Southeastern colleagues and customers raise nearly £3,000 during their Railway 200-inspired VE Day celebrations
On Monday 5 May, Rochester station welcomed over 13,000 customers through its gates as they travelled to the annual Sweeps Festival - but this year was different from others as Station Manager Bev Rickwood put on a very special event to celebrate Railway 200 and commemorate VE Day, which raised nearly £3,000 for the Poppy Appeal.
Station Manager Bev Rickwood said: "The event celebrated Railway 200, the role the railway played during the war, and the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The station was transformed with a colourful and vibrant atmosphere, featuring giveaways such as a Railway 200-themed ice cream and a balloon arch photo opportunity, highlighting the colours of VE Day as well as iconic landmarks of Rochester.
"The booking hall was decorated for the VE Day celebrations with:
- various flags
- 'Lest We Forget' soldier silhouettes
- poppy wreaths
- balloon displays
- music from the era
- Poppy Appeal merchandise
- a raffle with prizes donated by local companies.
"All funds raised went to the Poppy Appeal and several customers commented on how amazing the station looked and praised the feel-good atmosphere that had been created.
"It was a brilliant event, well supported by colleagues from different areas, in aid of a charity close to many people’s hearts. I would like to thank the station team and agency colleagues at Rochester for all the hard work Here’s to future events going forward working together for our people and customers!”
Notes to editors
Here are some pictures showing just what a special day it was.