Tuesday, June 17, 2025
In a significant moment for Wensleydale Railway, 21-year-old Oliver Kirkby has recently been certified as a fully qualified train driver. This remarkable achievement, completed on his birthday in June 2025, underscores both his personal dedication and the railway’s commitment to nurturing young talent in the heritage railway sector. Oliver’s qualification as a driver at such a young age is not only a milestone in his own career but also a testament to the vibrant future of the industry, where passion, ambition, and hard work can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Oliver, a native of Harrogate, began his journey with Wensleydale Railway in 2023. Starting as a guard, Oliver quickly showed his potential, advancing to roles as a signaller and operations administrator. His hands-on experience with rolling stock maintenance, combined with his unyielding passion for railways, paved the way for his decision to pursue formal driver training. Through years of hard work and determination, Oliver achieved his goal of becoming a qualified driver—able to operate the railway’s Class 142 and Class 143 diesel multiple unit passenger trains—on the very day he turned 21.
Beyond his work at the railway, Oliver is also studying computer science at York St John University. Balancing a demanding academic schedule with his growing responsibilities at the railway speaks to his incredible work ethic, commitment, and passion. Achieving his dream of becoming a qualified train driver while navigating university life is an extraordinary accomplishment, one that speaks volumes about Oliver’s character and dedication.
Oliver’s excitement and pride were evident as he reflected on his accomplishment. “Railways have always been my passion,” he shared. “To celebrate my 21st birthday by qualifying as a train driver is a dream come true. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such great support and encouragement from my colleagues at Wensleydale Railway. Their belief in me made this possible. And, of course, a delicious lemon cake from Bettys of Harrogate made my birthday celebration perfect!”
His achievement comes at a time when Wensleydale Railway is making strides in fostering young talent. Oliver is part of a growing trend of young professionals within the railway sector, exemplified by his colleague George Stephens, who also became a qualified driver earlier in 2025, at the age of 21. Together, Oliver and George are breaking down barriers for younger generations in an industry often seen as dominated by older, more seasoned professionals. Their successes signal a shift in the sector, where young people are no longer just participants but are taking the reins, shaping the future of the heritage railway world.
However, Oliver’s achievement is not just about him. He follows in the footsteps of Sue Threadgold, a long-time volunteer who made history in 2023 as Wensleydale Railway’s first female train driver. Sue’s remarkable career at the railway is a testament to the opportunities the institution provides for people of all backgrounds. She also became the railway’s first female train guard in 2018, breaking barriers and proving that heritage railways are a place for all, regardless of gender. Sue’s path, like Oliver’s, represents the vital work of encouraging diversity and offering new opportunities to those passionate about the sector.
For Robert Cooper-Williamson, the engineering and operations manager at Wensleydale Railway, the achievement of young professionals like Oliver is a source of immense pride. “It’s crucial that we continue to invest in the younger generation to ensure the longevity of the heritage railway industry,” he stated. “Oliver’s qualification at just 21 is an extraordinary achievement, and it shows just how committed he is to his craft. Both he and George have shown tremendous potential, and we are excited to see how they will contribute to the future of our railway.”
Wensleydale Railway’s efforts to develop and nurture young talent reflect the broader trend of reinvigorating the heritage railway industry. By focusing on providing training and mentorship to the next generation of railway professionals, Wensleydale Railway is positioning itself as a forward-thinking leader in the sector. This emphasis on youth ensures the railway will remain relevant and innovative, adapting to the challenges and opportunities of the future while maintaining the rich heritage and traditions that define its legacy.
Oliver’s journey also illustrates the broader impact of providing opportunities to young individuals in niche industries. His story proves that, when given the right resources and mentorship, young people can thrive in roles traditionally dominated by older professionals. Wensleydale Railway’s commitment to Oliver’s development shows that heritage railways can offer fulfilling and dynamic careers to the younger generation, ensuring that these industries continue to evolve and prosper.
This accomplishment also highlights the importance of mentorship and a supportive work environment. The encouragement Oliver received from his colleagues at Wensleydale Railway not only helped him succeed but also made his achievement a collective one. The team at Wensleydale Railway, from senior professionals to fellow trainees, provided the support, guidance, and expertise necessary to help Oliver reach his potential. This culture of mentorship plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of young professionals and, ultimately, the future success of the railway industry itself.
As Oliver continues to develop his career as a train driver, he is just one example of the bright future ahead for Wensleydale Railway and the wider heritage railway community. With a new generation of passionate, talented individuals like Oliver, George, and Sue, the railway sector is poised to thrive for many years to come. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the immense potential within young professionals and the vital role they will play in shaping the future of the railway industry.
In conclusion, Oliver Kirkby’s qualification as a train driver at the age of 21 is a landmark achievement for both him personally and for Wensleydale Railway as a whole. His success is a reflection of his unwavering dedication and the support of a team that values young talent. As the railway industry continues to evolve, Oliver and his peers represent the exciting future of heritage railways, where passion, innovation, and the skills of the younger generation will shape the course of the sector for decades to come.
