Attractions of our group and the ELR.

• The majority of the ELR diesel traction fleet is owned by individuals/ groups based on the ELR.

• These groups carry out their own restoration, repairs and maintenance.

• Our diesel fleet is one of the largest and most diverse in the UK and includes unique traction (e.g. Class 15, Class 28 “CoBo”, Cravens Class 105 DMU)

• We also provide the footplate crews to operate our traction (drivers and secondman)

• Unlike many heritage railways the ELR operates all year round.

• Be part of one of the largest heritage railways in the UK.

• Our groups have a wide range of skills e.g. welding, metal fabrication and machining, electrical, joinery, painting and we can never have enough of these skills.

• Don’t be put off if you don’t have any particular skills as there are plenty of things to do and training is provided. A willingness to get involved and get a bit grubby is all you need to get started.

• With so many groups all doing different things there is always a wide variety of work going on and there should be something for everyone.

 

The rewards of being a volunteer

• Be an active part of railway preservation and operation

• Have the satisfaction of knowing you have contributed to maintaining our railway heritage.

• Be part of friendly, dedicated and knowledgeable teams.

• Understand how railways work.

• Work in a sometimes challenging but always rewarding environment.

 

The basics we require of volunteers

• You must be 18 years or older.

• Be enthusiastic and want to contribute to a very rewarding cause. 

• Be willing to learn new skills.

• The working environment can be a bit demanding and it helps if you are reasonably fit and don’t mind the varied Lancashire weather.

• Experience of working in a railway environment is always beneficial but by no means essential.

• You will need to attend a 1-day Basic Safety Course before you can start work on the railway.

• You need to have your own safety footwear and appropriate overalls/ wet weather clothing.

• We ask volunteers to be able to commit an average of 1 day/ month (a bit more if you are thinking of footplate duties).

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For more information on becoming a working member, please contact the Volunteer Liaison Team on 07585 198455 or at volunteers@elrpsltd.org.uk.

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