Member: Tim Morton

Occupation I am retired from a 40-year career as a transport consultant, involved with all modes of land transport.

Do you have a role in the society?
I currently chair the London Area, with a general responsibility to “keep the wheels turning”.

When did you first become a member of the Irish Railway Record Society in London and why?
I have been a member since coming to London in 1971, a Committee member since the mid-70’s, and Chair since 2003. The Society provides a unique forum for those interested in Irish railways and I continually learn so much from our speakers.

What is your favourite Irish railway station or location and why? Adelaide on the GN mainline – mainly due to childhood memories of the station, the trains passing through, and the adjacent steam locomotive shed. It was always an interesting place to be.

What area of railways interests you the most?
Trains and railway operations, with a special passion for steam locomotive performance. I have travelled the world with my stopwatch and recorded steam loco performance on five continents. I am also very interested in the services that railways provide to their customers, and the difference that they make to social and economic life.

If you could take a journey on any railway in the world, which would it be? Or describe it if you’ve already done it!
My dream would have been to have travelled behind “Mallard” at 126mph. For the future, my list includes riding Japan’s Shinkansen trains and a tour of China’s high speed network. And I never tire of the splendidly engineered GN mainline between Belfast and Dublin.

Do you have any other hobbies or interests? 
Photography (largely related to railways), travel in general, current affairs, (watching!) international sport, exercise and the company of family and friends.

One unknown fact or claim to fame
I once emigrated to Canada (but came back!).