Four individuals supported by a Community Support Service from Witney in Oxfordshire and two staff members recently had the thrill of a lifetime when they visited Didcot Railway Centre to see the legendary Flying Scotsman.

A dedicated trainspotting group meets at Witney Community Support Service every Wednesday morning, and with two passionate staff members, they arrange visits to railway stations, both in Oxfordshire and elsewhere.

This shared love of railways gave rise to their unforgettable experience when they heard that a special ‘Steam Day’ was being held at Didcot Railway Centre.

As a bonus, the Steam Day was to feature the legendary Flying Scotsman and the equally impressive Pendennis Castle, both of which have travelled the World, including to Australia.

The group decided that this was an opportunity not to be missed, and with the generous support of the Friends of Witney Community Support Service, as well as attending the Steam Day, they also got to ride on the iconic Flying Scotsman

The group’s experience shows how the power of community and shared interests helps those supported by Witney Community Support Service, and how it creates meaningful opportunities for those it supports.

Two of those attending the day out were John Marlin, who thought “It was really good, and I liked travelling on the Flying Scotsman,” and Mark Walker, who said “Can we go again?”, whilst Adult Social Services support worker, Dean Farrell, reflected on the day as being: “Absolutely fantastic, I loved it. It was a very memorable visit.”

Elsewhere in the country, train operators are often involved with community organisations, such as Greater Anglia where its Customer and Community Improvement Fund has funded a shuttle bus to transport train passengers to the Welney Wetland Centre.

“This is exactly the kind of joyful, inclusive experience that makes Oxfordshire’s community so special. It’s wonderful to see people supported by Witney Community Support Service having the opportunity to pursue their passions and create lasting memories.”

Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care