New artwork installed in Northallerton in tribute to popular Tesco manager who died aged just 43

Tesco store manager Faye Stevenson tragically died from cancer 18 months ago at the age of just 43.

Her former colleagues teamed up with local charity Chopsticks and Northallerton BID to create a cast iron replica of a train called Stevenson's Rocket, based on pioneering locomotive Stephenson's Rocket, which has now gone on display beside the Tesco supermarket on East Road. Its 'carriages' are flower planters.

Hambleton Council have incorporated the memorial into their wider project to upgrade Northallerton town centre and the routes into it.

A spokeswoman for Tesco said: “Faye had been at the Northallerton store for around 10 years when she died of a rare type of cancer. She was a very big part of the store - she was always so bright and bubbly and her friends and colleagues wanted her to be forever remembered.

“This new permanent artwork is a beautiful tribute and it will constantly be filled with plants and flowers to show our respect to her. It is a perfect tribute.”

Hambleton Council leader Coun Mark Robson added: “This is an extra special touch to the work undertaken to improve New Row - we are delighted to have been able to work with Tesco and the BID to create this lasting memorial.”

The train was created by specialist local craftsmen at Chris Topp near Easingwold, which specialises in bespoke wrought ironwork and bronze metalwork.

The carriages of the temporary wooden train which previously stood on the spot are being 'rehomed' in the gardens of Faye’s family and friends.

Faye’s colleagues have also undertaken fundraising for her family - and her two children Finley and Etta - and two charities, AMMF and St Leonard's Hospice in York.

Just days before her death in June 2019, they walked 26 miles between the Tesco stores at Clifton Moor in York and Thirsk to raise money and awareness of the charities and to show support for Faye.