Transport for Wales has given a nod to one of Wales’ most beloved TV shows by naming a brand-new train ‘Gavin and Stacey’. The tribute comes just in time for the final episode of the BBC sitcom, set to air this Christmas.
The new Stadler Class 231 train, which now serves the Vale of Glamorgan line, is part of TfW’s £800 million investment in modernising its fleet. The upgrades have already made an impact, with 57,000 more passengers using the service over the summer compared to last year—a stat that’s nothing short of ‘proper tidy’!
To mark the occasion, local children from Barry Island Primary School joined a festive celebration at Barry Island Station, welcoming the newly named train.
Marie Daly, Chief Customer and Culture Officer at Transport for Wales, said:
“Our £800 million investment into new trains is really starting to have a positive impact across the whole of our network, and we’re excited to name one of our new trains here in Barry Island today. We’re all looking forward to the final ever episode of the famous BBC series and wanted to celebrate with the local community.”
Vale of Glamorgan Council Leader, Councillor Lis Burnett, also praised the initiative:
“Gavin and Stacey has brought tens of thousands of visitors to Barry Island over the last 17 years. Recent investment into public transport is making it even easier for fans to come and enjoy the resort and all it has to offer. The new trains are a great example of this. As for the Gavin and Stacey train itself, there’s only one word to describe it: lush!”
With better, more reliable trains now running to Barry Island, fans of the show have an even easier way to visit the iconic filming locations. What’s occurring? A smoother ride, that’s what!
