Transport for Wales have today unveiled two new trains, named after the birthplaces of Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
The announcement was made via a video on social media. It featured several people saying “Croeso i Wrecsam” and cardboard cutouts of the Hollywood owners being paraded around trains, stations and parts of Wrexham.
The move is a token of gratitude for what the pair have done for the city, with Transport for Wales saying they wanted to acknowledge the impact they’ve had in the area, including their help for the local community and businesses.
James Price, Transport for Wales CEO, said: “Our services are well used by supporters of Wrexham Football Club and it’s evident to see how much the owners of the club have positively contributed to the area.
“We’re proud to name our new trains after the home cities of Ryan and Rob and we look forward to welcoming fans onto them.”
The new trains are called “Vancouver Red Dragon” and “Philadelphia Robin”.
They were unveiled by Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething and Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates before Wrexham make their final appearance in League Two against Stockport.
Mr Gething said: “It’s been great to visit Wrexham General today and see two of the latest additions to Transport for Wales’s stock, part of our £800m investment to improve trains’ reliability and comfort.
“There’s a real buzz about Wrexham these days. Rob and Ryan have put an incredible amount into the community and it’s fantastic that their contribution is being recognised with the new trains.”
The announcement comes after the team secured promotion to League One ensuring back-to-back promotions for the club.
Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates, said: “Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have opened a window to the world on Wrexham, its fantastic football club and the wider region. I’m delighted that we’re recognising this by naming two of our brand new, made-in-Wales trains in their honour.
“It’s especially fitting that it’s happening as the curtain closes on another incredibly successful season for Wrexham AFC."
