A Present From the Past Lights Up Morpeth's Gas History

A surprise Father’s Day present has opened up a rare insight into Morpeth’s historical links with the gas industry.

Keith Newman from Ulgham received the book “The History of the Morpeth Gas Company 1833- 1933” and was delighted not only because of his interest in local history but because his business; Highlights Public Relations helps to manage the day to day PR for gas pipeline operator Northern Gas Networks.

The book was published in 1933 to celebrate 100 years of gas in Morpeth and sheds a lot of historical information about what life was like in the town almost 200 years ago including fascinating old photographs of the Market Place, Collingwood’s home and the gas works itself.

The book also shows how much technology and gas safety has improved over the years, as Keith explains. “The chairman stated in 1931 that if anyone found their gas lighting unsatisfactory or had a problem with a cooker or gas fire not working correctly, all they had to do was send a post card to Mr Lockey who would send a fitter to remedy it. Now of course, if anyone has a problem with their gas supply or if they smell gas, all they have to do is dial the free phone number 0800 111 999 and an engineer will be there within an hour, times really have changed,” he said.

Although the old gas works is now just an empty compound, there are still clues to be seen in the town concerning the town’s link with the old gas industry. An old gas lamp still stands near to the Skinnery Bridge, the old gas works walls are now integrated into more modern buildings on the aptly named Gas House Lane and the gates to Carlisle Park were donated by a director of the gas company Alderman Duncan. The original managers cottage as shown in the book is also still standing as a lasting testament to the pioneers of Morpeth’s gas supply.

Photo shows Keith with the book on Gas House Lane