Cafe’s on right track
Brewing up platform hit
A railway cafe is toasting success after brewing up an instant platform hit.
The Train Station Cafe in New Cumnock has dished up more than 500 cups of tea and coffee and countless traybakes since opening in May.
The operation is largely staffed by 16- 25- year- olds and has firmly established itself as a popular meeting place for locals and train customers alike.
East Ayrshire Carers Centre oversees its running, with young volunteers gaining c u s t o m e r s e r v i c e , hospitality and business skills.
ScotRail Alliance’s head of economic development, James Ledgerwood, said: “Making our stations community hubs rather than just somewhere to board a train is an important part of our ScotRail in the Community work.
“As well as providing opportunities to learn workplace skills for the young volunteers, the Wee Train Café is also a source of great locally- produced refreshments.”
The Carers group has also adopted the station and looks after the flower planters on the platforms.
Joint CEO, Fiona Pirrie, added: “We support our young carers in many ways and it’s important for them to have some time away from their caring duties meeting other people and learning new skills.
“And, of course, everyone likes a cuppa and some home baking. Whether you’re waiting for a train or you’re local and fancy meeting some friends for coffee, this is now a popular venue on the doorstep for locals.”
Vo l u n t e e r D a l e McTaggart, 19, said: “I’m proud to see the village doing so well,
“And, along the way, I’m gaining food handling skills and meeting new people.”