​GTR and local communities join forces to spread Christmas cheer

Govia Thameslink Railway and local station communities have been getting into the Christmas spirit.

Among those spreading the festive cheer were local children from Georgian Gardens Community Primary School who decorated Angmering station’s Christmas tree. The colourful and creative tree was only matched by the young helpers’ festive headwear.

The Runaway Café at Lewes station also raised spirits, hosting the Mayor’s Soup Kitchen, organised by the Sussex community Rail Partnership.

At East Grinstead station, youth social services organisation Jigsaw South East entertained station users with carols, fundraising for the charity that supports children who have lost a loved one.

Sophie Bewley, Fundraising and Volunteer Co-ordinator at Jigsaw South East, said: “Our young carol singers were wonderful greeting the commuters with their carols, and thanks to the generosity of the commuters we raised an incredible £200, which will help us to continue to support local bereaved children and young people in 2019. Thank you again for such a great opportunity and we hope to be back again next year!”

East Grinstead in Bloom, a residents’ organisation aiming to improve the local environment, were also out spreading festive cheer and fundraising with carols at East Grinstead station, as were the local town council at Elstree & Borehamwood station.

St Albans station brass band joined in the fundraising festivities. St Albans Station Manager Harsitt Chandak said: “The event went very well. The brass band were appreciated by our passengers and passers-by.”