Published on 31st January 2013

Footpath and cycle route along the old Honeybourne railway line

On 9 February the Honeybourne Line PACT (Partners and Communities Together) is being launched with a free, fun, community event that will appeal to all ages.

  • Saturday 9 February, 11.30pm-1.30pm
  • Honeybourne line
  • Events will be taking place along the section between Waitrose and the railway station, and also in the children's play area.

There will be a children’s train giving free rides up and down the line, the Police will be there providing tips on bike safety and offering free security marking on bikes, as well as other activities for children to enjoy around the play area.

Martin Surl, the Police & Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire will officially launch the Honeybourne Line PACT at 12noon.

The event is to mark the launch of the first PACT in Cheltenham. A PACT scheme is voluntary encouraging residents to play a more active role in their community. A PACT volunteer will become the ‘eyes and ears’ of Cheltenham reporting environmental issues and any concerns such as abandoned cars, litter or graffiti thereby helping to reduce issues of low level crime and anti-social behaviour affecting individuals and communities alike.

As a volunteer you will be encouraged to help organise events such as litter picks and bulb planting sessions.

Trevor Gladding, community protection manager for Cheltenham Borough Council, said: “We are committed to improving the quality of life in our communities by working together to target the issues identified by local people.

"A PACT volunteer can put something back into the community and help put things right. The Honeybourne Line is the first PACT in Cheltenham. We’re launching here as it’s a prime location with recent investment being made in community safety with the CCTV cameras along the Line. We hope other communities will come forward to start PACT groups in their area.”

Carol Cross, community protection officer from Cheltenham Borough Council, added: “The event is going to be fun and free for the local community to enjoy. There’s lots for the children to do with the train rides and other activities as well as something for the grown ups. On the day anyone can register their interest in becoming a PACT volunteer.”

Councillor Peter Jeffries, cabinet member for housing, safety and communities, commented: “We want to build stronger communities and make Cheltenham a safer place. PACT volunteers will provide a voice for the local community. It’s great to have Martin Surl launching this PACT as he is focused on making Gloucestershire a safer and even more pleasant place to live, work and enjoy.”

For more information on becoming a PACT volunteer you can visit www.cheltenhampact.org or email [email protected]

For press enquiries contact: Laura Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 264154, email [email protected]

Notes to editor:
Martin Surl will be officially launching the Honeybourne Line PACT at 12noon.
Photographers are welcome to attend the event.