Apparently ‘The Roostery’ is avidly read across the Railway, in mess rooms, footplates and stations and the weekly updates are keenly looked for.

Similarly, the associated Nat Pres thread is followed by far more folk than comment thereon.

The general reaction is one of shock, although not perhaps of surprise, as the nastiness seeping out from Somerset has been a general topic over the past few years.  But apparently its different having the detail.  I am universally praised (thank you) for speaking out, as is Joanne Crompton.

Members of this other Railway have been prompted to look at themselves and think (1) does it happen here and/or (2) could it happen here?; (3) are we welcoming to women or other minorities?  That is all excellent.

They are also asking questions about their governance.

The comments on Nat Pres from the apologists for the WSR plc regime have been characterized as both (1) hilarious and (2) seriously missing the seriousness of the situation.

John Bailey’s remarks on Nat Pres have been interpreted as reflecting the HRA view, and that is thought dangerously complacent, supportive of unconscionable actions.  ‘Dangerous’ to the view external parties (from potential volunteers to grant funders and public authorities) might take of the sector as a whole.