In celebration of Railway 200, nearly 160 people took part in a flashmob at Guildhall Square in Portsmouth.

The flashmob, called ‘A Ride Through Time’, was coordinated by the City of Portsmouth College with people from special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) organisations.

Dancers created the story of Great Western Railway (GWR) history and featured a cameo of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, GWR’s founder.

The group’s ages ranged from 14 to 69, and they practised for two months before captivating onlookers with their moves.

GWR supported the group through their Customer and Community Improvement Fund.

Sarah Hume, City of Portsmouth College’s SEND Transitional Coach, created the idea and brought together other SEND organisations, including Mary Rose Academies and Redwood Park.

“It’s been incredible to bring so many people together from across the Portsmouth area to both celebrate 200 years of the railway and allow the students a chance to shine while they take part in something on such a huge scale. Many of the students have a love of the railway, so this is a dream come true for them to be involved in this celebration.

“This has been an invaluable opportunity for the students, helping them to develop practical and social skills that prepare them for life after education.

“We’re so grateful to Great Western Railway for giving us the opportunity to showcase 200 years of the modern railway in this way, as well as celebrating the railway today and all the fantastic opportunities it has to offer.

“Today has just been brilliant and it’s given everyone involved an experience they’ll never forget.”

Sarah Hume, City of Portsmouth College’s SEND Transitional Coach