North York Moors Railway back on track after lockdown

The future of Britain’s most popular heritage railway is more secure, thanks to donations of more than £350,000 during its crisis appeal to alleviate the impact of Covid-19.

Chris Price, general manager of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway said members of the public and loyal members of the Pickering to Whitby attraction had rallied together and demonstrated their support after it was forced to close the line, shop and tearooms.

The fundraising campaign was launched as the railway’s staff and volunteers worked to maintain the historic line.

Mr Price said the attraction plays a crucial role in the community, providing employment, volunteering and apprenticeship opportunities and programmes to help our visitors understand the heritage of the railway and the North York Moors.

“I’m incredibly optimistic about the railway’s future.

However, the next few months are undeniably going to be a challenge for us. The amount raised will help secure us for a few more weeks.

We’ve managed to drastically reduce running costs but even in its closed state there are utilities, insurance, maintenance, and security. These costs will rise even further once the Government’s job retention scheme ends in October.”

To cut costs, the railway has cancelled this year’s annual Steam Gala event, which was planned for September.

Mr Price said:

“This will no doubt come as a real disappointment for many, but we’re doing everything we can to ensure we have a future beyond the summer.”

SHARE THIS STORY:

Get our app, and stay up to date!