Weardale Railway marks history on screen

A County Durham heritage railway is set to feature on national television as part of celebrations marking 200 years of the passenger railway.

Weardale Railway will appear in Michael Portillo’s new BBC2 series 200 Years of the Railways, airing tomorrow (September 16). 

The programme highlights the line’s role in the S&DR200 events, which mark the bicentenary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, the world’s first passenger line.

Earlier this year, Weardale Railway hosted trials of a replica Locomotion No.1 ahead of the commemorative run, supported by its team of staff and volunteers. 

Claire Gibbons, general manager at Weardale Railway, said: “It’s a real honour for Weardale Railway to be part of the BBC’s celebration of 200 years of the railways. 

“Our staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly to support the bicentenary and to see the line feature on a national platform is a huge boost. 

“This anniversary is about honouring the past, but also about inspiring future generations to discover the magic of the railways.”

Since being saved from administration in 2020 by regeneration charity The Auckland Project, the line has received significant investment, with themed journeys such as afternoon tea, gin and cheese trains, as well as the highly popular Santa Express.

Niccy Hallifax, S&DR bicentenary festival director, added: “The Stockton & Darlington Railway changed the world, and the bicentenary is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share that story.

“Weardale Railway has been a fantastic partner in bringing the celebrations to life, from planting trees and bulbs to welcoming the replica Locomotion No.1. 

“It’s wonderful to see their efforts recognised on BBC2.”

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