Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership (MVCRP) has turned 15, and staff and volunteers made sure they marked the occasion with special cake!
The CRP team spent the day distributing cupcakes – provided courtesy of Gunns Bakery in Bedford – to staff and passengers on the line, which runs from Bedford to Bletchley. They also enjoyed a 15th birthday cake at their steering group meeting, looking back on the partnership’s work since its beginnings in 2007.
The birthday follows on from festivities in November 2021 to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the line, which saw plaque unveilings and trains being decorated with commemorative vinyls.
Stephen Sleight, MVCRP officer, said: “I’m proud that Marston Vale CRP has reached this milestone and has become one of the long-established CRPs across the country. Much has been achieved over the last 15 years, including delivery of a range of major station enhancements, the launch of the first Bank Holiday Services for over 40 years, adoption of the majority of our stations, and a programme of regular special themed trains.
“And of course not forgetting our flagship project, the re-opening of the redundant Station House at Ridgmont as a Heritage Centre after over 40 years of disuse and an extensive six-year restoration. The building has since become the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the line and a multi-award-winning visitor attraction.
“I look forward to an exciting period ahead as the line continues to celebrate its 175th anniversary year.”
For more information on Marston Vale CRP, visit www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk.
