A VIRTUAL tour of the extensive network of railway lines which once criss-crossed the Barrow district featured at a meeting of Barrow Civic and Local History Society.

The guest speaker was Barrow transport historian Geoff Holme.

At the beginning of his talk, he acknowledged the unique legacy of Barrovian Michael Andrews, who spent more than 50 years researching the history of the Furness Railway.

At one time more than 100 miles of railway track existed in Barrow and its dock system.

The talk traced the story of the Furness Railway back to its early days in 1846, showing maps of the first railway station which was at Rabbit Hill, not far from St George’s Church.

The Furness Railway offices, built next to the station between 1855 and 1857, had imposing architecture.

As the population of the town expanded, houses were built in the centre of Barrow and a new station was built, opening in 1882.

The photographs shown by Mr Holme emphasised how quickly landscapes could change, once the railway lines are no longer needed.

A spokesperson for the group said: “We were taken on a photographic journey on the workmen’s train from Barrow Island station to Dalton and then on another journey to Rampside station.

“Geoff’s talk gave people an insight into the extent of the railway in and around Barrow, and everyone enjoyed the talk very much.”

The meeting was well attended and Walter Johnston gave the vote of thanks.

The next meeting is at 5pm on Friday, March 23, at the Cumbria Archive and Local Studies Centre in the Ramsden Square library.

Archivist Susan Benson will give an illustrated talk on the diaries of Edward Wadham, agent to the Duke of Buccleuch from 1851 to1913.

Everyone with an interest in local history is very welcome to come along to the meeting, which will cost £1.50. Meet in Barrow Public Library at around 4.45pm.