A RAILWAY VOLUNTEER from Bromsgrove has spoken of his privilege at being chosen to work on a train hauled by the world famous Flying Scotsman, writes Neil Gordon.
John Rutherford was one of the on-train crew involved when the the iconic engine worked the Severn Valley Railway’s first service to Bridgnorth this year, on Friday (July 25),as the full line reopened following a landslip.
Travelling ticket inspector Mr Rutherford worked the 9am special from Kidderminster which carried around 360 invited guests, volunteers and railway contractors.
Mr Rutherford said: “It was a momentous occasion and a privilege to be on the first train behind ‘Scotsman.
“It was very fulfilling, and there’s a real boost to morale in joining up the railway again.”
The retired engineer has volunteered at the railway for 11 years and completes around ten shifts annually, ensuring the safety of passengers and checking tickets.
Mr Rutherford took two round trips on the iconic locomotive. He added: “The amount of smiling that ‘Scotsman brought to everyone’s face was heart-warming.
“Customer satisfaction is everything to me, and when passengers leave the train happy, I know I’ve done my job correctly.”
