As she goes for gold in next year’s event in Japan, Northern is now proud to be sponsoring Paralympic fencer Justine Moore.

Justine, who is a wheelchair fencer, was first introduced to the sport ten years ago at a junior camp at Stoke Mandeville. As part of the sponsorship deal she will now have free travel on all Northern services.

The 2020 Paralympic Games are to be held in Tokyo from the 25th August to 6th September and will provide an opportunity for athletes to forge social connections along with aiding change in community perceptions of people with disabilities.

Justine, who is from Blackpool, passes through the Northern station regularly on her way to training and events.

She is also a familiar face to British Transport Police’s PC John Phillips.

During one of their regular occurring chats that he learned that she was finding it difficult to find sponsorship for the upcoming games.

What did the officials have to say?

Justine who damaged her spinal cord in a fall and has already competed in the London Paralympics said:

“Competing at the Paralympic Games means everything. It’s the pinnacle of my sport and there’s no better feeling than representing my country and the local community,”

“The free travel from Northern has come in super handy and soon it will take me to the other side of the world – although this part of the journey won’t be by train.

“I’m proud to represent Great Britain and Blackpool. To know that local people are behind me 100 percent makes all the hard work leading up to Tokyo worthwhile.”

Chris Jackson, Regional Director for Northern, said:

“We’re really proud to be able to support Justine as she prepares to compete for Great Britain at the Paralympics.

“She is a remarkable athlete – proven by her haul of medals – and all at Northern wish her the best of luck as she competes on the world stage.”

Chris added:

“Justine will now be able to make many of her journeys on our brand-new trains which were introduced on a number of routes from Blackpool North earlier this year.

“Our new trains feature free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, at seat charging and improved accessibility, meaning Justine – and all our other customers – will be able to travel in the region in more comfort than ever before.”

PC Phillips said:

“I was saddened to hear that Justine was struggling for support when she’s going for gold for her country.

“We got talking as I was helping her through the barriers with her wheelchair and kit and decided that I’d make an effort to try to make things a bit easier for her. I got in touch with Northern and they really came through for her.”

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