Alstom Charitable Train Pull

Alstom is celebrating after one of its depot teams successfully completed a unique charity challenge on Wednesday 1 July, pulling a 25 tonne historic steam locomotive entirely by hand at Didcot Railway Centre. Sixteen colleagues based at Great Western Railway’s Reading Depot pulled No 1340 ‘Trojan’ – built in 1897 – along a 250 metre stretch of track continuously for an hour. Clocking up 1,500 metres, the test of endurance raised vital funds for Variety, the Children’s Charity as the team were cheered on by colleagues, partners and visitors at the Oxfordshire railway museum.

The challenge was the brainchild of Che McCarthy, Project Supply Chain Leader at Alstom. “Hauling a 25 tonne steam locomotive by hand was a huge achievement and a brilliant day for everyone involved. We’ve brought together colleagues, partners and the public to support Variety, and that’s something we’re really proud of,” said Che.

He added: “It started as a simple idea in the office – wondering whether we could actually move a locomotive ourselves – and quickly grew into something much bigger. In the lead up, the team trained together, building the same trust and co-ordination we rely on every day in the depot. That shared effort is what made it possible, and it’s even more rewarding knowing we’ve done it for such an important cause.”

Having already smashed their £1,000 target, the Reading team are hoping their test of endurance with No 1340 will encourage even more donations in the coming days and weeks. The event forms part of Alstom’s wider commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates, encouraging colleagues to take part in initiatives that deliver positive social impact. “We are so grateful to Alstom for choosing to support Variety, the Children’s Charity. It was a joy to be part of such a creative and inspiring challenge, with every penny raised helping us continue to transform more young lives across the country. Thank you Alstom!” said Imogen Galsworthy, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Variety, the Children’s Charity www.variety.org.uk

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