A series of events will be held to commemorate the 150th anniversary of one of Norfolk's most tragic disasters.
On September 10, 1874, two steam trains collided on the single-line track between Brundall and Norwich, close to the Three Tuns Pub in Thorpe St Andrew, now known as The Rushcutters Arms.
Twenty-six people died as a result, with many more injured as they were flung from the wreckage of the trains.
Among the dead were five railway servants and 21 passengers which included men, women, and children from Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Aldeburgh, Shoreditch and Norwood.
It has since become known as the Great Thorpe Railway Disaster.
Confusion over telegraph messages and failed protocol on the single-track stretch were blamed for the collision.
To mark its 150th anniversary, a bronze commemorative plaque will be put up in Thorpe St Andrew Parish Church, which The Bishop of Norwich will dedicate.
Local dignitaries and descendants of the crash victims will also come together to remember those who died.
READ MORE: Consultation starts for new homes on land approved for use a DECADE ago
From September 10 to 15, an exhibition will be displayed at Thorpe Parish Church with information and images about the disaster.
On September 13, Thorpe History Group will host an illustrated talk by Phyllida Scrivens, the author of a book on the topic, at the St Andrew's Centre, off Thunder Lane.
The following day two guided walks will be led around the area and on September 15 at 10.30am the commemorative plaque will be installed at the church.
READ MORE: 'Major issue' for next government to prioritise stressed by housing developer
In October 1874, the Norwich Mercury announced a subscription fund in aid of the widows and orphans of the Railway Servants who lost their lives in the disaster.
Key figures including the lord mayor, sheriff, Jeremiah Colman and the Gurneys donated "generously".
Today, the plaque has been funded by donors in honour of the 1874 subscription fund.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel