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Izzy
Good luck with your project. I can answer some questions (they're in the past tense now that I don't go trainspotting any more) and hope my replies are useful.
When did you start trainspotting? In the early 1960s when I was about 10 years old.
How often to you go? Daily on holiday (everyone went by train on holiday because we didn't have cars), frequently at home in warm weather, much less often in winter I must admit.
What are the essential items you always take with you? Notebook and pen.
Your favourite train model? (if there is such a thing.. sorry I'm still learning!) We moved up north from London and the mainstay of our main line were the "Peak" class diesel locomotives which I liked.
Has trainspotting inspired you to do anything else?/Do you have any related hobbies that have sprung from trainspotting? Yes I've always been keen on railway photography - and indeed photography in general - here and abroad.
How does your wife/partner feel about your hobby? Do they come with you? I was single at the time. Suspect my wife would be a bit bored with it.
Are there any 'slang' words used within the trainspotting community? Loads but we didn't use many.
How would you feel if someone were to approach you while you were at a station and ask you a question? Would it be annoying? (I am planning on interviewing people at Clapham and taking photos but I don't want to be a pest) I don't think I was very sociable when I was young but I think you'll find most enthusiasts will be happy to talk to you.
Where are the best stations in London for spotting? No idea these days.
Do you mind being called a 'trainspotter'? No I didn't, all boys liked trains and wanted to be an engine driver.
Finally I used to wonder if I spotted trains "properly" as I just noted the numbers and ticked them off in a book. Others told me that much more detail was needed like where/when you saw each one but I was happy just noting the numbers and taking photos.
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