Operations Training Manager Adam Bagwell took the time to sit down and speak to some of our current crop of trainee train drivers to learn a little bit about them, and what they're working on right now.

In this blog, hear from Laura Thomas from course 43 about her experiences so far here at TfW, and her hopes for the future.

The Wales Rail Operating Centre (WROC) is based in Cardiff but is responsible for more than 1,000 miles of track and every train operating on it including Transport for Wales, GWR, Cross Country and Avanti passenger services as well as a host of freight services. 

As we hurtle towards the end of summer, there’s more people out and about on the network, enjoying the lovely weather. We want to remind everyone of the danger around railway tracks and how to stay safe. Whether you’re boarding a train or using a level crossing on foot or in a car,  it is vital to be vigilant and aware of the dangers that trains can cause.  

TfW are aware that travelling on buses and trains in the summer heat can sometimes be very uncomfortable.

While some of our trains and buses do have air conditioning, some of our older trains do not, although these are largely being replaced by brand new trains which will feature air conditioning throughout. However, in certain conditions, sometimes even air con isn’t enough to keep busy trains cool, so it’s important to be prepared for travelling in uncomfortable conditions.

So, here are five ways to stay cool when travelling across the network:

Do you ever find yourself derailed by disrupted trains?

Over the last few months, we have been experiencing a significant increase in demand on many of our rail services, with more people enjoying ‘staycation’ holidays in the UK and local day trips.

The introduction of our new fleet of trains and tram-trains will completely transform the experience of customers who travel with us throughout Wales and the borders. However, they will also provide a major step change in our plans to decarbonise the transport network and become a more sustainable organisation in light of the challenges of climate change.

7 June marks the return of our direct services linking Cardiff Central and Holyhead, known as “Y Gerallt Gymro” or “The Gerald of Wales” service. These are operated by our Mark 4 intercity carriages and include First Class carriages, free Wi-Fi throughout, an enhanced food and drink offer including a buffet car, accessible toilets and baby changing facilities.

For more than 30 years, Pacer trains have trundled up and down the railway lines of Britain. However, their time in service has now finally drawn to a close, with the last Pacers withdrawn from service at the end of May.