Dorset...how to get involved!

[matt34028]

Hi

I am new to traction engines and rollers but have a developed an interest in them over the last few years.

I am 26 and am a Driver at Swanage Railway. I have quite a lot of steam experience having been a fireman since I was 16 and qualifying as a passed fireman when I was 21.
I served as an apprentice with SWT and later became a steam fitter at Swanage and eventually deputy operations manager. I have since gone back to SWT as a Driver.

As much as I love the railways I am looking to get into road traction. I have no contacts (apart from Froudy) in this industry and wondered how to go about getting involved?
I am looking to purchase a 3 inch traction engine to feed the interest to start with but I would really like to get involved with a Dorset crew or be trusted to look after one which sees little to no use. Either that or do one up! Im not fussy.
I have access to a large field to keep anything in Organford, Dorset.

I find this area of preservation quite hard to crack but im hoping maybe, just maybe some people might be able to point me in the right direction.
Including whats for sale, rent, loan, do up or get involved with.

Matt

[Chuffyshunter]

Plenty of Rollers and people who would like crew out there mate, Especially in Dorset, get along to some rallys, get on some footplates, get friendly with the owners and one day they will invite you out..

Have fun with the 3"

[ruston-tom]

Hi Matt,

Are you a NTET member? Maybe you could use their advertising system to be paired up with a local engine owner? Hope you get sorted with an engine soon.

http://www.ntet.co.uk/help-required-offered

t.

[RK8041]

As an SWT driver do you ever get to Northam depot?
If so, feel free to call in to the wheel lathe any time and we can talk road steam.

Nick.

[matt34028]

Weymouth driver so I don't sign Northam unfortunately!

I didn't know about the NtET so I will look into that today! Many thanks so far everyone