The world’s oldest model locomotive has returned to Leeds more than 200 years after it sparked a global railway revolution.
Made in 1811 by famous engineer Matthew Murray, the precious model has arrived safely at Leeds Industrial Museum and will now take pride of place in an exhibition celebrating some of the city’s greatest inventions.
The historic miniature is a replica of the very first commercially viable steam locomotive, the twin cylinder Salamanca, which Murray built a year later.
Murray used his detailed model to explain to investors and fellow designers how his engines would work at a time when the locomotive industry was still in its industry.
The Salamanca model, which launched a global railway revolution, has returned home to Leeds and is now on display at the Industrial Museum / Image: Leeds City Council
His Salamanca model ultimately proved to be a massive commercial hit, with each engine selling for £350 - a huge sum at the time.
This then lead to further Murray models, which then inspired the great George Stephenson’s later designs.
The innovative model is now on display in Leeds Industrial Museum’s Leeds to Innovation exhibition, alongside another model of a flax ‘heckling’ machine that won Murray the gold medal from the Royal Society in 1809.
John McGoldrick, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of industrial history, said: “Murray was a true pioneer, whose ideas revolutionised the freight industry and inspired a whole new generation of locomotives.
“This model is the physical manifestation of his early vision for the future of locomotives and would have been an invaluable aid in explaining his brilliance to others who he needed to help him bring that vision to life.
“It’s an absolute honour to have Salamanca back at the museums and for this important piece of railway history to take its rightful place alongside the ingenious creations of other great Leeds minds.”
Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s member for economy, culture and education, said: “The history of Leeds includes some truly remarkable minds who each played their own distinct part in establishing the city’s reputation as a centre of creativity and ingenuity.
A display of steam and diesel locomotives at Leeds Industrial Museum. Leeds was a major locomotive building centre, especially for the narrower gauges. There is a workable Hunslet locomotive / Image: Chris Allen
“It’s wonderful to see those pioneers celebrated in this exhibition and to think that their efforts might inspire the next generation of incredible Leeds inventors.”
Other notable Leeds inventions that are on display as part of the exhibit, which features objects and stories from great inventors past and present, include Scootacars, space food and Spirographs. Walter Teasdale, who is thought to have taken the first-ever selfie against the backdrop of Kirkstall Abbey, also features.
To find out more, visit the Leeds to Innovation website page here.
Feature image - Leeds City Council
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Popular Leeds gaming bar announces immediate shock closure after going into liquidation
Point Blank in Leeds city centre have suddenly closed after going into liquidation.
The popular gaming bar hasn't been open all that long, and was marketed as the country's first simulated shooting range bar.
Despite being a popular attraction since opening last year, the bar has closed immediately, unable to honour any future bookings.
Point Blank confirmed late this Tuesday 3 February that it had sadly entered liquidation, describing the move as “completely unforeseen and beyond our control.”
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Up until just a few days ago, the Point Blank branch in Leeds had been promoting events including happy hours, shooting experiences, and even a Superbowl event scheduled for next Sunday 8 February.
A statement on their website reads: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Point Blank Shooting has entered liquidation.
"This situation was completely unforeseen and beyond our control. Due to our Manchester landlord entering administration, our lease was lost as part of that process. This had a serious knock-on effect across the wider business, leaving us with no other option.
"After seven incredible years of trading, this is a devastating moment for everyone involved at Point Blank.
"If you currently have a booking with us, we are working closely with the relevant parties to gain clarity and provide answers. We kindly ask for your patience while this process is ongoing.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years — hopefully this is a see you later, not a goodbye."
Leeds foodies rejoice as much loved restaurant brings back their ‘legendary Pie Nights’
Clementine Hall
The Swine Bistro is bringing back one of its most-loved and hotly anticipated events; its legendary Pie Nights.
Is there anything more comforting in winter than a proper hearty pie? No, we don't think so either.
And there's no better place to go for one than the beloved Swine Bistro.
Since reopening and relocating to Otley Road, the Swine Bistro has been named amongst the Good Food Guide and SquareMeal’s Top 100 Best Local Restaurants, and it's not hard to see why.
The Swine Bistro excels in bold British flavours, slow-cooked comfort and generous, joy-filled cooking - and this is exactly what Pie Nights showcase.
Image: SuppliedImage: The Hoot Leeds
This season’s Pie Night menu includes a mix of rich, meat-led classics and inventive vegetable-led pies, all made in-house and served with the Swine Bistro’s signature warmth and homely hosting.
The pie line-up includes Beef Cheek & Ox Tail, Chicken, Leek & Tarragon, Artichoke, Ricotta, Portobello & Walnut and Fennel, Hispi Cabbage, Butter Bean & Old Winchester.
Or if you're coming as a group and you can all agree on the filling (hard, we know), there is the show-stopping Suet-Topped Venison, Red Wine & Bone Marrow Pie, which is good enough for the table of Henry VIII.
Jo Myers, cofounder of the Swine Bistro, said; “Our love of making and serving the finest pies are a huge part of our story. They’re about taking the time to cook things properly, slow braises, good pastry, big, bold flavours for people to enjoy together. It’s comfort food, Swine-style.”
Pie Nights at The Swine Bistro will run on selected dates, initially kicking off on Wednesday 11 February, with further dates to be added, and are priced from £24 per person.
To find out more and to book your table, visit their website here.
Georgina Pellant -
23rd September 2021 
