Heritage railway role is ‘dream job’ for new general manager

East Lancashire Railway logo

The newly appointed General Manager of the East Lancashire Railway Company Limited has described the role as his “dream job.”

Following an extensive vetting and interview process of prospective candidates the East Lancashire Railway Chairman Peter Duncan has announced that Andy Morris, formerly Managing Director of Stagecoach Light Rail’s tram business’ in Manchester and Sheffield has been appointed to the position of General Manager of the heritage railway.

Mr Morris has been working in an interim capacity since the end of September last year following the departure of the previous General Manager. He will work alongside the staff and volunteer workforce to ensure that the day-to-day management of the railway is delivered effectively.

Chairman Peter Duncan said: “I and the ELR Directors were extremely pleased with the depth and strength of the applicants for the position and delighted that Andy has been appointed to become our new full time General Manager. Andy brings with him significant experience in both business administration as well as extensive skills in general railway operations. An added benefit is that he has been a valued member of our volunteer workforce for many years and enjoys a great relationship with the rest of our volunteer team.”

Mr Morris said: “If ever there was a dream job for someone with my interests and background, this is it. The ELR has huge potential being one of the major visitor attractions in the North West and I hope to be able to help inspire and encourage both the full time paid staff and our valuable volunteer team to bring about significant developments on the railway in the near future. A doubling of our visitor numbers over the next 10 years is a very real priority and I want to be at the forefront of driving the initiatives aimed at delivering this huge expansion”