Volunteering

Those who are feeling energetic, working on the Permanent Way (Track Gang) is a great way to keep yourself fit whilst also making a massive difference to our project. The track is in continuous need of maintenance with use. The Permanent Way Gang has many members who provide light-hearted humour to make the task interesting and enjoyable. It doesn't matter if you don't know anything about track - all are welcome!

Permanent Way work traditionally takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Running passenger services require many station staff to be the face of the railway. The Booking Office is the place where tickets and products are sold and as a result can provide volunteers with an exciting day meeting members of the public who visit the railway. Once the passengers have passed through the Booking Office, they leisurely make their way towards the departing trains. Members of the Station Staff help them on their way by opening doors and having general chatter about the railway, as well as supervise the foot crossing at Wirksworth Station.

We are continually looking for staff to perform these roles. We require staff at both Wirksworth and Duffield on operating days!

Ever fancied becoming a passenger train driver or guard? The majoriy of passenger trains have a driver, guard and a Third Man. We are looking for people to join and progress into these roles. Upon joining the railway, you will start by being a Third Man. This involves travelling onboard services learning the route of the valley whilst opening the level crossing gates at Gorsey Bank and Idridgehay to allow the train to pass. Upon gaining the required aptitude, you may progress to learn to drive one of our heritage trains or become a Guard who is in charge of the train. The Guard plays an important role in managing train departures, events on board as well as talking to the general public.

We will increasingly be requiring volunteers for operating our steam locomotive. This requires you to have been a member of the railway for a short while before training to learn how railways operate.

Trains operate in accordance with the published timetable.

This area is very important to ensure that we have correctly maintained and pleasant 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. Of course, 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, carpentary, joinery, painting and many other interesting and unusual tasks.

Currently, vehicle maintenance and restoration is mostly performed on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays and we have opportunities in steam locomotive maintenance, diesel locomotive maintenance, coach restoration and locomotive restoration.

The Catering Department is an integral part of the railway, offering customers catering both at our stations and on board the train. Volunteers can assist in the Cafe at Wirksworth Station or help us deliver our top class Derbyshire Countryman on train dining experiences.