New murals depicting rail through the ages have been unveiled at Leamington Spa Station, one week ahead of the modern railway's 200^th anniversary.

Unveiled near platforms three and four at the station, the murals capture the historic bicentenary, which began with the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway on 27 September 1825.

The artworks - funded by Chiltern Railways' Community Investment Fund - were created by local artist Katie O'Sullivan in collaboration with pupils from Earlsdon Primary School and Westgate Primary School.

The project was led by the Heart of England Community Rail Partnership. 

They depict historic figures relevant to the modern railway and the history of rail in Leamington.

The artworks - funded by Chiltern Railways' Community Investment Fund - were created by local artist Katie O'Sullivan in collaboration with pupils from Earlsdon Primary School and Westgate Primary School (image supplied)

Area Manager for Warwickshire at Chiltern Railways Daniel Gillard said: "Railway 200 is a unique opportunity to celebrate the proud history of rail. I am delighted that customers at Leamington Spa can view these wonderful murals, which perfectly capture this historic milestone for Britain's railways.

"Our community work with partners and schools is crucial for the upkeep and enhancement of our stations which improve the travel experience for our customers."

The launch took place today (Tuesday 16 September) and was attended by Chiltern Railways, the local artist, community partners, the district councillor for Arts, Culture & Economy and pupils from the schools.

Councillor Ella Billiald, artist Katie O'Sullivan, CRP officer Sarah Davison and Dan Gillard (Chiltern Railways) with school pupils and the murals Councillor Ella Billiald, artist Katie O'Sullivan, CRP officer Sarah Davison and Dan Gillard (Chiltern Railways) with school pupils and the murals (image supplied)

The pupils were also given Railway 200 cupcakes to celebrate the upcoming milestone. 

CRP Officer at the Heart of England Community Rail Partnership, Sarah Davison, expressed: "It's been fantastic to bring schools and communities together to explore the history of rail and create lasting artwork at Leamington Spa."

She continued: "The pupils' enthusiasm and imagination shine through in Katie's designs, and the mural will be a vibrant reminder of Railway 200 for years to come."

The project was led by the Heart of England Community Rail Partnership (image supplied)

Katie O'Sullivan, the artist of the murals, added, "The children's ideas and creativity inspired these beautiful murals. It's been wonderful to translate their vision into large-scale artworks that celebrate Leamington's railway both past and present.

"I hope Chiltern's customers will enjoy spotting the stories woven into the design as they travel."

Chiltern Railways' Community Investment Fund supports local projects that create lasting positive change along the Chiltern Railways network.

The scheme funds initiatives that enhance station environments, promote sustainable travel and strengthen community connections.