The Launch:
60 Passengers of all ages attended the launch event at Cam and Dursley Station on 29th August 2024. They boarded the train, slipped on their headphones, and embarked on an entertaining journey where a story unfolded. The launch was overwhelmingly positively received, with 93% responding that they felt positive about their local place because of the experience.
 
‘I will never see train journeys, windows, and stations in the same way again. I’m looking for stories!’ - Participant
 
"We're thrilled to launch The Story Express, a unique train journey that turns travel into an enchanting story-based adventure," said Lucy Cassidy, Artistic Director of children's theatre company Aurora. "It's easy to take part in just hop on board, gaze out of the window, and enjoy stories and music that bring the world outside the train to life.

Hannah McDonnell, Executive Director of GCRP, was delighted at the launch: "The Story Express is a shining example of what can happen when we collaborate and unleash the creativity of our young people. We're so proud to offer an experience that's not just fun, but also helps people connect with their community and encourages them to think about greener ways to travel."
 
Bethan Jelfs, CrossCountry’s Regional Director, shared the enthusiasm: “We are delighted to have supported this fantastic initiative to make a train journey part of a magical experience to learn more about Gloucestershire. This project, delivered by GCRP, is one of many initiatives we are involved in to help make the railway a more active partner in the communities we serve."

If you have tried The Story Express, we would love to hear your thoughts and feedback, please let us know using the button below.

Download the Immersive Audio Experience:
 
Works best on headphones linked with a splitter and is best experienced by one adult and one child (6 and up) together. 

What you need:

• A fully charged smartphone with the Echoes.xyz app and “walk” )

• Sets of wired headphones for each person in your group and a headphone splitter or you can play the experience through speakerphone if you prefer

Tech Info:
1. Download the app (image below): echoes.xyz
(allow permission for always sharing your location)
2. Download the walk itself
(search for “The Story Express” in the app and press the blue arrow to download)
3. Press play when at Cam & Dursley train station car park

 
Tips: 

• Don’t use low data mode or low power mode otherwise the walk won’t work properly

• Pre-download both the app and The Story Express walk' as there is little phone reception at Cam & Dursley Station

• Bring snacks and make a day of it by visiting Tewkesbury

• Buy your return train ticket to Ashchurch for Tewkesbury before pressing play in Cam and Dursley

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Safety: 

• Stay Behind the Yellow Line: High-speed trains pass through Cam & Dursley stations without warning or announcements. For your safety, please stay far behind the yellow line on the platform at all times, even if a train isn't visible.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: The station and train can be busy, and unexpected events can occur. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings, particularly when near the platform edge.

• Mind the Gap: When boarding the train, please watch your step and be mindful of the gap between the platform and the train.

 
Requests:

• Follow the safety advice above!

• Tell us about our adventure on The Story Express.  You can contact us via email afterwards or contact us through the GCRP website messaging option

 
Questions?!?
Feel free to ask if anything is unclear. Email us at info@gocrp.org.uk