Cub scouts get on board at Barnstaple station for a day of discovery

Barnstaple Station has welcomed a group of cub scouts whose efforts to tidy up the Tarka Line terminus were rewarded with an adventure out to Mid Devon.

The 12 members of 5th North Devon Scout Group were invited by the Friends of Barnstaple Railway Station earlier this month.

On arrival they were given an activity sheet to find out more about the station and what other forms of transport were available, then they litter picked the entire station before helping with the daily plant watering.

Above: The 5th North Devon Scout Group cubs help out at Barnstaple Railway Station. Credit: Leon Morey

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Once their labours were done, they boarded the train to Eggesford to have an adventure in its nearby forest – something close to any scout’s heart – courtesy of a trip donated by Great Western Railway.

Created by the Forestry Commission in 1919, Eggesford has three woodlands that make up the forest and they are within walking distance from the railway station, which has regular hourly trains to Exeter and Barnstaple. 

Above: The cubs enjoy their day out on the train. Credit: Leon Morey

What was most surprising for scout leaders Willow and Oak was that their years of efforts towards scouting had been noted and they were each presented with the 15 years of service awards from Akela Leon Morey whilst on Eggesford station.

Friends of Barnstaple Railway Station chair Tim Steer said: “It brings our volunteers great joy to see the 5th North Devon Scout Group back to help with worthwhile community activities at the railway station. 

“Barnstaple station continues to grow in users and the time has come to support those who want to learn about the railway and to be safe when using sustainable transport. 

“It was really nice of GWR to offer the cub scouts tickets to have a wonderful day out on their hourly service to Eggesford. We hope to see other groups at the station in the future and we would welcome your ideas for making Barnstaple railway station a community hub.”

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Akela Leon Morey added: “It's great to continue working with Friends of Barnstaple Railway station. Thank you to the volunteers and GWR for making us feel so welcome. The cubs enjoyed exploring the Tarka Line by rail, which has gone towards multiple badges.”

Above: Scout leaders Willow and Oak receive their 15 years long service certificates. Credit: Leon Morey

Emma Morris, senior community impact manager for GWR, said: “Supporting our local communities is at the heart of what we do at GWR. Having the opportunity to contribute to the cubs’ day of learning and exploration along the much-loved Tarka Line, and help so many of them to earn their badges, has made us immensely proud.

“We hope this is the first of many great adventures by train as they get a taste for exploring the Devonshire countryside.”