Stuart the train driver

On our first official day in Purbeck, we decided to buy a round trip on the Swanage railway.  

The route started just down the hill from the campsite took us past Corfe castle, up to Norden, turned around and then headed to Swanage, before returning us back at the stop we set off from.  All for £12 or so.  As GO is a bit of a steam engine aficionado this day was all about him.  In fact once I found out about the railway, it was the whole reason I chose to visit Purbeck. 

When we arrived at Norden, I ran off needing to visit the little girls room.  On the way I saw a sign offering the chance to drive a locomotive engine.  After a pit stop at the mining museum, I made my way to the sign.  

There was a special event being held at the station, for £5 (bargain) people could drive a mining locomotive up and down the track a couple of times.  Before he could say anything I handed over the money and GO was being told how to drive the train.

His face lit up as he squeezed the handle and slowly but surely the little trained chuffed out of the station. 

The guide ushered my over the tracks, so I could get a better view and take lots of pictures.  As the locomotion whistled GO brought it back to the start, he was even confident enough to wave at me as he sailed past.

I often wonder what he was like as a little boy.  For a moment that day I got to see for my self the child like wonder and joy on his cherubic little face.  Best five ponds I've ever spent.