Gresley graves restored thanks to train fans' donations

RAILWAY enthusiasts from across the UK gathered in a Derbyshire village to mark the restoration of the grave of locomotive engineer Sir Nigel Gresley.

Famous throughout the world for designing trains such as the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard, Sir Nigel was buried in Netherseal cemetery in 1941.

But, over the years, his grave, and that of his wife, Ethel, fell into a state of disrepair – until a letter in a national newspaper started a series of events which led to yesterday's ceremony.

It was two years ago that train fan Gordon Collier, who had spent his entire life studying the achievements of Sir Nigel, first visited the cemetery.

The 71-year-old was shocked at the condition of the graves and wrote to a national newspaper to ask for donations to pay for the restoration.

He said: "I was dismayed that the grave of the man who was so big in my life looked like everyone else's and had fallen into a state of neglect."

Immediately he was contacted by several organisations, including the Severn Valley Railway, Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Preservation Trust and the Gresley Society.

With £2,600 donated, the restoration work was carried out by Belper stonemason James Beresford and Sons and unveiled for the first time to a crowd of about 40 invited guests – many of whom had contributed towards the project.

Leading the celebration was Sir Nigel's grandson Tim Godfrey.

Although just three when his grandfather died, Mr Godfrey said he was incredibly proud of the impact he had made.

The 71-year-old, who lives in Shropshire, said: "The support we've had has been just wonderful and we are so grateful to everyone who donated.

"It's a been a long journey but standing here today seeing both graves restored to their former glory makes it all worthwhile."

Both graves will now be cared for by members of the Shackerstone Railway Society to ensure they are kept in good condition for future generations of Gresley admirers to visit.

A rededication service was carried out by the Rev Michael Yates, of St Peter's Church in Netherseal, who is a train enthusiast. He said: "It was a privilege to be asked to do this service."

Born in Edinburgh, Sir Nigel began his career in engineering at the age of 17.

Following an apprenticeship in Crewe, he worked as chief mechanical engineer for John Aspinall before moving to the Great Northern Railway, where he was appointed locomotive superintendent.

In 1936, the Mallard set a world speed record for steam traction of 125mph at Stoke Bank, near Grantham.

But it was the Flying Scotsman, a steam engine which ran non-stop between London and Edinburgh, for which he was best known.

An ancient Norman family, the Gresleys lived in South Derbyshire for more than 900 years. About 12 members of the family are buried in Netherseal cemetery, with five others buried at the village church.