A Class 195 Northern train has been named ‘Pride of Cumbria' at a ceremony at Barrow-in-Furness railway station.
Mayor Helen Wall unveiled the train's new name, which celebrates 175 years of the railway in the region.
In 1846, the Furness Railway and Lakes Line opened and transformed transport opportunities for both passengers and goods in the county.
The train will be in service along the line in Cumbria and will also be travelling on routes throughout the North West and Yorkshire.
A new of people attended the naming ceremony including Community Rail Cumbria, the 175 Committees, Simon Fell, MP for Barrow and Furness and staff from Northern.
The waiting room at Barrow-in-Furness also has new boards detailing the history of the local railway.
Chris Jackson, Regional Director at Northern, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who's been involved in making today happen, including Community Rail Cumbria and the 175 Committees, who are our fantastic volunteers.”
“Northern is proud to be a part of such rich heritage and community and as we look back on 175 years of progress, we also look forward to delivering further improvements in the area to continue to make a positive impact for the North.”
Simon Fell MP for Barrow & Furness said: “It is an honour to speak at the naming ceremony for the ‘Pride of Cumbria.' The story of Barrow is the story of the Furness Railway. The discovery of iron ore showed the potential of Barrow to the world, and Henry Schneider's railway opened it up. We owe our growth and community to the iron and steam of the railways and I hope that this train reminds people of our incredible heritage, and of the enviable role that Barrow plays in the UK and the world now.”
Kerstin Esbjornsson Community Rail Partnership Officer, Furness Line & Lakes Line, said: “The 175 anniversary events are celebrating rail history with a firm view to the future, our communities along the lines and engagement with rail users and the younger generations.
“The commemorations, community events and work with schools wouldn't have been possible but for the fantastic contributions from our volunteers, aided by the robust support from community stakeholders and the rail industry.
“A special thank you go to our funders and major supporters; Community Rail Network, Northern, Avanti, TransPennine Express, Network Rail, Furness Railway Trust and Barrow BID together with the awesome 175 artist Dez of Loveartpix.”
David Stubbins, Chair of Furness Railway 175 Anniversary Committee, said: “It's been an honour to have been asked to Chair the Delivery Group for the Furness Railway 175 celebrations. Despite many challenges brought about by COVID-19, the Group have put together a series of roadshows at stations in the area which have showcased the history of the Railway and the work of the station adoption groups. I'm grateful to the other members of the Group for their support.”
Ian Conway, Chair Lakes Line 175 Anniversary Committee, said: “On behalf of the Lakes Line Rail User Group which also runs the Friends of the Lakes Line, I would just like to say a big thanks for everybody's help with all the events which includes all the volunteers on all the Cumbrian Lines. All the groups work hard to help keeping the station that bit extra tidy.”
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What about using the Class 195s to operate in Northeast England especially on the Durham Coast Line and more services to increase.