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Virgin Trains Celebrates ‘Cumbrian Spirit’ In The Wake Of The Floods

Virgin Trains Celebrates ‘Cumbrian Spirit’ In The Wake Of The Floods
Written by Amy

Virgin Trains has unveiled a newly-named Pendolino train at Carlisle station to recognise the people of Cumbria, following the devastating storms in December 2015.

Pendolino 390010 now carries the name ‘The Cumbrian Spirit’ to acknowledge the courage and resolve shown by locals as they rebuild their lives and businesses after the floods.

The Cumbrian Spirit was unveiled by Andrew Hunter of Grasmere Gingerbread, in front of flood victims and representatives from organisations who helped them throughout December and continue to support the region’s recovery. Grasmere Gingerbread’s warehouse flooded, resulting in their stock being damaged.

Cumbria was hit by the worst flooding on record as a result of storms Desmond, Eva and Frank in December, which saw some areas flooded three times within one month.

Anna Doran, General Manager at Virgin Trains, said: “We care about Cumbria and its people, so it has been heartbreaking to see the devastation the floods have caused across the region. But the people of Cumbria have not been beaten. They have shown tremendous courage and determination to continue business as usual and rebuild their communities – something described locally as the ‘spirit of Cumbria’.

“At Virgin Trains, we share their spirit and wanted to recognise everything they have been through. The Cumbrian Spirit is a small gesture to acknowledge the local communities that we’re proud to play a part in. We’re keen to continue helping those who have been affected and today is about celebrating Cumbria and showing that Cumbria is very much open for business.”

Andy Beeforth, Chief Executive, Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “We think it’s great that there will be a train travelling along the West Coast Mainline carrying this positive message about the people of Cumbria.”

The Cumbrian Spirit made its inaugural journey with a trip to London on Thursday 3 March , stopping at Penrith and Oxenholme.

About the author

Amy