A total of 200 ‘blue plaques’ have been displayed for the first time to mark two centuries of railway history in the south east of England.
The ‘blue plaques’, pioneered by Southeast Communities Rail Partnership (SCRP), highlight people, places and even animals who have a connection to the development of the railways. 100 plaques show past links to train lines and a further 100 illustrate modern jobs on the railways to encourage people to consider future careers, inspiring the next general of railway staff.
Among the well-known names that feature are Queen Victoria, railway engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, crime writer Dame Agatha Christie, Vietnam’s first president Ho Chi Minh, Winne-the-Pooh author A.A. Milne and Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb.
There are also plenty of hidden gem stories, from station staff and signallers to a wild west performer and WH Smith bookstall assistant.
The full list of 100 historic ‘blue plaques’ can be viewed here.
The unveiling took place during SCRP’s Rail Fair 200 held on Friday 1 August, which was officially opened by Lewes Mayor Cllr Emily Clarke, deputy mayor Cllr Nicky Blackwell and Seaford town crier Peter White. The Master of Ceremonies was former BBC and ITV broadcaster and rail enthusiast Nicholas Owen.
Louis Rambaud, chief customer officer for Govia Thameslink Railway, and Joe Graham, business assurance director with Great Western Railway, turned round the final banner to reveal all 200 stories in the presence of representatives from train operators, Network Rail, SCRP, community groups and station volunteers.
Louis Rambaud told the gathering at Lewes Town Hall: “Today is a great opportunity to come together to celebrate the 200 years of our railway. Thanks to the Southeast Communities Rail Partnership for organising this fantastic event.”
Joe Graham added: “At its very heart the railway is – and always has been – about people. It’s about people and it’s about communities, empowering people and connecting communities.”
Tim Barkley, SCRP chair, said: “It was great to see how popular the event was. There was a wide range of stalls from partners, community groups and supporters.”
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from Southeast Communities Rail Partnership via their website.
