Marcus' Model Railway Journey

4th March 2023

SPOTLIGHT

British Rail Class 13​

The British Rail Class 13 was a type of diesel-electric shunting locomotive.

The type was designed in 1965 because of the need to provide more powerful shunters for the Tinsley Marshalling Yard.

Because of Tinsley's status as a hump yard, it was not possible to use a single locomotive owing to the risk of grounding.

So, to achieve the required power, a pair of Class 08 shunters were permanently coupled in 'master and slave' formation, with the slave unit having had its cab removed.

Both units were then ballasted to improve traction.

Initially coupled cab-to-cab, it was found more practical to couple master nose to slave cab.

Units​

Three pairs were formed as follows:



Master and slave, Tinsley Marshalling Yard c1972

Withdrawal​

With the end of hump shunting at Tinsley the class became obsolete.

The unique qualities of the locomotives were not required elsewhere and so withdrawal was inevitable; 13 002 was withdrawn in 1981, with the remaining two locomotives going with the closure of Tinsley hump in 1985.

None of this unusual class survives.

13003 shunting the 'hump' at Tinsley yard on 12th April 1984

5th March 2023

East Lancashire Railway gains new higher speed limit for testing rail vehicles​

Linsinger rail milling machines

The East Lancashire Railway (ELR) has been granted a new licence that permits mainline operators to test vehicles on its tracks at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour (96.5km per hour).

The safety certificate from the Office of Rail and Road replaces the previous limit of 25 miles per hour on the heritage network, and makes the East Lancashire Railway one of the few railways in Britain whose own infrastructure has been passed for operations at this speed.

The licence applies to the section of line that runs between Heywood, Bury and Summerseat, while the remainder of the route remains at 25 miles per hour.

It is valid until January 2028 and also permits filming at 60 miles per hour.

The resulting commercial opportunities from operators and contractors is likely to provide a welcome boost to the railway’s finances.

During lockdown, the railway was used to commission a new fleet of Linsinger Milling Machines.

Next year, Network Rail is planning to use the network for the testing of new stoneblowers.

East Lancashire Railways’ Head of Operations, Jeff Armstrong, said:

“This new non-mainline certification from the Office of Rail and Road marks a significant expansion in our testing capacity.

We have a long tradition of welcoming operators and contractors to the network, but this new licence now eliminates any need to request temporary dispensations – making the entire process of testing equipment more streamlined and straightforward for all”.

Chairman Mike Kelly added:

“We are all rightfully proud of the important role the ELR plays in helping rail operators meet the highest standards of operational safety.

“Securing this new Safety Certificate has been a real team effort and I’d like to salute the dedication and hard-work of everyone from the railway who has been involved in this project.

“As a registered charity, it is vital we continue to develop new revenue streams, and we look forward to becoming an even greater partner for mainline operators and contractors.”

5th March 2023

OO Gauge Model Railway News Announcements

Hornby OO Gauge Class 8P Princess Royal 4-6-2 Available Now​

Detailing​

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Mechanical​

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Electrical​

Models Available are:

4-6-2 Class 8P Princess Royal LMS Profile​

Twelve 'Princess Royal' locomotives were built between 1933 and 1935 for express passenger duties on the LMS routes between London, Birmingham, North West England and Glasgow.

The locomotives were the first express locomotive designed by William Stanier following his arrival from the Great Western Railway in 1932.

All twelve locomotives were named after Princesses and operated until the early 1960's.

Two survive in preservation and have regularly operated across the country on railtour duties.

5th March 2023

More trains between London and Stansted Airport trains are coming​

A Stansted Express train

Greater Anglia is introducing more Stansted Express services from May 2023, as it continues to increase timetables to meet recovering customer demand after the pandemic and the airport sees a strong recovery in air traveller numbers.

Weekday peak-time Stansted Express services will return to a four-trains-per-hour frequency from Monday 22 May, as trains will run every 15 minutes during the following periods on Mondays to Fridays :

• London Liverpool Street to Stansted Airport 05.10 to 08.10 and 16.10 to 19.40
• Stansted Airport to London Liverpool Street 06.00 to 09.15 and 16.45 to 20.15

The service will continue to run every half hour at off-peak times but, with new twelve-carriage trains operating, and the service will offering over 80% more seats than the eight-carriage trains they replaced, there is plenty of seating capacity during those periods.

Other improvements from the May timetable change will include:

• Additional weekday morning peak services from Southend, Southminster, Colchester, Braintree, Witham and Chelmsford into London.
• Additional weekday morning and evening peak services on the West Anglia route between Ely/Cambridge/Stansted Airport and London (including the additional Stansted Express services)
• Optimising weekday peak train services to/from Kings Lynn and Ely with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), so GTR provides a consistent peak time pattern to/from Kings Lynn (with a half hourly pattern to/from Cambridge and London Kings Cross) and Greater Anglia concentrates its London Liverpool Street peak services to/from Ely
• All Hertford East to London Liverpool Street weekday peak services to operate via the Lea Valley
  Normal summer season additional services on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays between Norwich and Great Yarmouth
• Normal summer season additional Sunday morning services between Ipswich and Peterborough

The service improvements are designed to both support the ongoing recovery in passenger numbers and reflect the emerging travel patterns across the Greater Anglia (GA) network, as well as take advantage of the new trains rolling out on GA services, with the full transition to new trains expected to be completed this summer.

Stadler built Class 745 / 1 electric Multiple Unit 745104 pulls away from Bishop's Stortford Station.
On its way to Stansted Airport from Liverpool Street Station , London.
Thursday morning 8th April 2021

Jamie Burles, Managing Director of Greater Anglia, said:

“We’re pleased to be providing four trains per hour to Stansted Airport at peak times on weekdays from our May timetable change, benefitting air travellers and commuters alike, as well as other peak time and summer season improvements aimed at encouraging even more customers to take the train.

“With new trains already on most of our services, we are transforming rail travel in our region, offering an excellent travel experience, more seats, and a more punctual and reliable service. We’ll continue to adjust our timetable in line with emerging demand and look to make further improvements whenever practical, working with regional partners (such as the Stansted Airport team) on the case for additional services wherever appropriate.”

Gareth Powell, Managing Director, Stansted Airport said:

“The re-introduction of a four trains per hour service between London and the airport during the morning and evening peaks is a positive step in the right direction. Now we need to build on that and secure the return of the full service across the whole day, which was in place before the pandemic.

“We are very proud to be the number one airport in the UK for public transport use by passengers, and we look forward to working with Greater Anglia to maintain that impressive record, towards the return of an all day, four train per hour service at the earliest opportunity.”

5th March 2023

Extra off-peak train on Charing Cross to Bexleyheath line from May​

Networkers at London Bridge

From 22 May 2023, an extra train will run hourly to Charing Cross on the Bexleyheath line during off-peak times, Monday to Saturday.

Southeastern Railway states that it has been “listening to customers’ feedback and using journey data to assess how people are travelling”, following the introduction of its December 2022 timetable.

As a result, over 300 services will operate each week, directly to and from Charing Cross on the Bexleyheath line.

Southeastern accepts that there is substantial demand on the Bexleyheath line for direct services that call at Waterloo East on the way to Charing Cross, and that adding this hourly service “should benefit passengers on the Bexleyheath line and better balance demand across Southeastern’s Metro services, supporting the West End economy.”

The company continues, “For taxpayers, this decision balances the need to manage the cost of providing rail services, with the need to generate fare revenue that supports the provision and development of them.

“Although this decision relates to a specific part of our network, we’re committed to working with customers and stakeholders to develop our timetable in the future. We’ll continue to listen as the travel habits of our customers change.”

5th March 2023

Staffordshire leaders support plans for Midlands Rail Hub​

Midlands Connect has given its support to plans for the Midlands Rail Hub.

Karen Heppenstall, Head of Rail at Midlands Connect, met with Councillor David Williams, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, at Lichfield City.

They were joined by Declan Riddell from Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Alun Rogers from the Local Enterprise Partnership, and Tony Thompson from RailFuture.

The Midlands Rail Hub will provide capacity for the Cross City Line service to reinstate its pre-pandemic six trains per hour south of Four Oaks.

Midlands Connect argues that with six trains per hour going in and out of Birmingham, the service will return to its former ‘turn up and go’ style, “making commuting and leisure travel easier for those who live along the line”.

With four out of the six trains terminating at Lichfield Trent Valley, both stations in the city will see crowding relief.

However, West Midlands Rail Executive and others are calling for the four trains to Lichfield per hour to be reinstated as soon as possible, once the new rolling stock come on stream in the next eighteen months.

Midlands Rail Hub will also unlock connectivity improvements for other parts of Staffordshire, including the potential for more and faster services for Burton and Tamworth into Birmingham.

Karen Heppenstall commented:

“It’s great that Staffordshire County Council and business leaders in the county are supporting the Midlands Rail Hub. It’s great to come to Lichfield today to promote the Midlands Rail Hub. The proposals will benefit residents and those living all along the Cross City Line.

“The project is supported throughout the region and the Midlands Rail Hub is a national project and we need to give the scheme the green light.”

Cllr Williams added:

“Improved connectivity is vital to vibrancy and regeneration of our urban centres, making them more attractive place to live, work and visit and attracting investment. Better rail services encourage more people to travel by train, helping to reduce traffic on our roads, reducing congestion and carbon emissions.

“We look forward to the reinstatement of the additional services on the Cross City Line as soon as possible.”

Malcolm Holmes, from West Midlands Rail Executive, commented:

“There are exciting times ahead for users of the Cross City line with new electric trains arriving later this year bringing extra capacity and improved levels of comfort for passengers.

“WMRE also is working with West Midlands Trains and the Department for Transport to restore a four train per hour service between Lichfield and Birmingham in 2024 once all the new trains, which are being built locally in Derby, are in place”

6th March 2023

Regulated rail fares rise by 5.9 per cent​

Fares ++ Regulated train fares in England and Wales have risen by an average of 5.9 per cent.

The increase includes a significant cap, because last July’s RPI, which is the usual basis for the annual fare changes, was 12.3 per cent.

Campaigners are calling for a discount of 20 per cent on Mondays and Fridays, which have become the quietest days of the traditional five day working week since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Regulated fares include season tickets and some off-peak travel on long distance services.

The increase affects National Rail in England and Wales, and Transport for London services.

Reopening ++ The railway between Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Ashington is set to reopen to passenger trains next year, according to transport secretary Mark Harper.

Trains to Newcastle will call at six accessible stations serving Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth Bebside, Newsham, Seaton Delaval and Northumberland Park.

The journey time between Newcastle and Ashington will be halved, to 35 minutes.

Trains will run seven days a week.

Station scheme ++ Work has started on building a new station at Ashley Down, on the northern side of Bristol.

The scheme is being funded by the West of England Combined Authority, which covers Bristol, Bath, North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

The station will be served by trains between Bristol Temple Meads annd Filton Abbey Wood.

These will continue to North Filton and Henbury when these stations are opened as part of the wider MetroWest project in Greater Bristol.

6th March 2023

Trains to return to Northumberland railway line next Summer​

The historic line will provide greater connectivity for passengers in the North-East bringing regular services between Ashington and Newcastle​

Newcastle Station

The historic Northumberland Line is set to return during the summer of 2024 and will bring improved connectivity for rail passengers in the North-East.

The project currently sees the government working alongside Northumberland County Council, Network Rail and Northern Rail in order to return regular train services in time for the line’s opening which will create faster and simpler travel between Ashington and Newcastle.

The project aims to see communities re-connected and is expected to bring increased footfall reminiscent of its heyday in the 1960s returned for historic railway towns boosting the local economy and improving access to employment and education as well supporting tourism.

Journey times will be halved from 70 to 35 minutes once the Northumberland Line reopens with regular services operating seven days a week.

The line will feature six brand new fully accessible stations and will stop at:

• Ashington
• Bedlington
• Blyth Bebside
• Newsham
• Seaton Delaval
• Northumberland Park
• Newcastle Central

The project has seen the creation of approximately 100 high-skilled jobs and apprenticeships which have been beneficial for the local community.

Improvements in air quality are also expected to be seen alongside a cut in congestion as people are encouraged to travel by train in place of cars.

The impressive project is part of the Government’s Restoring Your Railways scheme which aims to reinstate local services and return closed stations and railways which were sadly axed in 1963 as part of the Beeching cuts.

The Restoring Your Railways scheme has already seen incredible success via the Dartmoor Line which reopened in November 2021 and has seen an impressive doubling of passenger services, particularly supporting students who study in Exeter.

Transport Secretary, Mark Harper said:

“Communities in Northumberland can get ready for regular train services that will better connect people to jobs, education and opportunities while growing our economy.

“Restoring lost railway connections will drive tourism, boost local business opportunities and encourage investment across our regions, which is why I’m pleased to say that we are on track to reopen this historic line next summer.”

Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said:

“We are delighted to have reached this major milestone which gives the green light for the main construction works to start. This is such a transformational scheme which will bring benefits for residents, businesses and visitors for generations to come.

“We have been working so hard over recent years to make this scheme happen, getting all the necessary planning and stations approved and preparing the line for the major works.

“This is the moment we’ve been working towards and I am so excited we’ve reached this point as we prepare to get trains rolling again through this part of our county.”

Matt Rice, Network Rail’s North & East Route Director said:

“This is hugely welcome news as we get closer to delivering a transformed railway which will support the re-introduction of regular passenger trains and connect communities in Northumberland and Newcastle.

“We’re proud to be working with our industry partners on this truly revolutionary project, which will boost economic growth and bring a new lease of life to the region.”

6th March 2023

Northamptonshire and Leicestershire bridges adapted for electrification​

Network Rail has announced that it will start work to adapt three bridges and lower track to clear the way for an electric railway between Kettering and Wigston this month.

Bridges in Braybrooke in Northamptonshire, Great Glen and Newton Harcourt in Leicestershire will be demolished, reconstructed or have the track beneath them lowered to clear height for overhead wires to pass underneath.

The wires will eventually power electric and bi-mode trains through the towns as part of the Midland Main Line upgrade.

The multi-million-pound programme supports the Government’s ambitions for decarbonisation and will offer more reliable journeys for passengers.

The work involves:

• demolishing a farm access low bridge in Braybrooke, where a higher replacement bridge has already been installed around twenty metres down the line
• demolishing and reconstructing a bridge on Station Road in Great Glen
• lowering the tracks under Wistow Road bridge in Newton Harcourt

Network Rail engineers will also continue to drive piles into the ground and install masts to carry the overhead wires through Kibworth.

The work aims to help create a cleaner, greener electrified railway for passengers travelling along this section of the Midland Main Line in the future.

To complete the work safely, there will be changes to services between Sheffield, Nottingham, Corby and London St Pancras across three weekends in March – on Sunday 12, Saturday 18, Sunday 19, and on 25 and 26 March.

Network Rail is advising passengers to plan ahead and check their journey.

Industrial action will also impact services across the region while this work takes place, with planned strikes and an overtime ban in March and April.

Please check nationalrail.co.uk/industrialaction for the latest updates.

There is an ongoing road closure for the bridge reconstruction on Station Road, Great Glen, with a signed diversion in place.

Drivers can view the route via One.Network.

Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail said:

“In order to create an electric Midland Main Line that’s fit for the future, we need to change some of the structures through Leicestershire and clear space for our train-powering equipment.

“We’re really sorry if this impacts people’s plans and we’ve worked closely with train operators to plan diversions and offer bus replacements to keep people moving.”

Neil Grabham, Customer Services Director for EMR said:

“We are asking any customers planning to travel to or from London on Sunday 12, Saturday 18, Sunday 19, and on 25 and 26 March to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to complete their journey.

“Rail Replacement buses will keep passengers moving between Market Harborough and Kettering / Leicester.

“Strike action will also affect EMR services on Saturday 18 March and we will be running a significantly reduced train service on all of our routes. Please check the EMR website for full details.

“We would like to thank our customers for their patience whilst the engineering work along the Midland Main Line is taking place.”

6th March 2023

New cycle hub opens at Manchester railway station​

The Northern station now offers a secure and dry space for cyclists to leave their bikes when travelling from the busy station.​

A brand new cycle hub has opened at Northern’s Manchester Oxford Road station providing cyclists with a dry and secure space to leave their bikes.

The ‘cycle hub’ is located outside of the main station entrance and features a two-tier gas-assisted racking system which supports any heavy lifting.

The hub has 18 spaces for bicycles, two of which are for non-standard-size bikes and also features a maintenance stand which includes tools and a tire pump.

The facilities include a bench for cyclists to change their footwear and a mirror which will help with the inevitable ‘helmet hair’.

In order to provide top-level security for the ‘cycle hub’ CCTV cameras have been installed alongside a door entry system which uses a secure Bluetooth app.

Chris Jackson, regional director at Northern said:

“We’re pleased to announce the opening of the new cycle hub, we feel that the opportunity for cyclists to safely park their bikes in the facility will help reduce car traffic on the roads and encourage people to cycle to our stations.”

6th March 2023

West Yorkshire Mayor demands action to end pain of rail passengers in the North​

The Mayor of West Yorkshire has slammed TransPennine Express’s performance and called on government ministers to “get a grip” and end the suffering of passengers in the North of England.

Northern commuters have been warned today (Monday 6 March) that without improvement, TransPennine Express in on course to cancel 23,000 journeys this year.

Official data from the Office of Rail and Road shows that TransPennine Express cancelled 1,781 services during the last four-week reporting period – representing almost a quarter of all their trains between Sunday 8 January and Saturday 4 February 2023.

This represented 10% of all cancellations in England and Wales during that time, despite the company running less than 2% of all services.

Analysis by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority has found that, without improvement, this will mean a total of 23,153 cancellations over the course of 2023.

Last month, West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin last asked when passengers will feel improvements.

First Group’s rail chief Steve Montgomery, owner of TransPennine Express, said that passengers must continue suffering through the “pain barrier”.

The operator, which runs services from Leeds and Huddersfield to Manchester, Liverpool, Scarborough, Hull and Newcastle, has often seen a third of its services cancelled on a given day.

This follows a meltdown in services by the company in 2019, which required a recovery plan to be put in place.

The Department for Transport is currently examining the details of a recovery plan produced by TransPennine Express, after ministers, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, conceded that its recent performance had not been acceptable.

The company’s current contract ends in May, and despite its poor performance, government officials are considering whether to offer it a new eight-year deal to continue operating services.

Speaking ahead of the Transport for the North conference in Newcastle today (Monday 6 March), Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said:

“Without improvement there could be an appalling 23,000 cancellations inflicted on Northern rail commuters this year by TransPennine Express.

“This is shocking and the government must hear our calls, finally get a grip and bring this situation under control.

“A full-functioning public transport network is crucial to our plans to boost the economy, achieve our climate ambitions and provide people with the opportunity to get on in life.

“Without action people will lose jobs, youngsters will fail exams, and the Northern economy will go off the rails.”

6th March 2023

Amtrak Cascades service from Portland to Vancouver fully restored​

Amtrak locomotive at King Street Station

On Monday, 6th March, Amtrak, in collaboration with Oregon Department of Transportation (OSDT) and Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) fully restored its Cascades service between Portland, Or. and Vancouver, BC.

In September last year the Cascades was partially restored with a daily service to Canada, between Seattle and Vancouver, BC. The train offers a cafe car serving products grown and made in the Pacific Northwest from its Bistro Menu. On board, the carriages have large spacious seats with ample leg room, no middle seat, and with two personal items and two carry-on bags, it has one of the most generous baggage policies in the travel industry.

The service is jointly sponsored and funded by the states of Washington and Oregon.


Travelling alongside the water in British Columbia, and through river and mountain vistas in Washington and Oregon, Amtrak’s Cascade service provides travellers with views of some of the country’s most distinctive cities and spectacular natural attractions.

The resumption is the first time since 2020 that there has been a direct service between Portland and stations north of Seattle. The Cascades serves 12 stations along the I-5 corridor in western Washington, with trains travelling north departing from Portland at 3:05 pm and Seattle at 7 pm to arrive in Vancouver, BC at 11 pm.
Southbound, the train leaves Vancouver, BC at 6:35 am, Seattle at 11 am, and arrives in Portland at 2:55 pm.

Tickets can be booked online at Amtrak.com, AmtrakCascades.com, or the Amtrak app, at Amtrak ticket desks and kiosks, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL. Travellers catching the train in Canada can also book their tickets at ViaRail.ca and through 1-888-VIA-RAIL.

Intending passengers should note that the United States and Canadian governments have specific requirements for travel between the two countries, and anyone who fails to meet those criteria will not be allowed to cross the border.

Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner said:

“With more people now travelling, we are thrilled to double the daily roundtrips between Seattle and Vancouver, BC. By adding staffing and equipment to the region, we can once again offer customers a direct connection between Portland and Canada.”

Ron Pate, Director of WSDOT’s Rail, Freight and Ports Division, said:

“WSDOT is pleased to be restoring trains between Portland, Seattle and Vancouver, BC. The resumption of this additional roundtrip marks the first time since the pandemic that passengers can travel on the same train to all stops between these major cities.”

“We’re looking forward to adding even more Amtrak Cascades trains later this year between Seattle and Portland.”

Karyn Criswell, administrator of the Oregon Department of Transportation’s Public Transportation Division, said

“We’re aware of just how ready everyone is for this direct service from Portland to Vancouver, BC to come back. With our new reduced rates for travel within Oregon on the Cascades, we’re excited to see ridership grow throughout the corridor, giving people in the Pacific Northwest an affordable, comfortable and safe option for travel.”

Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner added:

"Thanks to all the players who helped us return to full service, including ODOT, WSDOT, BNSF, VIA Rail, Sound Transit, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Canada Border Services Agency and the Congressional Delegation, including the key members who hold leadership positions on our transportation committees — Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA).”

Reactions:

Senator Murray (D-WA)

“I am thrilled to join Amtrak in announcing that service between Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, BC is resuming. This train line runs along a critical North-South corridor in Washington state, connecting families, communities, and small businesses. Amtrak plays a critical role in getting people where they need to be on time and at a reasonable cost—this is great news as we work to keep Washington state moving forward,” said Senator Murray (D-WA).

Senator Cantwell (D-WA)

“Finally, Amtrak Cascades service is restored to pre-pandemic levels, providing travellers a convenient transportation option to skip traffic along the I-5 corridor. But this meaningful milestone isn’t the final stop. Amtrak has committed to adding two additional trips between Seattle and Portland this fall providing commuters even more travel options.”

Senator Wyden (D-OR)

“Restoration of this Cascades rail service between Portland and British Columbia provides a key reconnection for Oregonians to travel free of traffic headaches in the Northwest,” Wyden said. “Today’s wonderful news from Amtrak about restoring this valued and scenic route shows both the benefits of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s investments in passenger rail and indications of an ongoing recovery from the worst economic impacts of the public health crisis.”

Senator Merkley (D-OR)

“Restoring passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest brings economic and recreational benefits to the region by providing additional ways for people to travel from Portland to Vancouver, BC for business or pleasure,” said Senator Merkley. “I’ll keep working to improve and expand transportation options for residents and visitors to Oregon and the region.”

Congressman Larsen (D-WA-02)

“The full restoration of Amtrak Cascades service is great news for the Pacific Northwest,” said U.S. Representative Rick Larsen, the lead Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee! “Thanks to bold, long-term investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Amtrak is able to renew and support routes like Cascades, Empire Builder and Coast Starlight that connect communities like Edmonds, Everett, Mount Vernon, Stanwood and Bellingham in my district to Vancouver, British Columbia, Seattle, Portland and Eugene.

“I will continue to push for Congress to fully fund its passenger rail commitments to create more jobs, grow regional economies, reduce congestion and carbon emissions, and build a cleaner, greener, safer and more accessible transportation network.”

Congressman Blumenauer (D-OR-03)

“Travel by rail is one of the most enjoyable ways to see the country, with the bonus of skipping the all-but-certain traffic delays,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer. “I proudly voted for an unprecedented investment in passenger rail in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and am hopeful that this will be the first of many instances of stronger rail service. The resumption of a second daily round trip route between Portland and British Columbia is an indicator that travel is bouncing back from the pandemic, and worthy of celebration.”

Congresswoman Bonamici (D-OR-01)

“Amtrak’s Cascade line is a crucial link between the major metro regions of the Pacific Northwest, and improving transit service is key to advancing equity and addressing the climate crisis,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “The resumption of Amtrak’s second daily Cascades route to Vancouver, BC will increase mobility in our region, making it easier for more people to get where they need to go. I am grateful for Amtrak’s work to restore this service.”

Congresswoman Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR-05)

“Whether travelling for tourism or business, this route runs right through a thriving economic corridor that helps connect Oregonians to important industries and destinations up north. I’m glad to see regular service between Portland and Canada resume,” said Chavez-DeRemer.

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler

“I welcome and celebrate the restarting of the Portland to Vancouver, BC train as an inter-city rail connection that transports visitors and business travellers between our two communities and makes our broader region more sustainable and competitive. I appreciate Amtrak for restarting this service and look forward to future opportunities to connect Portland with other communities throughout our region.”

7th March 2023

RMT dispute approaches deadlock​

The Rail Delivery Group is reported to have warned the RMT that talks at national level may not continue unless the ‘best and final’ offer is put to its members in a ballot.

One sticking point is the reforms the government wants to introduce, which could include the closure of most ticket offices.

The RMT has insisted that any pay offers must be unconditional, and is preparing to stage fresh strikes on 16, 18 and 30 March, and also on 1 April.

There will be a separate walkout affecting both RMT and ASLEF members at Transport for London on 15 March.

The offer is for 5 per cent for 2022-23 and 4 per cent for 2023-4, in exchange for changed working practices.

Transport secretary Mark Harper has asked the RMT to let its members consider the ‘good’ pay offer.

He said he was pleased that members of the TSSA had accepted it.

He continued:

‘I would urge the RMT to put the offers that they’ve had to their members and let their members make the decision, and I think they’re good offers.

‘And I think that their members ought to accept them and I hope the RMT reconsiders their decision not even to put those offers to their members. If we get those offers delivered, we can all work together to deliver a better railway for passengers.’

Chief employers’ negotiator Tim Shoveller said:

‘We spent January working with the RMT and were confident that the package agreed would be accepted by another 4000 RMT members which would take us over the 50 per cent acceptance threshold, but this was not put to members to vote on. The fact the RMT continues to refuse to put this to the members is our biggest challenge and also for their members who want a vote and not to lose any more money.

‘We thought we were on the verge of a deal three times, but the RMT Executive Committee in June, December and January, had a pattern of not passing this on to members for a vote.’

When the new strike dates were announced, RMT general secretary Mick Lynch had said: ‘Rail employers are not being given a fresh mandate by the government to offer our members a new deal on pay, conditions and job security. Therefore, our members will now take sustained and targeted industrial action over the next few months.

‘The government can settle this dispute easily by unshackling the rail companies. However, its stubborn refusal to do so will now mean more strike action and a very disruptive overtime ban.

‘Ministers cannot continue to sit on their hands hoping this dispute will go away as our members are fully prepared to fight tooth and nail for a negotiated settlement in the months ahead.’

7th March 2023

Network Rail and Southeastern statement on London Bridge crowding​

Southeastern and Network Rail have issued a joint statement about crowding at London Bridge station, emphasising that it has “thorough plans” to keep the station safe when it is crowded.

The statement follows recent reports of passenger alarm at overcrowding at the busy London terminal.

The full statement is as follows:

“Southeastern’s and Network Rail’s top priority is always safety. Disruption to train services can result in crowding particularly at large stations like London Bridge. You may have seen reports of this recently and we know crowding can be confusing and frustrating. But we have thorough plans in place to ensure that if our stations are crowded, they are still safe.

London Bridge is large, purpose-built and well-staffed station with a dedicated control room overseeing everything that happens there, in coordination with the British Transport Police and on-site paramedics. We have conducted a review of our plans for managing crowds at London Bridge to ensure they work as they should. Our management of crowding is in line with industry standards, but we want to try and explain some of the things that happen on the station when services are disrupted, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Crowd management

• During disruption, customers may be asked to walk up to platforms to avoid crowding there; meaning escalators go down, only. This is done to ensure platforms empty more quickly than they fill.
• If necessary, we restrict access to platforms, and you may see staff using barriers to make this happen. Staff at the top and bottom of escalators stay connected to let each other know when customers can move along the platform which, in turn, means more customers can move up from the concourse. We recognise how frustrating it can be to be held on the concourse, but it is sometimes necessary because of the total available space on platforms and trains.
• If the service is disrupted we know that crowding near to escalators can be of particular concern to some customers. In these circumstances we ‘pulse’ customers up to the platform either by directing them to use the stairs or the escalators (stopping and starting them at regular intervals) to control the flow of people safely. This is mainly leading to and from platforms four and five (for Thameslink) and six and seven (from Charing Cross).
• On the concourse, we may open the gate line to reduce the overall number of people on the station, or prevent more people from entering the station to manage crowds safely

During disruption we will always seek to give customers alternative travel options, ticket acceptance on other routes (if applicable) or a clear recommendation to travel at another time or from another station.

We’re also looking at ways in which we can improve real-time information about London Bridge Station, by using Southeastern’s website and app, push notifications and social media to provide timely and accurate information when it’s needed.

Accessibility

• Our teams work to ensure customers’ specific requirements are met, during disruption including by keeping lifts running and providing taxis for onward travel.

We will continue to develop our plans and procedures but always with safety as a top priority”

7th March 2023

British Transport Police: more than half a million texts in ten years​

61016 is 10 years old

British Transport Police have revealed that its 61016 text number has received more than 668,000 messages from members of the public and rail staff in the past ten years.

The 61016 service has celebrated its tenth birthday. BTP launched the 61016 text service in 2013 to give anyone reporting a crime the option to text instead of calling the police in a non-emergency situation.

A decade after it started, a text is now received every two minutes into the force’s contact centre during daytime hours.

In 2022 alone, the force received texts relating to 472 reports of sexual harassment, 540 incidents involving a sexual offence, 573 hate crimes and 434 reports of theft.

The force states that in the last ten years, it has “apprehended numerous criminals, secured countless convictions, made life saving interventions, disrupted serious organised crime and even dismantled county lines operations all because of vital intelligence submitted via the service.”

Text messages from the service go straight through to BTP’s Force Contact Centre, the same as a phone call.

Dispatchers are then able to deal with the message, sending officers to the location if needed.

Text 61016 scenarios have included:

• In December last year, three men were arrested following numerous texts sent to us from passengers reporting a violent assault on board a train.
• A text from a woman who was being sent indecent images via air drop on a train resulted in an offender being arrested.
• Intelligence received from a member of the public ultimately led to a prolific sex offender being identified and jailed.
• A text report of a man with white powder on a train resulted in officers being deployed and the man searched, and found to be carrying stolen property linked to a burglary and a firearm. He was arrested for multiple offences and jailed.

But not every text the services receive requires the BTP to act, with some sent by accident, some expressing support for rail workers’ strikes, and some described as “just plain odd”. They include:

• I’m sorry, Siri texted you
• I fully support the rail workers. Best wishes to you all!
• My key card is not working I need a replacement card. Please can you assist.
• Sorry not the service I needed!

The text number is now complemented by the Railway Guardian app, launched last year, the only police-supported safety app available in the UK.

Similar to the text number, all reports made via the app go straight to the BTP control room.

Officers across the country can then be deployed to the nearest or next stop if required.

Its geographical location option also allows the public to share their journey with loved ones.

The app also offers advice and keeps the user up to date with the latest news and updates from British Transport Police.

Both are used for non-emergency calls to service. In an emergency, people should always call 999.

Assistant Chief Constable Charlie Doyle said:

“We wanted to provide rail users with a discreet way to contact us while travelling and share concerns, information or request police assistance during their journeys. The 61016 text service provided this, and offered an easy and convenient way to seek assistance whilst using the railway.

“61016 was the first and only service of its kind in the UK – and since 2013, BTP has received 668,000 texts.”

ACC Doyle added:

“A massive thanks to everyone who has saved the text number into their phone, used it to report something or even spread the word about the number to their friends and family.”

“If you haven’t already, please do save the number in your phone. We hope you never need it but that means it’s to hand if you – or a fellow passenger – ever does.”

7th March 2023

Class 91 locomotive to be preserved in Scotland​

Eversholt Rail has donated Class 91 No. 91131 to the Scottish Railway Preservation Society, with the locomotive going on display at the Museum of Scottish Railways.

91131 was the last Class 91 to be built in Crewe in 1991 and holds the fastest passenger speed record in the UK, travelling at 154.1mph in June 1995.

The locomotive has been in service on the East Coast Mainline from 1991 until it was withdrawn by LNER in 2020.

91131 arrives at Bo’ness at the start of March and will become part of a new vehicle display.

Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail, said

“We are delighted to be able to donate this locomotive to the Scottish Railway Preservation Society so that it can be on display and preserved for future generations to enjoy for years to come.”

Dr Becky Peacock, Museum Director at the Museum of Scottish Railways, said

“We are delighted to be adding 91131 to our Recognised Collection and continue to tell the story of Scottish railways.”

7th March 2023

London North Eastern Railway shows rising popularity of jobs for women​

LNER International Women’s Day

Ahead of International Women’s Day 2023 tomorrow, Wednesday, 8th March, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) has revealed the results of its research that show a resurgence in the popularity of traditional roles for women, with careers as a doctor, lawyer, and train driver being considered trendy again.

According to the research, Gen Z believes that on average they will have worked in 4.5 different jobs before finding their ideal.

Only one in 100 of Gen Z thought of driving trains as their dream job, although 20% said they would love a career on the railway.

London North Eastern Railway employs women from a wide range of career backgrounds, from women who danced on cruise ships and are now leading innovative digital projects, to those with careers in aviation but now wish to pursue a career on dry land.

Claire Ansley, Customer Experience and People Team Director at LNER, said

“We are proud that 43 per cent of our workforce at LNER are women and they bring with them a wide range of diverse experience.

“Our latest research shows 74 per cent of the younger generation think jobs like doctors, lawyers and train drivers are “cool again”, so we want to encourage as many women as possible to consider rail as an exciting and rewarding career choice bursting with opportunities.”

Among other jobs that young female Brits dream of are as social media influencers, teachers, doctors, and a therapist.

Three-quarters thought that old-fashioned jobs such as learning a trade or becoming a train driver, doctor or lawyer are once again cool for young people.

Aside from money, one in three young women want a job that helps others with a good work-life balance and a third want to work for themselves.

Doing something different, freedom to work where ever, and good benefits also proved attractive.

One-fifth didn’t think they would ever get their dream job at the same time as having to earn money to pay rent/mortgage, while the main barriers stopping younger Brits from getting jobs were no experience, not confident enough to change jobs, and the role not coming up very often.

One in three want to change jobs this year because they need more money, fancy a change, or are not satisfied with their job, while a quarter wants a new challenge and a fifth say they are bored.

To give the younger generations an insight into what a career in the rail industry can offer, London North Eastern Railway has introduced initiatives such as experience programmes, apprenticeships, and Tomorrow’s Talent taster insight sessions.

Colleagues

Gabriella and Gail Bruno


Gail and Gabriella Bruno – Gail and Gabriella are mother and daughter and are Onboard Customer Experience Hosts based out of Edinburgh.

Gail previously worked in the airlines as cabin crew and Gabriella was training as a PE teacher before they joined London North Eastern Railway.

Jess Mawhinney-Coates


Jess Mawhinney-Coates – Jess is an Apprentice Driver who will be based out of Newcastle.

Previously Jess worked as an electrician and trained as a PE teacher before joining London North Eastern Railway.

Shifa Motin


Shifa Motin –Shifa is Strategy Impact Manager based in York, looking at how to further enhance our customers’ experience when travelling with London North Eastern Railway.

Shifa began her career working in the finance industry.

7th March 2023

Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway keeps fares the same as last year​

The Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway is doing its bit to alleviate the cost of living pressures on its customers by keeping its fares for the 2023 operating season the same as last year.

The railway hopes that the gesture will help families enjoying traditional seaside holidays on the Lincolnshire coast, as well as encourage the increasing numbers of people from around the UK who are taking “staycations” to explore the county for the first time.

As per last year, fares are £2 return for adults and children, or £5 for a family group of two adults and up to three children.

Children under three and dogs and pilots of aircraft flying into the adjacent Skegness Airfield travel free.

This year’s operating dates have been revised from those previously published to take account of the likelihood of altered holiday patterns due to the Coronation of HM King Charles III.

Trains depart from Walls Lane Station in the Skegness Water Leisure Park in Walls Lane at Ingoldmells, and operate from 10.30 a.m. to around 3.30 pm on the following dates:

Steam-hauled trains:

• Sundays 7th May and 28th May;
• Saturdays 22nd and 29th July;
• Saturdays 5th, 12th 19th and 26th August;
• Saturday 2nd September;
• Saturday 28th October.

Diesel-hauled trains:

• Wednesday 26th July;
• Monday 31st July;
• Wednesdays 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th August;
• Mondays 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th August.

Trains run from 10.30 until 15.40.

On steam days, the first trains will be hauled by diesel locomotives with the steam loco taking over around 12.00.

Chairman of the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway’s Historic Vehicles Trust, Richard Shepherd – whose volunteers operate the trains and look after its unique collection of narrow-gauge railway equipment – said:

“The most important thing for us is that our customers enjoy their ride on our trains and leave with a smile. Some take extra journeys or leave a donation because of our low fares – we want everyone to feel welcome, whatever their circumstances”.

Richard Shepherd added:

“Jurassic has operated through the reigns of five monarchs and in the 120th year since it was built, it will help people celebrate the Coronation of the sixth – His Majesty King Charles III, 63 years since the LCLR became the first heritage railway in the world to be built by enthusiasts on a greenfield site”.

One of the steam locomotives will be the 0-6-0 saddle tank Jurassic, which was built in 1903 by Peckett & Sons Ltd of Bristol for Kaye and Company’s quarries, at Southam in Warwickshire.

It was sold in 1961 to the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway for use on its original line at North Sea Lane at Humberston, south of Cleethorpes where it hauled train holidaymakers from the local bus terminus to the nearby beach, holiday camps, and later, to a popular Sunday Market.

When the line at Humberston closed in 1985, Jurassic moved to the Skegness Water Leisure Park, where the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway reopened in 2009.

With the help of a £43,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, It was overhauled and returned to service in 2017.

Further information about Jurassic and its siblings can be found on the website of the Southam Heritage Centre at https://www.southamheritage.org/2016/07/12/jurassic-the-last-surviving-quarry-engine/

7th March 2023

Coffee and questions for passengers at March station​

Greater Anglia is inviting passengers to ask rail managers and transport representatives questions about services and improvements – and enjoy a free cuppa – during a ‘Let’s Talk’ event at March station.

Passengers using Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway and Cross Country services in and out of March, will be able to attend the event on Wednesday 15 March 2023 from 8am until 12 noon.

Managers will be available to answer passengers’ questions and listen to feedback and comments – which will help them to help continually improve the service in line with customers’ priorities.

At the same time, the Hereward Community Rail Partnership (CRP) will hold its first ever coffee morning in the station’s booking hall.

Everyone is welcome and the event is also intended to provide a warm space for local people with free hot drinks and snacks provided.

Over the last two years, Greater Anglia has redeveloped the station to create an open-plan ticket hall and waiting area, with accessible modern toilet facilities and retail outlets on platform 1, and a bigger, upgraded car park.

The major redevelopment was delivered through Fenland District Council’s Railway Station Masterplans project, as part of a £9.5million package of funding from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, chaired by Mayor Dr Nik Johnson, and support from Greater Anglia.

The Masterplans project is delivering improvements to passenger facilities at the three Fenland stations – Manea, March and Whittlesea – along the Ely to Peterborough Hereward Line, to improve connections between the Fenland towns and other regional centres of education and employment, creating an attractive alternative to the car for more sustainable journeys.

Greater Anglia also worked with the Bee Friendly Trust and station adoption volunteers to install hundreds of bee friendly flowers, shrubs and trees to create green areas in the new car park.

Beverly Bishop, Hereward Line CRP Officer, said,

“Now that the station redevelopment is complete, we have a lovely large booking hall where we are able to host community events for the first time. We are hoping to encourage not only rail passengers, but also people from the community to come along and enjoy a free hot drink, cake and biscuits and a chat.

“Everyone is welcome and we’d love to see people who haven’t yet visited the transformed station or travelled on a train in a while as we can help with lots of practical advice to build confidence and ideas for where to visit.

“It’s really exciting to be holding our first coffee morning and we aim to make it an inclusive event, open to all and a space where people can get warm, chat to others and find out about active, sustainable travel.”

The Friends of March station, a volunteer group which helps to look after the station and which, over the last few years has carried out fundraising and work to restore the old station room interiors, including opening a permanent model railway room in one of them, will open the community rooms to visitors from 8am until 12pm.

Hereward CRP, which is managed by Fenland District Council in partnership with train operators, railway user groups, station adoption groups and local residents who all look after the Hereward Line in Fenland, is currently running a survey to find out people’s views about the recent redevelopment of March station, which has seen the buildings’ interiors completely remodelled and a new and extended car park created.

Those who cannot make the event but would like to contribute to the survey can do so online here.

Cllr Chris Seaton, Fenland District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Transport and Chairman of the March Station Project Board, added:

“We’d love to hear what people think to the redevelopment of the station, which was delivered through our Railway Station Masterplans Project, and also how facilities can be further improved in future.

“It’s also a chance to find out more about the Hereward Community Rail Partnership which champions improvements to the Hereward Line, and at its stations at March, Manea and Whittlesey, and engages communities to help them get the most out of their railway.”

Martin Moran, Greater Anglia’s Commercial, Customer Service and Train Presentation Director, said,

“It’s really important to us to hear from passengers about what matters to them and answer any questions they may have.

“We are keen to listen and understand people’s experiences so that we can work to continually improve our service and meet customers’ expectations and needs.”

7th March 2023

Tube and national rail workers to strike next week affecting travel in London​

Customers are being advised to check before they travel as planned strike action by the RMT and ASLEF unions is expected to impact Tube services next week.

TfL is advising passengers to visit its website for the latest information.

On Wednesday 15 March, RMT and ASLEF union members are planning to strike on the Tube network, in a dispute over jobs, pensions and working conditions.

There will be very little or no service expected on the Tube if this action goes ahead.

Elizabeth line and London Overground services will be much busier than normal and queuing systems may be in place.

These services, as well as the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and London Trams, are expected to run as normal but the closure of Tube stations may mean some services will be unable to stop at all stations or run to their normal destination.

Buses will run as normal but also may be busier than usual.

On the morning of Thursday 16 March, Tube services are expected to start much later than normal due to the previous day’s strike.

On Thursday 16 March, RMT union members are planning to strike on the national rail network.

While this industrial action does not involve TfL staff, disruption is expected on parts of the District and Bakerloo lines, London Overground and the Elizabeth line as these lines all share some sections of track with Network Rail.

Most other Transport for London (TfL) services will run as usual.

On the morning of Friday 17 March, TfL services are expected to start much later than normal due to the previous day’s strike.

On Saturday 18 March, RMT members from fourteen train operating companies are planning to strike, which is expected to make TfL services busier than normal.

Glynn Barton, TfL’s Chief Operating Officer, said:

“ASLEF and the RMT are planning strike action on the London Underground on Wednesday 15 March. Strikes are bad news for everyone and we are encouraging them to withdraw this action and continue to engage with us to avoid disruption to our customers.

“Our advice for our customers is clear; please check before you travel as strike action impacts varying services throughout the week. Expect services to be busy and please allow extra time to complete your journeys.”

This action on London Underground comes following the Government’s mandated review into TfL’s pensions scheme and despite the fact that no proposals have been tabled on pensions. 

If any proposal is made in the future this would require appropriate consultation and extensive further work.

RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch said:

“Our members will never accept job losses, attacks on their pensions or changes to working conditions in order to pay for a funding cut which is the government’s political decision.

“Tube workers provide an essential service to the capital, making sure the city can keep moving and work long hours in demanding roles. “In return they deserve decent pensions, job security and good working conditions and RMT will fight and tooth nail to make sure that’s what they get.”

Transport for London counters that it:

“has proposed not recruiting into around 500 to 600 posts as they become vacant – including 250 currently unfilled Tube station posts. London Underground stations will remain staffed at all times while trains are operating, with more than 4,500 station staff available across the network to assist customers and keep them safe, supplemented by enforcement teams and police. This will bring staffing levels in line with customer need while protecting as many jobs as possible. TfL is urging the RMT to work with it to find a resolution and avoid the disruption and damage another strike will cause to London and the economy”

Travel Advice

Wednesday 15 March (London Underground strikes)

Strikes are taking place which will impact Tube services. TfL is advising customers to avoid travelling on the Tube as limited or no service is expected.

 All other services on the TfL network will operate a normal service. Customers should check before they travel.

Thursday 16 March morning (impacted by previous day’s strikes)

Disruption from the previous day’s strikes will continue to affect customers into the morning of Thursday 16 March, with affected Tube services starting later than normal.

Customers are encouraged to check before they travel.

Thursday 16 March all day (national rail strikes)

National rail strikes are taking place.

The majority of TfL’s services, including most of the Tube, will continue to run.

However, some disruption to Bakerloo and District Underground lines, London Overground and Elizabeth line services is expected.

There will be a reduced service on the London Overground.

There will be very limited services on the District line between Turnham Green and Richmond.

No service is expected on this route and between Parsons Green and Wimbledon after 18:30.

There will be no service on the Bakerloo line north of Queen’s Park, however reduced London Overground services continue to operate between Euston and Watford Junction providing alternative routes for customers.

A reduced service is expected across the London Overground network with services only operating between 07:30 and 18:30. No Romford to Upminster service will operate.

A reduced service will operate on the Elizabeth line.

The central section will run a normal service (between Paddington – Liverpool Street – Abbey Wood) until 17:00, then a reduced service after 17:00 until the end of service.

The east section will provide a very limited number of services between Liverpool Street and Shenfield.

Trains will terminate at Liverpool Street mainline station. 

The west section will also run a very limited number of services between Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 4 and Reading.

There will be no service to Heathrow Terminal 5. Trains will terminate at Paddington mainline station.

Friday 17 March morning (impacted by previous day’s strikes)

Disruption from the previous day’s strikes will continue to affect customers into the morning of Friday 17 March, with affected Tube, Overground, Elizabeth line and national rail services not operating before 08:00.

Customers are encouraged to check before they travel.

Services will run on the Elizabeth line connecting Reading and Heathrow with central London through to Abbey Wood and from Shenfield through to Paddington.

This will be the start of regular Sunday services between Paddington and Abbey Wood.

Saturday 18 March (Rail operators strike)

Strikes are expected to take place impacting 14 train operators across the country.

This could mean TfL services are busier than normal and customers should check before they travel and allow extra time for any journeys.

7th March 2023

Disadvantaged families in Essex treated to a day out by train​

Families in Essex have been treated to a free day out thanks to The Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership and train operator Greater Anglia who have teamed up with the Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service.

On Wednesday, 15th February, a special train carrying 50 adults and children travelled from Walton-on-the-Naze to Colchester Town.

On board a magician provided entertainment that was funded by the Path to Prosperity Project, goodie bags were handed out, and after arrival in Colchester, the group were treated to refreshments and crafts at Community 360’s One Colchester Community Hub.

By supporting local projects that have been developed in partnership with community groups, businesses and Greater Anglia, the Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership (ESSCRP) is encouraging sustainable active travel for all and is working to encourage and promote the use of six railway branch lines in Essex.

At last year’s Community Rail Awards, the Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership (CRP) received the award for ‘Outstanding contribution to Community Rail’ for the many activities that they run across six Essex rail branch lines and which benefit communities in the county.

Jayne Sumner, Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership’s Rail Engagement Manager, said,

“We were really happy to work with the Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service to facilitate a day out for families in Essex to help improve social inclusion in our community and promote the ease and value of rail travel for a fun family day out.”

Vicky Beales, Community Engagement Worker for the Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service, said,

“It was great to work in partnership with the Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership to be able to provide a fun family day out. This day out allowed families to travel to a different area of the county and explore the free museums and facilities on offer.”

Alan Neville, Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Engagement Manager, said,

“We were pleased to support this event which has delivered benefits to disadvantaged families on our network.

“We’re very grateful to the Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership for the great work they are doing to promote social inclusion and sustainable travel, a key way that the railway in East Anglia can deliver social value back to the communities we serve.”