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
News
Kesha pulls out of Roundhay Festival as all-new Pitbull line-up revealed
American pop singer Kesha has dropped out of the Pitbull-fronted Roundhay Festival line-up, with a major shake-up announced today.
The second instalment of artists for Pitbull's headline Roundhay Festival show has been announced and it's missing highly-anticipated and originally-announced artist Kesha.
Festival organisers have said that the star will no longer be able to perform due to 'unforeseen scheduling conflicts'.
The American singer's musical adventure has taken a 'Joyride' since becoming independent in September 2024 and releasing her sixth studio album "." or Period almost a year ago.
Now, Kesha's title as 'Special Guest' has now been handed over to three very impressive artists who also shared a role in soundtracking some of the 2010s biggest hits.
Kesha was originally listed as a 'Special Guest' for Pitbull's Roundhay Festival gig in Leeds this July / Credit: Brendan Walters / Press Shots
One of these new artists is Jason Derulo, who is ready to treat the crowd to his array of chart-topping melodies like: 'Whatcha Say', 'Talk Dirty to Me', 'Trumpets'.
Another act who knows a thing or two about travelling the globe like Mr. Worldwide is 'Miami 2 Ibiza' hitmaker Tinie Tempah - things are definitely about to get 'Frisky'.
The final artist joining this already impressive list of names is Lil Jon who's bringing his high energy tracks to Roundhay Park such as 'Turn Down For What', 'Shots' and 'Get Low'.
Jason Derulo is just one of the artists making up the all-new Pitbull Roundhay Festival line-up / Credit: Wikimedia Commons (via Supplied)
Kesha's departure from this Leeds gig comes as a complete shock as the star is still set to play a whole host of UK festival dates including a BST Hyde Park show in London on 10 July.
In a statement shared via social media, Roundhay Festival has stated the reason for this very big change to the line-up:
"Due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts, Kesha will no longer be joining us this July. We hope to welcome her to Roundhay Park in the future."
Although fans who have already bought tickets to the show might still be 'Praying' for Kesha's return to the Roundhay Festival bill, it's safe to say these artists are a great addition.
Pitbull is coming to Roundhay Park in Leeds on Friday 3 July 2026 and so far he's bringing along Jason Derulo, Tinie Tempah and Lil Jon with more acts to follow - Tickets HERE.
Popular Leeds boutique gym and reformer pilates studio suddenly shuts down
Daisy Jackson
One of Leeds' leading boutique gyms, and its sister reformer pilates studio, has shut down suddenly.
Both TRIB3 and PILAT3S announced their shock closure last night, as owners seek new operators to take over the spaces.
TRIB3 is known for its high intensity workouts, where members move between treadmills, assault bikes, and free weight zones.
And PILAT3S opened its doors just last year, offering a state-of-the-art reformer pilates studio.
But now both have closed with immediate effect, after several weeks of silence due to 'legal constraints and an ever-changing landscape'.
In a statement shared last night, they wrote how the studios had become 'a community', and thanked members and instructors for being part of the journey.
They signed off: "We remain incredibly grateful for the community that was built and the moments shared within these walls."
Inside TRIB3 Leeds, which has announced its shock closure
TRIB3 and PILAT3S Leeds members with any outstanding memberships or credits are encouraged to get in touch with the business.
You can read their full statement here: "Dear TRIB3 and PILAT3S family,
"Firstly we would like to apologise that it has taken a little time to get this message out. But with legal constraints and an ever-changing landscape, we are now finally able to put this message out there:
"It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that the TRIB3 and PILAT3S Leeds studios are closed and we are exploring opportunities with potential interested parties to take over moving forward.
"Over time, these studios became so much more than just places to train. They became a community—built on energy, connection, and a shared commitment to showing up and pushing limits together. We are incredibly proud of what was created and the people who brought it to life every single day.
"We know this news will be upsetting and unexpected for many, and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.
"We want to thank every member, client, instructor, and team member who has been part of this journey. Your support, loyalty, and passion are what made these spaces so special, and it’s something that will not be forgotten.
"Should you have any queries regarding memberships, credits or any outstanding matters please contact tribeleeds@btguk.com.
"We remain incredibly grateful for the community that was built and the moments shared within these walls.
Georgina Pellant -
23rd September 2021 
