Train Driving Experiences Could Cure UK's Shortage Of Drivers

• Rail industry faces tough challenge with train driver shortage
• Government has even consulted on whether to allow younger people to learn to drive trains to boost numbers
• A taster experience of driving a train could help recruit drivers says Experiences.co.uk

As the UK faces a shortage of train drivers, more could be recruited to the role if they first take a taster session actually driving a train to see if it's a future career for them.

We are suggesting this forward-thinking proposal has been suggested here at Experiences UK, as we offer one-to-one train driving packages in real steam and diesel locomotives and shunters where youngsters from just 18 years old can learn basic driving skills.

It is the same age that the Government recently held a consultation on, to see if the current minimum age for drivers at 20 should be reduced to 18.

The UK, at present, faces a shortage of train drivers due to the number who are expected to retire in the next five years, and there are concerns that replacements to fill the gap will be insufficient.

Dan Jones, operations manager at Experiences.co.uk, says: "Surely one of the best ways of seeing if a future career is the right decision is by experiencing it first."

"After all, many of us had work experience when we were younger which was a great help in helping us make the right career choice."

A train driving experience involves learning the controls of a Class 08 locomotive, or a Vanguard Class, or Ruston and Hornsby diesel shunters.

Then there's the chance to drive the train on the East Kent Railway on a return trip to Eythorne station.

Dan adds: "The train driving experience lasts around two hours, which is more than enough time to see if a career on the tracks is the one for you."

Visit our Steam Train Trips page today on the Experiences UK website, where you can not only book a Steam or Diesel Train Driving Experience, but also book one of our exciting Steam Train trips at a number of heritage railways all across the UK.