Pre Metro were delighted to join West Midlands Railway on Thursday, 7 August, for the official naming of one of the Shuttle units as “George.”

The ceremony, held at Stourbridge Junction, was held to celebrate International Cat Day and George, the much-loved feline who has become a familiar and friendly presence at the station. George’s popularity extends far beyond Stourbridge, with over 100,000 social media followers and a strong reputation for supporting local charities.

The Shuttle, which runs the shortest timetabled rail service in Europe, now proudly carries George’s name on a plaque fitted to the unit. The event was attended by George himself, local MP Cat Eccles, WMR colleagues, and representatives from Pre Metro.

The Stourbridge Shuttle is already a unique service, and it’s fitting that one of our trains now carries the name of a local character who means so much to the community. George has brought people together through his social media antics and has become an integral part of the Stourbridge Junction story.

Alongside the ceremony, a public competition has been launched to find a name for the Shuttle’s second unit. Residents are encouraged to submit their suggestions via the West Midlands Railway website before Friday, 22 August 2025.

Pre Metro is proud to celebrate the Shuttle’s role not only in providing reliable, sustainable transport, but also in highlighting the community spirit that makes Stourbridge special.