South West Trains helps local boy to celebrate his 11th birthday in style
Birthday boy and train enthusiast, Liam Derbyshire, today celebrated a very special birthday with the South West Trains team. Liam, from Fareham who turned 11 today, was treated to an unforgettable day filled with birthday surprises.
Liam, who has a life threatening condition, travelled with his family from Fareham to London Waterloo for a birthday party organised by South West Trains’ Head of Guards, Stella Morris. Stella arranged for Liam and his family to travel to London, with Liam being treated to an exceptional and very rare ride in the driver’s cab.
On arrival in London Waterloo, Liam was given a VIP tour of one of the busiest control rooms in the UK by Neil Stafford, Competency Manager at South West Trains.
Afterwards, at a special ceremony, Liam was presented with a birthday cake and his very own Fareham station sign, made especially for him.
Finally, on his way home, Liam shadowed the South West Trains’ guard on his train and was shown how to make train announcements.
Liam’s mum, Kim Derbyshire said: “Liam has on ongoing passion for trains and we could not think of anything more fitting to celebrate his 11th birthday. It is really a unique opportunity for Liam to be offered such an insight into the work of a large train company. We are very grateful to South West Trains for making this happen”.
Stella Morris, Head of Guards for South West Trains, said: “When we first heard about Liam and his passion for trains, we wanted to do everything we could to make his dream come true. Everybody at South West Trains has pulled together to make sure the day has been as fun and exciting as possible for him.
“It is such a privilege for all of us at South West Trains to be able to give some sparkling moments into Liam’s life.”
Stagecoach Group has also offered £200 as a charity donation to Naomi House which provides support to Liam and other children with life-limiting conditions, and their families from across the Wessex Region.