FIRST Minister Carwyn Jones and rugby legend Adam Jones were on hand to open a new on-land train – the Charity Express – at Dan-yr-Ogof last week.
The train, which cost £200,000, will be used to transport visitors between the National Showcaves Centre and the shire horse centre and farm at the tourist site in the Brecon Beacons.
While tickets to ride the attraction are free, passengers will have an opportunity to donate to JDRF, the type 1 diabetes research charity.
Showcaves centre director James Price, and his son Toby both live with type 1 diabetes and wanted to do something to raise the profile of the autoimmune condition, which is often developed in childhood because of genetic factors. Mr Price said: “We are delighted that the First Minister and Adam Jones were able to open the land train, which was partly funded by Visit Wales.
“It has space for 50 passengers, and will run throughout the school holidays, and be free, but passengers are kindly requested to make a contribution to JDRF by way of collection boxes found in the carriage.”
Welsh actor Eve Myles, who provided audio used on the land train, said “I’m honoured to be asked to be involved with this very important project!
“My father has diabetes and having such a brilliant charity like JDRF out there taking action and making a difference is awe inspiring. Congratulations to all involved with the land train and massive congratulations to JDRF for getting closer and closer with every donation to finding a cure.”
The First Minister said it was great to visit the showcaves and launch the new land train. He said: “The showcaves are a really important part of Wales’ tourism industry, drawing thousands of visitors to the area each year. Our tourism industry is vital to the Welsh economy, bringing 10 million visitors to Wales each year.”
After the opening ceremony, Carwyn Jones and Adam Jones boarded the train for its maiden voyage and were joined by Côr Mebion Onllwyn, who gave a performance during the journey.
The First Minister also presented an award to Isaac Norton, from Ton Pentre, who has raised more than £10,000 for JDRF in support of his best friend, Fin, who lives with type 1 diabetes.
Currently 29,000 children in the UK live with type 1 diabetes. A child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of five faces up to 19,000 insulin injections and 50,000 finger prick blood tests by the time they are 18.
Isaac was joined by his entire year group at Ton Pentre Junior School for the opening of the land train.
The opening ceremony and maiden journey were followed by a reception in the Cathedral Cave, 600ft underground.
Isaac said: “I am really excited to see the train. I hope everyone who goes for a ride on it will put lots of money in the boxes for JDRF.”