A remarkable journey through time is set to culminate in a special event on 29th March at Plas Pentwyn, 1A Castle Rd, Coedpoeth, Wrexham, LL11 3NU, from 10am to 2pm.
Timeless Tracks is an inspiring project that has brought together members of the Coffee Companions Group, who meet weekly to explore and preserve their cherished memories. Sessions at Minera Lead Mines have uncovered extraordinary personal stories, captured through recorded oral histories, written accounts, poetry, and artwork.
This initiative, supported by Community Rail Officer, Josie Rayworth of 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership, has forged strong connections and unearthed touching and significant local narratives. The result is a beautifully curated Timeless Tracks booklet, offering a window into the past when mineral railway lines were the lifeblood of communities.
In addition, this event will be a part of the nationwide Railway 200 celebrations, marking 200 years of the modern railway. Railway 200 is a year-long, partnership-led campaign aimed at celebrating the history of railways while inspiring a new generation to consider careers in the rail industry. The campaign encourages communities, rail networks, and other groups to take part in the festivities and recognise the transformative power of rail travel over the past two centuries.
Josie Rayworth shared her thoughts on the project: “It has been a privilege to work with the Coffee Companions Group and hear their incredible stories. Seeing these memories preserved in the Timeless Tracks booklet is truly rewarding, and I hope it inspires future generations to appreciate our local history.”
Susanne Allcroft, Community Agent for Minera, expressed her pride in the collaboration: “I am incredibly proud of the work that the Coffee Companions Group and the 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership have put into producing this book. I hope you enjoy reading it and looking at the memories within.”
The launch event promises to be a vibrant celebration of local heritage and the significance of the railway, featuring:
- Displays of artwork and stories from participants
- Meet and greet with contributors, sharing their experiences first-hand
- A children’s heritage hunt, discover fun facts and stories
- A Victorian-themed photo booth, where families can dress up and step back in time
- A showcase of treasured artefacts, each with a unique and fascinating history
- Local group stands, offering insights into the area’s rich industrial past
Visitors will also have the opportunity to view the Timeless Tracks booklet, a lasting tribute to the memories and history uncovered through this project.
Join us as we celebrate the past, the stories that keep our history alive, and 200 years of the railway!
The 3 Counties Community Rail Partnership is proud to support initiatives that bring communities together and promote the richness of local culture. The Timeless Tracks Project exemplifies the power of a community coming together to celebrate and strengthen the ties that bind us across generations.
For more information about the project or the unveiling event, please contact:
Josie Rayworth
Community Rail Officer
3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership