Scotland's railways - Working the West Highland Line

We spoke to Paul Barnes, a young volunteer who’s been working at Glenfinnan Station on a variety of tasks ranging from digging out a new footpath to Glenfinnan Viaduct, to helping out on board the Jacobite steam train

What made you want to work at Glenfinnan originally?
It’s kind of a long-standing family tradition, we all help out at the station. I’ve been involved in one way or another since I was about eight years old, but I particularly wanted to join the Viaduct Trail path-building volunteers last autumn because the workshops provided really good training.

What’s it like working on board the Jacobite?
It’s very busy throughout the season; we have around 500 passengers every day in the peak summer months. I really enjoy relating to so many different people from all over the world, but it’s difficult trying to remember everybody’s face!

What do you think makes the place special to the thousands of people who came here each year?
Different things appeal to different people and Glenfinnan can offer more than most places. Some enjoy the spectacular scenery, the steam trains and the heritage interpretation. Others are simply thrilled to see where Harry Potter was filmed.

What’s the best thing about working at Glenfinnan?
I get to talk about and travel on steam trains every day!

Find out more about Glenfinnan at: www.glenfinnanstationmuseum.co.uk