A dedicated volunteer at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway has been left stunned and deeply moved after receiving a prestigious invitation to attend His Majesty The King's Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. The remarkable presentation took place at the railway's site, where colleagues and fellow volunteers gathered to honour Hazel Birkenhead for her extraordinary four decades of service to the heritage line.
A Lifetime of Service Recognised
Known affectionately as the 'volunteer's volunteer,' Hazel has become an institution at the railway, arriving at the crack of dawn every weekend to prepare breakfasts for teams working across the site. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment have made her a beloved figure among staff and volunteers alike, with her contributions spanning generations of railway enthusiasts.
Emotional Presentation Ceremony
The presentation in the Railway's Mess Room proved to be an emotional moment for many who have worked alongside Hazel over the years, reflecting the profound respect and admiration she commands throughout the organisation. Speaking after receiving the invitation, Hazel expressed her overwhelming emotions: "I'm completely overwhelmed. I never expected anything like this. I don't do what I do for recognition, I just enjoy helping people and being part of the railway family. It's been a huge part of my life, and I'm very proud to be involved."
Management Praise for Dedicated Volunteer
David Hennigan, Trust Manager at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway, offered heartfelt praise for Hazel's contributions: "Hazel is a true champion of our railway. For decades she has quietly supported volunteers and staff, often behind the scenes, asking for nothing in return. People like Hazel are the backbone of heritage railways, and this recognition is richly deserved. We are incredibly proud to be sending her to Buckingham Palace and to see her dedication acknowledged in this way."
The Heart of Heritage Railways
The railway's volunteers form the essential core of the organisation, contributing thousands of hours each year to maintain trains, stations, and infrastructure while welcoming visitors from across the UK and beyond. For Hazel, the day represented not just a personal honour but a powerful reminder of the strength of the railway community and the enduring friendships built through years of shared effort and dedication.
Preparations for Royal Occasion
As preparations begin for her visit to Buckingham Palace in May, colleagues across the railway have already started planning a fitting send-off for one of their most dedicated volunteers. The celebration of Hazel's remarkable contribution coincides with preparations for the railway's 2026 season, which begins in just a week's time with the Berwyn Explorer service launching on Valentine's Day.
Looking Ahead to New Season
The upcoming season promises to be a busy one, featuring popular events including the Branch Line Gala, continuing the railway's tradition of community engagement and heritage preservation. Hazel's recognition serves as both a celebration of individual dedication and a testament to the vital role volunteers play in sustaining Britain's railway heritage for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
