A big Newtown welcome to hourly rail passengers

There was a big surprise awaiting anyone using one of the first hourly train services on the Cambrian Railway Line in Newtown today.

Members of Newtown Town Council and the town's chamber of trade were on the main platform to welcome passengers using the 9.40am service between Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury, complete with goody bags and hot cross buns.

"This is a great day for Newtown. The hourly train services will make a big difference," said Cllr Rina Clarke, the Mayor of Newtown.

Cllr Clarke was on the platform to welcome the first passengers off and those embarking on their onward journey from the station.

A goody bag with a hot cross bun, leaflets and information about Newtown, local events and attractions were being handed out to passengers by the group.

The first passenger to disembark the train was quickly targeted and overwhelmed by the unexpected welcome.

The passenger from Machynlleth said she was using the new service to commute to work in the town.

"I'd have to drive otherwise," she said.

Campaigners and Montgomeryshire AM, Russell George, believe the hourly service will bring economic as well as social benefits as more people use the service to reach stations at Newtown and Caersws and to commute between the towns.

It is also hoped it will attract more visitors to stop in the area knowing they there isn a regular rail service.

Full details of the new timetable can be obtained from National Rail Enquiries or Arriva Trains Wales.

Caption: The Mayor of Newtown, Cllr Rina Clarke, and members of Newtown Town Council and Newtown Chamber of Trade welcome one of the first hourly rail services in Newtown.