Mid-Norfolk Railway appoints line’s new full-time track supervisor
THE Mid-Norfolk Railway’s (MNR) trust council has announced the appointment of Damian John as the line’s first-full time permanent way supervisor.
Damian has worked for several specialist railway contractors on Network Rail projects, most recently with the railway engineering infrastructure division of Essex-based RCU Solutions.
He began his railway career in 2001 as a trackman working for Mowlem Railways, which included working on the construction of HS1 from the Channel Tunnel to St Pancras station, before joining Keltbray Rail.
He will work for the MNR’s volunteer permanent way manager, and be responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the railway’s track system.
Mid-Norfolk Railway Preservation Trust chairman Charlie Robinson said: “His appointment is the last in this round of full-time appointments that the railway’s trust council has decided was needed to ensure the future development of the railway.
“Over the last 25 years, the MNR has grown from a small band of pioneers to the million-pound business which operates today. We have decided that to maintain the ongoing development of the railway, a small number of fulltime staff are required to work with our large numbers of volunteers and provide continuity.
“The current Covid-19 situation is clearly a difficult time for all, but these new posts will maintain our progress and are in the interests of the longterm future of the railway.”
Damian said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to ensure the longevity and continued history of this exciting rail system, and to work with such enthusiastic volunteers.”
Anyone wishing to join the volunteer gangs which will be working with Damian, or the track walking team, is invited to contact volunteer co-ordinator Steve Tweed by emailing steve.tweed@mnr.org.uk for more details. Training will be given if required.