YouTube star and train driver raises more than £55,000 for charity

A TransPennine Express driver has raised more than £55,000 for charity by offering a front row seat to train journeys across the north of England and Scotland through his YouTube channel.

Don Coffey, 66, from Chapel-en-le-Frith,  has been a driver since 2003 and has donated all the proceeds to causes that hold personal significance to him, with Samaritans being the main beneficiary.

This choice was driven by a life-changing experience Don had while working on the railway, where he, alongside the British Transport Police, helped a young woman who was contemplating taking her own life.

With 150,000 monthly viewers and over 51,000 subscribers, the channel has grown into a major success since its inception in 2017, attracting attention from rail enthusiasts and beyond.

His most viewed video, 'St Pancras to Derby - 125 mph!' with over 700,000 views, offers an exhilarating behind-the-scenes look from the cab of a high-speed train journey from London St Pancras to Derby. Filmed on a crisp, clear day, the video takes viewers on a thrilling journey along the full route, showcasing speeds that exceed 100mph.

Don has also contributed to Macmillan Cancer Support, The Red Cross, The Proud Trust, Martin House Children's Hospice, and most recently, Cash for Kids' Christmas appeal 'Mission Christmas' which TPE supported with an unveiling of a Christmas-themed train design.

Reflecting on the success of his channel, Don said: “I never imagined it would grow this much. I'm so grateful to everyone who has supported the channel, whether assisting me with getting permission to film, helping organise events or promoting the videos.

"It's wonderful to see how much support there is both from fans and people wanting to contribute to charity.

"A highlight for me was when Hull Trains contacted me to film the Hull-Kings Cross route—it was a fantastic opportunity."

Olivia Cayley, Head of the Rail Programme at Samaritans said: "Don’s story is heartwarming and incredible; it shows the significant impact that one person can have on the world. Samaritans are extremely grateful for the creativity and time that Don puts in to raising funds for our work.

"Every 10 seconds, Samaritans answer a call for help. We’re here, day or night, for anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. 

"Don’s fundraising goes towards answering potentially life-saving calls from people who are struggling to cope, and ultimately will enable us to continue what we do." 

When Don first set up the channel, his goal was to showcase the beauty of train travel, and he didn't expect the channel to become so popular.

However, as his videos gained more viewers, YouTube notified Don that his channel could generate income.

What started with a modest £270 in donations quickly grew as his fan base expanded.

Don's videos primarily focus on routes across the TPE network, but he has also filmed for other train operators, providing a behind-the-scenes look at different depots and services across the UK.

Don's videos have also had an impact on TPE, with his cab view footage being used as part of TPE's driver training programme, providing new and experienced drivers with valuable route knowledge.

The videos provide drivers a first-hand perspective of different routes, helping them familiarise themselves with the network's scenery, signals, and key features.

For more information and to watch Don Coffey's videos, visit youtube.com/@doncoffey5820.