Brownies get first class rail safety message thanks to the Hereward Community Rail Partnership

The trip was organised by the Hereward Community Rail Partnership (CRP), which works to engage local communities along the Fens' Hereward Line, as part of an ongoing initiative to promote rail safety and build confidence in rail travel.

Above: 4^th March Brownies receive goodie bags at March Station following their rail safety visit organised by the Hereward Community Rail Partnership.

During the visit on Thursday (26 September), the Brownies learned valuable lessons on how to stay safe around railway lines, the importance of understanding warning signs, and how to behave responsibly when using trains. They also had the chance to explore the station and learned about its accessibility features.

A special highlight of the trip was a visit from the British Transport Police (BTP), who provided the girls with a fantastic insight into their vital role in ensuring the safety and security of the railway network. They also had a look inside a BTP police van, providing a hands-on learning experience that captured their imaginations.

Above: The British Transport Police deliver a safety talk to the Brownies.

The visit concluded with the Brownies receiving Hereward CRP goodie bags, packed with East Midlands Railway safety activity books, Greater Anglia activity books, colouring pencils, maps and brochures of attractions along the Hereward Line.

This trip is the latest in a series of rail safety and 'Try a Train' events hosted by the Hereward CRP, offering accessible and educational opportunities for groups to learn about the railway.

The events are aimed at boosting confidence in travelling by train, particularly for younger or first-time travellers, and those with additional needs, promoting social inclusion and addressing any rail safety concerns.

Above: Hereward Community Rail Partnership officers talk to the Brownies about the importance of warning signs near railway crossings.

Cllr Chris Seaton, Chairman of the Hereward CRP and Portfolio Holder for Transport at Fenland District Council, said: "Helping people understand the importance of rail safety while showing them the ease and benefits of travelling by train is at the heart of these trips. We are passionate about making the railways accessible to all, and these trips are a brilliant way we can do this."

CRP officer Joanne Rose added: "The 4^th March Brownies were full of enthusiasm, and it was great to see their confidence grow as they learned about the railway. The chance to meet the British Transport Police was a fantastic bonus, and the girls were excited to see first-hand the important work they do."

• The Hereward CRP is managed by Fenland District Council in partnership with train operators, railway user groups, station adoption groups and local residents who help look after the Hereward Line and its five stations (Peterborough, Whittlesea, March, Manea and Ely).
• For more information, visit Hereward Community Rail Partnership

Keep up-to-date with Fenland District Council via Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and our newsletter The Fenlander Newsletter.

October 2024