A step back in time along the old branch line

The Bramford and District Local History Group is lacing up its walking boots for a guided walk that traces the route of the former Wretton branch line. This is a rare chance to explore a lost railway that once connected our village to the wider world, and to see archive photographs that bring its story vividly to life. The walk takes place on Saturday 21 September, starting at 10am from the old station yard on Mill Lane. Booking is essential, as places are limited to 25.

What the guided walk involves

The route is approximately three and a half miles and will take around two and a half hours, including plenty of stops for stories and photographs. We will follow field paths, a short section of quiet lane, and a stretch of the old trackbed that is now a permissive footpath. Expect uneven ground, two stiles, and a gentle incline near the site of the old viaduct. The pace will be leisurely, with time to ask questions and to imagine the steam trains that once puffed through this landscape.

Our guide for the morning is Alan Pickering, a founding member of the group and a lifelong railway enthusiast. Alan has spent years researching the line's history, from its opening in 1887 to its closure to passengers in 1954 and to goods in 1962. He will point out surviving features such as the remains of the platform, a length of original fencing, and the hump in the field where the goods shed once stood.

Bringing the past to life with archive photographs

What makes this walk special is the archive material that will be shared along the way. Members have spent the winter digitising a collection of glass plate negatives, faded postcards, and black-and-white prints. These images show the station in its heyday, the signal box, the coal yard, and the last passenger train. A selection will be printed as handouts, and a small display board will be set up at the halfway point.

You will see photographs of local people at work and at play: the station master with his ledger, a group of children waiting for the school train, and the bustling scene on market day. There are also images of the viaduct under construction and a wonderful shot of a snowbound train in the winter of 1947. Members will be on hand to answer questions and to record any memories you would like to share.

Practical information and how to book

Booking is essential as places are limited to 25. To reserve your place, contact the group's booking secretary by phone or email – details are on the posters in the village shop, the library, and the village hall noticeboard. The cost is £5 for members and £7 for non-members, payable on the day. This includes a printed route map and a set of archive photograph handouts to take home.

• Date: Saturday 21 September
• Time: 10am start, finishing around 12.30pm
• Meeting point: Old station yard, Mill Lane, Bramford
• Distance: Approximately 3.5 miles
• Terrain: Field paths, quiet lane, old trackbed; two stiles and a gentle incline
• Cost: £5 members, £7 non-members
• Places: Limited to 25, booking essential

What to bring and what to expect on the day

Please wear sturdy footwear with a good grip, as some sections can be muddy even in dry weather. Bring a waterproof coat, a hat, and a bottle of water. There will be a short break at the halfway point, so a snack is a good idea. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome, but please note the two stiles. The walk is suitable for adults and older children who can comfortably manage the distance; under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Refreshments will be available after the walk in the village hall, where there will also be a larger display of archive photographs and a chance to buy copies of the group's latest booklet on the branch line. All proceeds go towards the group's ongoing conservation and research work.

A community event for all ages

This walk is part of the group's programme of events for 2024, which includes talks, exhibitions, and practical conservation days. It is a wonderful way to meet neighbours, learn something new about our village, and spend a morning in the fresh air. Whether you remember the trains yourself or are simply curious about the past, you will be made very welcome.

Places are filling up quickly, so do book early to avoid disappointment. If you have any old photographs or memories of the Wretton branch line, please bring them along – the group would love to see them and may be able to scan them for the archive. We look forward to seeing you at the old station yard.