Northern rail industry partners are coming together to take part in the Stockport Community Rail Gala to commemorate 50 years since steam trains ended, and the impact rail has had on the town.
The gala will also celebrate 50 years since the closure of Stockport Edgeley locomotive depot, an iconic piece of Stockport rail history.
Find out what’s happening during day – Stockport Community Rail Festival
The event, held on 5 May 2018, is hosting number of Great North Rail project partners to display service information, careers, rail safety information and competitions. Those attending include Northern, Virgin, Network Rail and more.
Vicky Cropper, Community and Sustainability Manager for Northern, said:
“We are very excited to attend the Stockport Gala, and to get involved in such a great event. There will be lots of different stalls available to entertain guests throughout the day, and it will be great opportunity to see how the railway operated all those years ago. It’s a fantastic chance for people to get involved with local events and businesses, and show support for the railway.”
John Kitchen, Chairman of Stockport Community Rail Festival 2018 Committee, added:
“We are very pleased to be marking such an important anniversary for the rail industry. The railway has had such a huge impact on Stockport, and it’s great to have something in which we can all come together and celebrate the fantastic industry.”
Dan Coles, Customer Account Manager from Network Rail, said:
“We’re really pleased to be a part of this event along with our Great North Rail project partners. It’s a good opportunity for the community to come together at Stockport to learn about the history of the railway, as well as the present work being delivered as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan.”
The gala will be followed by an illustrated talk held by Paul Shackcloth, highlighting Stockport in the days of steam, and types of corporation transport.
All proceeds from the day, including ticket sales from Paul’s talk, will be going to the Royal British Legion.
Due to circumstances beyond our control the Webb Coal Tank steam locomotive will not be making an appearance at the Community Rail Gala.