Bedford Radio will broadcast a new edition of its award-nominated programme Historic Bedford over the Christmas period, telling the story of how the railways came to Bedford.
The show will be the station’s contribution to the nationwide Railway 200 celebrations, marking two centuries since the creation of the first modern railway.
Highlights include the contributions of railway pioneers George and Robert Stephenson to Bedford’s railway network, Charles Dickens’ unscheduled visit to Bedford, in fear for his life, and how Bedford avoided the mistakes of other nearby towns that had not welcomed the railways as they spread across the country.
The story will be brought to life by readings of contemporary letters, newspaper articles and speeches, specially recorded by volunteers from Bedford Radio and The Place Theatre. There are also contributions from prominent railway history YouTuber Jago Hazzard, who provides the big picture on the development of the railways nationwide.
Producer John Kell said: “After the positive response to our VE Day programme, I’m delighted to be exploring another chapter in Bedford’s long and fascinating history. Once again I’m grateful to all the volunteers who have helped bring it to life. Hopefully we’ll be able to provide some perfect listening for a cosy winter’s evening between Christmas and New Year.”
Historic Bedford: Railway 200 will be broadcast on Bedford Radio on Sunday 28th December 2025, at 7pm.
To find out more, visit their website.
