As part of Community Rail Week, customers from Surrey Choices Vocational Projects Team who support adults with learning disabilities, went on an immersive journey through the rolling chalk downland of the Surrey Hills, and the contrasting intimate wildlife and biodiversity of the Blackwater Valley Landscape. After an informative rail session about safe and efficient train travel at Redhill Station; an onboard drawing activity had us all imagining the rare hazel dormouse wriggly around the close-knit hedgerows on the edge of the railway line and noticing shapes and unusual features as we travelled through the varied countryside. Thank you to GWR for funding this joint trip with Surrey Choices, Surrey Hills National Landscape and Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust. Exploring the regenerated gravel pits at Farnborough North, led by BVCT rangers, further enriched the day. Sunshine and a picnic at the beautiful Reg’s Garden at Farnborough North was a lovely way to end this perfect demonstration of how railway journeys can connect communities and be so much More than a Railway! The photo shows the absorbed drawing on the train between Redhill and Farnborough North. Thanks to Surrey Hills NL for the photo.
