Northern brings Christmas cheer to Barnsley

Barnsleigh Interchange, Blackpool North Pole, Hartleyule and Ho Ho Holmes Chapel made their debuts on the railway this week thanks to a bit of festive spirit.

Customers at Blackpool North Pole and Barnsleigh Interchange were also treated to a free hot chocolate to help their days get off to a cheerful start.

But there was more than Yultide merriment behind the changes to Northern’s stations. The new names reflected donations made by Northern to charities in the local communities.

Barnsley Hospice was chosen as Northern’s Christmas charities in the town and staff were visited by Santa’s helpers who handed over the donation.

Barnsley Hospice provides specialist compassionate care to hundreds of local people every year from all over Barnsley.

Specialist palliative care provides help and support to people with active and progressive life-limiting illnesses such as Cancer, Heart Disease or Parkinson’s. This care strives to improve quality of life for patients and their families by providing pain and symptom relief, spiritual and social support; and counselling and bereavement services.

Steve Hopkinson, Regional Director at Northern said: “Christmas is a great time of the year, but it is important that we take the time to give something back to the communities that we serve and are part of.

“Barnsley Hospice provides vital care when it is needed most and makes a significant difference to people’s live in the local community. I’m delighted we have been able to support their efforts.”

Sam Silverwood, Corporate Fundraiser at Barnsley Hospice said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to the Northern staff at Barnsley Interchange who have chosen to donate this money to Barnsley Hospice. The hospice has been a big part of the community for over 25 years and Northern’s kind donation will help us to continue to support those in need in the local area.”

As well as making the charitable donation, Northern ‘elves’ will be out and about and across the network in the run-up to the ‘big day’ to spread a little more Christmas cheer – with festive treats on offer for customers of all ages.