Volunteers

We are working towards putting Okehampton back on the railway map with the re-introduction of passenger services over part of the former Southern Railway main line around the Northern edge of Dartmoor. With the future reopening of stations and improvements to the railway infrastructure which will allow more freight and passenger services to be run, this year should see the start of a period of transformation.

These are exciting times, with a real chance to reinstate train services that Dr. Beeching took from us. And looking further ahead, the prospects of linking Okehampton to Plymouth once again by the Southern Railway route could just be a tad more feasible!

Membership of the Dartmoor Railway Supporters Association provides you with the opportunity to work as a volunteer on a Community / Heritage railway. There are numerous opportunities to learn new skills or maybe employ a trade you are already proficient in. You will be working alongside like-minded people, enthusiastic about the return of trains to a beautiful part of the country’s railway network.

All departments within Dartmoor Railway would benefit from your time and efforts, no matter how much or little you can do, we would love to hear from you. There is a great deal of scope for you to get your hands dirty! Rest assured that training and safety equipment will be provided as necessary.

Fancy having a go at:

Restoring carriages and freight rolling stock
Working on mainline diesel locomotives
Being a Guard
Issuing tickets
Working in the buffets / restaurant
Station maintenance / decorating
Platform duties
Train Driving
Shunting
Assisting at special events and themed weekends
Marshalling

The list of opportunities is almost endless and we have something for everyone. As a valued member of DRSA, you will also benefit from discounted rates on Dartmoor Railway services between Okehampton, Meldon, Sampford Courtenay and Yeoford (upon reinstatement of station platforms this summer). There are also specially reduced rates for volunteers in the buffets - ideal for recharging your batteries! Best of all, you will make new friends and colleagues, and your time, effort and membership fees all contribute to preserving and expanding Dartmoor Railway and the chance to travel on real trains.

If you would like more information about volunteering, please contact our Volunteer Coordinators at the numbers below. To join the Dartmoor Railway Supporters Association, simply print the application form, complete and sign it, and send it off to the Membership Secretary with your fee to the address shown on the form. Go to the DRSA page for details and application form.

For more information, contact: Dave on 01626 867210

Where would you like your Dartmoor Railway service to take you?