High-Quality Railway Documentary from Unexpected Source – Tracing the Rails

STEYNING, U.K. - Aug. 18, 2024 - PRLog -- A New Railway Documentary Captures the Heart of Britain's Lost Railways

Upper Beeding, UK – Railway enthusiasts and history buffs have a new reason to celebrate with the release of Tracing the Rails, a documentary series that takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through Britain's disused railway lines. Focusing initially on the Steyning Line in West Sussex, the series explores the remains of the lost Steyning Line, reviving the stories of this once-thriving route.

From Passion Project to YouTube Success

Created by Chris Kirk and Lou Kirk-Partridge, Tracing the Rails began as a passion project inspired by their love for local history, community and railway heritage. Chris, a seasoned filmmaker, and Lou, a skilled producer, teamed up with broadcaster Stephen Cranford and transport historian Mike Jaimes, determined to produce a series that rivaled major TV productions, despite being independently produced on a near zero budget.

"Our goal was to create something that could compete with the big channels, even though we're doing this on our own," says Chris Kirk.

A Growing Global Audience

Since its debut on YouTube, Tracing the Rails has attracted over 80,000 subscribers, captivating audiences all over the world. The series has struck a chord with viewers worldwide who share a love for railway history and the golden age of steam. It has also recently secured it's first ever TV showing on the Freeview Channel 95 "Rewind TV"

Each episode combines meticulous research with stunning visuals, including arial footage and restored archival images, to tell the story of the Steyning Line. It does this a bit like The Time Team Series and shows how what is there now, relates to the past, connecting viewers of today.

"Tracing the Rails is more than a documentary series; it's a living history project," explains Stephen Cranford, the series' presenter. "We're not just telling the stories of the past but reconnecting people with their heritage, uncovering parts of the railway that have been hidden for decades." A colossal community input is made on the project with artefacts, stories and history being shared at all levels. "I am extremely proud of what we have created" says director Chris.

Looking to the Future

With parts one and two already released and part three on the way shortly, Tracing the Rails is set to become an unforgettable journey through Britain's railway history. As the series gains popularity, there's hope that it might catch the attention of major TV channels.

Episodes of Tracing the Rails are available on the Tracing the Rails YouTube Channel, where viewers can subscribe and follow the series as it continues to unfold. The creators are also actively seeking contributions from anyone wishing to help, asking them to please consider becoming a Patron on our Petreon page.