THE GRAND OLDMAN OF STEAM

摘要

Mention Dick Hardy at any heritage railway in the country and you'll almost certainly be greeted by a broad smile of recognition, for even those who've never had the honour of meeting him will know the name. Dick, or RHN Hardy as he is sometimes known in formal circles, is one of the elite but dwindling breed of men who began their career in the 'Big Four' era of 1923-1948. He has been referred to on several occasions as 'Britain's Greatest Living Railwayman' and although Dick himself has always argued with the description - pointing out that there are several younger men who rightly reached the top of the industry - he has now attained his 92nd year and it's a case of keeping fingers firmly crossed that he will remain with us for a good few years yet.