Bright young steam engine drivers stepped up to the plate over the weekend at a training event in Stithians hosted by The West of England Steam Engine Society (WESES).

The 24-strong group of youngsters spent two days getting under the hood and gaining an accreditation to be a steam engine driver.

The apprentices and their engines were preparing for the Cornish Steam and Country Fair at Stithians Showground, where up to 9,000 people are expected to visit over 700 classic vehicles, from August 19 to 21.

Local WESES members and independent engine owners gave their time and use of their own steam engines for the weekend to keep the knowledge alive in the next generation and support the apprenticeship initiative.

The group, aged between 8 and 20, are members of the Steam Apprentice Club, a national membership organisation for under-21s to learn about cold engine preparation, boiler management, moving off, basic steering, and more advanced techniques.

Caitlin Doidge, 13, from Redruth, said: “I’ve always been interested in steam engines and grew up going to events with dad. Over the weekend course we learnt lots of technical stuff which they mark you on to give you areas for improvement.

"At the end we got a chance to drive a steam engine, which was great. I’ve driven an engine before, but now I have a certificate.”

Josh Menear, 20, from Camborne, said: “I am currently on an engineering apprenticeship with Pall Aerospace and I am sure my interest in engines helped me get the place. I’ve been attending these annual training days every year since I could walk, and next year I hope to be coming back as a teacher.

"It’s so interesting to see how each engineman does things slightly differently and to learn new tips for driving and maintenance. I am really looking forward to the show in August.”

Simon Tonkin, WESES Chairman, said: “It’s so important that traditions are kept alive and we’re impressed with the talent and attitude of our young drivers this weekend.

"It’s no easy job to drive a steam engine and every single young person has demonstrated maturity, responsibility and patience – all will go on to be great ambassadors for Cornwall’s engines in the future.

"Well done to all. We look forward to showing their skills to our thousands of visitors at the showground in August.”