Summer 2023

OUT & ABOUT
Almost everyone you
see at the Kent &
East Sussex Railway
is a volunteer and
behind the scenes
there are many more. Without the
commitment of these volunteers,
this fine heritage railway would
simply not exist. The K&ESR is
currently recruiting – so can you
help? There are some incredible
volunteering opportunities
available that will broaden the
mind, expand your circle of
friends and teach new skills too
– from drivers, guards, signalmen
and crossing keepers to engineers
and locomotive maintenance
teams – the list is long and
varied.
Studies have shown time and
again that volunteering is good
for you – providing a fantastic
sense of pride and achievement.
And it is something that King
Charles III was keen to make part
of his Coronation celebrations
through The Big Help Out.
One particular K&ESR
volunteer can certainly attest
to its positive impact. Chief
stationmaster Geoff Colvin is
one of the friendly faces greeting
passengers and helping to create
wonderful memories on their
days out, as well as keeping the
railway running smoothly behind
the scenes. He has just been
announced as the winner of the
VisitEngland Tourism Superstar
Award. Now in its 11th year,
the accolade is awarded to an
Helping to keep the
Railway Running
AFP
individual who goes the extra
mile to ensure visitors to English
venues and attractions have
an amazing and unforgettable
experience.
Geoff says: “Running the
station is not just a job, it’s
a pleasure to be helping our
passengers as they travel back
in time aboard our trains and
discover more about our past. My
aim, and that of every member
of the K&ESR family, is to make
sure our visitors create great
memories on their days out – to
experience or learn something
new, have lots of fun and, who
knows, even think about getting
involved themselves … I am
particularly honoured to be
the first representative from
a heritage railway to win [this
award] – a real recognition of
how the preservation movement
has grown to be a vital part of
local tourism, bringing value to
the communities it serves and to
those who give their time.”
So, whether it’s one day a week
or one day a year, everyone’s
contribution is gratefully
received and will help ensure
that the railway can continue
to bring both enjoyment and
understanding about our
industrial past to visitors,
keeping history alive for many
years to come.
Anyone interested in volunteering
at the Kent & East Sussex Railway
can find out more by visiting
the website https://kesr.org.uk/
volunteering/
Alison Miles, press officer, Kent
& East Sussex Railway
26 The Cake • Summer 2023