Station that has undergone a transformation from dereliction receives national recognition
A heritage train station which has opened and closed under different railway lines three times has been given a national, Red Wheel Plaque.
The plaques, given by the Transport Heritage programme commemorates Britain's rich and globally important legacy in the development of transport.
Volunteers have restored Shrewsbury's Abbey station, which 20 years ago lay in ruins.
The Station, opposite the Abbey Church, was the terminus of the Potts Line that ran between the county town and Llanymynech and its lime kilns.
That railway ran from 1866-80 when it went bust. It was re-invented at the Shropshire & Montgomeryshire Light Railway opening in 1911 and lasting until 1933.
Finally the War Department took it over as one of its lines between 1940 and 1960.
Granting the station a Red Wheel is expected to bring it more visitors from across the county.
The plaque was unveiled by Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turner, accompanied by the High Sheriff of Shropshire, Mandy Thorn at a colourful ceremony on Thursday.
The dignitaries were introduced by Shrewsbury's Town Crier, Martin Wood.
Mrs Turner congratulated the trustees on all the work that has been carried out at the station over the last two decades.
She said that she particularly likes the ethos of the trustees, that the station is seen as an asset for the entire community.
60) Our aim is to present a comprehensive overview for each site, in a way that will attract a new and wider audience.As you will be aware, the unveiling will take place at 12.30 so guests will arrive before then, and I will need to attach the NTT flag onto our 'unveiling system asap. As I see it, I will introduce the Lord Lieutenant,
Shrewsbury Abbey Station. Terminus of the 'Potts' Railway (1866-80). Shropshire & Montgomeryshire Light Railway (1911-1933) and War Department lines (1940-60).
Civic guests, the NTT committee members and trustees / sponsors. In this introduction I will state that following her speech we will receive and welcome some words from Stuart Wilkinson. This will be a very brief 'Introduction / Speech' from me. After Stuart has spoken we will go outside for the unveiling.
Mrs Mandy Thorn, MBE; DL High Sheriff of Shropshire.
The Town Crier, Martin Wood will make his announcement in some style, and then the Lord Lieutenant will unveil the plaque. Our photographer Russell Davies and Peter Waller, NTT photographer will record the unveiling. In the event of inclement weather I have already prepared a high-quality replica Red Wheel, and some professional panels for a photocall inside Abbey Station. After the photocall there will be a light buffet, tea/coffee/bottled water... (vegetarian options too) and then we leave.
Please contact me with any questions you may have. Thank you.
