We’re thrilled to announce that Ideas Test, in partnership with Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, has welcomed Dan Thompson as our year-long Writer in Residence!

An award-winning social artist and writer with over 25 years of experience, Dan has made entertaining, thoughtful, and quietly provocative work about places, people, and the stories that connect them.

Paul Best, Vice Chairman of the Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Dan on board, this is an exciting year with the joint 200th anniversary of the modern railway, being celebrated as Railway 200, and our own 120th anniversary of steam locomotives, which started with ‘Premier’ which is also the locomotive operating this year. A fresh pair of eyes and a different perspective is always welcome so I’m sure this is a partnership that will flourish with Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, Ideas Test and Dan.”

Stay tuned as Dan shares captivating tales and inspiring moments along the tracks each month.

Click here to read Dan's work

About the Project:

This exciting opportunity coincides with significant milestones: the 200th anniversary of the railway’s broader history and the 120th anniversary of steam trains at the Kemsley paper mill. We are looking for a writer who can capture the unique spirit of the railway and its community, bringing its stories to life for a diverse audience.

Our Aims:

  • Celebrate Heritage: To commemorate the railway’s historical significance, particularly the 120 years of steam at the paper mill and 200 Years of railway history.
  • Engage New Audiences: To increase footfall and attract visitors to the railway, fostering a deeper connection with the local community.
  • Animate the Space: To develop creative content that enhances the visitor experience, potentially through QR codes, audio experiences, or other interactive elements such as talk-backs
  • Educational Outreach: To work with Ideas Test to engage young people in schools and workshops through creative writing.
  • Raise Awareness: To be open to giving interviews and written articles to include in local and national publications and on radio.