MANY train buffs long for the days of steam locomotive engines with beautifully crafted Victorian carriages.

But one Hexham teenager is bucking the trend, and is fascinated by the modern railway scene.

Stuart Goodwin (18) has been named student of the year by lecturers at Newcastle College Rail Academy in Gateshead, where he has just completed a level three diploma in railway engineering. And the youngster, who was recognised for being a team player, and for his cheerful, hard working attitude, was also named students’ student of the year.

“I’ve always loved trains and railways,” said Stuart. “I’m interested in everything from engineering to signalling and track maintenance. Some people might not find modern railway engineering very exciting, but it is something I really enjoy.”

Stuart will return to Newcastle College Rail Academy in September to begin a one-year HNC civil engineering course. It will be a further step towards a dream career as a rail engineer for the teenager, who has a sound knowledge of key developments in modern railway history, from the British Rail Class 37 of the 1960s, to the Inter City 125, introduced in 1976, and beyond.

The former pupil of Hexham’s Queen Elizabeth High School added: “I’ve had a great time at the college so far. I’ve achieved distinctions for several pieces of coursework, and have maintained a 100 per cent attendance.

“To be awarded in this way is a real honour. I am a railway enthusiast and I really want to get the message out that it’s a great subject to study. Hopefully for me it will become my career.”

With skill shortages in the rail sector, the college’s rail academy is a purpose-built facility which provides specialist training, using industry-standard equipment and resources.

For more information visit www.ncl-coll.ac.uk/ academy