In the past school year, almost 1,000 children have experienced a trip to London, many for the first time, thanks to a partnership between Hull Trains and a local charity.
The train operator has worked with Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University (HCU) for over 10 years. In the past year, 36 groups including 991 children and 256 adults have boarded Hull Train’s services to the capital.
HCU promotes a range of learning activities for children including its London Experience which helps youngsters to understand the world that exists outside their community and to build their aspirations and confidence.
Hull Trains is a long-time supporter of the charity and has been delighted to help children from a range of local schools travel to and from London to see first-hand many of the well-known London landmarks.
Rose James, HCU director of development, said: “Hull Trains have supported our charity now for almost a decade in various ways, including helping children travel safely to and from London and fundraising activities outside of working hours. For many of these children, it is their first time ever seeing the Humber Bridge as they leave their city for the first time in their lives.
“Not every child gets to visit London, so having that opportunity can spark a whole new set of dreams. The Hull Trains staff always go above and beyond to help our charity, from the initial booking process right through until we have arrived safely back in Hull. We are extremely grateful for their support; it genuinely helps us to create dreams for more local children.”
Hull Trains head of commercial Tom McFall said: “The value and experiences that HCU brings to the lives of local children and families are huge. It is a very well deserving local charity that we are proud to be associated with and we can’t wait to welcome more children on board with trips to the capital over the coming months.”
