Support your local line

IT is really pleasing to see that finally, as we head back towards normal – or rather ‘new normal’ while we work to keep Covid-19 at bay – that our heritage lines are able to start reopening again. Out on the main line, the lockdown crisis has reminded the country just what a vital service the railway network provides. Media headlines of recent years have complained that rail services are overcrowded, too expensive and badly managed – some of which was justified – but now passenger and freight operators can only be praised for keeping the country moving and supplied throughout lockdown. This is why the Government stepped in to keep passenger services running, even when they were often practically empty. And it looks likely to continue supporting services for the foreseeable future by suspending franchise agreements and introducing some kind of management contract instead, where the financial risk is taken away from the operators. There is no such support for heritage lines, however, which – like many other businesses – must survive on their own two feet. The preservation movement relies partly on its members and supporters, but mostly on the paying public – and with more than four months’ income already lost due to lockdown, that is effectively half a year for most lines. It is not just fares either, but also the extra spend that visitors make in shops, bars and cafes. Some lines took advantage of the July 4 easing to reopen their retail outlets, and are now looking at running services again from August. Even then, social distancing will continue to limit the number of passengers that can be carried, and thus cap the fare income. So if you can, and feel it is safe for you, please consider booking a trip and supporting the heritage movement. Many lines have launched successful donation appeals, but some are in deep financial trouble and real danger of going under. And once a line closes, it will take a very long time to bring it back. If you are having trouble getting to the shops or finding a copy of Rail Express on sale, then why not consider taking out a subscription and having it delivered to your door every month. Some great deals are available, so please see page 14 for the latest offers.