Northern has announced that it is bringing Christmas cheer to its rail network with the re-naming of four stations.
Barnsleigh Interchange, Blackpool North Pole, Hartleyule and Ho Ho Holmes Chapel made their debuts on the railway this week thanks to a bit of festive spirit.
Customers at Blackpool North Pole and Barnsleigh Interchange were also treated to a free hot chocolate.
The new names reflected donations made by Northern to charities in the local communities.
Hartlepool Foodbank was chosen as Northern's Christmas charities in the town and staff were visited by Santa's helpers who handed over the donation.
The foodbank provides three days' nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people.
Donna's Dream House in Blackpool was chosen as Northern's Christmas charity in the town. The charity is a locally based trust, providing free holiday experiences for children and teenagers with life-threatening illnesses.
Barnsley Hospice was chosen as Northern's Christmas charities in the town. Barnsley Hospice provides specialist compassionate care to hundreds of local people every year from all over Barnsley.
What did the officials say?
Anna Weeks, Regional Director at Northern said:
“Christmas is a great time of the year – and there really is no better time to give something back to the communities we serve and are part of.
“Hartlepool Foodbank helps some of the most vulnerable people in society and provides vital nutrition. I'm delighted we have been able to support their efforts.”
Lisa Lavender, Deputy Coordinator at Hartlepool Food Bank, said:
“We are so thrilled to be receiving this donation as nominated by Northern staff at Hartlepool Station. We look after families in the local area in times of crisis by providing food and other support and services. This donation will help us to continue our valuable work for people in need.”
Chris Jackson, Regional Director at Northern said:
“Christmas is a great time of the year – and there really is no better time to give something back to the communities we serve and are part of.
“Donna's Dream House does fantastic work in giving memorable holidays to extremely ill young people and I'm delighted we have been able to support their efforts.”
Donna's Dream House Chairman of Trustees, Len Curtis MBE, said:
“We are delighted that Northern staff at Blackpool North station have nominated us to receive this helpful donation. Donna's Dream House enables a great deal of terminally ill children to enjoy a holiday in the local area. The proceeds from this donation will help us improve our facilities to ensure we continue to provide a pleasurable experience.”
Steve Hopkinson, Regional Director at Northern said:
“Christmas is a great time of the year, but it is important that we take the time to give something back to the communities that we serve and are part of.
“Barnsley Hospice provides vital care when it is needed most and makes a significant difference to people's live in the local community. I'm delighted we have been able to support their efforts.”
Sam Silverwood, Corporate Fundraiser at Barnsley Hospice said:
“We would like to say a massive thank you to the Northern staff at Barnsley Interchange who have chosen to donate this money to Barnsley Hospice. The hospice has been a big part of the community for over 25 years and Northern's kind donation will help us to continue to support those in need in the local area.”
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Doesn’t help when you don’t live in the area, and don’t know this and miss the stop and travel on to Wakefield, have to fork out for a taxi to get to an important meeting half an hour late. Think of your customers before changing station names!
Northern should introduce the Class 195 to Hartlepool as well to other destinations in the Northeast of England.