3.1          How the rail service will be provided.

The initial train set will consist of a diesel locomotive, or an Avonside side tank 0-4-0 locomotive, hauling two bogie type passenger coaches.

The service will operate at the outset on pre arranged tour days, Saturdays,  Sundays and Public Holidays as well as for groups on demand.

The service schedule will allow for morning and afternoon departures from Allwoodburn Halt with stops of sufficient duration for passengers to alight, view and purchase as well as experience the services and goods on offer at Ixopo Carisbrooke and Ncalu.

Trained personnel will be responsible for all aspects of the rail related service, including engine operation, train management, ticket sales and maintenance.

3.2                The Unique Selling Point.

The Paton’s Express Project’s unique selling point is the combination of African hospitality and culture coupled with an unusual steam train experience through the rolling hills of  Ixopo. The very special opportunity to experience and travel through “Cry the Beloved will provide a huge draw card to tourists.”

3.3                Testing.

Consultation with tourism bodies including commercial tour operators have underlined the potential for a successful tourism based venture.

The section of line from Umzimkulu to Ixopo is of tremendous historical significance as it is the section written about in the world famous novel by Alan Paton “ Cry of the Beloved Country”.

3.4                Sales Approach.

The cost of train tickets will be kept to the lowest possible level so as to become extremely attractive to tourists yet covering operating costs and also to encourage spending on the services and products on offer. More than just a train ride will be on offer – a whole experience and adventure will be available for the tourist.

3.5                Support Base

The suppliers of services and products, excluding volunteers, will be chosen on the basis of stimulating local work and development opportunity. To this end a project is already under way teaching local groups craft and business skills.