Footplate days are now a big winner on the Severn Valley
THE Severn Valley Railway’s footplate experience courses have been hit by a surge in public demand, with those in January and February a virtual sell-out.
Many railways are offering the courses again, giving ordinary members of the public the opportunity to fire and drive a steam locomotive without having to spend years building up to the essential level of experience necessary to be on the footplate in charge of a train.
The SVR’s courses have become extremely popular, especially with the use of powerful locomotives pulling a reasonable rake of carriages.
Starting on February 3, the line ran footplate experiences on various dates throughout the month and into March using GWR 4-6-0 No. 7812 Erlestoke Manor and pannier No. 7714. The courses involved an early start from Kidderminster, departing at 8.45am to Highley. Four returns took place, with the last returning to Kidderminster at 4.42pm.
The ‘taster’ comprised four miles of driving and firing, including room for three guests travelling on the train. The ‘introductory’ course saw eight miles of driving and firing, including four guests travelling on the train, and the ‘Intermediate’ was for 16 miles of driving and firing, including room for six guests. All were sold out.
On February 9 and 23, two ‘Intermediate’ sessions ran each day, necessitating both Nos. 7812 and 7714 in action.
Appropriate clothing and footwear are essential, including gloves, because controls can be very hot. Participants must be 18 years of age, physically fit, and able to climb a 6ft vertical ladder.
‘Day to remember’
On February 3, Helen Reeves and her partner Eddie joined a footplate experience. Helen is Swindon-born, and both of her grandfathers and three uncles worked at the GWR works.
She said afterwards: “It was great experience to actually be on the footplate. All the volunteers were super-friendly and made the day; their enthusiasm for the SVR knew no bounds. From the meet-and-greet chaps to the fireman and driver and the guards, their passion shone through making our day one to remember.”
Soon, the dream of getting onto the footplate becomes a reality when the full summer programme starts.
Bronze experiences begin on