Doncaster Unveils Plaque Commemorating Railway Pioneer Sir Nigel Gresley

A commemorative plaque and information board honoring Sir Nigel Gresley, a pioneering railway engineer, were unveiled at Doncaster Railway Station to mark his 149th birthday. Gresley, born in Edinburgh in 1876, worked in Doncaster from 1905 to 1923 and designed iconic locomotives such as the Flying Scotsman and Mallard, the latter still holding the world speed record for steam locomotives. The unveiling ceremony was led by Mayor Ros Jones and attended by family members of both Gresley and Joe Duddington, the driver of the Mallard during its record-breaking run. Speakers praised Gresley's legacy in shaping Doncaster as a major railway hub and celebrated his innovative designs that defined an era of progress and speed. The plaque installation was funded by LNER, and the event recognized the efforts of Bill McHugh, who was recently honored with an MBE for his services to local government, heritage, and community. The memorial is intended to inspire residents and visitors by highlighting Doncaster's rich railway heritage and Gresley's lasting influence on the industry.