CELEBRATIONS have taken place for 175th anniversary of the the Chappel Viaduct which has provided a crucial link for trains.

Colchester mayor, Lesley Scott-Boutell was in attendance at the event, alongside Sir Bob Russell.

This year marks 175 years since the Colchester, Stour Valley, Sudbury and Halstead Railway opened the railway line, and Chappel and Wakes Colne Station.

Historical - The viaduct has been offering train users a spectacular view for many yearsHistorical - The viaduct has been offering train users a spectacular view for many years (Image: Credited)

Ms Scott-Boutell, made a speech at the service and said: “I’m always delighted to see and learn about the many groups of volunteers that have evolved to meet the shared interests and needs of their communities.

“They quietly go about their business and deliver what is needed in our city, towns and villages.

“I am very pleased to know that through this, one such group has reached the amazing milestone, 175 years of the Chappel Viaduct and Gainsborough line.

“A small group of volunteers who have come together to provide a wide range of events that serve not only people from the immediate villages, but also new friends from further afield. “

Art - See the multiple watercolours created in honour of the viaductArt - See the multiple watercolours created in honour of the viaduct (Image: Credited)

Enthusiastic singing and readings took place from Chappel Primary School, with the ribbon cut by the mayor and Christ Eaton BEM.

Alan Neville, community and customer engagement manager for Greater Anglia, said: “I was delighted to attend the Gainsborough Line celebrations.

“A huge amount of work and effort was put into this event by our adopters and Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership, in conjunction with the East Anglian Rail Museum.

“It was extremely well attended, and everyone enjoyed a packed programme of events.

“We would like to thank everyone involved in the event for their brilliant efforts to create such a memorable day.”

Artist Władysław Mirecki, who was born in Chelmsford to Polish parents, has put together 65 watercolours of the east and west views that will be on display.

Mr Mirecki runs Chappell Galleries which is in the village of Chappell, just down the road from the East Anglian Railway Museum.

The watercolours will be available to view throughout summer.

The day saw a great tribute from all involved, with 175 years being quite the milestone.