The group set off from Melksham railway station for a trip through the Wiltshire countryside, travelling to Swindon before continuing on to Westbury and heading home.
Supported by staff and volunteers, the journey was organised by the TransWilts Community Rail Partnership.
The outing was far from an ordinary train ride. During the trip, Great Western Railway conductor Henry-Arthur Freeman led games of bingo in the carriage, turning the service into a lively social space.
Shine Friendship Café is a weekly group for adults with learning difficulties. It offers activities including bingo, karaoke and quieter sessions for those who prefer a calmer environment.
Centre Manager Carolyn Fernandes joined the journey.
She said: “It was a lovely day, very inclusive and everyone very much enjoyed the experience. They all enjoy bingo at Shine and so quickly got into the game, even helping Henry call the numbers.
“A couple of our members are transport enthusiasts and were very chuffed to have a behind-the-scenes tour of the train.”
She added that experiences like this can help make future journeys feel less daunting and more accessible for those who may feel anxious about travelling.
Partnership Manager Sophie Martin, from TransWilts Community Rail Partnership, said:
“Having fun on the train is a great way to boost people’s confidence in travelling this way again. By helping our local communities access Wiltshire’s railway lines, we can take away the worries around travel.”
The partnership works to link communities with local rail services and encourage inclusive travel across the county.
With Swindon forming part of the route, the day also highlighted the town’s connections within Wiltshire’s rail network.
As the group returned to Melksham, the trip had delivered more than a change of scenery, offering a boost in confidence and a shared sense of achievement.
