Railways

Most of Crewe's past and present has been influenced by the railway. In this series Beccy Wood South Cheshire reporter for BBC Stoke has researched the link between the railways and the prosperity of the market town.

How it all started

When Crewe opened its doors to the railway all those years ago it paved the way for a new lease of life to the town.But what do the locals think?

The Crewe Works

Over 800 locomotives were made at the Crewe Works during it's heyday. Often father then son would find employment there. In this part  Beccy Wood has been listening to some 'tales from the rails'

Sporting Links

Much of the sport based in Crewe was at one time sponsored by the railway and in fact actively encouraged in particular athletics and cricket. Chris and Ernie Jones are currently compiling a book about the sporting links

The King of Crewe

In 1843 the railway company built  221 cottages, a school & church .Historian Howard Curran explains how this was of benefit to Crewe and all about the impact of one man known as 'The King of Crewe' -Frank William Webb

The future

Still very much at the forefront of rail travel and operation new recruits from various train providers do much of their education in Crewe

The Railway & Spirituality

St. Andrews was built by the Grand Junction Railway Company and The Vicar Rev. Bill Baker explains how the church has survived since its opening in 1845

'The Railway Men'

The impact of the Railway company on Crewe Alex Football Club. At one time most of the people who played for the team were employed on the rails