On Saturday, Newtown Green in Ashford, Kent, will host will host a family-friendly fun day to celebrate two anniversaries:
- 180 years since the opening of Ashford Railway Works
- 175 years since the opening of Newtown Railway Works.
The event aims to celebrate the heyday of the railway in Ashford, from the Victorian era to the departure of the last steam train in the 1960s.
The festival hopes to bring together the community of South Willesborough and Newtown, alongside residents from all over Ashford Borough and beyond to celebrate the area's railway heritage.
The railway-themed event will open and 10am, and will include;
- Ashford model railway displays
- vintage funfair
- land train
- classic cars
- vintage market
- dancing workshops
- re-enactment groups
- children's entertainment
- live music.
The Alfred Arms, Harold's Hog Roast and other food stalls will provide refreshments.
The organisers are inviting visitors to bring historical artefacts, photos or memorabilia to be exhibited as part of the celebrations.
The event is organised by South Willesborough and Newtown Community Council (SWANCC) and sponsored by Ashford Borough Council and Ashford International Development Company.
SWANCC is hoping to claim a Guinness World Record by attempting to create the largest human image of a train on the day, and encourages all visitors to take part!
If you would like to find out more about the fair, please check the websites of Ashford Borough Council or SWANCC.
