While there are many publications on the shelves about the days of steam engines and stations north, south, east and west, ones written by the people who actually worked on the trains are few and far between.

We have much to thank David Tyson for. A man who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a Norfolk train driver in a career spanning more than 40 years and President of The Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF).

What he has proved now is that he has a wonderful way with words and a fine sense of humour. This is a raw look at life on and off the footplate and that is what makes it both entertaining and informative.

(Image: Family Collection)

It’s called Alright Spider! Why was he called Spider? He has no idea.

As he says: “Over the years, numerous books have been written about the rail industry.

Charting the time the first locomotives puffed into life right up to the modern era that led to locomotive or ‘footplate-men’ being the envy of many a young lad.”

David writes about his career from his first day........

© Eastern Daily Press