11th April, 2026
Our brand new youth volunteer section kicked off in style today.
After a safety briefing and site familiarisation our band of youngsters got stuck in on the 7¼" railway, clearing and servicing the turntable and engine shed area. They then started the plastic sleeper replacement programme on the 7¼" 'main line' removing life expired ties and replacing them with new plastic ones that they cut themsleves. They rounded out the day with a look round the footplate of today's engine in steam, Lyn, before travelling down the line with the guard, to learn more about railway operations.
Our cohort worked hard and really well as a team; they came up with their own solutions and ways of working - an excellent first session!
If you're interested in joining us, the next meeting of the Youth Volunteers is on Saturday 9th May for 13 to 17 year olds living in the North Devon area. We’ll be meeting on the platform at Woody Bay (next to the booking office) at 9:45am, this being timed to be convenient for anyone coming by bus from Lynton (9:00am departure arrives 9:23) and Barnstaple (8:45 railway station, 8:49 bus station, arrives Woody Bay 9:31). The full bus timetable including PDF download here - https://www.stagecoachbus.com/routes/south-west/310/barnstaple-lynmouth/XDCO310.O
Please wear strong shoes / boots (not loose or open) and warm clothes that may get dirty, and similarly bring a warm coat and gloves as the weather can be changeable at Woody Bay. Parents / guardians are welcome to stay as we always need volunteer help at the railway. The cafe will be open or feel free to bring your own packed lunch.
This initiative will provide a stimulating and exciting environment for younger people designed to develop their skills, confidence and experience at Woody Bay station on glorious Exmoor. The structured youth volunteer programme will help you:
Our youth volunteers will meet the second Saturday in the month until October.