The freight experience
Gareth Evans reports on the freight driver experience course organised by the Nene Valley Railway Wagon Group, which provides the opportunity to not only handle the locomotive but also see first-hand the role of guard, shunter and signalman.
Gareth Evans reports on the freight driver experience course organised by the Nene Valley Railway Wagon Group.
WITH the gradual easing of Covid19 restrictions, driver experience courses have resumed at some of our heritage lines. If being at the controls of a locomotive is on your bucket list, you should do it – it is unforgettable. Driver experience courses come in a variety of forms in both steam and diesel traction – including a locomotive on its own, an engine with a solitary carriage or a whole train of coaches – and from more humble locos to larger, powerful main line machines.
A little different, however, is the opportunity to not only drive a loco hauling a freight train but also to experience a range of operational roles – including guard and signalman – at a price which does not run well into three figures. This package is organised by the Nene Valley Railway Wagon Group, the proceeds from which help care for the line’s fleet of heritage goods vehicles.
The first freight driver experience course of 2021 ran on Friday, June 18 – the cost being £165 per person. The wet weather failed to dampen spirits – and optimists might even argue that it added to the atmosphere.
The booked locomotive was a product of Swindon Works – GWR 2-6-2T No. 4144, which is on hire from the Great Western Society’s Didcot Railway Centre for the summer. The ‘Prairie’ was on its inaugural day in Nene Valley Railway (NVR) service.
The one-day course for 16 participants was divided into a morning and an afternoon session involving eight persons in each segment. Following a briefing in the cafe and welcome refreshments, participants boarded the two brake vans – the train of unfitted wagons also comprising four vans and four opens.
Participants then took turns at driving and firing, swapping at regular intervals, providing the opportunity for confidence to grow over the course of two return journeys from Wansford to Peterborough.
They also learned about marshalling a freight train, including the equipment, hand signals, flags, colour lights and the duties of a shunter and freight guard.
Another aspect of the day was a visit to the 1907 LNWR Wansford signalbox to learn about the general principles of signalling, block working, staffs, tokens and how to operate a standard signalbox.
The signalman on June 15 was retired
NVR general manager Mike Warrington. In addition to delivering an engaging explanation about the workings of the ’box, he recalled his experiences of the filming assignments over the years on the line – including London’s Burning and the James Bond Golden Eye movie. Captivating the audience, they were the sort of snippets that participants could share with friends, family and colleagues.
Among the participants was Hertfordshire resident Daniel Sivell. “This is my first ever footplate experience course,” he said. “The atmosphere has been fantastic. To get up close and personal with rolling stock has been a dream come true.
“I have got to learn and appreciate the roles of the train crew, including the guard, driver, fireman and signalman. I was struck by the level of concentration required.
“I enjoyed travelling in the brake vans – it was atmospheric and I felt I got a more intimate experience of the railway. I appreciated being able to soak up the scenery from the balconies, but the warmth of the stoves in the vans was also welcome. It made me think about what life was like for freight train guards in the days of steam.
“Freight is a completely different experience – I think the lack of vacuum brakes added to the fun. I have never been to the NVR before. Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming. It is excellent value for money and well organised – I would definitely recommend it.” Asked about highlight for the day, Daniel replied: “Blowing the whistle! Also, being on the footplate and experiencing the sights, smells and action is very different from a carriage.” Another participant, Sandra Smith, a retired finance manager, said that while she was no stranger to travelling on “steam railways,” she selected the course as she wanted to do something that was out of her comfort zone. She admitted that she did not want breakfast that morning due to her nerves, but she was delighted to have completed it – her beaming smile at the end of the day said it all. “As my confidence grew, I got better at it,” she enthused. “I absolutely loved it! Next time I travel on a train, I will now have an appreciation of the crew’s responsibilities.”