OPENING OF NORTH YORK MOORS RAILWAY (1973 )

This film documents the Opening of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway by the Duchess of Kent on May 1st, 1973.  It includes the towns’ preparation for the arrival of the Duchess as well as a journey along the newly opened rail line.  

The film opens with shots of Whitby Harbour as the town prepares for the arrival of the Duchess of Kent who will open the section of railway line from Grosmont to Pickering.  The Duchess and Lord Normanby arrive by car and are greeted by the Mayor and Mayoress of Whitby.  

The Duchess unveils the commemorative plaque, and after which is driven through the streets of Whitby in an open carriage.  

The film then moves to Grosmont where final preparations are taking place.  The Duchess arrives in Grosmont, and she signals for the station to be opened.  A double-headed steam train pulls into the station to take the party onto Pickering.  This is followed by scenic shots of the train which travels through the North Yorkshire Moors.  

On arrival at Pickering, the Duchess is escorted by the mayor and dignitaries to the Black Swan Hotel.  Here she unveils another plaque.  The rest of the film shows the Duchess chatting informally to the crowds before leaving Pickering.