MANY of us will have seen the 2004 film The Polar Express where children embark on a journey to visit Santa Claus.
Well, on this special Santa Express service, the big man himself was already on board!
Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotary brought their Santa and Mrs Claus along for the journey, which was enjoyed by 48 local children.
Youngsters from Bradley Green Primary Academy in Hyde, Stalybridge Childminders, and Millbrook Primary School had a magical journey between Manchester Piccadilly, Stalybridge and Huddersfield.
The TransPennine Express (TPE) train was transformed into a grotto on Wednesday, December 11, for the three special services which brought plenty of festive cheer.
The children were invited individually to visit Santa by Chief Elf and Mrs Claus in the grotto in the first class carriage, where they each received a gift.
All three groups were picked by staff at TPE, with Bradley Green Primary Academy being chosen by the station team at Stalybridge.
For Millbrook Primary, Paul Cunningham – TPE’s Area Customer Experience Manager who helped arrange the event – found out about the school through his brother, who is a pastor.
Through his connections, Paul found out how the church works closely with the school and how the children would benefit from some Christmas magic.
“To see the smiles on the faces of the children as they met Father Christmas and enjoyed the festive entertainment was incredibly heartwarming,” Paul said.
“It’s always wonderful to give back to our communities, and this year’s Santa Express services made it possible for children on our network to experience something truly special this Christmas.”
The children were entertained by a magician who amazed the young passengers with magic tricks and were read classic Christmas stories.
Refreshments were also provided on board by Rail Gourmet, who also generously funded 32 gifts for the children – with 16 of the gifts funded by Manchester Airport Lost Property Fund.
The services were hosted on board TPE’s recently unwrapped Christmas-themed train, which supports Cash for Kids’ Mission Christmas appeal.