Teen fundraising hero Jack treated to unforgettable surprise day on the railway

An inspirational teenager from Gateshead was treated to an unforgettable railway experience by Network Rail and train operator LNER in recognition of his outstanding fundraising efforts.

Jack Thompson, 17, has raised more than £220,000 for Young Lives vs Cancer, the leading UK charity for children and young people with cancer (0-25) and their families. The charity which has supported him since he was diagnosed with a brain tumour as a baby.

Network Rail and LNER joined forces to organise a surprise, bespoke railway experience for train fan Jack yesterday (25 February), which included:

• trying out a driver simulator at Newcastle station, learning to drive an LNER Azuma train that can reach up to 125mph on the East Coast Main Line.

• a behind-the-scenes visit to York Rail Operating Centre, a key command hub responsible for signalling, train control, planning and incident response across hundreds of miles of railway.

• donning PPE for an exclusive tour around Darlington station, which is being upgraded with two new platforms and gateway concourse building as part of a £140 million development, due to be completed in spring 2026.

Jack, who is studying travel and tourism at college, was joined by his nana, Elaine McKay, with whom he has carried out much of his charity fundraising. Jack said: 

“The day has just been absolutely amazing... a dream come true. I’d like to say a massive thank you to Network Rail and LNER for arranging this day out.“Young Lives vs Cancer supported me and my family from when I was a baby. When I was seven, I realised that I was very lucky and wanted to give back, so I began fundraising for children and young people who aren’t as lucky as me. I’ve now raised roughly £220,000 for Young Lives vs Cancer, which I am incredibly proud of, and that’s thanks to a lot of people who have helped me.”

Jack was born with a brain tumour on his optic nerve. Seven rounds of chemotherapy, proton therapy and being registered blind have not stopped Jack from fundraising.

His efforts have included a skydive, runs, ziplines, tombolas, raffles, bake sales and memory challenges, all in aid of Young Lives vs Cancer. When the charity’s Home from Home accommodation opened in Manchester in 2021, it was named Jack’s House in his honour.

Gunnar Lindahl, joint operations director for Network Rail and LNER, said:

“Jack is an extraordinary young man, and it was a privilege for our teams to help recognise his achievements with a day that celebrated his love of trains.“His story has left a real impression on our colleagues, who were delighted to meet Jack and give him an extra special railway experience. We’re thrilled that Jack and his nana enjoyed their day, and we wish them well with their continued, inspirational fundraising.”

Samantha Hughes, fundraising engagement manager at Young Lives vs Cancer, said:

“We can’t thank Network Rail and LNER enough for giving Jack such a special experience to celebrate his incredible fundraising efforts and milestone for Young Lives vs Cancer.Jack has always gone above and beyond in his support for the charity, and it is lovely to see him enjoy this experience. He is a very special part of Team Young Lives and, as always, we are in awe of everything he has achieved and so grateful for his support in helping raise vital funds for the charity. Thank you to Network Rail and LNER for organising such a lovely day for Jack.”