The Greatest Gathering Showcases Railway Heritage and Innovation

Alstom’s Derby factory hosts The Greatest Gathering, drawing 40,000 visitors to see historic and modern trains during the UK’s largest railway celebration. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Greatest Gathering Features Over 140 Rail Vehicles

Alstom welcomed nearly 40,000 guests to its Derby Litchurch Lane site for The Greatest Gathering, the world’s largest-ever railway festival. This event celebrates 200 years since the Stockton and Darlington Railway’s inaugural journey.

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Attendees explored 140 rail vehicles spanning steam, diesel, and electric technologies. Highlights included the iconic Flying Scotsman, 200-year-old Locomotion No. 1, and the modern Class 720 Aventra train. Alstom also presented its Pride-wrapped Class 390 Pendolino and Eurostar power car 3999.

Beyond viewing exhibits, guests experienced train rides on steam, diesel, and electric engines. Alstom’s Aventra Class 345 ran on the factory’s 1.6 km test track. The world’s oldest working narrow-gauge engine, Prince (1863), also carried passengers throughout the weekend.

The Greatest Gathering Combines Education and Celebration

Alstom designed The Greatest Gathering to educate and inspire. The STEM Hub featured interactive science and engineering displays aimed at young visitors. A Model Railway Village, led by Pete Waterman, offered intricate layouts and expert demonstrations.

Talks and performances by rail professionals filled the weekend schedule. The Mobility Theatre hosted the UK premiere of An Unlikely Fandom and a filmmaker Q&A. Street food, live music, and fairground rides created a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Dignitaries praised the event’s vision. UK Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy emphasized its scale and significance. French Ambassador Hélène Duchêne highlighted bilateral rail cooperation and sustainability commitments. Alstom’s role in Britain’s transport innovation stood front and center.

Proceeds support five rail-focused charities: Alzheimer’s Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission, and the Transport Benevolent Fund CIO.

Full exhibit details are available at www.alstom.com/greatest-gathering.

FAQ

What is The Greatest Gathering?

The Greatest Gathering is a large-scale railway festival hosted by Alstom, showcasing over 140 trains and celebrating 200 years of UK rail history. Learn more at Alstom’s official page.

Can visitors ride trains at The Greatest Gathering?

Yes, guests can ride on steam, diesel, and electric-hauled trains, including the Class 345 Aventra and narrow-gauge locomotive Prince.

How does The Greatest Gathering support railway charities?

Proceeds from the event benefit five charities including the Railway Benefit Fund and Railway Mission, supporting both heritage and social causes.

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