Hull Trains colleagues walk operator's 280-mile route to raise thousands for brain injury charity

Aug 23
2 min read

Over a few weeks,Hull Trains colleagues took turns covering sections of the rail route, passing through destinations served by Hull Trains including Brough, Howden, Selby, Doncaster, Retford and Grantham, before reaching their finish line in London.

The fundraising challenge was organised to raise funds and awareness for P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery, a Hull-based charity that supports people across East Yorkshire affected by Acquired Brain Injury. P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery provides life-changing support, guidance and education to survivors and their families, helping them rebuild confidence and maximise their recovery.

P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery was founded by Paul Spence after he suffered a brain haemorrhage following an unprovoked attack in 2012. Drawing on his own recovery journey, Paul established P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery to ensure others facing similar experiences could access the support they needed.

The fundraising challenge was led by Hull Trains driver Kelly Todd, who praised the efforts of everyone involved. She said: "I'm incredibly proud of every colleague who took part in this challenge. Over the past few weeks, we've seen fantastic teamwork, determination and support from our team.

“This charity means a great deal to us, particularly because of the support it provided to our former colleague, Garry Varney, who actually trained me when I started out in the rail industry. Completing the route and raising money in his memory makes this achievement even more special."

Hull Trains launched its official charity partnership with P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery in 2025, with the charity's logo displayed on one of the operator's trains. Customers can also choose to donate their Delay Repay compensation directly to the charity.

Paul Spence, the charity’s CEO and Founder, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Hull Trains for choosing us as their charity of the year and for organising this amazing fundraising challenge. Support from this reputable local company will enable us to reach even more people across the region, so we can empower them to live life better after brain injury and make recovery count.”

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