Learn to Drive a 5" Gauge Steam Locomotive

Driver Training Weekend

The Lindsey Model Society and The Ryedale Society of Model Engineers are intending to run a driver training weekend for absolute beginners at the railway belonging to the latter Society at Gilling East in North Yorkshire.

The railway at Gilling East is worked on mainline practice and consists of an extensive double track mainline which is fully signalled with the additional facilities of a loco shed to house about 50 engines, a marshalling yard which will accommodate 150 wagons and carriage sidings for 30 or more coaches.

Following a classroom introduction, there will be a walk round the line to explain the functions of all the signals, followed by a practical lesson on preparing engines and raising steam.

Once the engine is in steam, the new drivers will be able to run up and down one of the long sidings in the Up Yard until they get a feel for working the engine and are completely at home with their new situation. Some shunting will then be required to marshal a pick up goods train to work on the mainline. The drivers will then be shown how to prepare the engine for working on the mainline and will be accompanied by one of our Pilot men to learn the road and work to the semaphore signals.

The next event will be on 26th & 27th April 2008 and the fees for the day will be £70. This will include a buffet lunch served in the school room.

Unfortunately we will only be able to accommodate approximately 10 candidates per day so applications will be treated on a first come, first served basis.