GB Railfreight and Porterbrook have unveiled a specially repainted locomotive with blue and white colours for the NHS.
The unveiling was timed to be part of the weekly celebrations to thank frontline workers in our health and social care sector.
GB Railfreight decided to mark the fifth, now weekly ‘clap,' by repainting one of its freight locomotives and unveiling it at 8 pm just as millions of people join in to thank the frontline workers.
The repainting of 66731 was co-funded by the locomotive's owner Porterbrook.
Arlington Fleet Services, Eastleigh undertook the painting.
GBRf staff joined in with the clapping as the newly decorated locomotive was unveiled.
GBRf train services are playing an important role in ensuring the continuation of supplies and trains are running from ports such as London Gateway, Southampton, Felixstowe and Teesport.
What did the officials say?
John Smith, Managing Director of GB Railfreight, said:
“Thank you to all NHS staff and carers across the country for the hard work you have been doing to keep us safe. Across the UK you are seeing week in, week out, an outpouring of love and affection of our frontline staff and we are taking a minute today to say our thanks on behalf of GB Railfreight and the rail industry.
“The unveiling of this locomotive is our way of saying thanks for all you are doing. We are inspired by you and wanted to say thank you in the usual GBRf way, by painting one of our regular Class 66 which will be travelling the lengths and breadths of the country to keep our economy moving during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Now it will also carry our message of thanks to all our carers.”
Mary Grant, Porterbrook CEO, said:
“We are delighted to support GB Railfreight in thanking NHS staff and carers for all that they do at this unprecedented time in our nation's life. Porterbrook is also hugely grateful to all the front-line railway staff, including John's team, who are the unsung heroes in keeping Britain's economy moving.”
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Other rail freight companies should also do the same to their freight locomotives. Bravo GB Railfreight 👏👏
Another vanity project using money that could have been donated to the NHS.
I agree 120% with your comments.
Brilliant effort from GB Railfreight.