Waverley Route "driver for a fiver"

Ever wanted to take the controls of a railway locomotive yourself, or drive on the legendary Waverley Route high on the wild hills of southern Scotland? Well now you can!

On Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th September the WRHA will be offering “Driver for a Fiver” footplate experience turns on ex- Army Ruston diesel shunter no. 110 over our running line at Whitrope. Under the guidance of our expert staff, you’ll learn how to safely operate the locomotive before taking it for a run down the line, working the controls and the brakes all by yourself!

The event is open to anyone 18 years of age or older (sorry, under 16s can’t travel in the driving cab). If you don’t fancy taking the controls yourself, we can also offer rides in the loco cab with our own staff in the driving seat.

Demand is expected to be high, so we recommend you email us on info@wrha.org.uk with your preferred day and time and we’ll aim to book you a timed slot. The centre will be open from 10am till 4pm on both day, with the heritage centre and buffet car in operation throughout. We look forward to welcoming you.

Waverley Route Heritage Association – http://www.wrha.org.uk and http://waverleyrouteha.wordpress.com

Whitrope Heritage Centre, Whitrope, Hawick, Roxburghshire. TD9 9TY

 

In the mid 1990's i was lucky enough to be a Co-Driver in the RAC Rally - i seem to remember in order to access one of the forests we had to use a disused railway line. Would this be the same section of line that you are renovating?

 

Yes, more than likely - it was quite common for Wauchope and the forest region around Kielder to be used - makes a great rally playground! I can't recall any rallies up our way in the last few years though, wonder if they'll come again?

 

Unlikely - cities have to bid for the right to run the right to host the rally, hence that is why it seems to have been in Cardiff for the past few years