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Making sure all the passengers are safe during Train movements INTRODUCTION Station Duties on the WSR vary enormously from station to station. For example, at Minehead, staff may be required to turn their hand to almost anything, particularly at Gala-type weekends, while duties at some of the less busy stations, e.g. Stogumber, may be almost non-existent. MINEHEAD Probably the busiest station on the railway, owing to its being the headquarters of the PLC, and the location from which the operation is run. Staff may be asked to man the enquiry office, answering telephone queries on every subject under the sun, as well as those from travellers in person. There is a PA system here on which station announcements are made, although scripts are provided for the regular train announcements. Staff may be asked to assist with platform duties when getting trains away. Such duties include ensuring all train doors are properly shut before the train departs. First thing in the morning, staff may be asked to assist in watering up the train for the day. Staff at Minehead are required to be versatile and willing to undertake almost any task. BISHOPS LYDEARD After Minehead, the next busiest station, except during August, when it usually outstrips Minehead. While there is no enquiry office here (Booking Office and Station Staff will normally deal with such as there are), trains have to be watered up first thing if steam is running from both ends in the morning. Station announcements are made here over a PA system, as at Minehead, and when trains or light engines are moving around the station, the barriers on both platforms at the Minehead end have to be manned. The station area has to be kept clean and tidy and, as stated above, staff will be required to advise passengers with their enquiries. OTHER STATIONS While there are not the same requirements as the two terminal stations at the intermediate ones, Station Masters will normally welcome any assistance offered. In particular, at the stations where there is a passing loop (Blue Anchor, Williton and Crowcombe Heathfield), extra staff are of great assistance in ensuring punctual and safe passage of trains, especially if there are passengers transferring between trains. For those keen on gardening, there will often be station gardens which can be worked on between trains. GENERAL MATTERS As with other members of staff in direct contact with passengers, the Company likes volunteers to wear an appropriate (smart) uniform of any style stretching between 1930 and 1960, though nothing bizarre. The most obvious and sensible reason for this is to allow staff to be readily identifiable in cases of need or emergency. If you are going to be in contact with the public, it is essential you know the railway intimately, since only in this way will you be able to field the many and varied questions fired at you by our passengers, most of whom have never travelled on public transport and in particular, by rail. Very few can read our simple timetable, and many will require guidance on this, as well as current fares. Before venturing ‘above the parapet' for the first time, you should have travelled up and down the line a few times and become familiar with all the stations.
watering the plants (c) Lumber Jack You will find it helpful to read the Rule Book (yes, we do have one, based on the main line version) and learn the simple, basic handsignals. You will probably be asked to attend an induction course, which will include safety matters. It is surprising how many of our visitors behave as if we were running a vast toy train set, and do things on the WSR they would not dream of doing on the main line! They have to be protected from themselves. You will need some basic items of kit and clothing. A railway-type whistle may come in useful (but do not blow it needlessly; it is most unprofessional). Similarly, you should have an approved pattern high-visibility vest in ORANGE – NOT YELLOW each station has a small number of these that you can borrow. A Bardic lamp for low visibility is always useful, though these are expensive. Overalls and safety boots may come in handy for dirty jobs, such as watering up and sweeping platforms. HOW DO YOU START? Apply to any Station Master. Alternatively, details can be obtained from the Administrator, WSRA at Bishops Lydeard Station. Tel: 01823 433856. Fax: 01823 433954. Email: WSRA@btconnect.com We look forward to seeing you soon! ;
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