Heart of England CRP

 

 

2025 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway when Britain and the world changed forever.

Railway 200 celebrates the past, present and future of rail.

The Stockton & Darlington Railway opened in 1825, connecting places, people, communities and ideas and ultimately transforming the world. Railway 200 will be a year-long nationwide partnership-led campaign to celebrate 200 years of the modern railway and inspire a new generation of young pioneering talent to choose a career in rail.

It invites community, rail and other groups to get involved. Starting in January 2025, a wide variety of activities and events are being planned to celebrate rail’s remarkable past, its role today, and its importance to a sustainable future. 

To help tell the Railway 200 story, four main themes have been identified:

• Skills & Education
• Innovation, Technology & Environment
• Heritage, Culture & Tourism
• Celebrating Railway People

The Heart of England CRP is planning various projects and events throughout the year to help mark this special year in the history of the railway so keep an eye on this page for opportunities and updates.

To celebrate the Railway 200 Exhibition Train "The Inspiration" arriving soon at our local station Birmingham Moor Street (Tues 8th - Thurs 10th July 2025) Heart of England CRP are launching a competition!

We want you to design your own Railway 200 Train Wrap - this is an open invitation to be as colourful and creative as you like!

Guidance

1. Download a train template (PDF, 270KB) to print out or pick one up from the Heart of England CRP table at the Partner Carriage on the Exhibition Train in Birmingham (8th-10th July).
2. Complete your design, take a photo of it and email it with your full name and age to heartcrp@warwickshire.gov.uk (by emailing your design you give consent for them to be displayed on our social media channels, website and newsletter).
3. There will be three competition age categories
   1. 4-7
   2. 8-11
   3. 12-16
4. Prizes: The Winner of each age category can choose between a Railway 200 Plush teddy or a £15 Waterstones book voucher. We will publish the winning designs on our social media platforms.
5. Entries must be received by 9am on Wednesday 16th July 2025
6. Any questions please email heartcrp@warwickshire.gov.uk GOOD LUCK!!

Get your FREE tickets to visit The Inspiration (some locations across the UK are already sold out so don't delay!)