Arriva Trains Wales | ATW CELEBRATES YOUNGSTER’S ACHIEVEMENTS

ATW CELEBRATES YOUNGSTER’S ACHIEVEMENTS

Fourteen youngsters from the Rhymney Valley have been rewarded for their achievements by Arriva Trains Wales in recognition of their work at three adopted railway stations.

Fast Forward Presentation The youngsters from ‘Caerphilly Fast Forward’ were awarded certificates and rail vouchers at a special presentation in recognition of their hard work at Gilfach Fargoed, Pengam and Hengoed railway stations.

Based at the old Blackwood Junior School building, ‘Fast Forward’ gives youngsters who require educational support the opportunity to gain qualifications, training and employment opportunities.

For six months, they have been working at the stations under the direction and supervision of Martyn Tudor, Arriva Trains Wales’ property maintenance supervisor to learn new skills in gardening, landscaping and painting.

Gavin Thomas, team leader for Caerphilly Fast Forward, said: “Our work is about changing attitudes, behaviour and helping the youngsters think positively about the future.”

He continued: “They have all tried new experiences and made a positive contribution in the community. We are very proud of their achievements this year and especially their contribution at the railway stations. They are different people now to when they started with us and everything they have achieved is down to them.”

Geraint Morgan, community affairs manager for Arriva Trains Wales, said: “During the course of the project, we have been impressed with their commitment and the hard work has helped enhance the environment at these stations. Their participation will have given them an opportunity to think about future career directions and will stand them in good stead when seeking training and employment.”