Tails from the rails: TPE launches children’s book starring therapy dog Nya to help young travellers stay safe on the railway
TransPennine Express (TPE) is set to launch a new children’s book featuring Nya, its much‑loved therapy dog, in a bid to help young passengers feel more confident and reassured when travelling by train.
Written by the train operator’s Safeguarding and Crime Prevention Lead, Steve O’Callaghan, the story will be released on World Book Day.
Nya, a six-year-old German Shepherd has been officially registered with Pets as Therapy, making TPE the first train operator to have its own therapy dog.
She has quickly become a familiar and calming presence across the network. With her gentle temperament, she’s helped everyone from worried young travellers to adults having difficult days.
Steve, who spent two decades as a police officer before taking on his current role, said creating the book was a natural extension of the work Nya already does.
He said: “I recognised the natural way that children and families were drawn to Nya, and I wanted to harness that curiosity to create a gentle, engaging way to introduce safeguarding and rail safety messages though an educational and friendly narrative.
“It will encourage children to stay clear of the platform edge, stick close to a trusted adult, know when to ask staff for help, and understand what to do if they are lost.”
As part of the launch on World Book Day TPE stations across the network will host book‑swap shelves offering free copies for families. These will be taking place at Manchester Airport Huddersfield, Hull, Brough. Selby, Malton and Scarborough on Thursday 5 March.
The campaign will also extend into classrooms, with visits to schools supported by the company’s new Police Community Support Officers, who will help reinforce the book’s key safety themes.
Steve added: “I hope children enjoy reading this book as much as I've enjoyed writing it and Nya and I can’t wait to meet you all out on the TransPennine Express network when you’re next catching one of our trains.”
A digital version of the story is now live on the TPE website to reach families beyond the events: https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/nya-a-tale-of-safety-and-smiles
Notes to editors
Interviews with Steve O’Callaghan (and Nya the dog) are available from Friday 6 March, please get in touch with tpepress.office@tpexpress.co.uk