Volunteers Breathing Life Into Railway Past And Present

Becoming the Cambrian Railway Partnership Development Officer has already gifted me countless moments of warmth and welcome, and none more memorable than my first encounters with the long-standing volunteers, George and Jo from Borth.

From the very start, George and Jo made me feel at home. They welcomed me with open arms, inviting me over for a cup of tea and a personal tour of their lovingly restored station museum. I remember feeling a mixture of excitement and awe, especially when George nonchalantly revealed that he was an extra in Hinterland, even if only for about four seconds!  I realised that the museum had even played a starring role in one of the episodes, a little secret that added an extra spark of magic to the visit.

George and Jo have dedicated years to transforming the old station building into a vibrant museum filled with artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of station life. From donations by generous locals to hidden treasures discovered by George in charity shops, every item has its own tale. On my latest visit, I was particularly intrigued by a piece of metal emblazoned with a coat of arms. This relic, once part of a carriage with a colourful history by the beach and now showcased in another museum, reminded me how every object contributes to our shared heritage.

Beyond the captivating history, these two passionate volunteers introduced me to a broader community of dedicated individuals. I met Helen at the Community Hub and Sadie from the Borth Arts Festival, all part of a network that breathes life into our local heritage and culture. As station adopters, George and Jo take great pride in nurturing not just the past, but the present too. Mel and Sian arrived from Transport for Wales, with plants, compost, and even an electric cart to breathe new life into the station through fresh plantings. Watching Jo’s creative eye direct the design while I got involved in the planting process was one of those simple yet profoundly satisfying moments that strengthen community ties.

The buzz of the Borth Arts Festival was the icing on the cake. Over four days, nearly 400 visitors were guided through the museum by these dedicated volunteers, each receiving an attentive and informative tour that made every detail of the station come alive. With three engaging exhibitions on display, every corner of the museum told a story, inviting passers by to dive deep into the rich history of Borth.

Reflecting on these experiences, I am continually inspired by the generosity, craftsmanship and community spirit of George, Jo and everyone involved. Their tireless commitment not only preserves a unique piece of local history but also fosters a welcoming space where heritage and creativity flourish. Every visit, every shared cup of tea and every story told at the station reaffirms why I feel so privileged to be part of this remarkable community.

Looking forward to many more visits, shared stories and the continued celebration of our vibrant Borth station heritage!