Dedicated volunteers who have helped preserve and transform Tanfield Railway, the world’s oldest railway, have been recognised with County Durham’s highest civic honour.
As the historic railway celebrates its 300th anniversary, Durham County Council has awarded its volunteers the prestigious Chairman’s Medal in recognition of their outstanding commitment to protecting and celebrating the region’s railway heritage.
The railway has been run by volunteers for over 50 years now, with 218 people currently volunteering their time, skills and passion to the railway.
Between the ages of 14 and 94, each volunteer has helped to transform the railway into a three-mile heritage line that welcomes around 30,000 visitors each year.
It is now one of the county’s leading visitor attractions and one of the foremost industrial heritage railways in the country.
The award was presented by Durham County Council’s Vice-Chairman, Cllr Jackie Teasdale.
Cllr Rodiss, Chairman of Durham County Council, said:
“I am delighted to recognise all those who help to preserve Tanfield Railway, particularly in this special anniversary year.
“Their extraordinary contribution to their local community, the wider county, and to the heritage sector is hugely appreciated, with their efforts helping to attract visitors from far and wide and boost the county’s economy.
“In turn, the railway and its community has also helped to support the health and wellbeing of those who volunteer, provide upskilling opportunities and help people find new career directions, creating opportunities for all volunteers, but especially those younger ones stepping into engineering and customer-facing roles.
“I’d like to share a special thank you to all volunteers, past and present, who have helped support the railway and our local community.”
To find out more about the Chairman’s Medal, visit www.durham.gov.uk/chairmansmedal
