Guests line-up to celebrate the official launch of the project backed by Graysons.

The event brought together key stakeholders and supporters of the project, which is being led by Holy Trinity and supported by a £240,600 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Local organisations, including Graysons Solicitors, have also provided additional backing.

Guests heard how the scheme will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the world’s first steam-powered passenger railway journey, made by Stephenson’s Locomotive No. 1 in 1825. Plans include the creation of a new visitor facility within the church’s community rooms, interpretation displays, school activities, volunteering opportunities, and a programme of public events designed to celebrate Chesterfield’s industrial heritage.

Peter Clark, managing partner at Graysons Solicitors, said:

“It was good to see so many partners at the launch and see their support for a project that will both celebrate George Stephenson’s extraordinary achievements and create new opportunities for the community. We are proud to continue supporting an initiative that will inspire future generations in Chesterfield.”

The launch marked the formal start of work to transform Holy Trinity into a hub for learning, volunteering and cultural engagement – ensuring Stephenson’s story and the town’s wider industrial past are shared more widely than ever before.

The project will also commemorate the 40th anniversary of the miners’ strike, connecting the town’s past industries with today’s conversations around sustainability and the future of engineering.