Exeter pupils to launch Avocet Line poster

School children from Newtown Primary School in Exeter will be launching a new poster they have designed to promote travel on the Avocet Line, the branch line which links Exeter and Exmouth.

Courtesy of First Great Western, the children were taken on a familiarisation trip from Polsloe Bridge station to Exmouth by the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership and members of the Avocet Line Rail Users Group (ALRUG) last summer.

They drew sketches of everything they saw on the trip and learnt about the history of the railway and how it shaped Exmouth. Back in class, the sketches were turned into bright and colourful pictures of beach scenes, seascapes and trains which were then brought together by Lympstone artist Sue Mildenhall for the station poster.

Rebecca Catterall from the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership said “The children had a great day, not only learning about the railway but exploring Exmouth. I think they all learned a lot and they really enjoyed collecting sea shells on the beach!”

Tony Day from ALRUG said “We were looking for a way to brighten up Polsloe Bridge station and the new station posters that have been produced from the children’s artwork will certainly do that. Hopefully they will encourage other local people to visit Exmouth by train too.”

Melanie Harvey from First Great Western said: “We recognise the role that rail has in the community and the local economy, and are delighted to welcome the children back to the station. With the help of Sue – this poster is sure to create a brighter and more inviting station environment as we seek to build a greater west.”

The posters depicting a ‘Day Trip to Exmouth’ will be on display at Exeter Central station and stations along the Avocet Line including Polsloe Bridge, Topsham and Exmouth.

ALRUG represents users of the Avocet Line, presses for action to improve rail services on the line and is a forum for local rail users.

The Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership works to promote the eight rural branch lines in two counties and is a non-profit partnership between local authorities, including Cornwall Council, Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth University and the rail industry.