(The following report appeared on the Prince George Citizen website on December 11.)
PRINCE GEORGE — CN Rail said it was weather and mechanical trouble that prevented the annual Prince George Santa Train from running on schedule.
There was to have been a pair of train trips on Friday from the downtown Via Rail station out into the countryside and back, with Christmas decorations aboard, music, and a visit from Santa.
The fundraiser for the Salvation Army is so popular that people line up for hours to purchase the tickets when they are released for sale each year.
“It was extremely cold on Friday and the severe weather affected the operation of a freight train leaving Prince George,” said Kevin Franchuk, a CN spokesman. “The unexpected delay in turn kept the Santa Train at the station.”
Parents and children waited for hours on Friday in hopes that the tracks could be cleared. There were tears shed by some youngsters and some anger from the adults when it was announced the night was cancelled.
“After consultations, the train was rescheduled,” said Franchuk.
Those who could return got to take their trip on Sunday evening instead and, according to the Salvation Army, most were able to take part then.