In the realm of train enthusiasts, the iconic figure Paul Routledge, a revered political columnist at Fleet Street, made his mark when he joined the Mirror back in 1998.
During the 1950s, at every major main line station, a group of schoolboys, including myself, could always be found at the platform’s end, perched on a porter’s iron-wheeled goods barrow. Armed with a biro, notebook, and a bottle of soda, we eagerly awaited the trains passing by, not to board one, but to meticulously document the numbers and names of the engines, if they were named.
Trainspotting, our beloved pastime, was not just a hobby but a gateway to a larger world beyond our small towns. It was a pursuit that instilled in us a sense of adventure, resilience, and geography. As we traversed far and wide to witness different trains and engines, from local stations to distant cities like Doncaster, York, Leeds, and even Scotland, we absorbed the history of our nation’s heroes, industrial advancements, and the pivotal role of trains in various historical events.
Venturing into the forbidden territory of locomotive power depots was a risky thrill for some die-hard spotters, as these sheds housed a vast array of engines, albeit with potential dangers lurking amidst the industrial setup. Despite the risks, the allure of spotting unique engines and expanding our knowledge of railway history drove us to push boundaries.
Although the landscape of trainspotting has evolved over time, with the digital age ushering in new ways of documenting and sharing experiences, the love for trains remains steadfast. Heritage railways across the country now offer a nostalgic escape into the steam era, allowing enthusiasts to relive the bygone days of railway magnificence.
In essence, the enduring charm of trains, with their distinct sights, sounds, and smells, continues to captivate enthusiasts, bridging generations and preserving the timeless allure of railway tradition. All aboard for a journey down memory track, where the love for trains transcends time and technological advancements.