Late-night train scores big win for Cornish Pirates fans

Great Western Railway has stepped up to support Cornish Pirates fans by adding a late-night train service from Penzance, ensuring no one has to miss the final minutes of Friday night home games.

Previously, those relying on rail travel faced the choice between leaving early or missing the last train eastbound. Now, thanks to a new arrangement between the club and GWR, a special 10-carriage service will depart at 2230, giving fans a stress-free, car-free route home – and a full-time view of the action.

The decision is regarded as a positive step for the Pirates, addressing travel challenges that have previously affected attendance and limited the club’s potential to grow its supporter base.

Anthony Whyte, Cornish Pirates director said:

“This collaboration is massively important for the club and having those extra numbers at the Mennaye going crazy really does help with the atmosphere.

“When we took over as a consortium, we asked the fans what is the stumbling block, why are you not coming to matches and many of them said it was transport. So we reached out to GWR and are really grateful, to have this extra service being provided.”

GWR Station Manager for West Cornwall said:

“This really shows the importance of good local transport links to the local economy and the communities we serve – which is at the heart of what we do.

“I am really pleased we have been able invest in this, finding a solution for fans, and am looking forward to seeing the success of this new service in the coming weeks.”

The first train to run will be on 29th Aug, with the following Friday evening game on 12th Sept also to see the extra train provided. The train will take fans from Penzance towards Plymouth, calling at St Erth, Hayle, Camborne, Redruth, Truro, St Austell, Par, Lostwithiel, Bodmin Parkway, Liskeard, Menheniot, St Germans and Saltash before arriving at Plymouth at 00:29.