Opening Day - 17th July, 2004.

The first section of the line between Stanhope and Wolsingham re-opened for a daily service on Saturday, 17th July 2004. Although the day dawned dull and wet, it gradually brightened to reflect the optimism of the team who had worked for over 11 years to make this event a reality.

The ceremony started at 10:30am with a brief introduction by Trust Chairman Steve Raine followed by Weardale Railways Ltd Chairman, the Hon. Sir William McAlpine. Hillary Armstrong M.P. then unveiled a plaque to officially open the Railway at 11:00am.
The train was boarded by the first passengers and departed on time at 11:15am.

At Frosterley, the train stopped for an unveiling ceremony of the Frosterley marble sculpture donated by Sherburn Stone Ltd, followed by the remainder of the journey to Wolsingham. Here the passengers watched the last ceremony sponsored by One North East, while the train continued the short distance to the depot to take on coal and water. Passengers then re-boarded for the return to Stanhope and lunch.

The first running was completed by a rake of 3 coaches from Llangollen "topped and tailed" by steam locos, Tanfield's No. 49 at the west end and NELPG's P3 at the east. Note the headboards - No. 49's is dedicated to Gilbert Chatfield, ex-Trust Chairman who died recently. P3's is dedicated to John Woods, the previous Trust Chairman.

Arriving at Stanhope from the depot, 9:30am. Entering Stanhope Station, 9:30am. Leaving Stanhope Station to "hide" before the ceremonies.
Quite a crowd already and it's 2 hours before the train comes back for the opening ceremony. Chairman Sir William McAlpine and Hilary Armstrong MP perform the opening ceremony. Stanhope resembling a Tokyo rush hour as the first train pulls in.
Stanhope Station, first departure bang on time - 11:15am. Departing Stanhope 11:15am. Stanhope Station, ready for departure.
A later view just before departure, courtesy of Craig Oliphant. The "flight deck" of the P3/J27. ....and of No.49.
A good turnout at Frosterley despite the downpour. Frosterley marble sculpture donated by Sherburn Stone Ltd. Departing Frosterley to return to Stanhope.
The first train approaching Wolsingham, noon 17/7/2004. Arriving Frosterley on the return journey. Arriving Frosterley on return journey.
And Sunday 18th when the sun shone.
Arriving at Wolsingham Awaiting departure from Wolsingham. Wolsingham dries out in the sunshine.
Leaving Wolsingham Station. Broadwood crossing. Excitement at Stanhope.

The first actual run on the line was the previous Wednesday - a test run to ensure that all was well. Although not publicised it was not exactly secret, as spectators appeared along the length of the line. In the following pictures, note the finishing work still under way at stations!

Stanhope Station, looking west from the footbridge.

Frosterley Station. 3 days after this, the platform was complete.

The calm before the Storm!

 

 

These video clips were supplied
by Darren Fairclough.
They are low resolution
for quicker download.

Train pulling into Stanhope Station for the official opening.

Train leaving Stanhope after the ceremony.
Between Frosterley and Wolsingham. Arriving Wolsingham from the depot for the second run. Leaving Wolsingham.