It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Brockington, who died aged 95 on 10 January 2025, we offer our thoughts and condolences to Michael’s family.
Michael Brockington’s impact on the Stratford upon Avon and South Warwickshire community, particularly in the 1960s, is immeasurable. His swift action in 1969, which prevented the closure of the Stratford upon Avon to Birmingham railway line, is a testament to his dedication. By intercepting a crucial public notice from the British Railways Board destined for publication in the Stratford Herald and ensuring it reached solicitors in Birmingham, Michael’s efforts directly led to the Court of Appeal halting the closure by placing an injunction on the BRB.
However, Michael’s contribution towards Stratford upon Avon and South Warwickshire is more profound and stretches over more than 50 years. In the 1960s, Michael engaged with Stratford upon Avon Town Council and formed the Stratford upon Avon and District Transport Action Committee (STAC), which the Mayor chaired with Michael as its Honorary Secretary.
Despite the widespread contraction of British Rail’s passenger services, Michael’s determination to preserve the through passenger services at Stratford upon Avon with Cheltenham, Gloucester, Worcester, the South West and South Wales via Honeybourne and Broadway was unwavering. Even as these services were withdrawn, the route remained operational for freight and as a diversionary route. Michael’s steadfast support and advocacy for the railway never wavered, even during what was a challenging and disheartening time for the railways.
In 1975, the BRB decided that the through railway route between Birmingham and Cheltenham via Stratford upon Avon, Long Marston, Honeybourne and Broadway should be upgraded with automatic level crossing barriers and the line speed raised to 75mph; the investment and work was planned to take place in early 1977, and the future looked brighter. Unfortunately, in what was to be a cruel twist of fate, a minor freight train derailment at Winchcombe in August 1976 closed the line. Once again, Michael was at the forefront of a campaign to save and reopen the railway route.
While the campaign was unsuccessful, Michael was involved and very supportive of the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR), which has preserved and reopened the line between Broadway and the outskirts of Cheltenham. Crucially, Michael, along with John Morgan from the Stratford Rail Transport Group, worked hard to achieve protection of the northern section of the ex GWR railway route from development in all the Local Plans of Stratford District Council since 1976, and this planning protection remains to date.
In 1983, Michael assumed the role of Vice Chairman of STAC, with Fraser Pithie taking over as Secretary. Together, they spearheaded a successful campaign to thwart a second attempt by the BRB in 1984 to close the Birmingham to Stratford railway line. Michael’s extensive experience from the first closure attempt equipped him to rally opposition and marshal objections well.
Since 1984, Michael remained a passionate advocate and supporter of the need to reopen the railway south of Stratford upon Avon to Honeybourne, which would reinstate a direct and shorter railway route with Oxford, Reading and London Paddington as well as enabling train services with Worcester, the South West and South Wales.
Fraser Pithie, Secretary of the Shakespeare Line Rail User Group, of which Michael Brockington was an honorary life member, said,
“Michael’s passing marks a very sad day, not least for all his family, whom he adored and was proud of. However, Michael, an extraordinarily knowledgeable yet modest gentleman, made a unique contribution to Stratford upon Avon. His modesty in the face of his significant achievements is genuinely humbling.
Michael’s actions in 1969, taken at personal risk, undoubtedly saved Stratford upon Avon’s railway line from closure. His selfless act has positively impacted hundreds of thousands of local people and visitors who have used the train since 1969 and continue to do so today.
For such a modest yet tenacious man, Michael Brockington has genuinely made a difference to so many and, in doing so, leaves a positive legacy that benefits the communities of Stratford upon Avon, South Warwickshire and all the communities served by the 18 stations between Stratford upon Avon and Birmingham.”
SLRUG will, in due course, look to mark Michael Brockington’s unique contribution towards the railways and the local community.