Marston Vale line trains adorned with decorative artwork

Trains operating on the Marston Vale Line between Bletchley and Bedford have been given a makeover with the outside of two of the line’s trains adorned with special vinyl artwork.

The vinyl artwork celebrates the line’s 175th anniversary and promotes Greensand Country, which is an area of special landscape character through which the line runs. They were designed by Click Creative Ltd. and installed by Stewart Signs Ltd., and will be displayed on the trains for the next twelve months.

The vinyls were launched at an event at Bletchley Station, and were funded by the Department for Transport Community Rail Development Fund (administered by Community Rail Network), Greensand Country Landscape Partnership, East Midlands Railway, and Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership (CRP).

Stephen Sleight, Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership Officer, said

“I’m delighted Marston Vale CRP is one of the first in the country to design vinyls for the trains operating on its line. We are very proud of our former London Underground trains and these new liveries, with their eye-catching design really help to provide further local identity and a sense of place. My thanks to all those who have funded the project and Abellio Group for their role in co-ordination”.

Tim Bellenger, London Northwestern Railway Head of Stakeholder & Community, said

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“We are pleased to support this project, which marks a significant milestone for the Marston Vale Line. Community Rail has a key role to play in attracting passengers to enjoy the beautiful countryside across our network as life begins to return to normal after the pandemic.”

David Hopkins, Greensand Country Landscape Partnership Board Member added

“We are proud to have been involved in this train wrap; which depicts the view from Ampthill Great Park across Greensand Country. We’re very pleased that for the next 12 months everyone travelling on these trains will be able to experience just a snapshot of the wonderful landscape”.

Paul Webster, Community Rail Network Support and Development Manager said

“Using the railway network to visit Britain’s stunning scenic landscapes, discover historic sites, and to connect with walking and cycling activities is such a great and sustainable way to travel.

“Through the Community Rail Development Fund we are pleased to support this innovative way to share this message and inspire more people to take the train through Greensand Country and stop off at the stations along the Marston Vale line in this special 175th anniversary year .”

Donna Adams, East Midlands Railway Community Engagement Manager, added

“We were delighted that EMR’s Community Development Fund has been able to support this project and the Community Rail Partnership. It’s important to mark this anniversary so that we can continue to connect the communities to the railway. Additionally sharing the history, as well as promoting all the hidden gems along the route for all to enjoy.”