Tots learn about rail safety on special Flitwick to Bedford trip

Pint-sized passengers have been learning about rail safety with Thameslink.

Flitwick Pre-school tots took part in a ‘Try a Train’ day, which included meeting rail engineers, British Transport Police and station staff. The children, aged two to four, particularly enjoyed trying on an engineer’s hat and hi vis jacket. They were also given the opportunity to ask for a ticket before travelling to Bedford.

Following their arrival at Bedford, the youngsters crafted a ‘Merry Christmas’ frieze while listening to rail safety advice and singing Christmas carols. They were also given the chance to make station announcements.

Bedford and Flitwick Station Manager Bernadette Lee said: "It was our absolute pleasure to host the children, teachers and parents. What a delightful group. Once again, thank you to all staff who assisted in making it a great success.”

The trip was organised by Andy Buckley, who is the Bedford to St Albans Community Rail Partnership (CRP) Officer, and volunteer Eloise Rowan, who is a Great Northern Passenger Host. Andy said: “I'm grateful to all the staff and parents who joined in to make this a memorable visit for the children. We had enthusiastic help from Thameslink and Network Rail staff, which made this visit possible. I'd also like to thank everyone involved. I know from the feedback that the children really enjoyed themselves and I suspect the staff did too."

Senior Early Years Practitioner Lorraine Palmer, of Flitwick Pre-school, said: “The staff, parents and children of Flitwick Pre-school would like to say a massive thank you to Andy, Bernadette and all the staff who helped to make this afternoon a fantastic experience for all of us. The trip surpassed our expectations. Thameslink covered the cost of the rail tickets which as a charity run pre-school was invaluable.”

The Bedford to St Albans CRP was set up earlier this year to encourage people to get involved in their local railway. 

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Note to editors

For more information on the CRP, please visit https://www.thameslinkrailway.com/about-us/corporate-and-social-responsibility/communities/bedford-to-st-albans-crp

You can also follow all the CRP’s activities on the Bedford to St Albans City Community Rail Partnership Facebook page.