As part of the nine-month-long celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway (SDR200), Shildon is proudly hosting a Little Street Cavalcade—a vibrant fringe event that brings together the heart and soul of the community.
We are taking a sneak peek at what some of the groups have been working on—but to see them in all their glory, make sure to go along on Saturday 2nd August.
The cavalcade will begin lining Church Street at 10am, and it’s set to be a morning full of colour, creativity, and community pride.
Among the many groups taking part is Byerley Road Preschool, whose children and families have been enthusiastically crafting decorations and props for their parade entry.
Their preparations have been made even more special thanks to a generous local gesture.
“The children and their families who attend Byerley Road Preschool have had so much fun creating things for the Little Street Cavalcade,” said a school spokesperson. “A very kind gentleman, Geoff Dowson, has even made us a wonderful wooden train to take with us on the parade.
“We are all looking forward to celebrating the history of our town, making memories, and becoming part of our town’s history.”
The beautifully handcrafted wooden train is a delightful symbol of the creativity and community spirit that defines Shildon.
Also proudly preparing for the parade is the Royal British Legion, whose members are contributing their own creative flair.
In a touching tribute to service and remembrance, the group has been working on a banner that incorporates their iconic logo.
One member was recently seen carefully tracing the emblem onto a banner, a moment that captures the dedication and pride the Legion brings to the event.
Meanwhile, the Guides and Rangers are having a fabulous time diving into the history of Shildon. Their enthusiasm has sparked a wave of creativity as they design their own trains and craft colourful banners and pictures for the parade.
Their work not only showcases their artistic talents but also reflects their appreciation for the town’s heritage.
Representing the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, John Raw is pictured proudly showing off a sneak peek of their entry. The Friends have been instrumental in preserving and promoting the legacy of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, and their contribution to the cavalcade is sure to be a highlight.
Not to be missed are the Shildon Railway Institute, whose striking banner, featuring the message Education & Inspiration, pays tribute to the town’s proud railway heritage.
Their involvement highlights the importance of learning from the past while inspiring future generations to carry the legacy forward.
And finally, The Auckland Shanty Singers banner proudly highlights the theme of COAL, RAIL and SAIL.
This trio of words honours the coal that powered the engines, the railways that transformed the landscape, and the sail that connected communities across the seas, transporting the coal from the pits to the world.
With so many groups involved and so much effort going into each display, this year’s Little Street Cavalcade is shaping up to be a truly unforgettable celebration. Don’t miss it!
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
