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Friday 5 Dec 2025

Railway artefact returns home to Manchester Piccadilly more than 25 years after mystery disappearance

Region & Route:

North West & Central

An historic part of Manchester Piccadilly station’s heritage has been returned home – thanks to the hard work of a retired train driver.

The Manchester & Birmingham Railway plaque – a high-quality replica of the 1839 original – was installed at the newly built Manchester Piccadilly station in the mid-1960s.

The three-ton plaque was removed in 1998 when an upgrade began on the station. But it never reappeared when the work ended in 2002.

It wasn't until 2019 that retired train driver Mel Thorley, 77, discovered the missing historical artifact for sale on eBay for £3,700. Mel, from Stockport, and his friend, retired British Transport Police (BTP) officer Dave Smith put out a call which reached the ears of Lord Peter Hendy, then-chairman of Network Rail and current rail minister.

The plaque was then retrieved by BTP officers.

Now, more than 25 years after its disappearance, the plaque has finally been returned to its home in Manchester Piccadilly station after a restoration project which has brought it back to its best. 

Passengers will now be able to spot the plaque standing proudly on platform 10.

Phil James, Network Rail’s route director for the North West, said: “This is an incredible story that has been possible because of the hard work of our colleagues and Mel. 

“It’s great to see the plaque returned to its rightful place and it shows how important the history of our stations is. Manchester Piccadilly is a vital transport hub for our passengers, and now they will see the plaque daily.” 

Mel Thorley, who discovered the plaque on eBay, said: “I am so proud to see the plaque returned to where it should be inside the station. I couldn’t believe it when I spotted it for sale online but it’s great to see it back where it belongs.” 

Find out more about Manchester Piccadilly’s history on Network Rail’s website.