A broadband engineer has combined his passion for trains and engineering know-how to create a miniature garden railway, which has already raised thousands for local charities.

The story of Ollerton’s Jonathan Roe, a surveyor with Openreach, is being recognised in a national campaign promoting volunteering

It shows how people can use their hobbies to make a real difference and encourage others to get involved in supporting their local communities.

What started as a personal hobby in the winter of 2021 for Jonathan quickly evolved into a project that has captured the hearts of locals.

“Neighbours think I’ve gone off the rails, but my garden railway has already raised thousands for charity,” he said.

His ride-on miniature train set-up, complete with mini-stations, sidings, and a carriage shed, has attracted children and families from around the local area, particularly those with autism, who have enjoyed open days to explore and interact with the trains.

“I’ve always enjoyed railways,” Jonathan added. “During the pandemic I decided to take my love of trains to the next level by building a miniature railway right here in my garden.

“What started off as a personal project quickly became something bigger, and I realised I could use it to raise money for local causes.”

He has hosted several charity events, opening up his garden for train rides and adding attractions like classic car shows.

His efforts have already raised over £500 for The Rosie May Foundation, and his next event is a fundraiser for the John Eastwood Hospice, Sutton.

“Seeing the smiles on children’s faces, particularly those with autism who might not always get the chance to experience something like this, has been the most rewarding part of the project,” he said.

“A friend’s nephew, who loves trains, was one of the first visitors. His reaction was priceless, and it made me want to share the experience with more families.”

New research commissioned by Openreach, as part of its With Every Fibre campaign, revealed that 46% of people in the UK volunteer in their communities.

More than a third (34%) of those who volunteer also say the skills they’ve gained, such as confidence and leadership, have helped them progress in their careers.

Jonathan’s dedication to his local community reflects broader national trends. According to the research, nearly half of people in the UK (46%) now volunteer in their local areas.

“I know it’s not your average garden project,” Jonathan admitted. “But the feedback from the community has been incredible, and that keeps me going.

“My next goal is to extend the railway even further, and maybe I’ll be able to expand into unused land behind my house.”

Kasam Hussain, Openreach regional director, said: “We couldn’t be prouder to see all the incredible volunteering work taking place, including Jonathan’s miniature railway.

“It’s great to see how he’s using his free time to raise money for great causes. All Openreach’s teams can take up to three paid days off to give back to their communities or charities of choice, with thousands volunteering and fundraising both in and out of work time.

”Here in Nottinghamshire, our engineers are carrying out great work to connect more and more people to full fibre broadband every week. More than 300,000 homes and business across the county can now upgrade, and thousands already have, thanks to our work.”

Go to https://shorturl.at/F13Ah to watch a video of Jonathan and his miniature railway.