The Hereward Community Rail Partnership (CRP), which works to engage local communities along Fenland’s Hereward railway line, launched the initiative earlier this year.

Doddington Guides and Brownies and March-based charity FACET, which supports adults with additional needs, have already enjoyed a trip, and earlier this month it was Manea Guides turn.

During their experience, the girls travelled by train from Manea to Peterborough, where they visited Railworld, Peterborough Museum, and walked around the Peterborough Cathedral gardens.

They also received Hereward CRP goodie bags and rail safety information.

Cllr Chris Seaton, Chairman of the Hereward CRP and Portfolio Holder for Transport at Fenland District Council, said: “Rail travel can open doors to education, employment and endless leisure opportunities so I’m delighted the CRP is hosting these ‘Try A Train’ trips to build confidence in travelling by rail. They’re also a great way to connect people with their local railway and promote social inclusion.”

CRP officer Joanne Rose added: “The Manea Guides had a really lovely day and came back thoroughly exhausted! They really enjoyed the experience and are looking forward to their next journey by rail. Thank you to Greater Anglia for providing us with rail passes to make the trip possible.”

Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Engagement Manager, Alan Neville, said: “The railway is a vital link for communities to access a range of services, and for leisure and work, so we were really pleased to be involved in this initiative to help young people experience the fun and ease of travelling by train.”