New information panels have been unveiled commemorating the railway history of Cockermouth.
Mayor of Cockermouth Andy Semple formally revealed the Civic Trust public information panels yesterday.
They consist of a series of five panels all located on the Greenway viaduct.
“I walk across the viaduct every day and there are always people gathering around the panels,” said Andy.
“Railways transformed the lives of working people and shaped the town we see today. The Civic Trust has given the people of Cockermouth a fantastic gift which they really value.”
Phil Campbell, chairman of the Civic Trust, said: “Although it is over 50 years since the last train ran through Cockermouth, the trust feels that it is important that this part of Cockermouth’s rich heritage is remembered and the history of the features that remain are recognised.”
He said the trust had erected the panels in memory of Tom Hughes who died in 2020 and was a previous chairman, a railway enthusiast and popular local teacher. Tom left a generous legacy to the trust which was used to fund the panels.
Steve Hughes, Tom’s nephew, said: “Tom clearly relished his work for the Civic Trust and it is very apt and appreciated that there is some long-lasting dedication that acknowledges his achievements for the trust and his love for both Cockermouth and the railways.”
Phil also thanked the Cumbrian Railways Association for their support to prepare the panels.
Cumbria County Council gave its permission for the panels to be erected on the viaduct.
