S & D 150 - "A Passion For Steam"
S & D 150 - "A Passion For Steam"
AN Introduction
The August of 1975 saw a feat like no other in railway preservation history. On the week of August 24th-31st 1975, with Shildon playing host as the backdrop, no less than 30 locomotives took charge on quite an impressive centre stage to feature in a cavalcade celebrating 150 years of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, and the railway as we know now.
Although a display such as this is high unlikely to be replicated with the restrictions of the modern world, celebrations are to be in place marking the 200th anniversary of the S&DR. One of these is a look back to that famous celebration, and an insight into how the event was planned, featuring 4 of NELPG’s very own locomotives (some of which almost never made it!).
The Film
A PASSION FOR STEAM is a nostalgic and heartfelt documentary that captures the spirit of railway preservation through the eyes of a lifelong steam enthusiast. Set against the backdrop of Britain’s transition away from steam and the 150th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, the film follows the personal journey of a man who witnessed the decline of the steam age and found new purpose by joining a local locomotive preservation movement.
As the 150th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway approached in 1975, he and a dedicated group of volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes to help numerous committees plan the historic celebrations, deliver four working steam locomotives for the cavalcade and rekindle public interest in Britain’s rich railway heritage.
Blending rare archival footage with candid moments behind the scenes, the film is a tribute to the passion, perseverance, and community spirit that keeps the legacy of steam alive for future generations.
This sound film taken 50 years ago has been locked away and therefore never seen before. It was all filmed by Maurice Burns, Engineer for the North Eastern Locomotive Preservation Group, and is the story of why in 1975 the 150th Anniversary was so important to the North East of England.
When/Where Can I View It?
Doors open 01:30 pm for 02:00pm start.
Entrance is free but will require booking, this can be done through the Locomotion website.
Doors open 01:30pm for 02:00pm start.