British Steam Locomotive Fireman Returns to the Harz - Historic Welsh and German railways reunite engineers for steam locomotive exchange

A long-standing partnership between two historic railways is bringing British and German engineers together once again. Caleb Lovegrove, a steam locomotive fireman from Wales, has returned to Wernigerode, Germany, for his third visit. This exchange highlights the ongoing collaboration between the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways and the Harz Narrow Gauge Railways (HSB).

The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, founded in 1832, is the world's oldest railway company. Since 2006, it has shared expertise with the HSB, a German heritage line. Lovegrove, who volunteers at the Welsh railway, will now work alongside HSB fireman Moritz Helmold on selected trains.

Helmold has previously worked as a guest fireman in Wales, just as two more HSB employees did by February 2026. The two men also share a personal friendship, reflecting the close ties between the railways. Other HSB staff have spent time at the Welsh line, further strengthening the exchange.

This year's visit continues a tradition of mutual learning. Lovegrove's experience in Wales and Helmold's work in Germany help both railways maintain their steam operations. The partnership ensures skills and knowledge are passed between the two historic networks.

The exchange programme between the Welsh and German railways remains active. Lovegrove's third visit and Helmold's involvement show the practical benefits of the long-running collaboration. Both sides continue to support each other in preserving steam locomotive operations.