Railway visionary honoured with GWR train naming

Piper Alan Henderson played as the 12:35 service to Exeter St Davids left Paddington

A train has been named in honour of Cyril Bleasdale, one of Britain's most influential railway figures.

At a special ceremony at London Paddington, a lone piper led a poignant tribute as Great Western Railway named Intercity Express Train 802022 after the late transport leader.

It comes as the industry marks 200 years of railway history through the national Railway 200 celebrations.

Cyril's widow, Katy, travelled from Cheltenham Spa to attend the naming ceremony joined by relatives, friends, and senior railway figures.

GWR managing director Mark Hopwood, former InterCity managing director Chris Green with Cyril's widow Katy

"Cyril would have been so proud to have this train named in his honour," said Mrs Bleasdale.

"I would like to thank GWR managing director Mark Hopwood and all those who have helped to make it happen."

Cyril Bleasdale, who died in 2022 aged 87, helped launch British Rail's InterCity sector and later became the first standalone head of ScotRail.

He was known for modernising rail travel and introducing innovations such as payphones on board, first class lounges, and even cinema coaches.

Mr Hopwood said, "We have a long history of naming trains after Great Westerners, the past and present heroes from across our network.

"Cyril was a true railway pioneer. His vision helped modernise rail travel for millions and we are proud to honour his extraordinary contribution with this train naming."

Cyril Bleasdale with colleague Sir William McAlpine in 2013

Chris Green, former InterCity managing director, said "Cyril's competitive nature was well-matched with his sense of vision to make InterCity the envy of Europe.

"As its first director, he brought an airline stylishness to InterCity in its livery, its staff and its catering, which allowed it to punch above its weight."