Gresley 150 train unveiled in Doncaster to celebrate Sir Nigel Gresley anniversary
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A celebration of train history was held in Doncaster on June 19 in honour of Sir Nigel Gresley.
A celebration of train history was held in Doncaster on June 19 in honour of Sir Nigel Gresley.
Sir Nigel Gresley has a rich history with Doncaster, the engineer designed famous trains such as the Mallard and the Flying Scotsman which were built here.
To honour 150 years since his birth a large event was put on at Doncaster train station, there were speeches, live music and descendants of the engineer spoke about the life of the famous man.
A brand new Azuma train was revealed by LNER at the event, the Gresley 150 took to the tracks for the very first time.
Around 80 people had the privilege of being the very first passengers to ride the train.
It took a short trip from Doncaster to York and back which allowed passengers to admire its new interior.
David Horne, Managing Director of LNER told us: “in 1911 Sir Nigel got a job here as the carriage and wagon superintended of the Great Northern Railway.
“He designed railway carriages and then he moved into locomotives which were built at Doncaster works.”
Mayor Ros Jones attended the event and made a speech.
She said: “It is entirely appropriate that we begin this milestone year by honouring a man whose name is woven into the fabric of Doncaster.
“His vision, engineering skill and commitment to innovation helped establish Doncaster’s reputation as one of Britain’s greatest railway towns.”
Band Backstage Brass provided lively music through out the morning which was greatly enjoyed by all guests.
Ben Godfrey, Grandson of Gresley, said: “I am honoured and delighted to be here today, it is a very special day for our family and we are delighted to be in Doncaster.”
Nina Britten, Great Granddaughter of Gresley, said: “The love of steam trains doesn’t have to be in your blood but I get ridiculously excited.
“They remind me of a mechanical dragon, you can hear them breathing as they ascend a hill.”
The event was attended by rail enthusiast, children from local schools, politicians and modern day rail workers.
To book your tickets on the new train click here.