BRIEFLY
Above: Course participant Roland Hobman is seen on No. 4144.
TIM HOBMAN
➜ The NVR Wagon Group cares for the line’s goods vehicle fleet. The current focus is the Express Freight Train Project, which aims to re-create an authentic block van train typical of the 1950s/60s period. The group is selffinancing, support coming from well-wishers and the proceeds of filming assignments, photographic events, driver experience courses and brake van rides. Visit nvrwagons.wordpress.com/ or www.facebook.com/nvrwagongroup for more details. ➜ In addition to steam, the group offers a diesel freight course. ‘Peak’ No. 45041 Royal Tank Regiment was allocated to the July 16 course, for example. ➜ The next freight driver experience course is being held on Friday, August 13.
WITH the gradual easing of Covid- 19 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.