All aboard the Dodworth express to station pride!”

The partnership brings together the volunteer-driven ethos of Rotary with the grassroots energy of community rail, forming a natural alliance. PLP is a well-established not-for-profit community rail organisation and a member of the Community Rail Network, supported by train operator Northern. It promotes sustainable travel, social inclusion, and rail-based community projects along the Penistone Line from Huddersfield to Sheffield, connecting places like Barnsley and Dodworth. In a reciprocal commitment to this collaboration, Stainborough Rotary has become a Northern Station Adopter for Dodworth Station, a vital local hub. This adoption supports the goal of making Dodworth Station a safe, attractive, and welcoming place for residents and travellers alike, echoing the Community Rail Network’s vision of using railways to support local pride, accessibility, and wellbeing.

PLP’s Community Rail Officer, Sarah Wells, will represent the Partnership within the Rotary club, taking an active role in club activities and championing the development of further Corporate Memberships. Her presence will strengthen the club’s community connections while offering PLP staff and volunteers new networking, volunteering, and professional development opportunities through Rotary & extensive network.

President Kay Bennett of Stainborough Rotary said: “We are thrilled to welcome Penistone Line Partnership to join the world-wide family of Rotary, and particularly Stainborough Rotary. Their commitment to community and their volunteers aligns perfectly with Rotary values. We look forward to working together on future projects -you could say we are on the same track!”

Statement from Sarah Wells, Community Rail Officer, Penistone Line Partnership

I have been warmly welcomed as PLP’s representative member of Stainborough Rotary, joining a group of people who genuinely care about service and making a difference. The Rotary ethos fits so well with the community rail movement, strengthening support networks and helping communities thrive. Rotarians are passionate, hardworking volunteers, and we’re looking forward to working together on initiatives that connect local people to leisure and wellbeing projects, educational initiatives, and developing further corporate partnerships and opportunities.”

The collaboration comes at a time when the value of community rail has never been clearer. According to a recent Community Rail Network report, partnerships like PLP generate £17.89 in social value for every £1 invested, with wide-reaching benefits including healthier lifestyles, increased travel confidence, community cohesion, and local economic growth.

For more information, please contact: Stainborough Rotary

Penistone Line Partnership https://penline.co.uk/ or email info@penistoneline.co.uk