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30

Oct 2023

Last Updated: 29/10/2023
Community
Community

Harrogate volunteer becomes Wensleydale Railway's first female train driver

by John Grainger

| 30 Oct, 2023
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wensleydalerail-suethreadgold-train
Harrogate woman Sue Threadgold, who has become Wensleydale Railway's first female train driver.

A Harrogate woman who has volunteered at Wensleydale Railway for eight years has become its first ever female train driver. 

Sue Threadgold first trained as a crossing keeper and then as a train guard.

She started her driver training last year and is now qualified to drive the railway’s class 142 and class 143 diesel multiple unit passenger trains, commonly known as Pacer trains. 

She said: 

“My goal when I joined was to become a train driver, so I am really happy to have fulfilled my ambition and I thank everyone at the railway who has helped me achieve this!” 


Photo of Harrogate woman Sue Threadgold, Wensleydale Railway's first female train driver, at the controls of a diesel Pacer train.

Sue at the controls of a diesel Pacer train.



The 22-mile-long Wensleydale Railway is a volunteer-led enterprise running heritage diesel services for 22 miles between Scruton and Leyburn via Leeming Bar, Bedale and Finghall Lane. It is also working to extend services from Leyburn to Redmire. 

The railway also holds seasonal events, such as Haunted Rail this Halloween on Saturday, October 28 and the special Bonfire Express service from Leyburn to Bedale for the Bedale Bonfire and Fireworks Display on Saturday, November 4. 

Sue added: 

“I would encourage more people to get involved in their local heritage railway. There are a wide variety of volunteer roles available, to suit all interests and abilities. It’s really rewarding to be part of a great team, helping to keep our history and heritage alive for the public to enjoy!”