Few people have more practical knowledge of life on the railway than Ron Dunnabie. S&T equipment across the north-east enjoyed his ministrations for almost fifty years.

But, behind-the-scenes, he was a champion for his colleagues both as a union rep and a rare real-world voice on the now-defunct Track Safety Strategy Group (TSSG).

In retirement Ron still has robust views on trackworker safety, particularly the decline of the safe cess. As you'll discover, it's a recurring theme on his trackside adventures.