Arriva Trains Wales | MURAL PAINTS A PRETTY PICTURE AT PENGAM

MURAL PAINTS A PRETTY PICTURE AT PENGAM

Eight youngsters from the Rhymney Valley have unveiled an eye catching mural at Pengam railway station.

Young People from Fast Forward The youngsters from ‘Caerphilly Fast Forward’ unveiled the 40ft mural at a special presentation held on the platform in the presence of local dignitaries, supervisors and Arriva Trains Wales staff who supported the project.

The colourful mural welcomes visitors to Pengam and is based on the theme of linking the Rhymney valley to Cardiff with the Caerphilly railway tunnel at its centre.

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.

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: “In addition to creating the mural with local artist Bryce Davies, they have all tried new experiences and made a positive contribution in the community. We are very proud of their achievements and especially their contribution at the railway station. Pengam Mural

They are different people now to when they started with us and everything they have achieved is down to them.”

Jez Williams, station manager for Arriva Trains Wales, said: “The mural is a fantastic achievement and has certainly made an impact at the station.

"We have been impressed with their commitment and their participation in this project will stand them in good stead when seeking training and employment.”

The young people at Fast Forward adopted Pengam Station in 2007 along with Hengoed and Gilfach Fargoed as part of the Arriva Trains Wales Station Adoption scheme. Previous work completed by the group includes cutting back vegetation, painting and planting shrubs.