Our Fireman on the Backplate

Our driver, John Robinson, confident in his domain on the footplate of #7. On the backplate of the locomotive are the twin sight glasses with their cocks for blowing down with live steam; right below them is the large handle which levers open the firebox doors. John's hand rests near the brakestand and the train air valve. In addition to be a kind and gracious host John Robinson is, among other things, the Secretary of the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society. He has been described to me by one of his colleagues as "one of those rare people who is qualified to do almost any job on the railway (except Guard); as well as being company secretary and a driver, he is also a Blockman (Signalman, whatever), Controller ( a bit like your dispatchers), and a Blockman's Inspector. Versatile sort of chap."