In 2017, the Birmingham City Council attempted to “modernise” the refuse collection service in attempt to save £5m a year but it also threatened more than 100 jobs. In response to this, refuse workers decided to strike which ended up lasting 222 days on and off, costing the council £6m and leaving the streets of Birmingham piled up with waste. 

Today (23/12) marks the last day of The Polar Express train ride at Birmingham Moor Street Station run by Vintage Trains Tyseley. Hundreds of families have climbed aboard and experienced the magic as the film is brought to life. The event has been available from Thursday to Sunday each week from 29th November to 23rd December. Slots have been at 3pm, 5pm, 6:45pm and 8:30pm on selected days.