New research has unearthed the fascinating history and global significance of a 19th-century locomotive refuelling stage in County Durham.
Historic England carried out the study of the coal drops as part of its research into the history of Shildon, which is known as the cradle of the railway. The coal drops have now been revealed to have been a world first in the history of the railways.
The research is part of the Stockton and Darlington Railway Heritage Action Zone (HAZ), a five-year programme established to help rejuvenate and restore the 26-mile stretch of historic railway ahead of its upcoming 200th anniversary in 2025.