"Thank you SWR for going the extra mile" - SWR helps local school with new camera

South Western Railway’s (SWR) Community Ambassadors helped local children from Woodlands Primary school buy a new camera following a recent ‘Try the Train’ trip.

Ambassadors Graeme Heath and Sheree Whetren gave pupils a tour of their local station in Salisbury and, for many, their first train ride. They were shown how to buy tickets, where they could get service information, as well as how to keep themselves safe at stations and on board trains.

During the trip, one of the school’s member of staff lost their camera, and despite the best efforts of the Ambassadors, it was never recovered. They spoke with other members of the team, and Managing Director, Andy Mellors, stepped in to arrange for SWR to buy the school a brand-new camera.

Recently, the Ambassadors returned to Woodlands Primary School and presented the new camera during morning assembly, to the delight of children and teachers.

Matthew Kitley, Woodlands Primary School's Head Teacher, said;

"Thank you so much to Graeme and Sheree for the fantastic day, the children had a fun experience. I would also like to personally thank SWR for buying and replacing our lost camera, it was extremely kind and very much appreciated. 

"We look forward to arranging more exciting school visits using the train. Thank you SWR for going the extra mile."

Andy Mellors, SWR’s Managing Director said: 

"I’m exceptionally proud of our Community Ambassadors in helping people develop their confidence to travel by rail. Over the last 15 months, volunteers have delivered more than 40 trips for youngsters, older groups, those with disabilities and accessibility needs, disadvantaged youngsters and even trainee guide dogs.

"I hope they can use their new camera to take many photos of their journeys with us in the future."