Santa will be on the train that leaves Melksham on Sunday 15th December, just after 3pm, handing out presents to all the children on the ride of just over an hour, out and back to Swindon.
A spokesperson from Melksham Rail User Group, who organise the annual trip says, “A mince pie and a soft drink will be available for everyone, with our chair, Peter Blackburn, making a gift of a glass of wine in place of the soft drink for any adults who wish to take advantage of his generosity.
“This trip is facilitated by Great Western Railway, who generously help with the travel and allow the group to provide the whole trip at just £10 per adult and £5 per child.
“Places in the carriage that Santa travels in (on a regular service train) are limited, and prebooking (at the Tourist Information Centre in Church Street) is vital so that Santa can ensure he brings the right presents along with him, and has time to see everyone
“If you’re driving to Melksham Station, there’s plenty of car parking available. The station is situated just off the A365 Bath Road – turn right into Station Approach just after the A365 forks off the A350 Chippenham Road.
“If you’re walking from the town centre, cross the town bridge and walk straight ahead along the old Bath Road (now a cul de sac). You’ll come to a subway under the main bypass road (A350 to Chippenham) and that will bring you out at the top of Station Approach – walk down there to the station which you’ll find at the bottom of the slope on your left. There’s a pathway painted on the road to help you find the way. Total walking time from the town bridge – about 10 minutes.
“Trains run every day (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) from Melksham Station, first train at 06:36 and last train at 20:32 (weekdays – times vary at the weekend) to Chippenham and Swindon, and to Trowbridge and Westbury. Train times change from 16th December – with the first train being even earlier and the final train a little later. For up-to-date information on train times visit the website: www.mrug .org.uk.
“Melksham Rail User Group (a ‘station friends group’ for 25 years) uses this trip to spread Christmas cheer, and usually makes a small profit which we use to provide further publicity for Melksham’s station and its train service at fetes and other events though the year.
“If you would like to join MRUG (new members always welcome, no fees as we welcome your input and help), please email info@mrug.org.uk or come along to one of our meetings which are advertised on our website.”
