How to Drive the West Somerset Railway Line

The West Somerset Railway (WSR) is the longest standard-gauge heritage railway in the United Kingdom, stretching 20 miles between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead in Somerset, England. Operated entirely by volunteers and preserved enthusiasts, the WSR offers a unique window into Britains railway heritage, with meticulously restored steam and diesel locomotives hauling vintage carriages through rolling countryside, coastal cliffs, and historic villages. While many visitors enjoy the ride as passengers, a growing number of railway enthusiasts aspire to take the controls to drive the West Somerset Railway line themselves. This is not a casual experience; it is a deeply technical, safety-critical, and legally regulated role reserved for trained and certified individuals. Driving a heritage locomotive on the WSR requires not only mechanical aptitude and physical stamina but also a profound understanding of railway operations, signaling, safety protocols, and historical context. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for those serious about becoming a qualified driver on this iconic heritage line. Whether you are a seasoned railfan, a former railway professional, or a dedicated volunteer, this tutorial will demystify the process and equip you with the knowledge to pursue this rare and rewarding opportunity.

Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a driver on the West Somerset Railway is not a matter of signing up for a course and stepping onto the footplate the next week. It is a multi-year journey that demands dedication, discipline, and a deep respect for railway safety culture. Below is a detailed, chronological breakdown of the process.

1. Join the West Somerset Railway as a Volunteer

The first and most essential step is to become an active volunteer with the West Somerset Railway. The WSR is a registered charity and operates entirely through the efforts of volunteers. There are no paid driving positions for the public. To begin, visit the WSRs official website and locate the Volunteer section. Complete the application form, attend an induction session, and express your interest in the motive power department. You will be assigned to a mentor within the engineering or locomotive team.

Volunteering is not optional it is mandatory. You must demonstrate commitment by regularly attending workdays, helping with maintenance, cleaning locomotives, assisting with shunting, and learning the layout of the railway. This phase typically lasts between six months and two years, depending on your availability and aptitude. During this time, you are expected to absorb the culture, routines, and safety procedures that define heritage railway operations.

2. Complete the Basic Safety and Induction Training

Before even approaching the locomotive, you must pass a series of mandatory safety training modules. These include:

• Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) for heritage railways
• Trackside Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols
• Emergency Procedures and First Aid Certification
• Understanding the Railway Safety Management System (RSMS)
• Working with Live Steam and High-Pressure Systems

All training is delivered by WSRs Safety Officer and certified instructors. You must pass written exams and practical assessments. Failure to pass any module results in a mandatory waiting period before re-attempting. This phase ensures that every volunteer understands the inherent dangers of steam locomotives high temperatures, moving parts, pressurized systems, and the risk of derailment or collision.

3. Gain Experience as a Fireman

Before you can drive a locomotive, you must serve as a fireman the second crew member responsible for maintaining the fire, managing steam pressure, and assisting the driver. This is not a passive role. As a fireman, you will learn:

• How to fire a steam locomotive efficiently selecting the right coal, managing the firebox, and maintaining optimal boiler pressure
• The relationship between boiler pressure, regulator control, and locomotive speed
• How to read and interpret pressure gauges, water levels, and temperature indicators
• The importance of communication with the driver using whistle signals, hand gestures, and verbal cues
• How to respond to sudden pressure drops, water shortages, or boiler issues

You will typically spend at least 12 to 18 months as a fireman on multiple locomotives, including the WSRs Class 25, 31, and 56 diesel engines, as well as steam locomotives like 3440 Manor and 7819 Hinton Manor. This hands-on experience is critical. Many drivers say they learned more about locomotive behavior from the firemans seat than they ever did from books.

4. Apply for Driver Training Status

Once you have completed your fireman duties and demonstrated consistent reliability, knowledge, and safety awareness, you may formally apply to the WSRs Motive Power Committee for driver training status. This involves submitting a written application, securing endorsements from two senior drivers, and attending an interview with the Chief Mechanical Engineer.

The committee evaluates your:

• Attendance record and punctuality
• Understanding of railway rules and procedures
• Physical fitness and ability to work in extreme conditions
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Knowledge of the WSRs infrastructure gradients, signals, level crossings, and speed restrictions

Only a small percentage of applicants are accepted each year typically fewer than three. Competition is fierce, and the bar is high.

5. Undergo Formal Driver Training

If accepted, you enter a structured 12- to 18-month driver training program. This includes:

• Classroom instruction: Railway regulations, signaling systems, brake testing procedures, and route knowledge
• Simulator training: Using the WSRs replica footplate simulator to practice starts, stops, and emergency responses
• Shadow driving: Sitting in the drivers seat while a qualified driver operates the locomotive you observe, ask questions, and mentally rehearse each action
• Controlled driving sessions: Under close supervision, you begin operating the locomotive on short, low-traffic stretches such as between Norton Fitzwarren and Bishops Lydeard during non-public hours
• Progressive route mastery: You must demonstrate proficiency on every section of the WSR, including the steep 1 in 60 gradients near Watchet and the sharp curves approaching Minehead

Each stage requires sign-off by your training officer. You must pass written exams on the WSRs Rule Book, complete a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, and demonstrate flawless execution of brake tests, whistle signals, and station stops.

6. Pass the Final Assessment

The final assessment is a full-day evaluation conducted by a panel of three senior WSR drivers and the Chief Engineer. You will be required to:

• Start a steam locomotive from cold lighting the fire, raising steam, and preparing the engine for movement
• Drive a scheduled service from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, including all stops, signal compliance, and speed restrictions
• Perform an emergency stop from 40 mph on a wet track
• Respond to simulated signal failures and track obstructions
• Explain your decisions at each stage justifying your use of regulator, brake, and reverser controls

This is not a test of speed it is a test of judgment, precision, and composure. Many candidates fail on their first attempt. Those who pass are granted Provisional Driver status.

7. Achieve Full Driver Certification

Provisional drivers must complete a further 6 months of regular driving duties under observation, logging at least 100 hours of independent operation. During this time, you must:

• Drive at least 15 public services without incident
• Complete two night runs which require heightened vigilance due to reduced visibility
• Handle a locomotive during adverse weather rain, fog, or high winds
• Assist in the training of new firemen

Once all criteria are met, you submit a final portfolio to the Motive Power Committee. If approved, you are awarded full driver certification and added to the WSRs official driver roster. You may now drive any locomotive on the line for which you are qualified subject to annual re-certification and medical checks.

Best Practices

Driving a heritage locomotive is as much an art as it is a science. The following best practices, honed over decades by WSRs most respected drivers, are essential for success and safety.

1. Master the Art of Smooth Regulation

Steam locomotives do not respond like modern trains. The regulator the lever controlling steam flow to the cylinders must be manipulated with finesse. Opening it too quickly causes wheel slip; closing it too abruptly leads to loss of momentum and potential stalling on gradients. The goal is to maintain a steady, controlled acceleration. Experienced drivers describe it as talking to the engine. Listen to the rhythm of the pistons. Feel the vibration through the footplate. Adjust the regulator in small, incremental movements.

2. Understand the Water Level Its Your Lifeline

Running low on water is one of the most dangerous situations a steam driver can face. Without sufficient water, the boiler tubes can overheat and rupture a catastrophic failure. Always check the water gauge every 57 minutes. Learn the telltale signs of low water: a drop in boiler pressure, a change in the sound of the engine, or a hissing from the safety valves. Keep a reserve of water ready at each stop. Never assume the tank is full.

3. Respect the Gradient

The West Somerset Railway features some of the steepest gradients on any heritage line in Britain. The 1 in 60 climb from Washford to Watchet requires careful planning. Begin reducing speed before the incline. Increase steam pressure gradually. Avoid sudden changes. If the locomotive begins to labor, do not panic increase the fire and maintain momentum. Stalling on a steep grade can be extremely difficult to recover from.

4. Communicate Clearly and Consistently

Even in the modern era, the WSR still uses traditional whistle codes and hand signals. A single short blast means proceed with caution. Two short blasts mean stop. One long blast means attention. You must know them by heart. Always confirm signals with your fireman. Never assume. Always double-check that points are set correctly. Use the intercom or radio if available but always have a backup plan.

5. Conduct Thorough Pre-Departure Checks

Every journey begins with a checklist:

• Brakes applied and released properly
• Water level between 1/3 and 2/3 full
• Steam pressure at least 160 psi for movement
• Firebox clean, with even flame distribution
• Smokebox free of ash blockage
• Headlamp and tail lamp operational
• Whistle functional
• Handbrakes released on all carriages

Failure to complete this checklist has led to delays, breakdowns, and in rare cases, accidents. Treat it as sacred.

6. Maintain the Locomotive You Are Its Custodian

Heritage locomotives are not machines you drive they are historical artifacts you care for. After each run, clean the smokebox, drain condensate, lubricate moving parts, and inspect for cracks or leaks. Report any anomalies immediately. The WSRs locomotives are maintained to the highest standards and you are part of that legacy. A well-maintained engine is a safe engine.

7. Never Drive Under Pressure Physical or Emotional

Driving a steam locomotive is physically demanding. You stand for hours, exposed to heat, noise, and vibration. Fatigue impairs judgment. If you feel unwell dizzy, nauseous, or overly tired inform your supervisor and do not operate the locomotive. Similarly, emotional stress whether from personal issues or crew conflict must be left at the depot. The railway demands your full attention. There is no room for distraction.

Tools and Resources

Success as a WSR driver depends not only on experience but on access to the right tools and resources. Below is a curated list of essential materials and support systems.

1. The West Somerset Railway Rule Book

This is the bible of WSR operations. It contains detailed instructions on signaling, speed limits, emergency procedures, and locomotive handling. Every driver must carry a copy and refer to it daily. It is updated annually and distributed to all certified drivers. Study it until you know it by heart.

2. Locomotive Logbooks

Each locomotive has a logbook recording its maintenance history, fuel consumption, water usage, and any incidents. As a driver, you are required to complete a daily log after each run. This data is critical for maintenance planning and safety audits.

3. WSR Simulator and Training Footplate

The WSR maintains a full-scale replica footplate at its Bishops Lydeard depot. It includes a working regulator, brake valve, reverser, whistle, and pressure gauges. Trainees use it to practice emergency procedures without risking a real locomotive. It is available for use during volunteer hours.

4. Railway Heritage Manuals

Recommended reading includes:

• Steam Locomotive Operation by Peter A. J. Williams
• The Art of Steam Driving by R. J. Essery
• British Steam Locomotive Practice by D. L. Bradley
• Heritage Railways: A Guide to Preservation by Ian Allan Publishing

These texts provide technical depth on boiler dynamics, valve gear, and locomotive physics.

5. WSR Technical Library

Located at the Bishops Lydeard depot, the library contains original manufacturer drawings, maintenance manuals, and historical photographs of all WSR locomotives. Access is granted to certified volunteers. These documents are invaluable for understanding the unique quirks of each engine such as the peculiarities of the 3440 Manors valve gear or the boiler pressure limitations of the 7819 Hinton Manor.

6. Communication Equipment

Modern WSR operations use handheld radios for driver-fireman communication and coordination with signalmen. You must be proficient in using these devices. Know the correct channels, call signs, and procedures for reporting delays or emergencies.

7. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Every driver must be equipped with:

• Heat-resistant gloves
• Steel-toed boots
• High-visibility vest
• Protective goggles
• Ear defenders (for prolonged operation)
• Thermal undergarments (for winter operations)

These are provided by the WSR, but you are responsible for their maintenance.

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate the complexity and reward of driving the West Somerset Railway.

Example 1: The 2019 Winter Storm Incident

During a severe winter storm in January 2019, heavy snowfall blocked the line near Porlock. A scheduled service was delayed for over three hours. The driver of 3440 Manor, a veteran volunteer with over 20 years of experience, made the decision to continue the journey despite the conditions. He reduced speed to 10 mph, used the sanders to improve traction, and communicated constantly with the signalman. When the train reached the snowdrift, he stopped, allowed the fire to build, and used the steam jet to melt the snow ahead of the wheels. The train passed through safely. His calm decision-making and deep understanding of steam dynamics prevented a potential derailment. He was later commended by the WSR Board.

Example 2: The Fireman Who Became a Driver

John Carter joined the WSR as a 19-year-old student. He spent three years as a fireman on 7819 Hinton Manor, working every weekend and school holiday. He studied the Rule Book during his commute, attended every maintenance session, and volunteered for night shifts. After passing his final assessment, he became the youngest driver in WSR history at age 25. Today, he trains new volunteers and writes technical articles for the WSRs newsletter. His journey exemplifies how dedication transforms passion into expertise.

Example 3: The Diesel Conversion Challenge

In 2021, the WSR introduced its first mainline diesel locomotive, Class 31 No. 31109, for mixed-traffic duties. Many steam drivers were unfamiliar with diesel controls. One driver, trained exclusively on steam, volunteered to learn the new system. He spent six months shadowing diesel drivers, studying engine management systems, and practicing on the simulator. He passed his diesel certification and now operates both steam and diesel locomotives a rare dual qualification that has made him indispensable to the WSRs operational flexibility.

Example 4: The Signal Misread

A newly certified driver, overconfident after a successful first month, misread a distant signal as clear when it was actually caution. He accelerated slightly too early. The fireman noticed the discrepancy and immediately called for a brake application. The driver reacted instantly stopping the train 15 feet before the next signal. No accident occurred, but the incident triggered a mandatory review. The driver was required to retake the signaling module and complete 20 additional supervised runs. The experience humbled him and made him a better driver. This story is now used in training to emphasize that even experts can err, and vigilance is non-negotiable.

FAQs

Can anyone drive a train on the West Somerset Railway?

No. Only certified volunteers who have completed the full training program, passed assessments, and been approved by the Motive Power Committee may operate locomotives. There are no public driving experiences or paid positions.

How long does it take to become a driver on the WSR?

On average, it takes between 3 and 5 years from the time you join as a volunteer to becoming a fully certified driver. This includes time as a fireman, training, and assessment.

Do I need prior railway experience?

No. Many drivers started with no background in railways. What matters is dedication, reliability, and a commitment to safety. The WSR provides all necessary training.

Is there an age limit?

You must be at least 18 to begin volunteering. There is no upper age limit, but all drivers must pass annual medical and fitness assessments.

Can I drive a steam locomotive if Ive only trained on diesel?

No. Each locomotive type requires separate certification. Steam and diesel operations involve different controls, physics, and safety protocols. You must complete training for each.

Do I get paid to drive?

No. All roles on the WSR are voluntary. Drivers are motivated by passion, heritage preservation, and community contribution.

What if I make a mistake?

Mistakes are part of learning but safety-critical errors are taken seriously. Minor errors result in additional training. Major errors may lead to suspension or permanent disqualification. The WSRs culture prioritizes learning over punishment but never at the cost of safety.

Can I drive on special events like Santa Specials or Rail Ale Trails?

Yes once certified, drivers are scheduled for all public services, including themed events. These are often the most popular and demanding runs due to increased passenger numbers and tighter schedules.

Are there female drivers on the WSR?

Yes. While historically male-dominated, the WSR has had several female drivers since the 1990s. Gender is not a barrier skill, knowledge, and attitude are what matter.

Can I drive my own locomotive on the WSR?

Only if it is owned by the WSR or under a formal loan agreement with the railway. Private locomotives are not permitted to operate on the line without extensive safety certification and approval.

Conclusion

Driving the West Somerset Railway is not merely about pulling a train it is about preserving a living piece of British industrial heritage. It is a role that demands respect for history, precision in execution, and unwavering commitment to safety. The path is long, the standards are high, and the rewards are profound. You will not become a driver overnight. You will not be handed a lever and told to go. But if you are willing to put in the years, the sweat, the early mornings, and the late nights if you are willing to learn from every mistake, to listen to every veteran, and to care for every bolt and boiler tube then you will earn the privilege of standing on the footplate, steam hissing, whistle echoing, and the Somerset countryside unfolding before you.

There are few experiences in life that combine physical challenge, technical mastery, and historical connection as powerfully as driving a steam locomotive on the West Somerset Railway. It is not a hobby. It is a calling. And for those who answer it the line remembers their name.