Trevithick Day celebrations return to Cornwall

2024 makes the 40th anniversary of the event

Author: Cameron HallPublished 27th Apr 2024

People are gathering in Camborne to celebrate one of Cornwall's favourite sons.

Trevithick Day is taking place on Saturday, marking the contributions of former inventor and engineer Richard Trevithick to the Duchy's industrial and mining industries.

He is often credited with the invention of the world's first steam powered engine, and early steam locomotives.

Events are taking place throughout Camborne to mark the day.

It includes a procession on Trelowarren Street from the Kernow Pipe and Drums at 9:30am to start the day, followed by Morris dancing and pipers playing on Basset Street.

The steam parade is set to leave Basset Road at approximately 3:30pm.

Trevithick was 'ahead of his time'

The 2024 edition is marking the event's 40th anniversary.

Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, the chair of the Camborne Trevithick Association, Trevor Brookes, says the inventor was "ahead of his time."

"He could reduce the size of boilers used to power steam engines so much, that he could actually put one on wheels."

Mr Brookes also said how he "loves" celebrating Trevithick Day in Camborne.

"I remember the first time I did it two years ago, and at half past five, I stood at the bottom of Trelowarren Street and it was still full of people."

"There were children on their parents' shoulders, people still having a good time, and I thought if we could achieve this, we've done what we set out to do."