Help name one of Network Rail’s autumn leaf-busting trains
Network Rail has launched a public vote to choose a name for one of its powerful leaf-busting trains, which play a crucial role in keeping the railways running smoothly during the autumn months.
More than 1,300 name suggestions were submitted by the public, with the final four names now shortlisted for a vote.
The public can cast their vote for one of the following names:
- Ctrl Alt De-leaf
- Leaf-Fall Weapon
- Pulp Friction
- The Autumn Avenger
The winning name will be revealed on 24 October 2024 and will feature on one of Network Rail’s fleet of leaf-clearing trains, which are tasked with removing leaves from the tracks to prevent delays and safety issues.
Tim Dunn, a railway historian and judge on the naming panel, praised the creativity of the submissions. “Entries ranged from witty, clever, and even touching, to utterly shameless Dad-grade puns,” he said.
“It’s now over to the public to choose the final name for one of these ‘mulch’-loved machines.”
Network Rail’s seasonal delivery director, Lisa Angus, added, “This competition is a fun way to bring some light-hearted ‘re-leaf,’ but it also raises awareness of the serious challenges leaves pose to the railway.”
Autumn leaves, when crushed under passing trains, can form a slippery layer on the tracks similar to black ice, interfering with the safe operation of the rail network.
Network Rail’s fleet of leaf-busting trains will cover 1.12 million miles of track across Britain between September and December, using a sand-based adhesive to improve grip and clear the rails of debris.
The leaf-fall teams will work around the clock to keep trains moving.
To learn more about the work these trains do and to vote for your favorite name, visit the Network Rail website. Voting closes on 11 October 2024.
