The Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership (CRP) held a weekend of celebrations to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the opening of the Gainsborough Line.
Celebrations kicked off on Saturday 29 June with a rail trail from Marks Tey Station to Chappel & Wakes Colne Station, in which over 40 people took part. In the afternoon, station adopter Nathaniel Dodd led a talk about the history of the Stour Valley and Gainsborough Lines, and in the evening over 80 people joined the Old Time Music Hall Train for a good old singalong.
Over the course of the weekend, the East Anglian Railway Museum hosted several interactive activities for families.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Colchester, High Steward of Colchester, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Essex and Alan Neville from Greater Anglia, all of whom gave a speech.
The whole event was organised and led by Kath Beck, station adopter for Chappel & Wakes Colne. Funding was provided by the Essex & South Suffolk CRP, including for the wooden train planter which now takes pride of place on the platform.
Jayne Sumner, rail engagement manager at the Essex & South Suffolk CRP, said: “We were delighted to hold this fun weekend of events with the help of our partners and Greater Anglia to mark this important milestone. The weather was kind to us, and the atmosphere was buzzing!
“175 years on and the line still plays an integral role in the area’s economy, enabling greater connectivity for residents and visitors, and we look forward to helping it continue to thrive in the future.”
Jonathan Denby, head of corporate affairs at Greater Anglia, said: “After 175 years, the Gainsborough line continues to go from strength to strength, benefiting from the introduction of our high-quality and brand-new trains, with a regular and punctual service.
“We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership, our amazing team of station adopter volunteers, and other local partners in ensuring a bright future for the line and the communities it serves.”
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Essex & South Suffolk CRP via their website.
