The Heritage Railway Association (HRA) has elected DCDR Chairman, Robert Gardiner, to its board.
This is a significant milestone, as he becomes the first ever representative from the island of Ireland to sit on the HRA’s main board.
For those less familiar, the HRA is the umbrella body for heritage railways across the UK and Ireland. It represents the sector at government level, and influences legislation and safety policy. The Heritage Railway Association ensures that heritage railways, large and small, have a voice in national decision-making.
The HRA has been a strong supporter of the Downpatrick & County Down Railway over the years. It has provided advice, advocacy, and backing where it matters most.
Robert was first approached a few weeks ago, admitting the call took him by surprise. He never expected to sit on the board of an organisation that includes operations far larger than “our wee railway”. The HRA covers heritage railways right across the UK and Ireland.
He added, “Whilst a certain Jim Hacker quote springs to mind – ‘I have no ambitions in that direction, but if my friends and colleagues advise me that in some humble capacity I could serve my country…’ – it was the support of my own Board colleagues that really was critical in my decision to allow my name to go forward.”
Robert’s election places Downpatrick & County Down Railway, and Northern Ireland more widely, directly into conversations that shape the future of the heritage railway sector.
He also paid tribute to figures such as Johnny Glendinning and the late John Lockett. Both contributed significantly to the HRA at a local level. He intends to bring a Northern Irish perspective, reflecting our devolved regulatory environment. Robert also hopes to bring experience of the social enterprise model to the association.
Lord Parkinson, Chairman of the HRA, said, “I’m delighted to welcome Robert to the HRA board – as well as giving us representation from every part of the UK, the expertise he brings from Downpatrick & County Down Railway and his enthusiastic commitment to heritage rail will help us to deliver for members across the whole sector.”
