As works move ahead on several fronts towards next year’s 200th anniversary of the founding of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, Shildon residents are being urged to get involved with the planning of local celebrations in the world’s first railway town.
As well as celebrations for the whole line, from its start in the grounds of Witton Castle running though New Shildon to the Tees at Stockton, there will be a fringe festival running in parallel.
John Raw, a trustee of the Friends of Stockton & Darlington Railway said: “As we move towards this momentous anniversary in September 2025, it is worth remembering that the S&DR, and in particular Shildon’s part in it, accellerated the Industrial Revolution.
“Before this date there was no such thing as New Shildon. The railway brought about here the world’s very first railway town, bringing mass employment, hustle and bustle, which lasted for the next 160 years, until the closure of Shildon Wagon Works in the summer of 1984.
“I would urge all groups from knit and natter, youth clubs to pensioner’s keep fit and everything in between to get along to our Institute, so they can have a say as to just what comes off in Shildon next year.
“Fringe events can be as wide as your imagination. For example, a musical event, jugglers, singers, dressing up in Georgian costume, photographic competition, historical informative talks, a shop front competition, a craft event, basically anything.
“To bring this into focus, everyone is invited to planning meeting taking place in the oldest Railway Institute in the world, our own in Redworth Road, on Wednesday 14 August from 5.30pm for a 6pm start.
“Recently the Grand Hall has opened at Locomotion. The cycling and walking route has gone down from Brusselton as far as Locomotion, running along the original track of 1825. The Gaunless Bridge has been restored to its former status and is now on show in the town. Shildon has much railway heritage to be proud of.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
