A young boy from Worcestershire saw his dream come true when he was treated to a VIP reception at the Severn Valley Railway during the autumn half-term holiday.
Eight-year-old Corey Clark from Stourport was the guest of some of the heritage railway's volunteers, who had learnt about his fundraising work for the Food Share Wyre Forest Project, including a 10-mile sponsored walk when he raised £920.
Corey has ADHD and autism, and earlier this year he received a Thomas and Friends International Friendship Day Award in recognition of his fundraising work.
Two of the Severn Valley Railway's young volunteers Amy Baker and Tom Eades gave Corey and his family a guided tour of Kidderminster station. Corey had a look inside the cab of a heritage diesel, stepped onto the footplate of a steam locomotive, and visited the signal box to see how this important part of the railway works.
Volunteer Amy Baker said: “We were really impressed when we heard what Corey has done to help his community, and we knew that he's completely fascinated with everything to do with railways. So, we thought this would be a really nice way of celebrating his achievement.”
Corey's mother, Sara, said: “Corey's going to be talking about today for years to come. He's already said he'd like to work for a railway when he grows up, and I know he'd love to volunteer as a junior for the SVR when he's old enough.
“The Severn Valley is 100% a great place for kids. It's so family-orientated, and everyone's polite and kind. Just look at the smile on his face – it says everything doesn't it?”
The railway is now getting ready for its Christmas season with its special events, which includes Santa trains from Kidderminster, and Steam in Lights and Enchanted Express trains that depart from Bridgnorth. Further information about the railway's special events and booking details can be found at svr.co.uk or by phoning 01562 757900.
