The world’s first preserved railway has appointed Tracey Parkinson as general manager in succession to Chris Price, who is now managing director of North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Tracey will be coming to the railway having served as customer relationship manager for Hull Trains. However, she was introduced to railways when, co-incidentally, she won a footplate ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and started volunteering there.

Later she became the railway’s marketing officer. Subsequently, Tracey has been the train services manager at the National Railway Museum, where she was also the first lady to hold a main line steam firing certificate.

She has also been UK operations manager for the Railway Touring Company, as well as the information controller at the National Rail Communications Centre.

Commenting on her appointment, Talyllyn Railway Company chairman Gareth Jones said: “We are delighted to have appointed Tracey as our new general manager after a rigorous recruitment process.

“She brings a wealth of experience from both the heritage and main line railway sectors, which will be of great benefit to us here on the Talyllyn. Her drive and enthusiasm are infectious and her practical expertise in many areas will be invaluable.

“During her time as customer care manager for Hull Trains they have risen to the highest rated train operating company for customer satisfaction and we know that Tracey will bring that same commitment and level of excellence to the role of general manager on the Talyllyn.”

Tracey said: ‘I am honoured and delighted to be provided with this opportunity to join the Talyllyn Railway Company. I look forward to meeting the team and the new challenges that lie ahead.”