Recent content by DaveCheeseman

My TOC currently provides free parking for all train and station staff at their place of work along with a free choice of two more stations on their network. They are looking at taking this perk away, presumably so they can squeeze a few more customer cars in the car park and benefit from the...

When moving from one TOC to another that has completely different traction, (electric to diesel), is there a group standard in terms of practical handling of any new traction? I'm thinking along the lines of a certain amount of hours under instruction?

I applied in October last year when they were advertising the same vacancies. I got an acknowlemeant and have been on hold ever since. As I understand it there aren't any actual vacancies at present and they are building a talent pool but to be fair it does state that on their latest job...

Seriously considering a move from passenger to freight. The main reason is relocation. Any one out there who's done just that? Or perhaps someone that has moved the other way from freight to passenger.

Sounds lovely. I have seen these positions advertised on a fairly regular basis, perhaps this is the reason.

Many thanks.

Some TOCs, including my current, employ two managers. One is a competency development manager who does hold a key and remains competent, the other referred to as a line manager does not. He essentially deals with the paperwork side of things. Needless to say they struggle with having any...

Can anyone tell me whether the above hold a key in their role and whether they maintain their competence?

That's not really the point is it. We all have the right to withdraw our labour or as in the case of applying for a job our offer of labour. FGWs behaviour and attitude towards people who have clearly invested a lot of time by applying and going through the assessment process is just not...

You have every right to be aggrieved. This is a disgusting way to treat potential future employees. Either they have courses and want you or they don't. Nearly a year down the line is just unacceptable. Just because the job they are offering is highly desirable that is no excuse to treat people...

Hi, can anyone help with traction and routes for this depot please? Many thanks

Wrong on both counts I'm afraid, neither ex BR nor a 5 minute wonder. There's nothing worse than having to explain that something was said in humour, particularly to someone that, from their own unhelpful and bitter comments to perspective newbies, clearly isn't a particularly nice person. I...

Er... Read my post again. I was actually showing some sympathy in relation to your plight. I think you'll find it was in fact 455 driver suggesting you remove yourself from the talent pool. And just for the record yes I am a qualified driver, have been for years so it's Mister Cheeseman to you.

The talent pool is fine and I don't have a problem with it providing FGW are making it clear that applicants are in a talent pool. I may be wrong but I get the impression this is not the case... The lack of information seems to be the cause of many peoples frustrations and insecurities?

Many thanks for the info. With Derby being fairly close by and seemingly covering most of the high speed work, would I be right in thinking Derby would be the more 'popular depot of the two?