Luton Town Football Club is proud to celebrate its 19th consecutive season in partnership with rail operator GTR Thameslink – one of the Club’s longest-standing relationships and a true example of shared community values.

A major aspect of the partnership is Thameslink’s provision of train travel passes for the Club’s Academy players. For nearly two decades, these passes have enabled young Hatters to travel freely across the network to and from training sessions, supporting their football development, education, and wellbeing.

Ensuring that Academy players can travel safely is a critical part of this relationship. Thameslink has consistently championed railway safety awareness, reinforcing the importance of responsible travel not only for our young players, but for all passengers.

Members of the Club’s Under-18 squad recently joined Thameslink for a rail safety activation day at Blackfriars Station. The event highlighted the importance of rail safety for young people and passengers alike, while also giving players the chance to experience first-hand the skills, responsibilities and pressures faced by train drivers.

School, Safety & Security Engagement Manager at Thameslink, Ross Evans, said: "Rail safety can be overlooked by a lot of educators compared to water or road safety which is often taught. The railway is a safe and sustainable way to travel when we understand the dangers and know how to mitigate risks to ourselves by standing behind the yellow line and being aware of our surroundings. It is so welcomed when educators like the Luton Town Academy team recognise the importance of keeping everyone informed and safe."

Tracy Jarvis, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at Thameslink, commented: “It was great to join Luton Academy players for our safety awareness day, as they now have a better understanding of how our colleagues keep thousands of customers safe every day. We’re delighted we are continuing our partnership with the football club, so these young people can pursue their passion for football and unlock their talents. It’s just one of the ways we make a difference for the communities we serve."

Wayne Polson, Luton Town Academy Safeguarding Manager, said: "Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our Academy players is at the heart of everything we do. Rail travel is a vital part of our players’ daily routines, and it’s important they understand how to travel safely and responsibly. Days like this, alongside Thameslink, help reinforce these essential safety messages in a practical and engaging way, supporting our players both on and off the pitch."

Kobie Dee, Head of Education at Luton Town, added: "Education is so important for our players, and today’s session on train safety really highlighted that. It was also a valuable insight into just how skilled train drivers are and the huge pressures they face on a daily basis. Experiencing a day in the life of a driver gave us a real appreciation of the challenges involved and the responsibility they carry."

Ben Kensell, Chief Revenue Officer at Luton Town, said: "To celebrate 19 years with Thameslink is something we’re incredibly proud of. This is a partnership that has made a real difference to our Academy players by supporting their daily journeys and reinforcing the importance of safety every step of the way. Thameslink’s commitment has been outstanding, and as we look to the future with Power Court, we want to continue ensuring that trusted local and regional partners like Thameslink remain at the heart of everything we do."

To learn more about Luton Town FC’s partnership strategy in the build up to Power Court and beyond, contact [email protected].