Thomas

Having Thomas the tank engine visit us is always fraught with potential problems and this year was no exception. Volunteers will be aware of the technical problems with the engine itself but this was the tip of the iceberg. We also had problems in a wide number of other areas which really tested the new organisers almost to destruction. But they came through with flying colours and the event itself was a great success. We had 2460 visitors over the two days which was about 10% up on the same weekend last year so many thanks to all who helped in any way.
Colin Fewell

The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service

We are delighted to announce that the volunteer group of the GWR has been granted The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

The Award is the highest given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise outstanding work in their local communities. It recognises volunteering work that is of social, economic or environmental service to the local community and is supported, recognised and respected by the people who benefit from it.

Our continuing great success in running one of the largest heritage railways in the country almost entirely with volunteers has won us many awards and accolades but this is definitely the most prestigious of all! The Railway will receive a certificate signed by The Queen and an English Crystal with the logo insignia for display. The Railway will be allowed to display the Queen's Award logo on its publications.

The presentation of the award will be made at Toddington on the 14^th September by Dame Janet Trotter DBE, the Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire on behalf of the Queen. Details of the arrangements for the day will be issued later but please make a note of the date in your diary!

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service was created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and winners are announced each year on 2 June – the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation. In the whole country, 187 charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups are to receive the award this year. However, in Gloucestershire, we are one of only three to be successfully nominated.

This Award is very, very special as it acknowledges the contribution of all of our working members past and present over the last 35 years. This is something we can all be very proud of.

Alan Bielby                                          Glyn Cornish
Chairman, GWSR, Plc                       Chairman, GWRT