24 November 2025
Patient Verity (pictured second from left) and her family enjoy the Santa train.
Young patients from Wolverhampton enjoyed a magical trip on board the Santa Express thanks to the generosity of a volunteer-run railway.
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust’s Your RWTC charity and the team at Chasewater Railway came together to treat deserving families to a festive tour around Chasewater Country Park in Burntwood.
All those aboard enjoyed music, treats and time with Father Christmas himself.
Elliott McNaughton and family hopped on the first train of the day. The five-year-old was diagnosed with leukaemia three years ago, and has been receiving care at New Cross, Birmingham Children’s and Great Ormand Street hospitals.
Mum Nicola explained: “Elliott had a bone marrow transplant last November in Birmingham and went on to have something called CAR-T (a type of immunotherapy) in July to modify his cells. His latest results looked to be negative for cancer which is great news.
“We came out of hospital on the 23rd December last year, so we’re excited to start Christmas early this time round!”
Dad John is an Assistant Technical Officer at the Trust – working in the Aseptic Suite where chemotherapy drugs are made.
He added: “The Nurses have all got to know Elliot and couldn’t do enough for him. We’ve had a brilliant experience.”
The event kick-started the festive season for many of the guests travelling on board, including Harriet Bull and family.
Two-year-old Harriet has osteopetrosis – a health condition that weakens the bones – and is also blind.
Mum Vicky said: “She’s been in and out of hospital since she was born. She had a cell transplant to stop the bone disease from progressing further, and she’s doing well. She’s a happy little girl.”
Dad Peter said: “It’s been lovely. She’s enjoyed herself – she’s felt all the tinsel and the Christmassy materials, including Mrs Claus’ dress.”
Rhema Stanley is six-years-old and is living with sickle-cell anaemia – receiving regular treatment at New Cross Hospital.
Mum Chizoba said: “We all feel excited for Christmas, and to spend time with the family. We have enjoyed the train ride.”
Andy Mould, Director of Chasewater Railway, said: “We’re back for a second year to gift the young patients and their families a train ride with Father Christmas. It’s so important to us that we give something back to our local communities.
“Thanks to all the Volunteer Team who made this happen. It’s been a pleasure to have the children along.”
Amanda Winwood, Charity Development Manager for Your RWTC said: “We’re here to make some magical memories for those patients undergoing treatment or therapeutic care. We just want to make their Christmas that little bit more special.
“And remember, you can make a difference all year round by supporting Your RWTC. We’d love to hear from anyone who would like to work with us to make a difference.”