HYDE’S regeneration and community spirit will be celebrated at a community event, with a nod to its past.
For the town’s Central railway station will see historical reenactors in Victorian railway uniform at A Celebration of Hyde.
Details of the ceremony on Saturday, September 20, have been finalised.
And the Friends of Hyde Loop, who have organised it, promise plenty for everyone.
Bringing together residents, local dignitaries, young people and community partners, more than 20 community organisations will be showcased as the area’s industrial legacy – along with its future and spirit – will be marked.
As well as a ceremonial speech and introduction by Civic Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Shibley Alam, there will be an introduction to the new Sheffield to Manchester Steel and Cotton walking and cycling route.
20 large permanent image boards and historical displays, which explore Hyde’s railway history, industrial achievements and social evolution, will also be unveiled on platform one of the station, on Great Norbury Street.
An LED Wayfinding Lighting System, which enhances safety and accessibility between Hyde town centre and the station, will be unveiled and switched on.
Councillor Peter Robinson, chair of the South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership, will present the Romiley-to-Hyde section of the Sheffield to Manchester Steel and Cotton Trail
And gifts for children will be handed out at the Thomas The Tank Engine image board located on platform one by volunteers.
Visitors will be guided at the event by volunteer marshalls. Platform one is accessed via a number of steps, but platform two offers sloped access for those with mobility needs.
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times and attendees are asked to be mindful of regular rail passengers.
A spokesperson for Friends of Hyde Loop, which looks after Hyde Central, as well as Hyde North and Woodley stations, said: “We aim to create an inclusive, multi-cultural, accessible gathering that reflects Hyde’s unique story, the future and the pride of its people.
“The gathering will honour Hyde’s rich railway, industrial and diverse social legacy while unveiling new features that signal its forward-looking regeneration.”