RSS delivers Pacer unit to school

A full-size railway train arrived on time at the Dales School, Blyth, Northumberland thanks to Railway Support Services (RSS), which delivered the two-car ‘Pacer’ multiple-unit to its new home.

The two-car Pacer, which has had its engine and transmission removed, will be used as a library and learning centre with a special focus on railway safety and to inspire career aspirations, using a train driving simulator to make learning engaging and fun.

It was donated by Porterbrook, the rolling stock owner and asset manager and placed on a short length of track donated and installed by Network Rail.

RSS provided road transport for the Northern Rail-liveried unit at a discounted rate and the vehicles were delivered from Worksop on 19th July.

The Dales is a specialist primary school based on two sites, the other is at Ashington. It provides education for children with a variety of additional needs that may not otherwise be met in a mainstream school setting.

Dr Sue Fisher, headteacher at The Dales commented: “This is a dream come true for our children. The train will provide children with engaging learning opportunities and offer those with additional needs a chance to learn new travel skills, develop career aspirations and a lifelong love of reading.”

Andrew Goodman, managing director of RSS, said: “Transport of the two-car Pacer unit was straightforward for us as we have delivered many railway vehicles and locomotives by road transport over recent years. However because of site constraints, the coaches were unloaded onto a temporary length of track and then slewed into their present position.

“We were thrilled to be involved with this imaginative project which sees redundant rail vehicles given a new lease of life, to help and inspire youngsters.

“We have taken a few of them for further use elsewhere. Much-maligned in service they lasted three times longer than designed and now seem to be finding several new uses from classrooms to service on heritage railways.”

The delivery of the train was excitedly greeted by children, parents and staff and was covered by local television. Each unit is 17m long and weighs 19 tonnes.

Photo credit: RSS

Download article