Bramber Celebrates the Lost Railway

On Friday 19th April - after nearly 3 years in the making - a celebratory opening of the 'Lost Railway' history boards took place.

Four in all, three are grouped together just south of Bramber Castle on the spot where Bramber Station once stood and the fourth one stands on the side of the A283 Steyning Bypass (close to Castle Lane) which is nearby to the original Steyning Station site. Displaying many pictures, a wealth of history and a timeline, the boards also contain various QR links to other interesting connections. As well as being an educational source, they are truly wonderful pieces of art.

After a threat of rain the weather gods were kind, and the sun shone! The ribbon was cut by Stephen Cranford, BBC Radio Brighton presenter and the host of a series of films being created about the bygone age of railways, entitled 'Tracing the Rails', Russell Barnes, Chair of the Steyning & District Community Partnership Visitor & Tourism Committee and initiator of the project, delivered a short speech of thanks to all who have been involved, including the superb graphics designer, Michael Bissett-Powell. Amongst those present at the Opening were representatives from the two funders – South Downs National Park and the Community Rail Network - together with some of the committee members who were responsible for bringing this project to fruition, plus local District/Parish Councillors. Following the ribbon cutting, all adjourned to St Mary’s House & Gardens to drink a toast to this superb achievement.