Noel Hartley

Noel Hartley

Noel Hartley is an experienced Heritage Rail professional and has been involved in the industry for over 25 years.

Currently the Business and Operations Manager for the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, Noel is responsible for ensuring the company meets its annual business targets alongside leading the  operational and commercial teams to deliver the train plan safely and provide an array of events each year. Noel has worked in other areas of the rail industry in the past including Transpennine Express and the National Railway Museum. In his first role at the NRM, Noel worked on projects such as the ‘Great Gathering’ of A4s and Railfest. In a subsequent role he was responsible for all rail operations and locomotives within the Science Museum Group, including the iconic Flying Scotsman.

Noel has a passion for rail and is determined to help ensure that the sector is sustainable and has the longevity for future generations to still enjoy it: “I grew up with railways as a child, my father leaving me no choice but to be interested as he spent time driving steam loco’s on two heritage railways!

"At a young age I learnt the value of being part of a special heritage railway community and it shaped who I am today, something that I feel is really important for other young people to experience. Railway heritage is dependent on the young people that become passionate about it, just as the young people of the 1950’s and 60’s were. We must nurture and give opportunities to these people in order for our beloved railways to survive.”

Noel likes to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible. The easy option is not the norm and, with lots of energy and a desire to succeed, every day is a busy time!

Married with 3 children, Noel loves family time and alongside this has hobbies of driving steam locomotives at the KWVR and NYMR, teaching drum kit and performing in a function band across the North of England