LINESIDE CLEARANCE
The purpose of the Lineside Clearance Department is to look after vegetation clearance along the full length of our Railway. As so much of the work overlaps with the Lineside Drainage Department, volunteers in both sections have the chance to work alongside each other and to observe the tasks that the other group carries out. Thus, all volunteers in these departments have the opportunity to gain new skills and understanding.
The Lineside Clearance Team work under the direction of the Track Maintenance Manager for normal day-to-day activities and individuals are expected to volunteer for at least one duty per month.
The Team meets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, usually from 9.30am until 4.30pm to check/maintain fences and to clear trees and vegetation from the Railway’s embankments and cuttings. This work is vital to ensure driver visibility and, of course, to improve the views for our passengers. Using your own hand tools, such as long-handled loppers or a small bow saw, the work also includes making and maintaining bonfires and working on steep embankments and in deep cuttings. Power tool users are welcome, but must attend in house training provided by the Railway. Personal power tools are not to be used. Appropriate protective clothing must be worn when operating power tools.
All Lineside Clearance volunteers need to complete Personal Track Safety training provided and need to understand the Health & Safety regime under which we work. Where necessary, training will, of course, be provided on the use of equipment.
As you might expect, the work is almost entirely outdoors and in all but the worst of weather, so suitable protective footwear and clothing, including sturdy gloves are essential. When at the trackside you will need to wear (orange) High Visibility Clothing.
FITNESS
There is no specific level of fitness required, but you will be on your feet for most of the day. The work of the Department will take you anywhere along the Railway and will involve a lot of walking. Much of the work will involve going up and down steep inclines, also digging, shovelling, sawing and raking. You will also need to be able to carry equipment and be able to load/unload vehicles.
However, regular breaks are taken during the day! Please be aware though, that working on remote stretches of line can mean that facilities are often non-existent, so you will have to be self-sufficient and will need to bring your own food and drink with you for the day.
CURRENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
We currently have an urgent need for volunteers, particularly on a Wednesday. Please note that prospective volunteers will be invited to a ‘taster’ day before acceptance and, if accepted, may initially be required to work for half-days only, as the work is very labour intensive.
