The Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership (CRP) has hosted a special ‘Try the Train’ trip for Ukrainians now settled in the local community.

As February marks the first year of the devastating conflict in Ukraine, the Essex and South Suffolk CRP hosted 20 Ukrainians now living in the local area on a day trip to build their confidence in using public transport and give them the opportunity to explore further afield in their new hometown.

On Tuesday 14 February, the group travelled by train to Manningtree, where they then changed for Wrabness. Terri Ryland, Community Rail Officer for the Essex and South Suffolk CRP, led a rail safety talk for the group, before walking on to ‘Julie’s House (A House for Essex)’ – the work of Sir Grayson Perry. The group also explored a local woodland walk adjacent to the Stour estuary, before travelling to Harwich where they enjoyed the fine English delicacy of fish and chips.

Alan Neville, Community and Customer Engagement Manager at Greater Anglia, said of the event: “The sun was out, the children had a great time on the beach and the families and rail partners had a great chance to chat and build up friendships. I truly hope that it took their mind off the terrible events in their homeland.”

Natalia, the translator and caseworker who assisted on the trip, sent a lovely message of thanks to Terri: “I have received plenty of thankful messages from our Ukrainians, expressing their gratitude to those who organised and funded this great trip.”

A full report of the CRP event has been sent to the Project Manager (Transformation Delivery and Support) at Essex County Council, who was delighted by the event.

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Essex and South Suffolk CRP via their Facebook page.