VIRGIN Trains on-board services manager Bob Powell took delivery of a rather unusual award when the train he was working on arrived at Birmingham International station.
He was presented with a Dog Star award by Assistance Dogs UK, an organisation that promotes rights of access for assistance dogs to transport, restaurants and shops.
The presentation came after five guide and assistance dog owners – with their dogs – arrived in style, courtesy of Virgin Trains, on Thursday 6 March. They were there to launch the Year of Assistance Dogs at Crufts 2008.
Virgin Trains, which runs West Coast services, makes guide dogs and other assistance dogs welcome on its Pendolino trains.
Dog Stars are symbols of excellence, given in recognition of transport operators and other services meeting the needs of all assistance dog owners.
Virgin Trains received particular praise for Braille sign-age and passenger announcements aboard its trains.
Hearing-impaired passengers benefit from in-carriage display screens and space is available for wheelchair users, who can board and alight using train-to-platform ramps.
The train company was also applauded for making ‘watering holes’ available for dogs at its stations.
Alan Brooks, chairman of ADUK, explains: “Although there are many examples of good practice, assistance dog users continue to encounter problems accessing some modes of public transport.
“We’re therefore extremely grateful to Virgin Trains for leading the way, making guide dogs and other assistance dogs welcome aboard its services.”
Assistance Dog UK is combining the organisations of Canine Partners, Dogs for the Disabled, Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs and Support Dogs during 2008.
For further information, and links to ADUK member charity websites – where Dog Star nominations can be made – log on to www.assistancedogs.org.uk