As part of the many exciting events taking place this year to celebrate 200 years since the start of the modern railway with the opening of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, County Councillors in Durham have joined forces with the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway to give primary school children a treat. Each child in schools located along the old railway line will be given a free copy of Little Loco’s BIG Day written by archaeologist Caroline Hardie and illustrated by fellow archaeologist John Pickin. This beautifully illustrated tale from the rails is about the opening of the pioneering Stockton & Darlington Railway on the 27th September 1825 and features Little Loco and her friends Herald the Horse, Wonky Waggons, George the Genius and Talented Timothy.  A special dedication at the beginning will encourage the next generation to be the bold, enterprising innovators of the future and help change the world for the better. Each participating school will also receive a visit from the author who will not only read from the book, but run a series of Little Loco activities that help tell the inspiring story of S&DR.

Further information:

The book is aimed at aged 6-7 year olds but some activities can be adapted to suit younger and older ages, usually between Reception and Year 3.

There is funding for about twenty school sessions in total. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

If you’d like to check eligibility for your school, or book a visit, please contact caroline@therailwaystation.shop

The Friends of the S&DR web site can be found at: sdr1825.org.uk

Schools can also select an option for a parallel visit from the S&DR Education Team  at info@sdr200.co.uk.