BROADCASTER and former MP Michael Portillo has sent a message of support to guardians of the Settle-Carlisle line as the railway marks a special anniversary year.
This year, the Friends of the Settle-Carlisle line will celebrate 150 years since the first passenger train ran along the railway line, which is often described as the last mainline railway built by hand and running across some of the harshest terrain in England.
Mr Portillo, who was Secretary of State for Transport at the time of the 1980s campaign to save the line and whose name was on the letter of reprieve, became the Honorary President of the Friends of Settle-Carlisle Line, and has been a supporter and follower of the line’s progress ever since.
In his message to the Friends, he says: "In April 1989, I wrote to the Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Line, announcing that the proposed closure of the Settle-Carlisle Railway Line would not take place, and the line was reprieved.
"At that time, I charged the Friends to work to support and promote the line, and suggested the formation of a registered charity - The Settle-Carlisle Railway Trust - to help raise funds to preserve and restore this magnificent line. Both organisations have worked tirelessly since that time to achieve those aims; and I am delighted to see the extensive programme of work and celebratory events that they have planned for the 150th anniversary in 2026.
"As Honorary President of the Friends, I am very pleased to extend my support, and to thank all those involved in the 150th anniversary. I would encourage everyone to make time to visit and ride the line to experience the spectacular setting and fascinating heritage, and to witness the wonderful dedication and passion of its splendid volunteers."
The Settle-Carlisle line has started the year on a high with West Coast Mainline trains being diverted until January 15 onto the line for the first time in 10 years while Clifton Bridge is being replaced.
Plans are in place to deliver a comprehensive programme of activities and events throughout the year to celebrate, commemorate, improve and develop the line including refurbishing key sites starting with the Ribblehead visitor centre and tearoom, free walks, talks, heritage events and days out, meeting partners in transport and tourism to forge better links for the future and working to bring more people from near and far together to enjoy all that the line has to offer.
Allison Cosgrove, Chair of the Friends said: “The Friends, the trust and the development company form a unique partnership working together with Network Rail and Northern. Over 40 years ago Michael Portillo charged us with supporting and promoting the line. I think we can all be proud of what has been achieved as we approach this remarkable anniversary milestone.”
For full details of events visit www.settlecarlisletrust.org.uk or follow FriendsSettleCarlisle on social media.
