2020/10/13

Avanti West Coast has introduced Welsh language information displays onboard its service

 

Avanti West Coast, with the support of the Welsh Language Commissioner, has introduced Welsh language announcements and information displays onboard its service to and from North Wales.

Working closely with the Commissioner, whose vision is a Wales where people can use the Welsh language in their everyday lives, Avanti West Coast has reaffirmed its commitment to the region with the last of the 20 modified trains entering service this week

The work was undertaken by Bombardier at their Central Rivers depot.

“This is a simple but important milestone, one that highlights our commitment to serving North Wales,” commented Tim Barton, Onboard Manager for Avanti West Coast.  “With new trains due to arrive in 2022, additional services next year to Llandudno and plans to move into new offices in Holyhead, the investment is set to delivery real benefits for our customers. It’s an exciting time.”

Aled Roberts, The Welsh Language Commissioner said: “We welcome Avanti West Coast’s commitment to the Welsh language. It is important that passengers in Wales hear Welsh, and realise that it is an official language in Wales. Not only is it an essential service for Welsh speakers, it also raises the awareness of our language among visitors.

“It is great that my officers had the opportunity to work with Avanti West Coast to provide this service. I look forward to seeing how the company will develop their Welsh language service further in the future.”

The news comes after Avanti West Coast reinstated its direct services from London to Holyhead and Wrexham earlier this month.