A Cornish railway attraction has signalled it is continuing a special partnership with a local child bereavement support organisation. 

Lappa Valley has chosen Cornwall-based Penhaligon’s Friends as their official charity of the year for 2024, the third consecutive year of the partnership. 

The charity supports bereaved children, young people and their families in Cornwall. As part of the partnership, the charity will benefit from donations from visitors and a special charity day to help raise awareness and funds later in the year. 

Julie Parker the charity’s CEO said: “We are so delighted to be chosen as Lappa Valley’s charity for 2024. We are a small charity with eight staff members and around 50 volunteers. 

“We are looking forward to working with the team at Lappa over the next /year, sharing our message, sharing our profile and making memories.” 

Penhaligon’s Friends has supported thousands of children and their families in Cornwall since it was founded in 1995. Last year they offered support to 1124 bereaved young people across the county and continue to provide training and advice to childcare professionals. 

Sara Southwell, owner of Lappa Valley in St Newlyn East, said: “Lappa Valley is a special place where families have and continue to make long lasting memories. Therefore, we love supporting local charities that are focussed on supporting children and their families during difficult times. Penhaligon’s Friends does just that and we’re pleased to be able to support their vital work across Cornwall.” 

Lappa Valley has been enjoyed by families for 50 years, transporting visitors by train along the former Cornwall Minerals Railway line from Newquay to the old East Wheal Rose Mine site where fun, adventure and two further railways are found. 

Visitors to Lappa Valley can donate to Penhaligon’s Friends at collection points at the attraction, and details of the special charity day will be released in the coming months.