The 12-mile East Lancashire Railway has reached a historic milestone in its 39 years of operation, becoming the latest heritage railway in the country to promote a member of its female footplate staff to the grade of Driver.

Steph Elwood made history over the weekend by becoming the first female driver on the East Lancashire Railway since operations began in 1987.

Starting as a Cleaner, Steph has gradually worked her way up through the grades from Cleaner to Fireman to Senior Fireman and Driver, passing several assessments and operating a variety of different locomotives.

Her promotion to Driver will no doubt inspire not only the younger generations of girls but also potential railway volunteers to become part of the railway’s footplate crew on the lines’ steam and diesel locomotives, which will ensure that the knowledge and skills are passed on to ensure the future operation and survival of heritage railways.

“I’m so pleased to be able to say that I’ve now successfully passed all my driving assessments to become the first female steam train driver at the East Lancashire Railway. It feels like such a huge achievement, and I still can’t quite believe that I’m now officially a Passed Fireman, allowing me to carry out both firing and driving turns.

My love of heritage railways goes back to when I was just two months old, when I attended my first Santa Special. To think that, all these years later, I would be here achieving this is something I could never have imagined. From being a little girl fascinated by steam trains to now having the opportunity to drive one myself is a dream come true.

I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported, encouraged and helped me along the way. There have been challenges and a lot to learn, but every step of the journey has made reaching this moment even more rewarding.

I hope my achievement will show other women that the railway really is a place for them. If my journey inspires even one woman to take that first step, get involved and discover what they can achieve, then I would be incredibly proud.

The East Lancashire Railway has given me the opportunity to turn a lifelong passion into something I never thought possible, and I’m excited to continue that journey and play my part in keeping the wonderful tradition of steam alive for future generations.”

Steph Elwood, East Lancashire Railway Driver

“I want to offer Steph my warmest congratulations on this outstanding achievement. Becoming a steam locomotive driver requires enormous commitment, determination, skill and passion, and Steph has demonstrated all of those qualities throughout her journey.

“What makes this achievement particularly special is that Steph has become the first female steam locomotive driver in the history of the East Lancashire Railway.

“She may not see herself as a pioneer or a role model, but she should take a moment to appreciate what she has achieved. By following the traditional route from cleaner through the steam crew ranks to the footplate, she has not only achieved her own ambition but has also helped to open the door for other women who may dream of becoming steam locomotive drivers.

“The ELR depends upon passing knowledge, skills and traditions from one generation to the next, and we hugely appreciate the dedication of all our volunteers who give their time and passion to keep our railway’s heritage alive.

“Steph is now very much part of that tradition, and I hope her achievement will inspire and encourage many more women to consider becoming involved in the fascinating world of heritage railways.”

Mike Kelly, Chairman of the East Lancashire Railway