Makeover for Marston Vale Line Trains

Trains operating on the Marston Vale Line (Bletchley – Bedford) have been given an exciting new look thanks to the Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership. A special vinyl has been installed on the outside of two of the trains to celebrate the 175th anniversary year of the Line and promote Greensand Country, an area of special landscape character through which it runs.

The graphics were designed by Click Creative Ltd. & installed by Stewart Signs Ltd, and can be enjoyed by rail passengers and the local community alike for the next twelve months.

The vinyls were funded by the Department for Transport Community Rail Development Fund (administered by Community Rail Network), Greensand Country Landscape Partnership, East Midlands Railway and Marston Vale CRP.

The vinyls were launched at Bletchley Station at an event organised by Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership attended by representatives of the funders and Bedford – Bletchley Rail Users’ Association.

Stephen Sleight, Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership Officer, said “I delighted Marston Vale CRP is one of the first in the country to design vinyls for the trains operating on its line. We are very proud of our upcycled former London Underground trains and these new liveries with their eye-catching design really help to provide further local identity and a sense of place. My thanks to all those who have funded the project and Abellio Group for their role in co-ordination.

David Hopkins, Greensand Country Landscape Partnership Board Member added,

“We are proud to have been involved in is this train wrap; which depicts the view from Ampthill Great Park across Greensand Country. We’re very pleased that for the next 12 months everyone travelling on these trains will be able to experience just a snapshot of the wonderful landscape.

Paul Webster, Community Rail Network Support and Development Manager said

“Using the railway network to visit Britain’s stunning scenic landscapes, discover historic sites and to connect with walking and cycling activities is such a great and sustainable way to travel. Through the Community Rail Development Fund we are pleased to support this innovative way to share this message and inspire more people to take the train through Greensand Country and stop off at the stations along the Marston Vale line in this special 175th anniversary year .”

Donna Adams, East Midlands Railway Community Engagement Manager, added

“We were delighted that EMR’s Community Development Fund has been able to support this project and the Community Rail Partnership. It’s important to mark this anniversary so that we can continue to connect the communities to the railway. Additionally sharing the history, as well as promoting all the hidden gems along the route for all to enjoy.”

For further information please contact Stephen Sleight, Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership, c/o Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity on 01234 832645, e-mail stephens@bedsrcc.org.uk