Remarkable Sunderland railway line from Wearside's past gets the spotlight in new book

One of Sunderland’s most remarkable railways will be at the centre of a new book which spotlights its huge impact on industry.

Authors Neil Sinclair and Neville Whaler have produced the book called The Sunderland and Penshaw Railway which has vast detail as well as 90 photos from its past.

The railway which ran from Penshaw was opened in 1852 to carry coal for onward shipment from the new South Dock.

Neil told us: “Coal remained a significant traffic for over one hundred years. The railway also led to several industries being established alongside, with shipyards also being connected to it.

“In the 1940s there were over 20 private sidings, some serving companies with nationally known products, such as Pyrex, Doxford Marine Engines and Coles Cranes.”

The vast array of photographs show mineral and goods trains as well as the passenger stations at Cox Green, Pallion and Millfield and features railway staff .

After the line closed completely in 1984, the route became a walkway. Neil added: “Remarkably, however, the section to South Hylton was reopened as an extension of the Metro in 2002. There are now plans to reopen the remaining part for Metro services to Washington.”

Neil has written several books and articles about railways in the area while Neville has known the line since boyhood.

He also designed track alterations on the line as a member of the British Railways civil engineering staff.

Neil and Neville will be signing copies of their new book at the Culture House in Keel Square between 12.30 and 2pm on Saturday, November 14

The Sunderland and Penshaw Railway is published by Oakwood Press, priced £18.95. Find out more at https://stenlake.co.uk/books/category.php?section=Oakwood