​On Saturday 13 April at 11:00am we’ll be commemorating the life of Timothy Trow, one of our local heroes. ​

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Timothy died 125 years ago on 13 April 1894 while saving the life of a young girl who had fallen into the canal. He was a tram conductor from Shelton and was on duty when he spotted Jane Ridgway had fallen into the Newcastle canal. Timothy, without a thought for his own safety, dived into the freezing water to rescue her. Overcome with cramp, he was unable to get out of the water and, despite attempts to rescue him, Timothy sadly drowned. ​

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Andy Platt, who is our Labour candidate for Boothen and Oak Hill in the election on 2 May, set up Timothy Trow Day a few years ago to honour this heroism. Andy said, “several years ago I read about this amazing story and was surprised to find there was no commemoration. I was determined to put that right. I am delighted it has become a regular event with the support of the local community”.​

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The event will start with a short commemoration at 11am at the memorial on London Road, which is opposite to James Street. We are pleased that Andy has been able to have the monument cleaned in time for this special 125th celebration. We’ll then cross the road to West End Methodist Church for some refreshments and a chance to read the displays, which include newspaper cuttings from the time. ​

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The event has really sparked the imagination of residents. Last year we were joined by a local musician who had written a song and heard the work of a local writer who had composed a short story based on the events of that tragic day.​ Again there will be music and song this year.

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Andy said, “it is important that we honour the memory of Timothy and what better way than an event where people from the local community can come together and celebrate the area”.