYMO | When and where are you loading ..........? | |
| CLEEK | Following charges entered 'to pay' per your invoice - refused by consignee in consequence. Wire whether correctly invoiced, if not send credit transfer voucher or apply to sender for payment. Reply fully. | GWR, 1939 |
| CLIFF | Wire service and route between points named for .......... | |
| CLIMB | Be prepared to detach undermentioned in middle of following train. | |
| CLOTH | Be prepared to detach undermentioned leaving here next to engine on following train. | |
| CLOVE | Following will resume duty. | |
| CLYDE | There is now a supply of water at the following station. Instruct drivers. | |
| COALIO | Release given for undermentioned coal traffic. Send forward all speed. | |
| COBALT | Submit proof bills excursions. | GWR, 1939 |
| COBLE | Ascertain when the following will resume duty. | |
| COBRA | We require the following. Have supply sent at once. | |
| COG | Accommodation has been reserved. | † |
| COLOC | Private locomotive, cold, weight .......... tonnes travelling on own wheels from .......... to .......... per .......... Arrange forward working. | BR, 1980s |
| COLORADO | Have pilot engine in readiness to attach to following train. | |
| COLUMBIA | No extra engine power required. | GWR, 1939 |
| COLUN | Have cold luncheon basket ready for ........... | GWR, 1939 |
| COMEX | Following commercial explosives. | BR, 1980s |
| COMO | Your communication re accommodation in following name. Wire class travelling on steamer and if accommodation required for ladies or gents giving number of each. | GWR, 1939 |
| CONDLOAN | Forward by first means the undermentioned condemned sheets on loan and wire when sent or sending. | GWR, 1939 |
| CONDOR | Following waiting order. Obtain instructions for disposal. | |
| CONEY | Following which you enter 'to pay' said 'carriage paid' and refused in consequence. Wire whether correctly entered and, if not, send re-charge authority or apply to sender and reply. | |
| CONFLICT | No train conveying passengers or signalled 2-6-2 or 2-6-3 must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings mentioned on either side of the load. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-3. | BR, 1980s |
| CONGO | The following not to hand. Send by next train, and write explaining delay, or, if sent, forward copy. | |
| CONNIE | Connecting rod complete with big end bearing, inside diameter. | GWR, 1939 |
| CONREC | Following containers received today. | |
| CONSEN | Following containers despatched by us today with traffic shown as per particulars below. | |
| CONTON | Weight to be calculated on a basis of 1,000 kilos to the ton. | GWR, 1939 |
| CONVEX | Undermentioned men .......... on duty .......... relieving following train. Trainmen as passengers hence. Wire time reliefmen returning. | GWR, 1939 |
| COOT | Following wanted for shipment. | |
| CORMOR | Your enquiry respecting following not being to hand. Forwarded from here, as under. I trace; wire me immediately received. | |
| COTAN | Does my certificate of date named hold good? | GWR, 1939 |
| COTTON | Following military explosives. | BR, 1980s |
| COVCOUNT | Wire me per return the number of sheets on hand for repairs in and out of trucks. | GWR, 1939 |
| COVCROWD | Overcrowded with sheets for repairs. Can you arrange for acceptance elsewhere following loads. | GWR, 1939 |
| COVFALL | Falling short of sheets for repairs. Urge forward supplies. | GWR, 1939 |
| COVLOADS | Wagons loaded with sheets on hand your shop excessive. Take special steps to unload, amalgamate all small loads possible and wire me what you are able to do. | GWR, 1939 |
| COVMAND | Heavy demand for sheets. Urge output giving light repairs preference and place all possible at disposal of Rolling Stock Department. Wire what you are able to do. | GWR, 1939 |
| COW | Be prepared to detach undermentioned leaving here in the rear of following train. | |
| COWARD | May I attach the following to under-mentioned train. | |
| CRANBERRY | We send you the following, which you must transfer at your station and forward per .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| CRANE | All charges should be paid through to destination. Wire if any debit to you. | |
| CREDIT | Our credit transfer voucher as below portion not received. Send it by first train and wire now whether accepted. | GWR, 1939 |
| CREDIT A | Your credit transfer voucher received and accepted for last month. | GWR, 1939 |
| CREOLE | Arrange to work forward. | BR, 1980s |
| CRETE | Following vehicle hence to you. Return next train. | |
| CRIMSON | How many empties are there at undernoted place? | |
| CROCUS | Your reliefman undermentioned and mate returning as passengers hence. | GWR, 1939 |
| CROW | Undermentioned on hand refused for following reason. Send instructions for disposal and give sender notice as to risk and expense. In the event of instructions being given to re-tender or deliver elsewhere, say who pays carriage and extra charges, if any. | |
| CUCKOO | You will receive the following from .......... | † |
| CUDEB | Following held by Customs for duty. Collect and wire authority to debit you. | |
| CURRANT | Your enquiry respecting following. I agree. | † |
| CUSAG | Wagon number .......... hence under Customs seals. Not to be opened except in presence of Customs officer. | |
| CUSHY | Invoice no connection. Wire me instanter. | GWR, 1939 |
| CUSPRO | Following traffic hence .......... must be produced to Customs before shipment. | |
| CUSTEX | Following traffic consigned to .......... not to be opened except in the presence of an officer of Customs and Excise. | |
| CUSTOM | Wire value, net weight and description of the following traffic for customs purposes. | |
| CUTOS | Following detained by HM Customs, contents dutiable. | |
| CUTTLE | Unable to reserve accommodation as requested. | † |
| CYDER | I agree to train running if you can provide stock locally. | GWR, 1939 |
| CYGNET | Following invoiced from you not to hand. Wire date, train, truck, and to what point sent and trace forward. | |
| CYNIC | Can only offer ordinary service. Wire what decided. | |
| CYRUS | Have matter put right at once. | BR, 1980s |
| DAGGER | Until the assent of the goods agent is obtained. | |
| DAGGER | Until the assent of .......... is obtained. | BR, 1980s |
| DAGONET | Engine of following train partially failed. Be prepared with another engine to work train forward. Give nature of failure briefly | |
| DAMRE | Showing on labels original consignee and from what station returned. | GWR, 1939 |
| DARG | No advice from you re .......... | |
| DATUM | The undermentioned not received. Wire date and train sent. | |
| DAUNT | Following sender will load undermentioned wagons live stock at your station on .......... for .......... Arrange. | GWR, 1939 |
| DAUNTLESS | Following sender will load undermentioned wagons livestock at .......... on .......... for .......... Arrange service and advise all concerned. | GWR, 1939 |
| DEBRIS | I will advise you further. | |
| DEBUT | we have received application. | |
| DECKO | Following consignment unentered. Send first train copies of declaration and invoice. Senders are .......... Meantime wire full particulars charges payable by consignee. | |
| DEDIMUS | Have you communicated with us in error? | † |
| DEE | Make careful search and enquiry at your station for .......... | |
| DEEPDENE | Royal train (lowest security: 2 headlamps, bell code 4-4-4 accepted under standard block, shunt other trains 5 minutes before passage, public crossings 10 minutes, fewer other precautions than GROVE). | BR, from 1949 |
| DEEPLUS | Royal train (intermediate security: as DEEPDENE but double block). | by 1961 |
| DELAWARE | Wire me rates (or fares) for undermentioned. | |
| DELOD | Divisional engineers should be advised in ample time of arrangements made for passage of loads. | GWR, 1939 |
| DELTA | it is reported that the undermentioned is in financial difficulties: make confidential enquiry and, if confirmed, stop all further credit, advising me particulars of any outstandings, credits due or goods on hand, which latter must be held pending my instructions. State at what other stations firm does business. | GWR, 1939 |
| DEMOS | Line will be clear in about .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| DEPAR | Wire time of departure from point mentioned and arrival time at destination. | |
| DERAIL | Send quickly breakdown van, crane and gang; following derailed at .......... give place and time. | BR |
| DERWENT | Your communication upon following subject received and has attention. | † |
| DESCRIPT | if still missing supply full description of marks, brand or illustration and dimensions, also say when and where last checked. | GWR, 1939 |
| DESERT | You may quote standard rates in accordance with live stock scale on the following distance .......... | |
| DETLAB | Remove all labels before delivery. Origin not to be divulged to consignee. | |
| DETNON | Please send next passenger train .......... detonators without clips. | GWR, 1939 |
| DETO | Please send next passenger train .......... detonators with clips. | GWR, 1939 |
| DIAMOND | Arrange for extra engine to work .......... | |
| DIANA | Have engine no. .......... ready to change for engine .......... hence .......... time to work in its place. | GWR, 1939 |
| DINEDOR | Following train will run in two parts, first part starting punctually and the second part running late, as under .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| DISBEL | Bell with distant not properly off. | GWR, 1939 |
| DISPIN | We have disposal instructions for following traffic which may send on here. | |
| DISTOCK | Distribution of freight rolling stock. | GWR, 1939 |
| DISTRO | Wire distance and type of road. | GWR, 1939 |
| DIVA | Undermentioned train diverted via .......... Wire if driver knows road. | GWR, 1939 |
| DIXTON | Cartage motor vehicle 10 tons carrying capacity. | GWR, 1939 |
| DOBA | Men on duty. Double home basket. | GWR, 1939 |
| DOCON | The undermentioned is on hand and cannot be shipped until declarations are received. Please forward the documents in duplicate immediately. | |
| DONKEY | We are now asked to deliver following traffic to firm named. Wire if we may do so. | |
| DOPE | Wire me rate. Road transport competition involved. Their charge is .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| DOTAL | Return the undermentioned here. Reply when done. | |
| DOURO | The following rates (or fares) may be quoted. | |
| DOVE | Wagon, number given below, from station named, sent away as an empty, contains the following. If with you, dispose of as follows and reply. | |
| DRAGON | Following wanted for tomorrow's use. Reply when will be sent. | |
| DRAKE | Can you arrange cartage to address given of following traffic, carried at S to S rate? If so, wire charge for that service. | |
| DRASTIC | Send on at once, invoice carriage paid and debit me, giving particulars. | |
| DRAWBON | Following consignment for Irish Free State marked duty paid. Advise senders duty will again be demanded on landing in Ireland. Ascertain whether under drawback or ex bonded warehouse. Wire reply. | GWR, 1939 |
| DRENCH | Owing to an outbreak of foot and mouth disease near station named, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs or deer must not be moved into, out of, or within an area of 15 miles around that place unless the animals are accompanied by an up-to-dsate licence of the local authority at destination point, duly countersigned by the local authority at forwarding point. Names of stations affected to follow. Arrange and advise all concerned. | |
| DROT | Instruct guard of the following train to stop at station named to take up or set down undernoted party. | GWR, 1939 |
| DUB | May travel as described without restriction. | BR, 1980s |
| DUEDEST | Referring to your application for a service for .......... from .......... to .......... I will arrange for this to arrive destination at .......... | |
| DUEDEST | Arrival time at destination will be .......... | BR, 1980s |
| DUTET | Undermentioned consignment said held pending payment of duty by consignee. My invoice authorises debit of duty to senders' deposit here. Arrange immediate clearance and furnish explanation. | |
| DUTURN | Wire turn of duty of undermentioned staff this week and next. | 'companies', 1930s |
| DUTURN | Wire turn of duty of undermentioned for period named. | |
| DYKE | Put .......... train in .......... loop or yard. | BR, 1980s |
| EAGLE | If unable to deliver the following, dispose of to best advantage. | |
| EARWIG | Following urgently required. | † |
| EBB | Press consignee to accept. If he still refuses give him written notice of immediate sale in the interests of all concerned. | |
| EBRO | Look out for important letter by .......... | |
| EDNA | Goods traffic of all descriptions except the following must not be accepted for conveyance until further notice. Note and advise all concerned. | |
| EFT | See yesterday's report for information as to other stock. | GWR, 1939 |
| EGER | Provide pilotman between points named for driver of .......... | |
| EGER | Provide conductor between points named for driver of .......... | BR, 1980s |
| EIDER | Following said handed you by the undermentioned not reached destination. Trace forward by wire, and advise me result, with full particulars. If necessary see senders. | † |
| ELASTIC | Neither up nor down line blocked. | GWR, 1939 |
| ELFANT | Can you trace receiving the following on or about the date given? If so, say how disposed of. | |
| ELK | We sent you in error on date named the following. Forward with all speed to the following station. | |
| ELM | Send man to attend to water supply at .......... No water in tank. | GWR, 1939 |
| EMCAR | Special empty carriages. | BR, 1980s |
| EMERALD | Provide engine and men to work undermentioned train and wire that you will do so. | |
| EMIGRANT | The following spare cattle wagons are on hand .......... today. | GWR, 1939 |
| ENBAT | Engine battery. | GWR, 1939 |
| ENO | Undermentioned consignment invoiced duty payable by consignee, should have been invoiced 'recharge duty to sender's deposit account at this station'. Arrange clearance immediately and debit us. | |
| ENOC | Owing to engineering occupation. | GWR, 1939 |
| ERAD | Refused, not equal to sample. | |
| ERASMUS | Can you return engine and men to work ..........? | GWR, 1939 |
| ERMIN | Following not wanted here. | |
| ERN | Weigh, charge and advise. | |
| EVERGREEN | Please wire me instructions. Following complaints of difficulty in passing. | GWR, 1939 |
| EVEX | Evening excursion. | |
| EVIDO | Public enquiry by licencing authority will be held on .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| EXCOL | Loaded centrally within gauge except extreme width secured. | GWR, 1939 |
| EXLO | Exceptional load with speed or route restrictions only. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-1-6. | BR, 1980s |
| EXMO | Expect road motors with goods for .......... | |
| EXPAM | Recommended expert examination of following. Will you arrange? | |
| EXTENSO | Cannot send relief. Make best possible arrangements for present. | |
| FABEL | Electric bells at .......... failed. Attend at once. | GWR, 1939 |
| FABRIC | Must not exceed speed of .......... mph at/between .......... | BR, 1980s NR, 2016 |
| FALCON | No trace of receiving the following. | † |
| FARET | Third class return fare .......... | |
| FARO | Third class single fare .......... | |
| FERLO | Sailors (or soldiers) on leave travel as under on date named. Make all necessary arrangements as far as you are concerned and acknowledge receipt by wire. | |
| FERN | Other stock as wanted. | GWR, 1939 |
| FESTON | Consignees cannot produce bill of lading: can we release? | GWR, 1939 |
| FINCH | Following received different from invoice. Wire if we may deliver. | |
| FIRBERTH | Reserve first class berth on open saloon and wire number. | GWR, 1939 |
| FIRSLEEP | A first class sleeping berth has been reserved on the following train to join at your station | |
| FITRUCK | Send suitable fitted truck(s) all speed to convey following article between points named. | GWR, 1939 |
| FLAMINGO | Following wanted for market. Urge forward all speed. | GWR, 1939 |
| FLANDERS | Engine and men working .......... | |
| FLASH | Give good advance notice of despatch to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| FLEA | Wire how you stand or what you are doing respecting .......... | |
| FLEET | Following traffic on hand. Arrange to work forward all speed. | |
| FLORA | How many more of the following do you require? | |
| FOAM | Have you any enquiry for ..........? | |
| FOCAL | Wire reply instanter. | GWR, 1939 |
| FOCUS | Arrange to strengthen the undermentioned train or trains as shown. | BR, 1980s |
| FOLIAGE | The following additional amount will be charged for special haulage between the undermentioned points. | GWR, 1939 |
| FONET | Referring to your telephonic communication. | |
| FONET | My/your telephone communication of .......... give date. | BR, 1980s |
| FOOTEX | BR sponsored football train. | BR, 1980s |
| FORMAY | Wire formation of .......... train commencing from engine. | GWR, 1939 |
| FORPEN | Dispose of LNE and LMS vacuum fitted open wagons up to 12 tons capacity as follows; | GWR, 1939 |
| FORTON | Cartage motor vehicle 4/5 tons carrying capacity. | GWR, 1939 |
| FOX | Following said to have been sent you on or about undermentioned date by station named. Wire particulars of receipt and proof of delivery if effected. | |
| FOYLE | Referring to us for account. | |
| FRANK | Provide guard to work undermentioned train. ACK. | |
| FREEDOM | Vehicles buffer locked in following siding. Send man to free. | GWR, 1939 |
| FROG | Following wagons detained at your station under load. Get them discharged at once and send today full written explanation of detention. | |
| FUNCO | Vehicle with funeral party and corpse. | † |
| FUNGUS | No trace of forwarding the following. | † |
| FURNO | Until further notice. | † |
| GAITER | Contents of wagon .......... transhipped into wagon .......... and sent forward .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| GAMA | your wire regarding .......... to hand and contents noted: letter follows per .......... train. (Add 'Report confirmed' or otherwise.) | GWR, 1939 |
| GANGES | See undermentioned and secure traffic named. | |
| GAREX | Guaranteed excursion. | |
| GARNET | Following engine now ready. Wire when and how you propose to exchange for engine .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| GARON | Undermentioned may travel as loaded described. | |
| GARON | Undermentioned may travel as described. | BR, 1980s |
| GASCON | Wire full dimensions and weight of traffic for which undernamed is applied for and say when actually required to load. | GWR, 1939 |
| GASSO | Arrange for the undermentioned to be gassed at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| GAZEL | Your enquiry respecting following. Correct as received. You may deliver. | |
| GETAMOV | The following proposal has been submitted to me. Have special enquiries made. Write me fully giving your views saying if anything is known of the traffic and if it can be secured to our route, but it must be distinctly understood that you are not to quote the figure, or indicate what it is, to the public, until further advised. | GWR, 1939 |
| GLEN | Short coal at undermentioned station. Send the following and wire me. | GWR, 1939 |
| GLOSSY | Wire if you can send .......... | |
| GOBI | The following routing must be observed. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| GOLO | Your wire of yesterday; or Exchanged wires of yesterday; or Your wire of .......... give date | |
| GOLO | My/your teleprint of .......... give date | BR, 1980s |
| GOOSE | Stop accepting following until further advised. | BR, 1980s |
| GORIL | Following not received. Say if any trace passing your station and how disposed of, or trace forward. | |
| GOSLING | Stop sending following until I wire you further. | |
| GOSLING | Cease forwarding the following until further notice. | BR, 1980s |
| GRAB | Arrange following witnesses to attend court to give evidence at time, date and place stated and acknowledge receipt by wire. | |
| GRAZE | The undermentioned will be exhibitors. Ascertain quickly their requirements i.e. number and class of vehicles, particulars of traffic, date and train traffic will be loaded. | |
| GROVE | Royal train carrying monarch (maximum security: 4 headlamps, bell code 4-4-4, double block, shunt other trains 10 minutes before passage, close public level crossings 15 minutes before, secure all horses, water columns, barrows, etc. and numerous other precautions). | SR, from 1942 BR |
| GUITAR | Wire particulars and confirm by letter. | |
| GULL | Your wire asking me to stop delivery of the following consignment received too late. | GWR, 1939 |
| GUM | Refer to my wire of today; or Exchanged wires of today. | † |
| GWIN | Travel main line only. | GWR, 1939 |
| HAKE | Wire how many of undermentioned since received. | |
| HALFEX | Halfday excursion. | † |
| HALIBUT | Fish expected to leave here today about following time. Will wire particulars on departure of train. | |
| HANOVER | The following train will be divided as under. Advise all concerned. | |
| HARRIER | Not received. Same remark from transfer station. Trace forward. | |
| HAVEN | Following ready for inspection. Send inspector. | GWR, 1939 |
| HAWK | Following delivered on date named, and signed for by .......... | † |
| HAZARD | Running lines and/or sidings mentioned on both sides of the load to be clear. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-3. | BR, 1980s |
| HAZEL | The undermentioned materials ordered from firm and on inspection notice quoted, which are urgently required, stated to be ready for inspection. Attend to this immediately and reply. | GWR, 1939 |
| HEBREW | Following train is leaving here with assistant engine give no. or name of assistant engine and no. of vehicles on train. | GWR, 1939 |
| HEN | Consignee resides outside delivery limits. Duly advised. | |
| HERO | The following stock shown on your return yesterday not recorded today. | GWR, 1939 |
| HERON | Ascertain from guard of undermentioned train the destination of vehicles of the description and numbers given below, put off here without label on date named. | GWR, 1939 |
| HOLLY | Following now in order. | † |
| HOOK | Reserve first class compartment/s in undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| HORN | Wire how many tickets issued by undermentioned train. | |
| HOST | Enquiry made by .......... for the undermentioned accommodation from .......... Wire number of room or rooms you can reserve and terms. | |
| HOSTA | Can offer the following room or rooms for .......... terms.......... Wire if accepted. | |
| HOTLUN | Have hot luncheon basket ready for ........... | GWR, 1939 |
| HUDSON | Following since to hand. | |
| HUMBER | Put special train tail signal on following train for .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| HUMPEX | Wagons or loads not to pass over shunting humps. | BR, 1980s |
| HUX | Send timber loaders to station named below. Timber waiting. | |
| HYENA | Look out for the following insured goods (or parcels) sent you by train named. Watch specially, until delivered to consignee, and wire proof of delivery. | |
| IDES | When will you be prepared for timber loaders? | |
| IMAGE | Wire instanter number wagons loco coal on hand. | GWR, 1939 |
| INCH | Have invalid chair meet undermentioned train hence. | |
| INCRA | Including current authorised increase. | |
| INDEM | Have you obtained indemnity? | |
| INDIA | following traffic left for want of .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| INDUS | The following horse or horses ill. Wire instructions. | GWR, 1939 |
| INFECTO | The traffic hence per details below is infected with insect pests. Do not store in the company's warehouse. Wagon and sheets will require to be cleansed before being put into traffic again. | |
| INSPEC | Expert coming to examine .......... | |
| INSUL | Advise me by wire the place or places where insufficient clearance exists. | GWR, 1939 |
| INVAL | Have invalid chair meet undermentioned train hence. | BR, 1980s |
| INVICTA | Ascertain if sufficient traffic to warrant excursion (or excursion facilities) and wire recommendation. | GWR, 1939 |
| JAB | Wire distance for livestock to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| JACKAL | Following entered as under must not be delivered but held for further instructions. Wire whether consignee advised; if not, do not advise. | |
| JAPAN | Send on coal at once for .......... | |
| JAY | Expedite unloading of following traffic; empties urgently wanted. | |
| JEM | My wire of .......... give date | GWR, 1939 |
| JET | Work to be proceeded with at once. | |
| JIB | Important consignment for shipment. | |
| JIRAF | Following sent you in wagon named said not to hand at destination. Say how disposed of by you and trace forward. | |
| JOAN | Running lines and/or sidings mentioned on the left-hand side of the load looking in the direction of travel must be clear, and no train signalled 2-6-2 or 2-6-3 must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings on the right-hand side of the load. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-3. | BR, 1980s NR, 2016 |
| JOCK | Write me fully today. | |
| JORDAN | The undermentioned colliery is without empty wagons. Send supply at once. | |
| JUG | Reserve the following accommodation for prisoner and escort. | BR |
| JULIA | How many of the following have you on hand? | |
| JURY | County Court summons has been issued by the undermentioned to recover amount stated for alleged .......... Report fully and send all papers and original documents immediately. | GWR, 1939 |
| KALE | Your communication of date named respecting .......... | |
| KALE | My/your letter of .......... give date. | BR, 1980s |
| KELT | Instruct driver and guard of following train to stop at station named to take up or set down undernoted party. | |
| KELVIN | See CALVIN | |
| KERN | Board of Agriculture prohibit movement of swine in district in which your station is situated. See none accepted or unloaded thereat for forwarding or delivery during operation of order which takes immediate effect. | GWR, 1939 |
| KESTREL | Following stopped for reason named; wire instructions for disposal. | |
| KIMBO | Excess must be kept to .......... side throughout. | BR, 1980s |
| KIPPER | I have advised all concerned. | |
| KISH | Undermentioned out for delivery today. Proof later. | |
| KITKAT | send full report on claims form, with all papers and original documents by next train respecting the following. | |
| KOREA | Have consignees at following address waited upon to inspect undermentioned, letting me have your report by return. | GWR, 1939 |
| KOSTIC | Instruct driver of undermentioned train as follows. | |
| KOSTO | Senders cannot give any instructions. Get consignees to accept and make best of goods. Question of responsibility to be dealt with afterwards. | |
| KUBAN | Arrange to examine private locomotive at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| LABIN | Label and invoice. | |
| LACER | Must not use cross-overs between platforms. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| LAGOS | Send engine to arrive .......... time .......... date to do shunting and work up .......... conditional and arrange guard to work same train. | GWR, 1939 |
| LAKE | Arrange to provide inspector to travel with traffic between.......... | |
| LAKE | Inspector to accompany between. | BR, 1980s |
| LAMB | Tender following again. Consignee will now accept. | |
| LARK | Following at your station, dispose of as under. | |
| LASH | The existing rate is too high. | |
| LASLODE | Wire particulars of last loaded journey of wagon .......... giving route and date. | GWR, 1939 |
| LATEX | Wire now explanation of any time lost in your division by the undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 |
| LEAF | Undermentioned sent you for inspection. Say if claimed. | |
| LEBA | Following engine and men here taking rest. | GWR, 1939 |
| LEDGER | Has the undermentioned a ledger account at your station? | |
| LEDGER C | Our cash or ledger transfer voucher as below, portion not received. Send it by first train and wire now whether accepted. | GWR, 1939 |
| LEDGER D | Your cash or ledger transfer voucher received and accepted for last month. | GWR, 1939 |
| LEFPAS | No train conveying passengers must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings mentioned on the left-hand side of the load looking in the direction of travel, and no train signalled 2-6-2 or 2-6-3 must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings on both sides of the load. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-3. | BR, 1980s |
| LENS | What licence is necessary for following? | |
| LEOPARD | May we accept for insurance the following consignment Carriers Act, goods valued £..........? What special arrangements are necessary? | GWR, 1939 |
| LIDU | May resume light duty. | GWR, 1939 |
| LIFFEY | Meet me on arrival of following train. | |
| LIFOOT | May resume on light footplate duty. | GWR, 1939 |
| LILAC | Wire full particulars of forwarding following, giving date, reverence to invoice, etc. | |
| LIMA | Can you spare a horse for a few days? | GWR, 1939 |
| LIBNA | Light engine left for .......... | BR, 1950s |
| LINEAR | Ordinary working now resumed. | |
| LINGO | Arrange for following engine to work .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| LINNET | Wire how we must invoice and label traffic consigned .......... | |
| LION | Wire me where the following tranship or road van goods were put out and what signature is held. | GWR, 1939 |
| LISBON | Wire what rates apply to undermentioned and if any additional charges. | GWR, 1939 |
| LIZARD | Steamer ready for cargo, supply trucks required. | GWR, 1939 |
| LOANFORD | The condemned sheets order per your wire fo undermentioned, hence as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| LOBSTER | Following packages London fish today approximate weight .......... tons. | GWR, 1939 |
| LOCKET | Following articles luggage detained by Customs. Owner neglected to claim on arrival here ex boat and see same examined. Keys required. | |
| LOCLAB | Lock up and letter label. | |
| LOCOMING | .......... depot unbalanced engine no. .......... leaving here today working time PG or LE to .......... destination. | GWR, 1939 |
| LODEX | Wire proposed method of loading and dimensions when secured. | GWR, 1939 |
| LODUP | .......... empty crippled wagon loaded on .......... wagon .......... and sent .......... for repairs. | GWR, 1939 |
| LONGLO | Long-welded rail train that does not require the imposition of conditions of travel. | BR, 1980s |
| LONGPROJ | Within the provisions of the standard instructions and tables for long and projecting loads in Section D3, Table D1 Green Pages, Working Manual. | BR, 1980s |
| LONGPROJAX | Within the provisions of the standard instructions and tables for long and projecting loads in Section D3, Table D2 Green Pages, Working Manual. | BR, 1980s |
| LOON | Cannot send relief horse. Hire if absolutely necessary. | GWR, 1939 |
| LOOT | Undermentioned wagons of live .......... left here on train named. Work forward all speed. | |
| LOUGH | Shunting horse ill. Send relief. | GWR, 1939 |
| LUCERNE | The undermentioned on duty at the following time travelling home as passengers per .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| LUDO | The following hence with paid-on charges as under. Wire me if collected. | |
| LUNBAS | Look out for ........... luncheon or tea baskets on undermentioned train and return immediately. | GWR, 1939 |
| MACON | Heavy demand for wagons. Do utmost to get all wagons standing under load your station released immediately. | |
| MAGI | Wire train, date and time of arrival and departure of following, explaining any delay. | |
| MAGPIE | Fish particulars today approximately .......... tons trawl .......... herrings .......... mackerel .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| MANGO | May we accept the following? | |
| MANLY | Set of men as passengers in undermentioned train to for following train or light engine. | GWR, 1939 |
| MANX | Wire immediately name of sender, number and kind of animals and floatage requirements. | GWR, 1939 |
| MAPLE | Water .......... inches under head at .......... Arrange to let down what water you can spare and report. | GWR, 1939 |
| MARBLE | The undermentioned materials ordered from your firm for station and on inspection notice quoted are most urgently required. Press firm on matter and reply now when will be inspected and forwarded. | GWR, 1939 |
| MARFOR | To be marshalled next to the locomotive or immediately behind the fitted head. | BR, 1980s |
| MARKIN | Wire if any mark or anything to indicate sender | |
| MARL | Unable to meet you. | GWR, 1939 |
| MARREAR | To be marshalled next to the rear brake van. | BR, 1980s |
| MARROW | Send opens, special and ordinary trains, to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| MATER | Engine stopped waiting following materials. | GWR, 1939 |
| MATIN | Send break-down van first thing tomorrow morning. | GWR, 1939 |
| MEDICATE | Undermentioned man may resume duty upon production of satisfactory medical certificate. | GWR, 1939 |
| MEDOC | Arrange to be at my office at .......... | |
| MEDWAY | Arrange for the undermentioned to meet me on arrival of .......... | |
| MEMEL | Look out for important value (or insured) parcel hence by following train for undermentioned .......... | |
| MERCURY | Arrange following men's turns of duty as will permit of their attending inquest when called upon. | GWR, 1939 |
| MERLIN | As requested, will meet .......... | |
| MERSEY | Can you meet me at following place and time? | |
| MESSINA | Wire turn of following engine for .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| META | Round timber, 113 divisor. General railway classification conditions. | GWR, 1939 |
| METEOR | Person knocked down at following place. Have all your engines which passed between undermentioned points examined to see if any traces thereon and wire result. | GWR, 1939 |
| MIDAS | Valuable consignment leaves here by the undermentioned train and for the consignee and destination shown below. Take whatever steps are necessary to ensure safe transit and acknowledge receipt of this advice instanter. | GWR, 1939 |
| MIDASCARE | Valuable consignment in charge of caretaker leaves here by the undermentioned train and for the consignee and destination shown below. Take whatever steps are necessary to ensure safe transit and acknowledge receipt of this advice instanter. | GWR, 1939 |
| MINREST | Ensure men working .......... train obtain minimum rest of seven hours. | GWR, 1939 |
| MINT | Undermentioned cannot take duty. Arrange. | |
| MITO | The following are the maximum acceptable dimensions at place named. | GWR, 1939 |
| MONA | Will you make arrangements for your department to attend with witnesses, joint enquiry as follows? | |
| MONFIRST | for applications Please quote first-class monthly return ticket fare from this station to .......... | |
| MONFIRST | for quotations Your enquiry. The following is the first-class monthly return ticket fare from your station to .......... | |
| MONTHIRD | for applications Please quote third-class monthly return ticket fare from this station to .......... | |
| MONTHIRD | for quotations Your enquiry. The following is the third-class monthly return ticket fare from your station to .......... | |
| MORLA | Use may be made of main or reliefs and loops and refuges specified. | GWR, 1939 |
| MORN | Advise me by wire before 9.0am if traffic is not received. | GWR, 1939 |
| MOSELLE | Give matter special attention. | † |
| MOTH | Following stations are supplied with stock named. | |
| MULLET | Following entered per our invoice (or waybill) said not delivered. Give date, proof of delivery, and explanation of any delay. If not to hand, state transfer point at which last checked. | |
| MUSCAT | Can you work undermentioned engine on following train date to change for engine? Reply. | GWR, 1939 |
| MYRE | Refer to my wire of .......... give date. | BR, 1980s |
| MYSTEX | Mystery excursion. | BR, 1980s |
| NAMOR | Goods traffic of all descriptions except the following must not be accepted for conveyance until further notice. The excepted traffics named herein must only be accepted on condition that the company will not be responsible for any loss, damage or delay thereto. Note and advise all concerned. | |
| NANTES | Passenger holding undermentioned ticket undercharged, collect or obtain name and address. | GWR, 1939 |
| NAPO | Round timber, 144 divisor. General railway classification conditions. | GWR, 1939 |
| NARD | Wire now arrival and/or departure time of the following train, explaining any time lost. | GWR, 1939 |
| NAVY | Standard ........... required for ........... naval ratings in train due at your station at ........... | GWR, 1939 |
| NECTAR | Note and advise all concerned that passengers must not, until further notice, be booked to ........... | |
| NENE | Arrange to relieve undermentioned at place named working as stated. Signed on duty at .......... | |
| NERO | Send today the following to place named. Reply train sent by. | |
| NEVA | Wire name and address of .......... | |
| NEWT | 3.15pm fish train Milford Haven to Carmarthen left at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| NIGER | Wire full particulars of delay. | |
| NILE | Following not to hand. | † |
| NOCK | Work not allowed to proceed. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOCLE | Insufficient clearances exist at the following. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| NOCRED | No credit allowed. Secure all charges before release of traffic. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOCTURN | Arrange representative to attend meeting at undermentioned place in regard to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| NODOC | Not to go alongside goods wharves, loading banks or cattle pens. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOFOOT | Cancel previous telegram regarding suspected outbreak foot and mouth disease near this station. Outbreak not confirmed. Revert to position which obtained before receipt of my 'outfoot' telegram. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOG | Not to pass under load gauges. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| NONCLERE | Clerestory roofed vehicles must not be used. | BTC, 1958 |
| NOPA | Not to pass nor be passed by other out-of-gauge load. | GWR, 1939 |
| NORE | Test weight of following carefully and advise. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOTCH | Cannot accept owing to .......... | † |
| NOTLAB | Following wagon (or wagons) on hand without labels. Are you short of it, or can you trace forwarding from your district? | |
| NOTOGO | Route restriction, do not send this train via this route. | BR? |
| NOTRAMO | Not to travel more than .......... add to code "30 miles" or whatever distance is imposed without stopping for examination by guard or accompanying Inspector. | BR, 1980s |
| NOVAC | Dispose of foreign cattle wagons not fitted with vacuum brake and foreign cattle wagons fitted with pipe only as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOVEL | We have on hand the following. May we forward? | |
| NOWBOF | Neither whistle nor bell with signal 'off' | GWR, 1939 |
| NOWBON | Neither whistle nor bell with signal 'on'. | GWR, 1939 |
| NOWORB | Neither whistle nor bell. | GWR, 1939 |
| NULAB | Following hence labelled as under required at last station named. Alter labels and wire reply. | |
| OAK | Provide engine for .......... | |
| OBDEM | No facility for unloading except at station platform. Obtain signed indemnity from sender. | GWR, 1939 |
| OBDOS | Obtain details from Divisional Control. | BR, 1980s |
| OBI | Will you finish with the crane today and if not, when? | |
| OCHRE | Following wagon detained at undermentioned with unsafe load. Arrange as necessary. Reply. | GWR, 1939 |
| OCTAVE | Do not recommend excursion or excursion facilities in connection with undermentioned event. | GWR, 1939 |
| OGLO | Out-of-gauge load where running lines or sidings need not be clear between points mentioned. To be signalled by the Special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-1. | BR, 1980s |
| OHIO | Send on all speed. | † |
| OLIVE | Crane finished with; where shall we send it? | |
| ONEGA | Let me know what traffic may be expected today. | |
| OPAL | Following ordered on requisition urgently required. Supply immediately. Reply. | |
| OPIUM | Your message not understood. Wire full particulars at once. | BR? |
| OPPOS | Running lines and/or sidings mentioned on the right-hand side of the road looking in the direction of travel must be clear, and no train signalled 2-6-2 or 2-6-3 must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings on the left-hand side of the load. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-3. | BR, 1980s NR, 2016 |
| ORANGE | Unable to spare any water unless additional supply is received from higher reaches to help. Arrange. | GWR, 1939 |
| ORBIT | Immediate quotation required to secure to rail. Wire assent. | |
| ORDIS | Following traffic tendered to wait order at your station. Have you disposal instructions and can you accept? | |
| OREGON | Crane and man will be sent as under; arrange with consignee as follows. | |
| ORIGA | following consignment ex you .......... contents declared as foreign manufacture. Wire actual country of origin with full details under th respective Export List headings. | GWR, 1939 |
| ORWELL | Not to hand. Send copy first train. | |
| OSAGE | Send men here for undermentioned engine to leave at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| OSTRICH | Your invoice number (or waybill) .......... | |
| OTTER | Our invoice number (or waybill) .......... | |
| OUDE | Wire no. or name of engine working. | GWR, 1939 |
| OUSE | Arrange to relieve undermentioned at .......... | |
| OUTFOOT | Owing to suspected outbreak of foot and mouth disease near this station, cattle, sheep, goats or swine must not be accepted for despatch from your station until further advised. If animals are received by rail they must not be unloaded until authorised. | GWR, 1939 |
| OVAL | Our men .......... relieving following train. Trainmen resting here. Wire return train. | GWR, 1939 |
| OVUM | 3.50pm fish train Milford Haven to Gloucester left at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| OWL | Invoice (or invoices) sent as follows. | |
| PALM | Report fully by next train with reference to delay, as follows. | |
| PANTHER | If following not delivered immediately sender threatens to throw on company's hands. | |
| PARBLE | The following paybills not to hand .......... Send by next train and write explaining delay, or if sent, forward copy. | GWR, 1939 |
| PAROT | Send Parratt stretcher light .......... for use .......... Advise service sent. | GWR, 1939 |
| PARSEE | Invoices duly sent. References to entries as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| PARSPEC | Unadvertised party special. | BR, 1980s |
| PARVA | .......... invalid party on Parratt stretcher from .......... to .......... date .......... Reserve one .......... class compartment and collect five shillings reservation fee. | GWR, 1939 |
| PATER | Following material leaving .......... by .......... passenger train for repairs. Urgently required. | GWR, 1939 |
| PEACH | Wire date, time and proof of transfer. | GWR, 1939 |
| PEACOCK | Steamer due for following traffic, order trucks required. | GWR, 1939 |
| PERMAT | Please supply following wagons for loading by engineering department at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| PERMO | Will this meet your requirements? | |
| PERPOT | Special train of potatoes, vegetables and other perishable traffic leaving Weymouth at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| PETAL | The undermentioned firm has no ledger account at this station - short credit allowed - send account for collection. | GWR, 1939 |
| PETRO | Engine van and guard hence at .......... for .......... to work .......... to .......... Advise all concerned. | GWR, 1939 |
| PIASTRE | Paid to station only. If consignees require you to deliver secure cartage charges fro them. | GWR, 1939 |
| PIKE | Following missing. Have you any trace? If so, send to .......... | |
| PILCH | Wire address or full description and contents of following. | |
| PINE | Cancel the running of trains as under. | |
| PINE | Train(s) as under terminate(d) short of destination. | BR, 1980s |
| PINK | Can you deal with undermentioned traffic at station named for delivery? If not, say which is the nearest available station. | |
| PINTAIL | Wire me the state of your yard giving total number of trucks for each station. | GWR, 1939 |
| PIPER | Wire now saying what additional stock is required for your use on .......... | |
| PLAT | Following goods found on hand without account. If from you wire instructions. | |
| PLEJ | Platform edges to be kept clear. | GWR, 1939 |
| PLYM | Plymouth Ocean Special running under table .......... hence .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| Following sent you by undermentioned train. | ||
| POD | Advise date and proof of delivery. | † |
| PONTEX | Advise me by wire maximum acceptable dimensions at place named. | GWR, 1939 |
| POPPY | Following transferred to undermentioned on date named and signed for by .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| POSY | I am posting you today bill of lading as under. Secure, vessel now due. | |
| POWEROME | To assist in meeting urgent traffic requirements, arrange on this authority to work to home depots by best means during this weekend all foreign engines on hand having no balancing service, to ensure starting Monday's working under normal conditions. | GWR, 1939 |
| PREP | Can you accept the following load subject to conditions to be stipulated later? | GWR, 1939 |
| PRETOTIA | The following engine is now ready. Send men and tools to work it to .......... State time leaving. | GWR, 1939 |
| PRIDE | Your reliefman undermentioned and mate being utilised here. | GWR, 1939 |
| PROGAR | Wire me your proposals for guards' working in connection with the following trains. | GWR, 1939 |
| PROPOS | Say for what purpose traffic required and where present supplies are obtained. | GWR, 1939 |
| PRUDENT | Following wagon containing valuable damageable traffic hence per .......... train. Examine, handle carefully and wire forward. | |
| PRUNE | Bank engine required to assist the following train. | |
| PRUSSIA | Instruct undermentioned to proceed for duty to .......... | |
| PUG | Special of empty coaches hence to .......... at .......... on .......... All concerned advised. | GWR, 1939 |
| PUMPKIN | Send opens, ordinary trains only, to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| PYRO | Carriage (or vehicle other than engine) off line at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| QONOTO | Quote by tonight's post adding rate not upon companies' rate books - kindly say when traffic will move. | |
| QUAIL | Following on hand at station named without address. Wire if you can trace passing or if wanted by you. | |
| QUONITE | Quote by tonight's post. | |
| QUOTAX | I have quoted arrival time at destination at .......... | |
| RACER | Wire service and route between points named for race horses running same day. | GWR, 1939 |
| RACER A | Wire service and route between points named for race horses running following day. | GWR, 1939 |
| RACINE | Rail motor will work in place of auto engine on .......... Arrange. | GWR, 1939 |
| RACOON | Do you hold licence for cattle for ..........? | GWR, 1939 |
| RADIUM | Am letting down all water I can spare. | GWR, 1939 |
| RAG | Do you agree to times of trains as under? | |
| RAILPIG | Make all necessary arrangements and rail to .......... to arrive before .......... on date named. | |
| RAM | Not to pass or be passed by passenger stock on adjoining lines. | GWR, 1939 |
| RAMPA | Must not pass nor be passed by any train in opposite or adjacent running lines between the following points. | GWR, 1939 |
| RANGLE | Party waiting for information. | |
| RASH | Horse box with race horse, horse for breeding purposes or show traffic. | |
| RATCHET | Ascertain condition of load on arrival of truck, arrange careful handling, watch unloading and delivery operations. Report fully by letter cause and extent of any damage. | GWR, 1939 |
| RAVEN | Your wire instructing me to hold the following consignment has been acted upon. Obtain indemnity and disposal instructions. | GWR, 1939 |
| REBUFF | Service accepted. Make necessary arrangements for traffic to pass. | GWR, 1939 |
| REBUKE | We can accept the following. | |
| REDE | Arrange and advise all concerned. | † |
| REDEX | Received and delivered as entered, no excess here. | GWR, 1939 |
| REDOUBLE | Reserve double bedroom for .......... | LMS, 1930s |
| REGSHIP | Registered tranship consignment for .......... loaded you truck .......... today. Arrange direct loading. Advise destination full details despatch ex you. | GWR, 1939 |
| RELIANCE | Relying on your concurrence l have agreed. | † |
| RELOCO | Engineman does not know road beyond your station; on duty as under provide engineman forward. | GWR, 1939 |
| REMAN | Guard does not know road beyond your station; on duty as under provide guard forward. | GWR, 1939 |
| REMCOL | Arrange packing and collection from house of undermentioned removal on date and time named. | |
| REMDEL | Arrange delivery, unpacking and housing of undermentioned removal on date and time named. | |
| REMIN | Wire charge for unpacking and housing .......... tons in .......... containers give no. and type at undermentioned address. If ordinary delivery charge does not apply, name out-boundary figure or packer's inclusive charge for delivery, unpacking and housing. State station to which containers should be forwarded. | |
| REMLAB | Following containers forwarded today with household removal for address given. Unpacking and housing not required. Charges will be paid by Ministry of Labour Employment Exchange. | |
| REMOR | Following containers forwarded today with household removal for address given. Unpacking and housing not required. | |
| REMOUT | Wire estimated weight and packing charge. If ordinary collection charge does not apply, name out-boundary figure or packer's inclusive charge for packing and collection from house. State station from which containers will be forwarded. | |
| REMPAR | Wire how we must label and invoice household removal in containers no., type and net weight to following address. Unpacking and housing not required. Quote extra charge for delivery if any. | |
| REMSEE | Arrange inspection at undermentioned address on date and time named. | |
| REMSUR | Wire estimated weight, packing charge and valuation for insurance. If ordinary collection charge does not apply name out-boundary figure or packer's inclusive charge for packing and collection from house. State station from which containers will be forwarded. | GWR, LNER, SR, 1939 |
| RENSWAN | Please supply by return the following material to renew on stopped engine no. .......... type .......... old material hence with advice note to cover. | |
| REPACKO | Following detained packed with straw. Wire authority to repack owner's sole risk and expense. Senders are .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| REPAS | The consignment as per following particulars is travelling under the Blue Arrow Passenger Train Registered Transit arrangements and all concerned must see that it is dealt with expeditiously and strictly in accordance with the special instructions laid down. | |
| REPLEN | Lavatory tanks require filling in following vehicle on train named. Be prepared to replenish. | GWR, 1939 |
| RESLAB | Arrange to keep locked, labelled and reserved for party (or parties) named for return journey. | |
| RESPAC | Resume acceptance of traffic in strictly normal quantities for .......... | BR, 1980s |
| RESPOND | You may resume forwarding following. | † |
| RESSEC | Reserve second class seat/s in undermentioned train. | BR, 1980s |
| RESTCAR | Conductor of restaurant car. | GWR, 1939 |
| RESTHIR | Reserve third class seat/s in undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 |
| RESUMP | Cancel WARNPASS message. Working now in order. | BR, 1980s |
| REWAY | Reweigh or obtain weights owing to dispute. | |
| REZONE | Reserve first class seat/s in undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| RHONE | Have you received the following? | † |
| RIALTO | Following engine off the line at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| RIBBLE | Following goods per your invoice or correspondence quoted below, reported refused and lying here. Consignee will now accept. Wire if we may deliver. | |
| RIFLE | If not too late, divert undermentioned to place named and advise me when done. | |
| RIGPAS | No train conveying passengers must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings mentioned on the right-hand side of the load looking in the direction of travel and no train signalled 2-6-2 or 2-6-3 must be allowed on the running lines and/or sidings on both sides of the load. To be signalled by the special 'Is line clear?' signal 2-6-3. | BR, 1980s |
| RISKIT | Wire exactly how goods were consigned and at whose risk. | |
| ROACH | Undermentioned on hand here with following defects. Send men to repair or wire instructions | |
| ROADMO | Wire immediately whether following consignment can be accepted by consignee by road motor and unloaded immediately on arrival. | |
| ROADPIG | Make all necessary arrangements for collection and throughout road transport to .......... bacon factory on date named. | |
| ROAR | All concerned have agreed to conveyance of .......... dimensions as follows from .......... to .......... | BR, 1980s |
| ROBE | Wire me state of weather at your station. | |
| ROCKET | Traffic or tranships usually sent to stations mentioned must not be diverted to any other station. | |
| RODAP | Send immediately copies of applications for licences shown in 'A' and 'D' No. .......... as follows. | |
| RODENT | Meet the undermentioned by train named. | † |
| RODING | Arrange for engine working undermentioned train to return with the following. | GWR, 1939 |
| RODLI | Complete forms re applications made by .......... for .......... licence | |
| ROMEO | Load to travel in accordance with restrictions on wide loads contained in the 1932 schedules: loads 10ft 6in to 10ft 9in wide. | GWR, 1939 |
| ROROB | Road and Rail Traffic Act, 1933 - objection licence application following vehicles .......... being considered. Report immediately upon activities this haulier indicating traffics carried in competition with rail, districts served, etc. | GWR, 1939 |
| ROSE | Send and reply train sent by, the following stock by passenger train to .......... | |
| ROSLIN | Cease acceptance of following traffic. | GWR, 1939 |
| ROTRA | Road and Rail Traffic Act, 1933. | GWR, 1939 |
| RUDD | Following missing from train named, said last seen at your station. Send to .......... | |
| RUPERT | State of weather .......... | |
| RUSSIA | The undermentioned is here in error and will be sent. | |
| RUSTIC | Wire when we may resume forwarding. | |
| SACK | What sacks can you let me have today? | |
| SAGE | Note and advise all concerned that parcels, etc. traffic must not, until further notice, be booked to ........... | |
| SALAD | Following entered to you and supposed to have crossed in transit. See consignee and ascertain if you received and delivered correct marks and numbers and wire me. | |
| SALFO | Collect saloon fee and issue card saloon ticket or excess receipt in accordance with general instructions. | |
| SAMLET | Sailings will be resumed as follows. All booking of passengers and parcels may be resumed. | |
| SANTOI | Send break-down van at once. | GWR, 1939 |
| SAP | Keep me well advised. | † |
| SAPID | Sailings as follow are suspended. Cease booking passengers and parcels. | |
| SARCRO | Load to travel in accordance with restrictions on wide loads contained in the 1932 schedules: loads 10ft to 10ft 3in wide. | GWR, 1939 |
| SATURN | Wire when and where following will be held. | |
| SAVO | Sharp crossovers at the following places to be avoided. | GWR, 1939 |
| SAVO | Crossovers at the following places not to be used. | BR, 1980s NR, 2016 |
| SCALE | Collect excess from passengers in superior class in undermentioned train hence. | |
| SCALLOP | Your wire. Cannot supply omnibus for .......... | |
| SCOOP | Care to be exercised in loops and sidings. | GWR, 1939 |
| SCRUTINY | Specially note condition when following consignment is handed to the company and report any damage. Arrange careful handling and loading. Wire particulars of despatch. | GWR, 1939 |
| SCUD | Special working by engine belonging to following station hence at .......... | |
| SEKU | Endeavour to secure this traffic to rail at the best possible rate, not going below .......... Advise me the result of your efforts. | |
| SENBIL | .......... arrived with undermentioned. See consignee, secure and send us bill of lading. | |
| SENECA | The following traffic must, until further notice, only be accepted on the condition that the company will not be responsible for any loss, damage or delay thereto. Note and advise all concerned. | |
| SENPA | Please send your papers to undermentioned meeting to be held on .......... | |
| SEPAL | Note and advise all concerned that parcels, etc., traffic may now be booked as usual to ........... | |
| SEPOY | Wire if we may deliver the following goods claimed by undermentioned and see senders if necessary. | |
| SERUM | Wire truck no., point loaded .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SERVIA | Certainly sent to you; have further search made and wire result. | |
| SESAME | Keep signal boxes open Sunday as previously. Notice is being issued. | |
| SHAKESPEAR | .......... party .......... persons for Shakespeare Day tour. Stationmaster Leamington Spa to advise Motor Co. Stationmaster Stratford-on-Avon to reserve accommodation in 5.30pm ex Stratford .......... date. | GWR, 1939 |
| SHAMBLE | Arrange to feed and water at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SHANNON | No traffic on hand. | |
| SHEAF | Send the following for inspection to .......... | |
| SHINO | Steamship of following line or from following ports arrived or arriving here at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SHOE | Wagon number .......... repaired and released .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SHOUTO | Steamship of following line or to following ports left or leaving here at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SHREW | Wire what loco coal on hand for .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SHRIMP | Have undermentioned tickets sent here next train and debit this station through daily cash account 110. | GWR, 1939 |
| SHUNTEX | Not to be loose shunted over a hump or along the flat. | BR, 1980s |
| SIAM | Arrived at scene of accident at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SIDON | Loaded out of centre to six-foot side specify distance in inches. | GWR, 1939 |
| SILK | .......... here without funds. Can you call at undermentioned address and collect fare, plus expenses as follows. Wire result at once. believed derived from "stranded individual location known | BR |
| SINBA | Men on duty. Single home basket. | GWR, 1939 |
| SISCO | Scissors crossovers not to be used; other crossovers and junctions, including those to and from goods loops and refuge sidings, to be used with caution and at slow speed. Care to be exercised in marshalling yards. | GWR, 1939 |
| SIXATE | Cartage motor vehicle 6/8 tons carrying capacity. | GWR, 1939 |
| SKITO | Send following to first instead of second station named below. | |
| SKUNK | Secure connection with .......... | † |
| SKY | Have you any account of the following being stopped for repairs since ..........? | |
| SKYLARK | Divert loco coal as follows. | |
| SLASH | Stop sending until further orders coal and coke to .......... | |
| SLASH | Stop accepting until further advised coal and coke to .......... | BR, 1980s |
| SLATTERN | Cannot agree to your proposal. | † |
| SLAV | Following sent to undermentioned station. | GWR, 1939 |
| SLEBO | Reserve first class sleeping berth for .......... ACK. | |
| SLIGO | The following train will stop instead of slipping at your station. | GWR, 1939 |
| SLIPPER | Vehicles can now be slipped as booked. | |
| SLOE | Instruct driver and guards of under-mentioned train to stop instead of slipping vehicles. | |
| SLOG | Advise arrival time destination. | † |
| SLUMBER | Up main line blocked. | GWR, 1939 |
| SMELT | Have an omnibus ready on arrival of following train to go to .......... state name of person and requirements. | |
| SMOKE | Owing to fog in London Division restriction train service to operate in accordance with current fog-working notice. | GWR, 1939 |
| SNAIL | We are now supplied with the following. | GWR, 1939 |
| SNIPE | Send supply of loco coal first means. | |
| SOITCH | Shoe switch. | GWR, 1939 |
| SOKEN | Stock engine no. .......... for following station working undermentioned train, urge forward. | GWR, 1939 |
| SOLO | First class single fare .......... | |
| SOMA | Supply wagons to divisional engineer for stores sold material as ordered Stores Department Order dated .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SONATA | Send the following persons to Swindon for examination on date named. | GWR, 1939 |
| SORET | First class return fare .......... | |
| SPAIN | Search for undermentioned and, if found, send as under and reply state train, class of carriage, brake van or luggage compartment | |
| SPALLS | Reply by next train. | |
| SPATE | Trains between following points may run at ordinary speed on and after date named. Withdraw restriction and reply.
Believed originally a convenient word for which later a 'backronym' speed published and terminated earlywas developed. If so, this phrase has entered official use and now appears in the rule book |
GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s NR |
| SPEDUP | Arrange to expedite the following traffic loaded to your station by train named for transhipment. | |
| SPEDWAY | Speed of trains required to be reduced to undermentioned miles per hour between following points on and after date named. Arrange and reply. | BR, 1980s |
| SPEED | Speed of trains required to be reduced to undermentioned miles per hour between following points on and after date named. Arrange and reply. | GWR, 1939 |
| SPEKO | Following coal urgently wanted. Give preference over all other. Advise full particulars despatch. | GWR, 1939 |
| SPENO | See special notice .......... insert number hence today. | BR, 1980s |
| SPEY | My communication of date named respecting .......... | |
| SPIDER | Following told to assist the stations named with the undermentioned. | |
| SPINACH | Let me know how you have disposed of the following or if still on hand. | |
| SPLOT | Special lot to pass by .......... | |
| SPOON | Demands heavy for goods brakes and trains being delayed in consequence of short supply. Send all you can to the following station. Wire how many and when they will leave. | |
| SPROUT | Send crane to load or unload following traffic now on hand. | |
| SPUR | Another reliefman is being sent your station. On his arrival send following to .......... by first train. | GWR, 1939 |
| SQUID | Your communication. Accommodation for .......... reserved as requested. Wire if charges collected by you or to be collected on steamer. | GWR, 1939 |
| STADIUM | Wire me whether requirements for following now met. | |
| STAG | Give marks and numbers and send all labels. | |
| STAKEN | Electric staff instruments failed between .......... and .......... Attend at once. | GWR, 1939 |
| STARLING | 5.10pm fish train Milford Haven to Severn Tunnel Junction (London fish) left at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| STARWORK | Undermentioned man off since .......... with .......... reports ready for duty. Wire if he may resume. | GWR, 1939 |
| STAT | Freight train statistics week ending .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY A | Send on all speed 1in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY B | Send on all speed 11⁄16in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY C | Send on all speed 11⁄8in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY D | Send on all speed 13⁄16in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY F | Send on all speed 11⁄4in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY G | Send on all speed 15⁄16in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STAY H | Send on all speed 13⁄8in copper stay, 6in long (unless otherwise stated) and taps and tools to suit. If more than one stay is required, number to be quoted | GWR, 1939 |
| STIRRUP | Send vet immediately to examine .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| STONE | Traffic now being worked on single line. | |
| STORK | We have no trace of your invoice; send copy next train. | |
| STORM | How many of the following can you accept? | |
| STOUR | Following is the state of our yard at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| STRAN | The consignment as per following particulars is travelling under the Green Arrow Merchandise Train Registered Transit arrangements and all concerned must see that it is dealt with expeditiously and strictly in accordance with the special instructions laid down. | |
| STRONGBOW | Undermentioned train full from following place. Be prepared to strengthen it from your station. | GWR, 1939 |
| SUBCRA | Subject to current authorised increase. | |
| SUBTRIBE | Subject to the approval of Railway Rates Tribunal. | |
| SULTAN | Train conveying load must travel on .......... line as follows. | BR, 1980s |
| SULTO | Can you suggest alternative routing or amended loading. | GWR, 1939 |
| SUN | Special fog working London Division cancelled. Resume ordinary working commencing .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SWALE | Wire when following was or will be sent. | |
| SWAN | Please supply by return the following material for stopped engine no. .......... type .......... Requisition to follow. | |
| SWIFT | Send by next train certain to .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| SWINSPEC | Arrange for Swindon inspector to supervise the loading of the above mentioned traffic. | GWR, 1939 |
| SYMBOL | Reserve second class compartment/s in undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 BR, 1980s |
| TAGTAIL | Dispose of spare stock as follows. | |
| TAGUS | Following hence today. | † |
| TAIL | Make careful search for tail lamps and send to .......... next train, advising me by telegram or telephone number sent. | |
| TAP | Is accommodation available on coach ex your station on date named for the following number of passengers from my station to ..........? Wire number of seats booked. | GWR, 1939 |
| TARIFA | Customs dues said to be payable by senders. Wire if we may debit you. | |
| TARSUS | Sender declines to give instructions. | GWR, 1939 |
| TAY | Unable to send following .......... | |
| TEABAS | Have tea basket ready for ........... give passenger's name, train and coach | GWR, 1939 |
| TELCO | Arrange to communicate with me by telephone on following subject. | GWR, 1939 |
| TEMPUS | Send necessary details for notice at once. Am waiting to go to press. | GWR, 1939 |
| TENCH | Following vehicles for stations named below are on train mentioned. | |
| TENDRIL | Can you find coaches for excursion as follows? | GWR, 1939 |
| TEVIOT | We have on hand for the undermentioned train. | GWR, 1939 |
| THIRBIN | Reserve third class berth on open saloon and wire number. | GWR, 1939 |
| THIRBO | Reserve third class sleeping berth for .......... ACK. | |
| THIRSLEEP | A third class sleeping berth has been reserved on the following train to join at your station | |
| THROSTLE | Keep on hand for my order. | BR, 1980s |
| THRUSH | Deliver free and credit me. | |
| TIARA | Send undermentioned engine here attached to following train. | GWR, 1939 |
| TICK | Following stopped for repairs. | † |
| TIGER | Arrange for ballast train to run on date named for the following place, starting at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| TINOT | Ticket(s) not issued nor fee(s) collected. | |
| TISSUE | Ticket(s) will be issued here and fee(s) collected. | |
| TIVY | Undermentioned R.R. train runs today. | GWR, 1939 |
| TOCK | Following will be released. | GWR, 1939 |
| TOGAN | Supply the following items in your wagon application from stock available .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| TOLAT | Traffic too late for shipment. Refer senders to shippers for further instructions. | GWR, 1939 |
| TOMAR | Load to travel in accordance with restrictions on wide loads contained in the 1932 schedules: loads 10ft 3in to 10ft 6in wide. | GWR, 1939 |
| TOME | No more to spare. | |
| TONER | Cartage motor vehicle 1/11⁄2 tons carrying capacity. | GWR, 1939 |
| TOOTON | Cartage motor vehicle 2 tons carrying capacity. | GWR, 1939 |
| TORTUS | We have the following to spare. Send disposal instructions. | |
| TRAFOR | Wire time, date and place following wagons handed Traffic Department for despatch. | GWR, 1939 |
| TRAL | Travel slowly at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| TRANSPEC | Following wagons said stopped for repairs your station. If repairs cannot be effected immediately arrange transhipment. | GWR, 1939 |
| TREK | Theatrical company named travels on date named between points mentioned. Wire best service. | |
| TRELO | The circular tour fare for following tour would be .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| TREND | Following consignment hence in truck .......... Expedite delivery and time sent. | GWR, 1939 |
| TRILL | The following alternative is suggested. | GWR, 1939 |
| TRIX | With reference to your enquiry of undermentioned date, the following may travel loaded as described, subject to the following stipulations. | GWR, 1939 |
| TROY | Instruct driver and remind guard of the following train to stop at station named to take up or set down undernoted party. | GWR, 1939 |
| TURBOT | Be prepared to deal with following on undermentioned train. | † |
| TURKEY | Return as quickly as possible undermentioned engine working or assisting following train. | GWR, 1939 |
| TURNIP | Detain undermentioned until you receive further instructions. | |
| TURTLE | When did following stock leave? | |
| TWEED | Will send the following to station named. | |
| TWIG | Has the undermentioned a ledger account with this company? If so what station? | GWR, 1939 |
| UNCA | Covered truck conveying motor car, unaccompanied by passengers. | |
| UNDO | Wire if undermentioned wagon still under load. | |
| UNIT | Following sent to you unentered in wagon named. Dispose of as under or wire how disposed of. | |
| URANUS | Have all engines which passed between places named examined with following result .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| URE | It is important for following reason that undermentioned trains should be worked punctually. Do all that is necessary, so far as you are concerned. | † |
| USMAR | Use may be made of main or relief lines. | GWR, 1939 |
| VACON | Dispose of foreign vacuum fitted covered goods vans up to 12 tons capacity as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| VAMP | Tractor and trailer spare; can you employ at your station? | GWR, 1939 |
| VAMPEX | Can you spare tractor and trailer for ..........? | GWR, 1939 |
| VANCO | Van with corpse. | |
| VANOC | Following parties offered at .......... next Sunday. Note I have quoted times shown. | GWR, 1939 |
| VAPEX | Can you spare motor lorry for ..........? | GWR, 1939 |
| VAPOUR | Motor lorry spare; can you secure cartage for your station? | GWR, 1939 |
| VELOX | Am proceeding to scene of accident with van at .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| VELVET | Assist all possible and reply. | |
| VENLO | Special empty train running as under. | |
| VERB | Consignee requires full statement of 'paid on' charges; send full particulars. | |
| VERBENA | 'Paid on' charges are as follow. | |
| VETO | Until further advised no goods traffic of any description must be accepted for or forwarded to .......... | |
| VIK | Secure charges on following consignment before delivery. | |
| VIOLET | Note and advise all concerned that passengers may now be booked as usual to ........... | |
| VIPER | Following vehicle is now ready for use. | GWR, 1939 |
| VOLGA | Reserve bed tonight for .......... | LMS, 1930s BR, 1980s |
| VULTURE | No trace invoice, verify particulars and wire delivery sheet number. | GWR, 1939 |
| WABOF | Both bell and whistle with signal 'off'. | GWR, 1939 |
| WABON | Both bell and whistle with signal 'on'. | GWR, 1939 |
| WAFER | Wire train sent forward by you. | GWR, 1939 |
| WAGDEM | Following wagons under load incurring demurrage. | |
| WAGLAB | Following wagon on hand here with conflicting labels as under. Wire correct consignee and destination. | |
| WALAK | Make all necessary arrangements, as far as you are concerned and acknowledge receipt by wire. | GWR, 1939 |
| WALNUT | Make all necessary arrangements, as far as you are concerned. | |
| WALTUM | Make all necessary arrangements, as far as you are concerned and acknowledge receipt by urgent train message. | GWR, 1939 |
| WANBEL | Both bell and whistle. | GWR, 1939 |
| WARNPASS | Mishap has occurred at .......... location. Exhibit delay notice and warn passengers of possible delay/diversion. | BR, 1980s |
| WASP | Following loaded to you by undermentioned train hence; when empty send forward by first available train to place named and wire when sent. | |
| WEDGE | The following vehicle (or vehicles) to work through. | |
| WEFT | If not already done, withdraw from traffic immediately in accordance with boiler report. | |
| WELLAND | Arrange for the following persons to attend at .......... | |
| WESER | Say what arrangements have been made. | † |
| WHALE | Is extra shunting engine required today? | GWR, 1939 |
| WIGWAM | Shall you require timber loaders again tomorrow? If so, have you sufficient wagons on hand? | |
| WILLOW | I will make all necessary arrangements. | † |
| WINCH | Have you received travelling crane? | |
| WING | Following still coming forward. Make stop effective at once. | † |
| WINGAGEX | Within gauge in all respects except for .......... | BR, 1980s |
| WIPART | Your truck report not to hand. Wire particulars of stock on hand and required additional; also send me full explanation of delay. | |
| WIRDEST | Destination of .......... omitted from your daily stock return, wire or ëphone particulars early. | GWR, 1939 |
| WIREX | Wire me bookings by excursion to .......... | |
| WISAD | My requirements will be met with .......... advised as being on way. | GWR, 1939 |
| WISDAN | Whistle although distant was off. | GWR, 1939 |
| WOBIN | Marks and numbers are. | |
| WODEN | Daily next three days. | GWR, 1939 |
| WOLF | Following, which left undermentioned station on date named is urgently wanted. If with you, forward to .......... Reply. | |
| WONTO | Wire first-class fare for circular tour as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| WORGAN | Following work will not now be carried out. Cancel all arrangements. | † |
| WORM | Send all possible of the following to station named first means. Reply how many. | |
| WORWAY | Coaches worked away as follows. | GWR, 1939 |
| WOTEX | What tickets are you likely to issue for following excursion? | |
| YAM | Following will be supplied on .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| YOKE | Your (our) urgent train message of .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| ZENDIC | Engine and men will leave at the following time for .......... | GWR, 1939 |
| ZOLA | Can you send engine and men to undermentioned station? If so, state time leaving. | GWR, 1939 |
| ZONE | Send sketch and full dimensions of undernoted. | GWR, 1939 |
London & North Western Railway codes are available at this London & North Western Railway Society page.
Most of these code phrases were used on teleprinters together with the appropriate headcodes or over the phone at Birmingham New Street in the 1970s/80s.
| Code | Unofficial description |
|---|
| CRANKEX | See KRANKEX |
| DRUNKEX | Saturday night special train (usually a DMU) to and from Blackpool |
| KRANKEX | Special train with interesting routing or traction code on occasion used in official publications |
| MYSTEX | Special excursion going somewhere no one really wanted to go, especially on a wet Sunday e.g. Walsall to Cleethorpes (or vice versa) official code, see above, but unofficial description |
| Q-TRAIN | Special run for the BTP travelling on local lines aimed at catching trespassers and vandals (but which usually only found academics doing weed surveys and similar) working timetable term for 'train runs as required' |
| WEEDEX | Weedkiller train |
| XWARNPASS | Severe WARNPASS i.e. the X prefix denoted a severe incident; used for example to communicate the 1988 Clapham accident |