‘National Network, Local Service’ day a success

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Kendal Mint Cake, Eccles Cakes, and Morecambe Rock were just a few of the homegrown favourites that rail passengers up and down the country were treated to at the weekend.

Residents and visitors making journeys on England’s local rail routes on Saturday were offered the chance to sample some of the best the area has to offer, on rail lines that prosper thanks to the efforts of local people.

The ‘National Network, Local Service’ day of action saw volunteers and officers from numerous Community Rail Partnerships (CRPs) out on their lines promoting local specialties to passengers, including crafts and storytelling as well as edible fare. The nationwide event was organised jointly by the national Association of Community Rail Partnerships (ACORP) and the Community Rail team at the Department for Transport and supported by the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC).

A range of special events took place around the country, including Bedfordshire Clangers given away on the Marston Vale Community Rail line, Kendal Mint Cake in the Lake District, storytelling and treats for children travelling from Manchester by the Friends of Glossop Station, Cheshire Apple Juice at Knutsford Station, Morecombe Rock on the Carnforth Line, and Eccles Cakes at Eccles Station.

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Storytelling for children travelling from Manchester by the Friends of Glossop Station

First set up in the mid-1990s, CRPs comprise rail operators, the voluntary sector and local authorities in an area and work to ensure that the important role of local rail is fully recognised.

Brian Barnsley, Operations Manager at ACoRP, said: “’National Network, Local Service’ was all about letting people know that local community railways are alive and well, with many showing solid growth despite the economic downturn.

“More and more people are recognising the benefits and appeal of local rail lines – speed, reliability and good value for money ­– and increasing numbers are choosing the train to get to work, out and about, or go on holiday.

“Lines with Community Rail Partnerships play a key role in supporting local businesses along the routes, and flying the flag for homegrown attractions. We hope this event has helped spread the word even further.”

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