West Lancashire Light Railway Trust Chairman Mike Spall has been honoured at a Downing Street reception after South Ribble MP Katherine Fletcher nominated him as a Local Charity Champion.
Mike and Katherine went to No 10 on Monday for the event hosted by the charities minister Stuart Andrew.
The invitation was to celebrate the heritage and community work undertaken by the volunteers at the narrow-gauge steam railway located in Hesketh Bank.
Mike and his wife Sue were also given a tour of Westminster by Katherine before the reception.
The MP nominated the charity because it is completely operated by volunteers and provides short steam train rides every Sunday and Bank Holiday from April to November.
“What a pleasure it was to accompany Mike to Downing Street so he could be celebrated for his work as chair of the West Lancashire Light Railway and he could represent all those who do so much to make it a success,” said Katherine.
“Mike and his team of dedicated volunteers pride themselves on the heritage restorations they undertake and their links with the local communities.
“They have developed a wonderful attraction while making sure skills and the proud heritage of the railway are cherished for future generations.
“I thank them for all their hard work, especially with their outreach programmes for people with learning disabilities. I wish I could have invited everyone involved.”
Mike said: “It has been a real honour to represent the West Lancashire Light Railway Trust and its volunteers alongside other outstanding charities and their leaders at this event.
“It was particularly pleasing to hear the Minister for Charities and the Government recognise the fantastic work and commitment given by the many charities and their volunteers.
“My personal thanks to Katherine for arranging the invitation, being a wonderful host and keen supporter of our trust and its work. I now know a little more about what’s behind that famous door.”
