Brading Railway Station was the setting for the official launch of a unique new book celebrating 200 years of the railway on the Isle of Wight — and 20 years of the Isle of Wight Community Rail Partnership (CRP) — on Wednesday 15th at the Brading Railway Station Heritage Centre.
The glossy, full-colour publication, Through the Window of My Train, brings together poetry, artwork, and photography created by local residents during a series of creative community workshops inspired by the Island’s rich railway heritage. The project was funded by the Social Development Fund from South Western Railway and managed by Community Development Manager Bobby Lock.
In September, Brading Station hosted two days of inspiring workshops led by a team of well-known Island creatives. Acclaimed poet Maggie Sawkins, from Hooked on Words, guided participants in crafting railway-inspired verse; community artist Hollie Jackson led expressive art sessions; and the Wight Wanderer Jack Singleton, known for his popular history walks from Island stations, brought the past to life with captivating stories and facts about the railway.
As part of the creative experience, participants took the return train Shanklin to Ryde and a guided walk from Brading Station to Bembridge, sharing local history along the routes. The walk concluded with a relaxed lunch at the Pilot Boat Inn, followed by a free bus journey back to Brading, courtesy of the Community Rail Partnership and Southern Vectis - the island's buses — rounding off a memorable day of heritage, storytelling, and connection.
Supporting the event, George Wheeler, who runs Brading Station Heritage Centre as a dedicated volunteer, helped the CRP provide tours of the restored signal box and prepared a wonderful buffet for guests at the book launch.
The workshops included historical talks, guided photography, and creative writing sessions, all culminating in a train journey across the Island that sparked the imaginative pieces featured in the book. For many contributors, this marks their first time being published – a proud milestone shared at the launch event.
Included in the book is a link to an exclusive audible download — The Railwayman and other Stories — offering personal insights and tales that bring the Island’s railway past vividly to life.
At the launch, newly published poets read their work aloud to an enthusiastic audience of fellow artists, railway enthusiasts, and community members. The event not only celebrated the creative talents of the Island’s people, but also underscored the continuing importance of community engagement with local heritage.
“This project is a beautiful example of how history, art, and community can come together,” said Community Rail Manager Bobby Lock. “We’re proud to give a platform to local voices and to honour the legacy of the railway through so many creative expressions and grateful to Community Rail Network and South Western Railway for the funding that made this project happen"
Through the Window of My Train is available now at selected local outlets and heritage centres. All proceeds support ongoing Community Rail Partnership activities on the Isle of Wight.
