Inspiration Exhibition Train Opens to Visitors at Upminster

c2c Railway has officially opened the Inspiration train at Upminster station, marking the arrival of the travelling exhibition with a launch event supported by the Madam Mayor of Havering.

The ceremony earlier today brought together representatives from c2c, Network Rail and the Madam Mayor to welcome the exhibition train to the station. The event formally opened Inspiration to visitors as it begins its stay in the area.

Inspiration is a specially created exhibition train celebrating Railway 200, which marks the bicentenary of the modern railway. The anniversary traces its origins back to September 1825, when George Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 carried passengers between Shildon and Stockton-on-Tees.

The exhibition has been designed to inform and inspire younger generations, highlighting the history of Britain’s railways and the role rail has played, and continues to play, in supporting communities and shaping society.

Before arriving in Upminster, Inspiration visited a number of major towns and cities across the UK, including Birmingham, Margate, Norwich, York and Darlington, as well as several key London stations. The train will remain at Upminster on platform 1a throughout the week from 26 to 30 January.

Speaking at the launch event, c2c’s Operations & Safety Director, Stuart Browning, said:

“c2c is extremely honoured and privileged to be hosting Inspiration here at Upminster this week. We look forward to sharing the many historical and fascinating stories of our railway, from the early days with LTS rail, right through until c2c, with the hundreds of schools and thousands of public visitors who have booked to visit us.”

Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, said:

“Inspiration has arrived in Upminster, and we can’t wait to welcome the local community aboard. This is the 32nd stop on Inspiration’s 60-stop tour of Britain, and it’s already shaping up to be a highlight, so thank you to c2c Railway for hosting us. If you love amazing stories, hands-on exhibits and fascinating facts, make sure to get to Upminster station this week!”

Jamie Burles, Managing Director, Anglia Railway, added:

“I would like to thank the teams at the National Railway Museum, Railway 200, Network Rail and c2c who have made the Inspiration tour and its visit to Upminster possible – it’s a fantastic way to celebrate and showcase our amazing industry. There are lots of fun and interesting things to see and do across the four themed zones on Inspiration, including a look at ‘Railway Firsts,’ scientific and engineering breakthroughs, the future of our industry, and information on the wide range of careers and employment opportunities available. Finally, I would like to pay special thanks to Madam Mayor of Havering for kindly giving up her time to help with the official launch proceedings.”

Image: c2c