To provide a good send-off for a special street-party train to London organised by Hull Trains, community groups from across Hull and East Riding joined together for a rendition of God Save the King as the train departed from Hull Paragon Station for London.

The unique event was funded by Hull Trains to mark tomorrow’s Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla. Among those waving goodbye to the train were representatives from Hull 4 Heroes, Age UK, and the Hull Children’s University, who waved flags and enjoyed a host of street-party-themed festivities. Also joining the party were members of the local Trussell Trust, who benefited from donations by members of the public as part of a week-long charity campaign organised by Hull Trains.

The street-party train set off from Platform 7 at Hull Paragon station at 8.24 am and headed to London King’s Cross where the specially invited guests could enjoy a day out in the Capital, During their journey the guests enjoyed food, refreshments, and a whole load of fun, and a Coronation quiz which the group from Hull Children’s University won on a tiebreaker question, winning themselves a trip to London.

Hillary Rennard, a volunteer from Hull Children’s University, commented: “It’s been a wonderful service today, the staff have been so accommodating, we loved the afternoon tea, and winning the quiz with my team was just the icing on the cake. It’s been a great way to start the Coronation Celebrations. I was only 10 months old when Queen Elizabeth was Coronated, so I will be able to watch and remember it this time round!”

Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Hull Trains, said: “We wanted to do something that brought different sections of our community together for an event that would last long in the memory – and the feedback from everyone who attended was hugely positive. Those on board were largely volunteers who do so much for our community, so it was nice to give something back.

“The street party train was just one way in which we are marking the King’s coronation and I would like to thank everyone who has so far made a donation to our campaign to help the Trussell Trust with collecting food parcels, all of the donations will make a big difference.”