Welcome to the fifth episode of Tales from the Rails, our monthly podcast commemorating the Stockton and Darlington Railway. As we approach the 200th anniversary in 2025 of the opening of the S&DR, hosts Caroline Hardie and Archie MacKay delve into the fascinating history and legacy of this pioneering railway. In this episode, we take an in-depth look at Locomotion No.1, the the Stockton & Darlington Railway’s first locomotive which opened the railway on the 27th September 1825. Our special guest this month is Dr. Michael Bailey who has co-written a report on the engine with Peter Davidson for the National Railway Museum. Michael has kindly shared the research and findings, shedding light on the engine's fascinating past and its numerous rebuilds. Who actually designed and made it? How do you get a locomotive from the manufactory in Newcastle to the S&DR? Who were its first passengers? What colour was it on the opening day? When did it get its various names, No.1 and Active? How was it altered over time and what survives, if anything, of the original 1825 locomotive? Additionally, we spotlight James Stephenson, also known as Jem, Locomotion No.1's first regular driver and brother of the famous George Stephenson. Discover more about this less well-known Stephenson and some of the colourful anecdotes associated with him. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events, news from the past month, and how you can get involved in the preparations for the 2025 celebrations. Join us for another engaging journey through the history of the railway that got the world on track. This podcast is brought to you by the Friends of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. For more information, visit our website at www.sdr1825.org.uk.

Join hosts Caroline Hardie and Archie MacKay in the fourth episode of Tales from the Rails as they delve into the history of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, celebrating its upcoming 200th anniversary in 2025. This episode focuses on the crucial role of railway bridges, spotlighting the Gaunless Bridge and the Skerne Bridge, their design, construction, and significance. Discover the fascinating stories behind these engineering feats and learn about the pioneering people like Ralph Day who contributed to the railway's success. Special guest Anthony Coulls, Senior Curator of Rail Transport and Technology at the National Railway Museum at Locomotion, shares insights on the recent relocation and restoration of the Gaunless Bridge ironwork which is now sited outside the newly opened New Hall. Find out about upcoming events and the ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate this monumental piece of railway history. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or just curious about the past, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the world of early railway engineering. Thank you once more to Dave Reynolds for composing our theme tune. Thanks also to Darlington based actor, Lee Morris, who features as Ignatius Bonomi and to Alfie Nixon, who took the role of John Carter. Links Links in this Episode:  Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway Donate to the Save Heighington Station campaign S&DR Events Calendar S&DR Community Fund Buy at the S&DR Shop

This month’s podcast is all about the S&DR’s station at Heighington on Aycliffe Lane, located half way between Shildon and Darlington, and the campaign to save what is officially the world’s earliest railway station.

This week, we focus on the historical importance of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Why all the fuss? And why is the whole country marking its 200th anniversary in 2025, not just the residents of Stockton and Darlington? Plus: Stars of the S&DR and the latest News and Events.

27 September 1825: the opening day of the Stockton and Darlington Railway - a day that changed the world forever.