re 1) they apparently have to know the gradients, signal positions, hazards, braking distances etc. It's been on here and I know a driver. However....
re 2) blame privatisation / Thatcherism / franchises. A Thameslink / FCC driver will never normally have to go via Lewes so you can bet Southern...
Exactly this. Had to get on at Gatwick yesterday. Was feeling in forgiving mood and, as always, thinking of driver, relatives and clean up crew. By 5.30 my good will had all but run out. We were told the 16.41 from Gatwick to Brighton was running and that it would be followed by an 8 car...