PRESERVATION
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.
Above: Course participant Roland Hobman is seen on No. 4144.
TIM HOBMAN
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.
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.