A primary school student from Telford has won a regional competition to name Network Rail’s latest safety mascot.
Eight year old Alessia, from Allscott Meads Primary School, chose the winning name Choo Choo for the rail organisation’s new dog mascot.
Choo Choo will now be used across the West Midlands and neighbouring areas. The mascot will help teach school pupils, families, level crossing users, and dog walkers how to stay safe near tracks.
Alessia won the contest with her colouring entry and name idea. Her school hosted the mascot’s first public appearance and naming ceremony in front of students and teachers during a special assembly.
Network Rail community safety manager Manny Kang revealed the winning name and introduced Choo Choo to the school.
Alessia received a soft toy version of the mascot along with rail gifts. Allscott Meads Primary School received a trophy and certificate.
Alessia said: “I am so happy I won. I love Choo Choo the dog!!”
Manny Kang explained that the new character will play an important role in engaging the public.
He said: “We loved the name Choo Choo and it was so inspiring to see Alessia and the other children when they found out their school had named our railway safety mascot.
“When we carry out awareness days and attend community events, one of the biggest challenges is getting people to stop and engage with us. We wanted to create something that would stand out, draw people towards us, and help start those important safety conversations.
“Choo Choo gives us that opportunity, but it also has a much wider benefit as we can take Choo Choo into schools and build on the safety conversations we are already having with children at a young age.
“Hopefully they will go home even more excited and tell their parents and families about Choo Choo and what they’ve learnt, helping us spread our safety messages even further.”
Kirsty Parkinson, headteacher at Allscott Meads Primary School, welcomed the project.
She said: “Safety around the railway is of paramount concern to us at Allscott and the visits that Network Rail facilitate for Manny to join us at our school are invaluable.
“There was a huge buzz generated around the colouring and naming competition and we are thrilled to have three wonderful finalists selected and of course to celebrate the final winner, Alessia! It is a wonderful initiative, and we look forward to seeing ‘Choo Choo the dog’ promote rail safety across the region!”
Pupils from Langley Green Primary School and Foxyards Primary School also entered. A panel shortlisted seven names before staff voted for the winner.
