This forthcoming Bank Holiday, all Staffordshire Bull Terriers will be able to ride the steam trains at Churnet Valley Railway free of charge as part of this year’s "Staffordshire Day" celebrations.
Usually dogs have to pay £1.50 to journey along the 5.5-mile line through the Staffordshire Peak District, but on Monday 1st May the charge will be waived to help celebrate the unfairly stereotyped breed, as Churnet Valley Railway joins in Staffordshire Day - a day to celebrate the history and traditions of the county on the anniversary date of the founding of Josiah Wedgwood & Sons Company.
As the furry friends enjoy the stunning countryside known as Staffordshire’s Little Switzerland, dog owners can enjoy one of the many walks that central around the railway and the stunning natural beauty of the area. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Heritage Centre will be on hand at both Froghall and Cheddleton Stations providing information on the breed, whilst five Crufts participants will also be onsite to talk about their love for the terriers and offer tips and advice on ownership of these fascinating dogs.
After discovering all the excitement in Staffordshire's hidden valley, visitors can then return to Froghall station and relax in the Signal Tea-room where you can enjoy a selection of freshly cooked meals on the rebranded menu for 2017.
Churnet Valley Railway Events Manager Caroline Evans said: “The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is always forgotten about, or suffers from a negative stigma, but we they are lovely dogs and should be celebrated. Staffordshire Day is a great chance to do that, and visitors can enjoy some great walks and countryside at the same time."
“We hope to build on this for next year, with the aim for a Guinness World Record attempt for the Most Staffords on a Heritage Train.”
Organisers of Staffordshire Day - Enjoy Staffordshire, Staffordshire County Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the county’s other local authorities - hope thousands of local residents will turn out on the day, which aims to highlight the range of visitor attractions on offer in Staffordshire and help communities show their pride in their county.