Information on Loughborough

Train up to become a steam railway volunteer

Posted on 18/09/2009

Leicestershire Councty Council Community Services

18 September 2009

Train up to become a steam railway volunteer

Railway enthusiasts are being urged to steam ahead and take up exciting volunteering opportunities at Snibston Discovery Museum.

The popular attraction’s Colliery Railway is looking to recruit volunteer crossing keepers and guards to work on the train. There are opportunities for two guards and two crossing keepers who would be needed to help out at weekends.

The opportunities are being supported by the new VIP (Volunteering, Internships and Placements) project.

This is a two year scheme funded by Leicestershire Together and was launched by Leicestershire County Council in June 2009. VIP aims to increase the number of people volunteering in North West Leicestershire and encourage local people to get more involved with museums, country parks and arts and heritage venues.

The role of the crossing keeper would include giving clear signals to the train crews with flags, closing and opening the gates in the correct sequence and judging road traffic conditions.

The role of the guard would include responsibility for the safety of the train and its passengers whilst the train is in motion, assisting with the track inspection, embarking and disembarking passenger and carrying out the daily carriage inspection prior to operation.

Ernie White, Cabinet Member for Museums at Leicestershire County Council, said: “These are just a couple of the great volunteering opportunities which are available in North West Leicestershire.

“The VIP programme offers free skills development and training, so opportunities may appeal to people who are currently not in employment and have the time and desire to boost their CV.

“However, we are also keen to hear from people who would like to get involved with their local community, take part in projects and meet new people and make new friends.”

A comprehensive training programme will be delivered for volunteers who would like to help out on the Colliery Railway between October 20 and 30, as well as on-the-job training.

Volunteers must be honest and trustworthy, happy to work outdoors and keen to support visitors to enjoy the train experience.

For safety reasons volunteers must be able to distinguish between red, yellow and green and able to see hand signal from 60 metres way.

For further information, whether it be a face to face meeting over a cup of tea or a telephone chat, call Amanda Hanton, Volunteer Development Officer, on 0116 305 3422 or email: amanda.hanton@leics.gov.uk

Interested people need to contact Amanda by Wednesday, 30th September.

ENDS