Santa leaves sleigh behind to go by train

Santa will once again surprise Plymouth’s children on board specially decorated trains in the lead up to Christmas.

Leaving the reindeer aside Father Christmas will climb on board two Sunday special Great Western Railway trains operating between Plymouth and Totnes, providing local children with the chance to share their Christmas wish list and offering a special Christmas gift to each.

Great Western Railway General Manager, David Crome said: “This event has proved to be very popular over the last couple of years and demand is expected to be very high. To see Santa and the elves, and avoid disappointment, advance bookings are essential.”

The two festive return services depart from Plymouth at 13:09 and 14:43 on Sunday 6 and 13 December 2015 and everyone will have the opportunity to tell Santa what is on their Christmas wish list during the journey.

Great Western Railway has donated over £7,200 to South West children’s charities from previous Santa Specials and this year’s nominated charities are the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust and Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Emily Severn, Fundraising Manager at the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust said: “Everyone at Hannahs is delighted that Great Western Railway has selected us as one of the charities to benefit from their Santa Specials service. We can’t wait to be involved in the magical festivities, perfect for young and old who love trains! As always the funds raised will help us to support the children and young adults with disabilities that rely on Hannahs.”

Pam Gratton, Community Fundraiser said: “To help us continue our life-changing work, we rely on donations from individuals – the guide dog service does not receive any government funding and we are extremely grateful to Great Western Railway here in Plymouth for their support of the charity.

“There are almost two million people in the UK living with sight loss today, a number which is predicted to double to four million by 2050: This is why we need the support of the public to reach as many people who are blind or partially sighted as possible.”

Tickets went on sale on Saturday 8 November from Plymouth Station Booking Office. Return trips cost £8.00 per adult; £5.00 per child; £1 for children under 1 year-old; or £24.00 for a family of four. Gifts from Santa are free.