
There was a nice jolly atmosphere on the station for the whole event and people's toes were tapping throughout to the seasonal live music provided by the folk group SPINDRIFT.
Also keeping children busy was the make a Christmas tree decoration stall hosted by Andrea and Barbara. One young man touched everyone when he said I want to make a tree decoration for a train driver to say thanks! He did and the train driver proudly displayed it in his cab! Martin and Mike from Glossop Model Railway Society drew a steady stream of admirers to their snow covered interactive layout!
At around 11.20 our guest Raj Chanadarana, Business Stakeholder Manager for Northern, switched on our Christmas tree lights. He then made a short speech thanking FOGS and station staff for their work to make the station look attractive. This was followed by an unexpected Christmas present to Neil Chair of FOGS! Becky Styles, Northern's Community and Sustainability Manager, gave Neil a destination roller blind from a 323 Train! This caused a lot of smiles as Becky explained it was being given to Neil to acknowledge his and FOGS' 3 year campaign to keep the 323s with Northern and on the Glossop Line. This has now happened along with the efforts of others in particular David Brown MD of Northern. Neil liked the gift a lot and thanked Becky for obtaining it! Two refurbished 323s are now in service and Becky had asked that one be in use on Saturday. 323 238 newly outfitted in its Northern livery made a splendid sight! Thanks Becky for these special touches!
Also attending from Northern, Pam Williams our local line Manager. It was good to see Pam and share recent refurbishment work that had taken place at the station.
We would like to thank our guests for their sense of fun and the time that they gave to us and to everyone who helped with decorations and on the day. FOGS' team spirit!! And the Gating Staff for patience and help.
We would also like to thank Glossop Garden Centre for donating a lovely tree to us. And to everyone who came to the event. Your ongoing support is much appreciated. Santa left at around 12.45 with a lot of other calls to make!!