West Midlands Railway is celebrating International Dog Day by announcing its very first four-legged station adopter – a six-year-old border terrier called Bertie.
Kenilworth Station has been taken under the wing of a group of ten local volunteers, among them pet owner John Boothroyd, who brings Bertie along to lend a paw.
The cheerful terrier has already been issued with his own high-visibility jacket and will be seen greeting passengers, keeping watch on the platforms and casting a critical eye over the station’s flower beds.
Playing a key role
Shantel Carty, community engagement manager at West Midlands Railway, said: “Station adopters play a key role in making our stations welcoming places which serve and represent their local communities.
“We are so excited to see the improvements made at Kenilworth, and with Bertie on the case, I’m sure they’ll do a paw-fect job.”
Popular with locals and travellers
Bertie has quickly become a favourite with travellers and locals alike.
Mr Boothroyd added: “Bertie loves meeting new people, so it feels right to bring him along when I volunteer at the station. He’s easily fitted in as part of the team and is already very popular with passersby.
“All the volunteers at Kenilworth, including Bertie, are excited to get stuck in to brighten up the station, and we have plenty of ideas to get working on.”
Supported by both West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway
Station adoption is supported by both West Midlands Railway and its sister brand, London Northwestern Railway, with volunteers across the network giving stations a lift through planting, artwork and general maintenance.
