Railway Mania

Coal for the heritage sector is becoming harder to source, and the railway where I volunteer has, like many others, been trying 'ovoids'. This is manufactured coal using a variety of materials to create something that looks and acts like coal. In this episode I give my initial thoughts on my first experience firing with ovoids, as well as an overview of how the Bristol Harbour Railway works and why this type of fuel might work out.

In this episode of KINGS OF THE STEAM AGE, we welcome back historian and author Anthony Dawson to explore the life and legacy of Richard Peacock, co-founder of Beyer, Peacock and Company. From his beginnings in Swaledale to becoming a leading figure in locomotive engineering, all the way through to being a 'bloody good bloke'. Join us as we delve into his dual legacy as an engineer and a progressive advocating for reform. With Anthony’s insights, this episode chronicles the remarkable journey of a true King of the Steam Age! Follow Anthony on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnthonyDawsonHistory

Mental health issues can affect anyone in the world and rail workers are no exception. In this episode, we welcome Paul Stanford, railwayperson of 40 years and founder of HEAD-SHUNT, the mental health charity for the railway family. Paul tells us not only about the challenges to mental health that come from working on the railway, but also the attitudes in the industry, how the scene is changing, what needs to change, as well as his own issues that led to him creating Head-Shunt. If you would like to get in contact with Paul, head to the Head-Shunt website: https://www.head-shunt.com/

Welcome to a new mini-series on the Railway Mania channel, where we are giving guests the challenge of putting forward their candidate for KING OF THE STEAM AGE. First up is friend of the show, Graham Muspratt, making the case for Oliver Vaughan Snell Bulleid. Thanks to Graham for coming on the podcast again!

The Titfield Thunderbolt is one of my favourite films and I’m so chuffed to have been able to work on the recent train pack we made at work in conjunction with StudioCanal and the 70th anniversary of the film. Ever since I first saw it, I’ve always wondered how I would go about remaking the film in the modern era.