The October North East Area event was run by Steve Jackson, Technical Inspector for First TransPennine Express and allowed our members to both get the opportunity to use their Driver Simulator and to have a guided tour of the Siemens depot in York.

Steve organised for all the attendees to have the opportunity to use the simulator. This included a briefing and a 15 minute experience and for those waiting their turn, we had an unexpected trip around the depot, having the opportunity to have a behind the scenes look at all elements, including:
• Fueling roads
• Network use
• Maintenance shed
• 185 under service

It was a very interesting and informative opportunity which we as a group will very much look forward to undertaking again.

This was an extremely popular event which was fully booked well in advance of the date.

The North East Area committee was delighted that this event brought many new faces from the area, and look forward to seeing them all again at future visits and meetings.

What was learned at this event?

How hard driving a train within the performance parameters really is!