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Station Shop - retailing of railway items

article by: John Clarke

The two existing shops are in the stations at Toddington at the north end of the line and at Cheltenham Racecourse in the south. They have two purposes ; firstly to offer visitors of all ages an opportunity to buy souvenirs and gifts , and railway related items of interest ; and secondly to make significant profit to support the ongoing maintenance and development of the railway. The profit made each year is significant. The ranges on offer in these shops are carefully chosen and priced to attract all age groups , and in particular railway enthusiasts.

Toddington Shop is the larger shop which allows us to display a magnificent selection of new and out of print secondhand books covering the GWR and LMS regions . New publications relevant to our area are always offered . The titles available cover every aspect of railway operations - locomotives, sheds, stations , carriages etc. Although most titles are concerned with steam ,  diesel enthusiasts will also find plenty of books to entertain. The latest issues of periodicals are always in stock . There are big ranges of Bachmann and Dapol rolling stock for OO Gauge Modellers -  always with the latest releases. 

Cheltenham Racecourse shop was opened in 2011 when the line was interrupted by the landslip between Winchcombe and Toddington.This smaller shop is on the platform where all passengers alight and is predominantly aimed at our younger visitors. Toys for every pocket are on offer together with the full range of Thomas diecast models and accessories. 

The volunteers who work in these platform shops are very close to the trains pulling in right there and disgorging their passengers many of whom come straight in. Meeting customers in this way is a great joy . The working day roster is 9 to 5 and volunteers are required to offer and commit four weeks ahead to attend on the appointed  day. Sales are conducted on modern tills and credit card machines. The reward is great fun, dealing with the customers mostly in holiday mood,  particularly if they buy an ice cream!. If you would like to join the team please speak to any of the shop volunteers or use the website contact facility .

This year the webshop shown on our website is increasing its ranges on offer. New volunteers are also required to do help develop this important  modern way of doing business. It is completely different. The job content is order assembly, secure packing, and taking the parcels to the Post Office. Eventually this will be required to happen five days a week all through the year.Please tell us if you might be interested.