Voluntary
Volunteering
The Lavender Line steam railway is a completely voluntary organisation
which is completely dependant on hard working volunteers who give up
their spare time to help fulfil their dreams of running a steam railway.
We always have plenty of vacancies at the Lavender Line and by joining
us you could discover the excitement of preserving a real piece of
history and gain a fascinating insight into the workings of a steam
railway.
For some members, working at Isfield is highly therapeutic, and at a
place where they can enjoy the sights and sounds of a steam railway. For
others, the railway provides the chance to relive their childhood around
steam engines. Either way, the Lavender Line can offer anyone of any age
the opportunity to come and work at a real steam railway.
What is there to do?
Engine Crew
Being a steam railway, the Lavender Line is highly dependant on trained
locomotive crews to ensure that the railway can achieve a high and safe
standard of public service; and this is all down to the skills of the
driver, the fireman and even the cleaner. Why not join one of our
cleaners and experience working with a steam engine at first hand. By
joining our locomotive crews and learning the ropes, perhaps you will
fulfil your dream of becoming a real engine driver.
Guards:
There is one key member of personal who operates at a steam railway on
any public running day but who without them the train cannot even depart
the station. This job is the train guard. A seemingly simple and humble
yet in truth a highly responsible and important job which enables the
train to make its departures. By waving the train off, checking tickets
and ensuring the safety of your passengers the guard is the one person
who is actually responsible for the whole train!
Catering:
Some of the more quick thinking jobs at the railway have got to be in
amongst our catering staff. So if you enjoy serving customers and love
to soak up the atmosphere of a steam railway in a warm cosy environment,
a job in our catering department could well be for you.
Permanent:
Being part of the permanent way team at the Lavender Line doesn’t just
involve cutting a few hedges and mowing the grass, it involves a wide
range of line side work, including track maintenance and repair and some
major vegetation clipping! Some members find this area of work one of
the more therapeutic and enjoyable as the majority of line side jobs
involve working at the far end of the line where you can enjoy the quiet
atmosphere and peaceful surroundings of the beautiful Sussex countryside.