Rail colleagues have gathered to embrace the spirit of Christmas at a special Carol Service. More than 200 people attended the service held at the National Railway Museum in York.
The event, which brings together colleagues from across the rail industry and representatives from the local community, was organised by LNER with support from the Railway Mission.
The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Margaret Wells, the Sheriff of York, Ms Fiona Fitzpatrick and children from St Barnabas CE Primary School were among the guests, joined by colleagues from train operators and representatives from the wider railway including Network Rail, Northern and the British Transport Police.
The service included carols, readings, and a poem by Lizzie Lovejoy which was written on an LNER service that was enroute to the launch of the S&DR200 Festival programme and inspired by the memories of fellow passengers. York Railway Institute Band were joined by a choir of industry colleagues. Contributions were also collected for York Foodbank.
Ed Turner, Communications Manager at LNER and event coordinator, said: “The Rail Staff Christmas Carol Service offered an opportunity to bring colleagues and members of the wider community together to celebrate the joy of the Christmas Season. As the industry gears up to celebrate the bicentenary of the modern railway in 2025, the Great Hall at the National Railway Museum provided a perfect setting as we were surrounded by numerous awe-inspiring engines from the past 200 years.”
Liam Johnston, Executive Director of the Railway Mission, said: “We are deeply thankful to LNER for bringing the railway community together in such a meaningful way. Christmas is a time to reflect, to celebrate, and to support one another, and this carol service beautifully embodied that spirit. It’s events like these that remind us of the unity and resilience within the railway family, offering hope and connection during this special season.”
Image credit: LNER
