03 Nov 2022

Station artwork designed and created by pupils from Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi has been proudly displayed at Holyhead Railway Station.

The station artwork project, facilitated by Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership (CRP) and British Transport Police (BTP) and funded by Transport For Wales and Avanti West Coast, saw Year 10 pupils design and create five pieces of art, three of which were graffiti murals which are now displayed at Holyhead Railway Station.

Graffiti artist Andy Birch, Dime One North Wales Graffiti Art Murals, supported the young people to design artwork which focused on key messages around rail safety and safety in water as well as promoting mental health and tourism in Holyhead.

The project also helped breakdown existing barriers and build relationships between the young people and BTP who were in attendance during the creative sessions to explain the importance of safety at stations.

Alison Barker, BTP PCSO said: “It has been an absolute pleasure to work with The Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast CRP and the students of Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi on this project. As PCSOs working for BTP an opportunity like this to get to know and engage with our local community is wonderful. The artwork is amazing and a credit to all who took part. We particularly enjoyed working in class with the students, getting to know them and breaking down barriers that can sometimes stand between young people and the police.”

Youth Worker Sharon Bibby said: “It’s been a real pleasure to work on this project. The pupils have had an amazing experience with Andy and the spray paints. New skills have been learnt whilst having fun and gaining a new qualification. We can’t wait to see our art displayed at the station.”

Twenty pupils were involved in this inspiring project, and each will gain a qualification for their work as part of their Prince’s Trust Community Project module. The project was shortlisted for a Community Rail Award this year in the Involving Children and Young People category.

Melanie Lawton, TfW’s Community Rail Manager said: “The station artwork gives a sense of place and ownership to the pupils and communities it serves.  Credit to the pupils and community teams for the positive engagement, the end results are wonderful to see and brightens up the station for passengers and staff.”