A community group went on a commemorative walk to mark the 160th anniversary of the opening of the Oldham Ashton and Guide Bridge Junction Railway. 

The 'Walk the Line' event last Sunday morning (22 August) was organised by the Waterloo News group. 

It started at the site of the former Oldham Road Station - which was situated where the Zing & Zest Indian restaurant currently stands.

It then continued along Turner Lane, and up the old track bed to Park Bridge - a distance of just over two miles.

It was led by local historian Lee Woods, who spoke to the group about the railway’s opening on 26 August 1861, and how it was linked to both the Napoleonic and Crimean wars.

Lee said: "It was a thoroughly enjoyable event, and it was wonderful to see so many people join us today. For over 100 years, the OAGB played a massive role in our local community, and it affected so many people in so many different ways.

"I think it’s important to mark these special anniversaries, and remember the blood sweat and tears that went into constructing and running this particular railway line. If we have enough interest, then we’d be happy to arrange a second event later next month." 

The Oldham Ashton and Guide Bridge Junction Railway served the local community for 98 years, before its closure to passenger traffic on 2 May 1959.

Over the following eight years, the line was still used for carrying goods, until - after 106 years of service, the OAGB finally closed forever in 1967. The Victorian viaduct at Park Bridge was torn down in 1971.

The event was attended by keen residents from all over Tameside, including local councillor Vimal Choksi, former Civic Mayor of Tameside Leigh Drennan and a railway historian from Saddleworth. 

Cllr Choksi MBE said: "I was absolutely delighted to attend this history tour which has uncovered our glorious history and stories from its inception to the end. As a history enthusiast my self, I was excited to see our local Waterloo history being revisited in such a professional manner for the benefit of the community at no cost.

"Following the success of this community event, Waterloo News is receiving number of requests to organise a second history Tour on its Facebook page. We are advising people to look out for the next announcements on Waterloo News Facebook page."

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