Introduction
Most people think heritage railways run on coal, diesel and oil. But, they actually run on something much more special – volunteers.
Without them, the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway could not exist today. Volunteers perform almost every task on our railway, from driving trains, to maintaining the track, to tending the gardens – anything you can think of.
The EVR is a relatively new player on the heritage railway scene and we’re always looking for more people to join our ranks to help us continue to grow.
Our volunteers already come from a wide range of backgrounds and we are proud to have a truly wide array of age groups working on our railway – from newly passed guards, 18 years old, to experienced ex-mainline footplate men who have worked around trains for decades, everyone is welcome and appreciated.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering at the EVR offers more than simply something to do at weekends. For railway enthusiasts, it is a way to get up close and personal with heritage rail equipment, interacting with it in ways that you otherwise just can’t.
For others, it provides an entirely new hobby, something totally unlike their 9-5 that they can really get their teeth into.
And, for all of us, it provides a key social outlet – we are a friendly bunch and can’t wait to welcome you to our departments, whatever route you wish to take!
There are many roles that need to be performed, so no matter what skills you have, we will be able to put them to great use.
The comments below are from some existing volunteers – scroll down the page to see our latest vacancies.
As a fireman you appreciate our rich railway heritage. The steam department is a close-knit team with very rewarding roles allowing you to develop all kinds of skills.
George Dixon
Fireman
I enjoy my role because it interacts with members of the community the line serves… we create long-lasting memories. There’s a lot of satisfaction to be gained from that!
Matthew Beard
Guard
After a career in the airline industry, a friend got me interested in volunteering – I was hooked! I progressed through the ranks to driver. It keeps me active in both mind and body.
Peter Blount
Diesel Driver
Volunteer Vacancies
If you would like more information or have any questions please get in touch: [email protected]
Steam Department
Get involved with our steam fleet. This department maintains, cleans, fires, and drives our steam locomotives, providing hands-on experience with these unique machines.
Diesel Department
Our impressive diesel fleet needs you! This department handles everything to do with these historic locomotives: maintenance, restoration, drivers’ assistants, and drivers, everything to keep our diesels on the move.
Guards
Guards are in charge of the train – they keep us on time, ensure passengers are happy, and make sure everything runs smoothly, even if things don’t go to plan! If you enjoy responsibility and talking to people, this is for you!
Signalling
Our line currently features few signals; however this is changing and on busy gala days signallers are essential to run our intensive services. This department is also constructing a new signal box at Shottle to support our operations – get involved now to help us complete this and become a signalman when we do!
Crossing Keepers
The EVR has two level crossings, just outside Wirksworth and Idridgehay. As operations become more complex, we rely on crossing keepers to ensure everything runs smoothly. Often a gentler operational job, if you enjoy peace and quiet, this could be for you.
On Train Crew
Ever fancied becoming a member of a steam train footplate crew, a diesel train driver, or a guard? The majority of passenger trains have drivers, guards and a third man – whose responsibilities include opening the level crossing gates at Gorsey Bank and Idridgehay.
Maintenance & Restoration
These roles very important to ensure that we have well maintained vehicles for the public to enjoy. Due to the age of the majority of our rolling stock many tasks are performed on a weekly basis, from mechanical servicing to internal woodwork.
Gaining the knowledge in this area is difficult unless you are already a skilled workman, but our friendly team will share their knowledge of the area to pass on the skills. Simply restoring a diesel railcar involves mechanical, electrical, carpentry, joinery, painting and many interesting and varied tasks.
Permanent Way
An essential component of any railway – our permanent way volunteers keep us on track, quite literally! Responsible for all of our trackwork projects, this department are kept busy with new and varied jobs.
Catering
More tea, madam? Some of our catering staff are paid to help us provide our excellent food services, which are essential to the finances of the railway, however we welcome volunteers to assist with this varied and busy department – be it as on-train barkeep or café cake maker!
Stations
The welcoming face of the EVR. Our stations volunteers sell tickets, help passengers, tend gardens, and are often the first and last people visitors meet. A varied role ideal for all age groups, particularly those less able to join us in our more intense operational positions.
Miniature, Models & Narrow Gauge
These volunteers look after the myriad of smaller trains we have at Wirksworth – 2ft narrow gauge, 7¼-inch miniature and models! Something for everyone.