The East Lancashire Railway is making its Christmas experience more accessible for all.
A new partnership with foster care and special needs provider Family Care will see the introduction of a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter on select Santa Special trains between Rawtenstall and Bury, beginning November 29.
The interpreter will help ensure deaf children can fully enjoy the festive journey.
Marie Marshall, a BSL interpreter with 26 years of experience, said: "I am really looking forward to being part of the Santa Express team so deaf children can have the same experience as other children."
The service is part of the railway’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility.
In 2023, it launched its first SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Santa Special, featuring quieter carriages, reduced lighting, and extended boarding times.
The SEND Train proved to be hugely popular with local families, and it has since been expanded to multiple trains on multiple dates.
This year, to expand the offering further, the ELR, in partnership with Family Care, will introduce a British Sign Language interpreter to give families even more opportunities to get the most out of this event.
The interpreter service is sponsored by Family Care, a Chorley-based organisation.
Phil Williamson, director at Family Care Group, said: "We’re proud to be supporting the ELR with their dedicated SEND Santa Specials which provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for families to enjoy this amazing trip.
"As a family-owned and community-focused organisation, we have a real passion for providing opportunities for all children in the Lancashire and North West, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities.
"Our new partnership with East Lancashire Railway reflects our own strong commitment to supporting SEND children in the work we do."
Mike Kelly, chairman of ELR, said: "We are incredibly proud to have been the first heritage railway to introduce dedicated SEND Santa Specials in 2023, creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where families could experience the magic of Christmas together.
"Since then, we have expanded the programme each year, ensuring even more children and families can enjoy this special experience.
"In 2026, we are delighted to extend our reach further by providing the support of a professional British Sign Language (BSL) signer, making our events even more accessible."
Santa Specials run from late November to Christmas Eve, featuring a Winter Wonderland walkthrough, festive characters, brass bands, and a visit from Father Christmas himself.
Share