News & Events
... played a crucial role in upskilling the workforce and preparing them for the demands of a modernized railway system . As the rail industry continues to evolve , CIRO ’ s commitment to highquality training and education will ensure that its members remain at the forefront of operational excellence .
2025 : A Year of Celebration and Collaboration
In honour of its 25th anniversary , CIRO will host a series of collaborative events throughout 2025 , shining a light on the institution ’ s history , its most influential figures , and the exceptional achievements of its members .
These celebrations will align with the Railway 200 campaign , marking 200 years of railways in the UK . To visually capture CIRO ’ s journey and legacy , a commemorative artwork by local artist Emma Joustra has been commissioned to be used throughout the celebrations . Originally created to celebrate CIRO ’ s royal charter in 2021 , the artwork has been extended to highlight key moments and achievements from the Institution ’ s 25-year history . Together , these events will celebrate the rich heritage of rail transport while looking ahead to the future of innovation and growth in the industry .
The events will not only celebrate CIRO ’ s past but also focus on the future of railway operations as the UK undergoes significant reforms with the introduction of GBR . Under Philip Sherratt ’ s leadership , CIRO is well-positioned to play a central role in the success of these reforms by continuing to provide industryleading education , qualifications , and professional recognition .
Looking Ahead : A Bright Future
As CIRO embarks on its next 25 years , the institution ’ s core mission remains steadfast : to advance the profession of railway operations and ensure the highest standards of practice across the industry . With a new CEO at the helm and a continued focus on innovation , education , and collaboration , CIRO is set to expand its influence both in the UK and internationally .
As we celebrate this historic milestone , we invite CIRO members , stakeholders , and the wider rail community to join in the celebrations and continue supporting the institution ’ s vision of operational excellence . Here ’ s to the next 25 years of success and progress in railway operations !
Excitement builds for railway ’ s 200th anniversary in 2025
With just over 100 days to go until the start of a year-long celebration of 200 years of the modern railway in 2025 , plans are being finalised to mark this historic milestone and explore rail ’ s past , present and future role in national life .
At an event in Darlington today in partnership with S & DR200 , Jake Kelly , Network Rail Eastern Region Managing Director , encouraged organisations and communities to embrace Railway 200 , a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate the railway ’ s far-reaching impact on how we live our lives and how it ’ s shaping a more sustainable future .
“ Today ’ s event announced the programme for a nine-month international festival across County Durham and Tees Valley from March to November next year , as part of Railway 200 . Inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway ( S & DR ) on 27 September 1825 – a journey that gave birth to the modern railway – S & DR200 will present a series of free large-scale outdoor spectacles , events , exhibitions and new art commissions at world class venues .”
Railway 200 is a partner-led programme of activities and events across the UK , supported by the rail industry , the UK Government , Transport Scotland , Transport for Wales , the Northern Ireland Executive , rail and business bodies , civic and community groups and a wide range of other partners , including Visit Britain and the Museums Association .
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said : “ Since the first passenger train entered service almost two hundred years ago , our railways have become integral to millions of lives , bringing communities closer together , opening up new opportunities for business and driving economic growth across the country .
“ Railway 200 presents an exciting opportunity to unite the wider public in recognition of our rail network and the brilliant people who keep it running . I hope this year-long series of events and celebration encourages the next generation to consider a career in rail .”
The 200th anniversary will kickoff with an evocative ‘ Whistle- Off ’ of vintage locomotives at 12 noon on 1 January 2025 at sites across the UK , spearheaded by the Heritage Railway Association .
There will also be a national Railway 200 seat sale in early 2025 , offering heavily discounted train travel for great days out , as announced this month by the Secretary of State for Transport .
Over three fun-filled days in August , train builder Alstom will host ‘ The Greatest Gathering ’ at its historic Litchurch Lane Works in Derby , showcasing the largest temporary assembly of trains and rail-related exhibits in a generation .
Other highlights include planning a touring exhibition train , named ‘ Inspiration ’, to criss-cross Britain , creating a buzz at mainline stations , heritage railways and rail freight depots . The train is being developed in partnership with the National Railway Museum , part of the Science Museum Group .
CIRO are proudly supporting the celebrations with an appearance on the career ’ s carriage of the exhibition train that will be travelling the networks . Keep a look out for more exciting activities we hope to share with you .
The Bulletin | Issue 54 | November 2024 9