Industry News

A dedicated heritage rail experience was held on the Weardale Railway in support of National Dementia Week, welcoming people living with dementia and their carers for a memorable day out through the Durham Dales.

Around 50 to 60 guests boarded the heritage DMU service at Bishop Auckland West, travelling to Stanhope while enjoying the scenic Weardale landscape. The train paused at selected viewpoints along the route, giving passengers the opportunity to take in the countryside in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The initiative was organised following an approach from Kim Wallace, Dementia Advisor for the Durham and Sunderland area with the Alzheimer’s Society, with the aim of creating meaningful shared experiences for those affected by dementia.

Weardale Railway volunteers supported passengers throughout the day, helping to ensure the journey was accessible and enjoyable for everyone on board, and The Weardale Warblers - a community choir based in Wolsingham – treated everyone to a singalong.

Claire Gibbons, General Manager at Weardale Railway, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside the Alzheimer’s Society on this important initiative. Our volunteers are proud to support an event that brings people together and offers a unique and enjoyable experience on our heritage line.”

Mathew Milner, Alzheimer’s Society’s Local Communities and Volunteering Lead, said: “During Dementia Action Week, Alzheimer’s Society is raising awareness of the devastation caused by dementia and the vital support available. 

“We worked closely with Weardale Railway to bring more than 50 people living with dementia and their carers together for a journey through the Weardale Valley. Passengers had time to enjoy music from a local community choir, share afternoon tea and take part in meaningful activities like planting forget-me-nots and reflecting on special memories. Moments like these can help spark memories, reduce isolation and create a real sense of joy and connection. 

“There are currently around one million people in the UK with dementia including over 41,000 in the North East. It’s important that people affected by dementia can access the support they need, and days like this help create a sense of connection and community for our local service users.” 

 The event forms part of National Dementia Week, which raises awareness and encourages greater understanding and support for people living with dementia and their families.

Spanning 18 miles from Bishop Auckland to Eastgate, and operating 16 miles between Bishop Auckland West and Stanhope, Weardale Railway is a heritage line that connects communities while celebrating County Durham’s rich railway history. The railway offers a range of visitor experiences, including driver days, heritage journeys and educational visits, supporting tourism and preserving the area’s railway history.

The Auckland Project rescued the railway from administration in 2020 and has invested significantly, funding essential repairs and infrastructure improvements. The Weardale Railway now offers revived operational heritage services and events—including afternoon teas, wine and cheese trains, and the popular Santa Express.

The Weardale Railway is part of The Auckland Project, a regeneration charity transforming Bishop Auckland into a leading visitor destination through its unique collection of heritage attractions, galleries, and gardens.

Visitors can explore Auckland Palace, the Spanish Gallery, the Mining Art Gallery, Faith Museum, along with extensive gardens and Deer Park.

Find out more here: www.aucklandproject.org and https://www.weardale-railway.org.uk/, and for more information about the Driver Experience, visit https://www.weardale-railway.org.uk/driver-experiences.

This June, Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging the nation to wear a Forget Me Not badge in honour of someone special, and to stand with families affected by dementia. Donate to the Forget Me Not Appeal today and receive your badge at Alzheimers.org.uk/forgetmenotappeal.