I read somewhere (possibly on RM web, but can’t find it!) that heavy trains - not sure at which point they are classed as “heavy” - from Townhill Junction to Lathalmond required a loco at the front and rear on outward run and both locos to be coupled at front on return to provide adequate braking.
These journeys cross the main spine of the WFM railway at Lilliehill Junction (Townhill) and the OS map from 1947 show some SPs (signal posts?) at this junction. Wonder if there was a signal box here, which would have provided section breaks?
I also assume that most of the many pits would have a pug, or maybe even horse drawn, to run wagons to exchange sidings for the main spine.
Gets interesting this line, who knows where this is going to end up?
( not as a model for me, my line is based on the Highlands!)
Edit..... just found Lilliehill Junction on Railscot, good info and answered that there was a signal box here.