BLS "The Luca Pezzulo Express", 20th July 2019
This was another BLS tour raising funds for a very well-deserving cause, the Martin House Hospice Care for Children and Young People, based in Boston Spa, Wetherby, Yorks http://www.martinhouse.org.uk
The inspiration for the tour came from Jerry Dickinson, Route Control Manager, London North Eastern Route, Network Rail, and I quote his words from the tour brochure, with his permission:
“LUCA JOE PEZZULO – Since working in York Control I have worked closely with Charlotte (Luca’s mother) on regular shifts, doing what can be a challenging and demanding job. Throughout this time, until the end of Luca’s short life, it became clear to me what a vital role Martin House Hospice played in the lives of Charlotte, Luca and their extended family. It is in no small part due to the charity and what they do, that Charlotte was able to hold down her job and continue with life in the absolute knowledge that Martin House was always there for both her and Luca. This was all the more remarkable because those of us who know Charlotte are acutely aware of the other challenges that the cruel hand of fate has dealt her.
It was at the celebration of Luca’s life that it struck me just how absolutely critical places like Martin House are, not only for the children they care for, but for their families they make such a difference to. I have now visited the Hospice myself, which also caters for terminally ill teenagers; awe inspiring is one description. However, nearly all its funding is from charitable donations. On behalf of the charity, Charlotte and us railwaymen and women who are all behind this special train, thank you for your support – you being here doing what we all enjoy really will make a big difference to Martin House.”
The tour raised over £15,000 before all donations etc. had been accounted for, a magnificent sum from all concerned.
Thanks also to all the organisations involved in setting-up the tour on behalf of the BLS – West Coast Railways, DB Cargo, Network Rail, Colas Rail, Northern, Drax Power, Liberty Steel, Hanson & Hall, Weedfree, Gravy Train Catering and Mallinsons Brewing Company.
As usual, a few shots to get things rolling, more to be added as time permits.
Read MoreThe inspiration for the tour came from Jerry Dickinson, Route Control Manager, London North Eastern Route, Network Rail, and I quote his words from the tour brochure, with his permission:
“LUCA JOE PEZZULO – Since working in York Control I have worked closely with Charlotte (Luca’s mother) on regular shifts, doing what can be a challenging and demanding job. Throughout this time, until the end of Luca’s short life, it became clear to me what a vital role Martin House Hospice played in the lives of Charlotte, Luca and their extended family. It is in no small part due to the charity and what they do, that Charlotte was able to hold down her job and continue with life in the absolute knowledge that Martin House was always there for both her and Luca. This was all the more remarkable because those of us who know Charlotte are acutely aware of the other challenges that the cruel hand of fate has dealt her.
It was at the celebration of Luca’s life that it struck me just how absolutely critical places like Martin House are, not only for the children they care for, but for their families they make such a difference to. I have now visited the Hospice myself, which also caters for terminally ill teenagers; awe inspiring is one description. However, nearly all its funding is from charitable donations. On behalf of the charity, Charlotte and us railwaymen and women who are all behind this special train, thank you for your support – you being here doing what we all enjoy really will make a big difference to Martin House.”
The tour raised over £15,000 before all donations etc. had been accounted for, a magnificent sum from all concerned.
Thanks also to all the organisations involved in setting-up the tour on behalf of the BLS – West Coast Railways, DB Cargo, Network Rail, Colas Rail, Northern, Drax Power, Liberty Steel, Hanson & Hall, Weedfree, Gravy Train Catering and Mallinsons Brewing Company.
As usual, a few shots to get things rolling, more to be added as time permits.
BLS "The Luca Pezzulo Express", 37669, Hull Paragon Line E, 20th July 2019
The BLS "The Luca Pezzulo Express" had shunted out from Platform 7 at Hull Paragon station after a short layover. All passengers are now back on board and the train has moved into Carriage Line E, the former Platform 14, where the stock is being tanked from teh water supply carried in the white van. 37669 will lead the train on departure as far as Kellingley Colliery, where another reversal took place. 15:24, Saturday 20th July 2019. Photo taken with permission and under supervision. Digital Image No. GMPK7132.
