Gillingham Town Council has joined a national celebration marking two centuries of the modern railway.

Known as Railway 200, this year-long campaign brings together organisations across the UK to honour the historic contribution of rail to the country’s development, while inspiring a new generation to pursue careers in a forward-looking, green, and innovative rail industry.

As North Dorset’s only town with a railway station, Gillingham is uniquely placed to take part in these celebrations. The station serves as a key gateway for residents and tourists alike, offering access to the nearby attractions of Stourhead, the historic landscapes of North Dorset, and the picturesque views from Shaftesbury’s famous Gold Hill.

In the 2024/25 period, Gillingham Railway Station welcomed approximately 302,000 passengers.

To commemorate this national milestone, on 9 June 2025, the mayor of Gillingham, Councillor Fiona Cullen, unveiled a Railway 200 display at Station Road in Gillingham.

The display was designed and constructed by the Gillingham Town Council Grounds Team, who creatively used recycled materials wherever possible. In particular, the locomotive’s body was made from a re-purposed litter bin, while additional parts were sourced from discarded items recovered from skips.

Councillor Fiona Cullen, Mayor of Gillingham, said: ‘The railway has been part of Gillingham’s identity for generations, connecting our town to the wider region and beyond.

‘This wonderful display not only marks an important national anniversary but also celebrates the ingenuity and dedication of our council grounds team. It’s a tribute to our past and a beacon for the future of sustainable transport.’

The project also received strong support from South Western Railway Rail 200 co-ordinator, Derek Beer, who attended the unveiling.

Mr Beer remarked: ‘Railway 200 is about honouring two centuries of connection, innovation, and community. Gillingham’s contribution to the celebrations is both imaginative and inspiring.

‘This display is a brilliant example of how local pride and environmental awareness can come together to create something meaningful. We’re delighted to have Gillingham playing such a vibrant part in the campaign.’