* Hazel is congratulated on her garden party invitation by fellow railway volunteers.
A much-loved volunteer at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway was left both surprised and emotional today after being presented with an invitation to His Majesty The King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.
The presentation took place at Llangollen Railway, where colleagues and fellow volunteers gathered to recognise Hazel Birkenhead, who has dedicated more than 40 years of service to the railway.
Hazel is best known to generations as the ‘volunteer’s volunteer’, Hazel is the person who arrives at the crack of dawn every weekend to prepare breakfasts, helping to start the day for teams working across the railway. Her warmth, generosity and tireless commitment have made her a familiar and much-loved figure among staff and volunteers alike.
Speaking after receiving the invitation, Hazel Birkenhead said, “I’m completely overwhelmed. I never expected anything like this. I don’t do what I do for recognition, I just enjoy helping people and being part of the railway family. It’s been a huge part of my life, and I’m very proud to be involved.”
The presentation in the Railway’s Mess Room was an emotional moment for many who have worked alongside Hazel over the years, reflecting the high regard in which she is held throughout the organisation.
David Hennigan, Trust Manager at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway, said, “Hazel is a true champion of our railway. For decades she has quietly supported volunteers and staff, often behind the scenes, asking for nothing in return. People like Hazel are the backbone of heritage railways, and this recognition is richly deserved. We are incredibly proud to be sending her to Buckingham Palace and to see her dedication acknowledged in this way.”
The railway’s volunteers form the heart of the organisation, contributing thousands of hours each year to maintain trains, stations and infrastructure, and to welcome visitors from across the UK and beyond.
For Hazel, the day was not just a personal honour, but a reminder of the strength of the railway’s community and the friendships built over many years of shared effort.
As preparations begin for her visit to Buckingham Palace in May, colleagues across the railway have already begun planning a fitting send-off for one of their most dedicated volunteers.
As the railway celebrates Hazel’s remarkable contribution, preparations are also well underway for the start of the 2026 season, with services beginning in just a week’s time with the Berwyn Explorer on Valentine's Day. A busy year of events lies ahead, including the railway’s popular Branch Line Gala and many other attractions throughout the season.
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