Passengers stepping off the train at Newquay are about to get a colourful new welcome, and it is all the work of local schoolchildren.
A new piece of community artwork created by pupils from Newquay Junior Academy has been launched at Newquay station, adding a splash of vibrancy to the platform just as a major boost to local rail services prepares to roll out.
A creative project rooted in the town
The artwork was commissioned by the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership and led by Newquay based artist Alissa Kindred. During a series of workshop sessions, the children worked with a mix of paints, collage and illustration to put together the eye-catching design that will now greet passengers passing through the station.
Alissa said it was a real pleasure and privilege to work with the Newquay Junior Academy kids on the piece. “From start to finish they showed great creativity and made something that truly belongs to them and captures Newquay,” she said.
Pride at the school gates
Lisa Mann, Deputy Head Teacher at Newquay Junior Academy, said the school was incredibly grateful to have been involved. “Our pupils are so proud to see their work come to life on the station,” she added.
Rebecca Catterall from the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership said the children had further enhanced the station environment. “I hope it will delight passengers who pass through the station with its wonderfully vibrant depiction of Newquay,” Rebecca said.
Arriving just before the Mid Cornwall Metro
The timing is no coincidence. Lee Goodson, Great Western Railway Station Manager for Newquay, said the station team were thrilled to have the artwork take pride of place for customers and colleagues.
Lee added that it was a welcome addition just in time for the Mid Cornwall Metro services to start, which will nearly double the services between Par and Newquay and bring more visitors to the area.
The project was funded through CrossCountry Trains’ Community Engagement Fund. The Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership is a non-profit partnership between local authorities, the rail industry and the University of Plymouth, where it is based, with leading partners including Cornwall Council, Devon County Council and Great Western Railway.
📷Pupils from Newquay Junior Academy next to their artwork, accompanied by Rebecca Catterall, Alissa Kindred and Lisa Mann
