Despite the best efforts of the British weather, over five thousand visitors descended on Crewe Station on June 8^th, raising in excess of £50,000 for charity. The “Crewe All Change” open day was run in partnership between Virgin Trains, Locomotive Services (TOC) Limited and The Railway Magazine.

Charities who benefitted included NET Patient Foundation, Rethink Mental Illness, The Railway Children, St John’s Ambulance and a number of other local good causes.

The event was run in memory of Alison Austin, daughter of Lyn Gillan and brother of Melvyn, who both work at Crewe station. Alison lost her brave fight against Neuroendocrine Cancer last year. Virgin Trains’ Pendolino 390115 was named ‘Crewe – All Change’ by the family, with the help of Councillor Benn Minshall, Mayor of Crewe Town Council, to reflect the town’s key role in the railway both historically and in the years to come. The train also carries Alison’s name on its cab ends.

In addition to the train naming, guests were treated to a behind the scenes look at Crewe Diesel Depot – the doors opened for the first time in over a decade. Over 40 diesel and electric trains from around the network were on show, reflecting the Diesel Depot’s modern history.