Leadership Team
Richard Thompson
Richard founded Calm Returns with a vision to preserve Britain's locomotive heritage. A chartered engineer with expertise in steam locomotive restoration, he oversees all technical operations and safety standards.
Margaret Davies
Margaret is a renowned railway historian and author of several books on British steam locomotives. She ensures historical accuracy in all our operations and leads our educational programs.
James Mitchell
James oversees daily operations, scheduling, and customer service. His extensive background in modern and heritage railways ensures smooth, safe, and memorable journeys for all passengers.
Engineering & Restoration Team
David Wilson
David specializes in Victorian and Edwardian steam locomotive restoration. He has personally overseen the restoration of eight of our heritage engines, bringing them back to operational condition.
Sarah Collins
Sarah leads our mechanical workshop team, ensuring all locomotives are maintained to the highest safety standards. She's an expert in traditional metalworking and precision engineering.
Michael Roberts
Michael ensures our railway lines are maintained to heritage standards while meeting modern safety requirements. He oversees track maintenance, signaling systems, and station facilities.
Operations & Customer Experience
Emma Thompson
Emma ensures every passenger enjoys an exceptional experience from booking to journey's end. She manages our customer service team and coordinates special events and private charters.
Peter Brown
Peter is one of our most experienced drivers, qualified on all fifteen of our heritage locomotives. He trains new drivers and ensures the safe operation of our steam services.
Lisa Anderson
Lisa develops and delivers our educational programs for schools and adult groups. She's passionate about sharing railway heritage knowledge with visitors of all ages.
Our Volunteer Family
Calm Returns wouldn't exist without our incredible team of volunteers. From retired railway workers to passionate enthusiasts, our volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year to locomotive restoration, station maintenance, customer service, and special events.
Our volunteers include former British Rail employees, engineering professionals, teachers, historians, and steam enthusiasts from all walks of life. Many have been with us since our founding, passing on their knowledge to new generations of railway lovers.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Locomotive Restoration
Help restore historic steam engines to operating condition
Station Operations
Welcome passengers and assist with boarding
Tour Guides
Share railway history and heritage knowledge
Special Events
Help organize and run themed events and celebrations
Join Our Team
Whether you're looking for a career opportunity or want to volunteer your time, we're always looking for passionate people who share our love of steam railways.