Wednesday 9th June - Sir George Newnes Day

posted by Nigel Thompson on Wed, 16/06/2010 - 13:40

Sir George Newnes is still well remembered in North Devon and on the centenary of his death - Wednesday 9th June - many celebrations were held in his name. Invited guests, dressed in Victorian costume, gathered at the Town Hall before heading to Lynton Cemetery where wreaths from the Cliff Railway, the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway, Lynton Town Council, Lynton Cricket Club and Lynton United Reformed Church were laid on his grave.

Organiser Ashley Clarke said: "The day is all about passing the history on to the next generation so a big part of the day will involve the children."

After the morning events, the Victorian dignatories together with children from local schools also suitably dressed in Victorian costume all came to Woody Bay Station, where each was presented with a specially commissioned commemorative medal before travelling on the train.

Nigel Thompson was there to provide us with this photo extravaganza.

1. Sir George and Lady Newnes' together with other Victorian dignatories arrive at Woody Bay Station.

2. Suitably dressed Victorians await their train.

3. Sir George and Lady Newnes

4 & 5. Victorians on the platform

6. Representing the Railway was Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Director Brom Bromidge suitably resplendent in top hat and frock coat.

7. AXE carried a suitable headboard.

8. Children from local schools dressed in Victorian costume arrived to swell the numbers in the marquee.

9. 'Sir George' gave an interesting talk about how he became rich through the 'Titbits' magazine and how he helped to promote a railway to Barnstaple.

10. Children in the marquee

11. & 12. Each child was presented with a comemmorative medal and an envelope containing a text which explained the significance of the days events as well as a current L & B leaflet to encourage them to bring their whole family to visit us soon!