Merseyrail has reported an approximate increase of 24% in journeys made when compared to the same period in 2022 with an extra 90,000 trips made with the rail operator whilst Liverpool hosted Eurovision.
Special strategies were put in place to facilitate the increase in passengers, including late-night services to support the two busiest nights with trains running into the early hours following the Grand Final.
Merseyrail took the Eurovision spirit to heart and saw one of its trains wrapped alongside public information announcements recorded by the event's celebrity hosts. Entertainment was also provided at city centre stations, including an Abba tribute act and the rail operator even created its own song titled ‘Train of Love' with a video featuring staff and passengers.
Initiatives to aid Ukraine were also supported with dedicated spaces providing opportunities for buskers from Ukraine to perform, and an opportunity for members of the public to make donations to the non-profit organisation Supplies for Ukraine which provides lifesaving and essential equipment to both civilians and volunteers on the front lines of Ukraine.
Special exhibitions featuring photography and poetry called ‘Home' were also featured at stations with the aim of connecting residents and visitors with the lives of Ukrainian people as Russia continues its invasion.
Jane English, acting Managing Director of Merseyrail, said:
“All of our staff have worked so hard in the last few months to ensure that we were able to provide the best possible service for all passengers; Eurovision fans, tourists, commuters and everyone in the city region.”
“The passenger numbers that we moved are huge, and a real testament to the hard work that everyone at Merseyrail has done. I'm incredibly proud of our staff.”
“It wasn't just about transport–we were also able to give people a great, fun experience thanks to the entertainment that we hosted at stations. It was important for Merseyrail, one of the highest-profile companies in the Liverpool City Region, to support the Eurovision event as a whole. I'm delighted that we played our part so well.”
“And thanks to the generosity of our passengers, we were able to raise vital funds for Ukraine. Helping people in need is what this region does best.”
“We have another huge event soon when The Open Championship is hosted by Royal Liverpool Golf Club. Merseyrail staff are already working hard on preparations to ensure that another massive event is supported by our top-class train service.”
Merseyrail should start introducing the Class 777s on other services and to say farewell to the Class 507 and Class 508.