The Queen Opens Newtongrange Railway Station

9th September 2015

On the day the Queen became the longest reigning UK monarch, she opened the new Borders Railway station at Newtongrange.    Although Moorfoot area has suffered the disruption and noise along the A7 corridor during the construction, the opening ceremony helped put that behind us and look forward to the benefits the railway provides.

The Queen arrived on the steam train, walked to the barriers and spoke to the public before opening the plaque. She gave a speech at her next stop at the end of the line at Tweedbank station.

Newtongrange brass band played music for the crowds and queen's arrival
Newtongrange Brass Band played music for the crowds and the Queen’s arrival.
The queen arrived on the steam train
The Queen arrived on the steam train.

queen-arriving

The queen shook hands with the council leader, Councillor Catherine Johnstone, who often attends Moorfoot Community Council meetings.
The Queen shook hands with the Midlothian Council leader, Councillor Catherine Johnstone, who often attends Moorfoot Community Council meetings.

 

The queen walked to the barriers to meet the people waiting to see her.
The Queen walked to the barriers to meet the people waiting to see her.

 

The Queen and Prince Philip
The Queen and Prince Philip

 

The queen opens the plaque for Newtongrange Railway Station
The Queen opens the plaque for Newtongrange Railway Station

 

The queen and Prince Philip walk back to the train
The Queen and Prince Philip walk back to the train

 

Back in their seats on the train, with Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon.
Back in their seats on the train, with Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon.

 

The steam train departs.
The steam train departs.

 

 

Photographs by Sue Mitchell.  Chair, Moorfoot Community Council.