Flying Scotsman adventure for Witney Community Support Service trainspotters
Oxfordshire County Council’s Witney Community Support Service (CSS) is celebrating a heartwarming success story that brought excitement and steam-powered wonder to a group of local train enthusiasts.
Every Wednesday morning, a dedicated trainspotting group – made up of four individuals supported at Witney CSS and two equally passionate staff members – co-ordinate visits to train stations across Oxfordshire and beyond. Their shared love of locomotives recently led them to a truly unforgettable experience.
Upon learning that Didcot Railway Centre was hosting a special ‘Steam Day’, featuring the legendary Flying Scotsman and the equally impressive Pendennis Castle, the group knew this was an opportunity not to be missed.
Thanks to the generous support of the Friends of Witney CSS, the group was able to attend the event and even ride aboard the iconic Flying Scotsman.
John Marlin, from Witney CSS: “It was really good, and I liked travelling on the Flying Scotsman.”
Mark Walker, another attendee, added: “Can we go again?”
Adult social services support worker, Dean Farrell, said the day was: “Absolutely fantastic, I loved it. It was a very memorable visit.”
Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “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.”
This experience highlights the power of community, shared interests, and the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for those supported by Witney CSS.
The service extends its heartfelt thanks to FOWCSS for making this steam-powered dream a reality.
Find out more about Witney Community Support Service on the Live Well Oxfordshire website.
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