Cummins Darlington Engine Plant celebrates 60th anniversary

Cummins Darlington Engine Plant marks 60 years with a family fun day, celebrating community impact and innovation in Darlington. <i>(Image: Chris J Parker)</i>
Cummins Darlington Engine Plant marks 60 years with a family fun day, celebrating community impact and innovation in Darlington. (Image: Chris J Parker)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A Darlington engine plant celebrated 60 years of powering industry and community with a special family fun day.

The Cummins Darlington Engine Plant reached its 60th anniversary on Saturday, October 4, with a day of celebrations on the factory grounds.

The event brought together employees, their families, and community partners for a day of activities and entertainment.

Lord Lieutenant Sue Snowdon performs the honours(Image: Chris J Parker)

Steve Morley, plant manager at Cummins, said: "For sixty years, Darlington has been more than just an engine plant – it’s been about people.

"This celebration was about honouring our employees past and present, thanking their families for their support and inspiring the next generation."

The family fun day featured plant tours, engine displays, production line demonstrations, live music, games, and entertainment for all ages.

Enjoying an icecream(Image: Chris J Parker)

It offered employees the chance to share their workplace with loved ones and celebrate the generations who have contributed to the plant’s success since it first opened in 1965.

Jen Rumsey, chair and chief executive officer of Cummins, said: "Darlington has powered progress around the world for 60 years, but what truly sets this site apart are the generations of innovators who have shaped its legacy and continue to propel us forward."

(Image: Chris J Parker)

Dame Sue Snowdon, Lord-Lieutenant of County Durham, officially opened the event and praised the plant’s long-standing role in the region.

She said: "Cummins has been part of the very fabric of life in Darlington since 1965.

"Its impact goes far beyond the factory floor, from supporting over 130 local suppliers to dedicating thousands of hours to community projects.

Celebrating 60 years with a family fun day (Image: Chris J Parker)

"Cummins is a company that understands its role in the community and embraces it wholeheartedly."

The day also included special recognition for long-serving employees, celebrating those who have dedicated decades to the company.

Mr Morley said: "Thank you to every single person who’s been part of this journey.

Face painting fun(Image: Chris J Parker)

"From those who’ve built their careers here, to the children discovering our products that power the world for the first time – your presence made this milestone unforgettable."

The Darlington Engine Plant remains a key part of Cummins’ global operations and continues to play a vital role in the local economy.

The facility produces world-class engines used in industries across the globe.

Musical entertainment(Image: Chris J Parker)

Cummins Inc is a global power solutions leader.

(Image: Chris J Parker)

The company is known for its advanced diesel, natural gas, electric, and hybrid powertrains, as well as its commitment to sustainability through its Destination Zero strategy.

With around 69,600 employees worldwide, Cummins is focused on building stronger communities through three global corporate responsibility priorities: education, environment, and equality of opportunity.

In 2024, the company reported earnings of $3.9 billion on sales of $34.1 billion.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos