A charity rail event organised by AV Dawson to celebrate the growth of its Teesside freight terminal has raised more than £6,800 for local charities.
More than 200 people joined a train tour of AV Dawson’s 100 acre site, promoted by the Branch Line Society.
The train gave rail and rolling stock enthusiasts rare visits to the comprehensive facilities, where they experienced being shunted as part of a one hour return trip around the terminal. The journey took in different lines around the facility including the Automotive Steel Terminal, Teesside Riverside Intermodal Park (TRIP) and Middlesbrough Goods Yard.
The tour was also extended onto AV Dawson’s quayside site, which represented the first time this section of track has carried passengers since 1830.
The sold-out event raised £6,800 for local charities, which will be managed through Middlesbrough & Teesside Philanthropic Foundation, of which AV Dawson is a long standing patron. Over £400 was also raised for a local Brownies group, who provided cakes and refreshments at the event.
Charlie Nettle, AV Dawson Head of Marketing and Business Development, said: “This was an amazing event which has raised a huge amount for local good causes. It was incredible to see rail enthusiasts coming from far and wide to revel in the routes, rail loops and shunts at our site. Some of these lines have never seen a passenger train, so alongside getting a behind the scenes view of our site it was also a historical moment for people to experience.”
Neil McShane, AV Dawson Head of Rail Operations and Safety added: “We’re grateful to the support of the Branch Line Society and Reid Freight who helped make this incredible event a reality, which will now help us to make a big difference in our local community.”
Kev Adlam, Fixtures Secretary of the Branch Line Society said: “The interesting route, rare track and unusual traction made this a really outstanding and memorable day. Passengers travelled from all over the country just to see the two Class 08 locomotives in action.”
Gary Dawson, AV Dawson Managing Director added: “Rail operations form a significant part of the future growth for our business, helping us to improve efficiency for our customers. Working with the Branch Line Society to hold this event has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase our capabilities.”
