Help restore Royal Deeside Railway services in 2021

THE Royal Deeside Railway has issued a public appeal for funds to help cover the cost of restarting services when lockdown restrictions permit.

Due to Covid-19, all services and events - including the popular Santa specials last year - had to be cancelled.

A spokesman said: “While we have had no income this past year, we continue to pay bills and maintenance costs. Consequently, the railway now has a funding shortfall and there is no guarantee that services can restart in 2021; operating through Birkenbaud crossing to the new Riverside Halt platform as planned.

“We are appealing to our friends, supporters and passengers who would normally travel along the length of the railway to support the Royal Deeside Railway Preservation Society in achieving this aim by donating to our cause.”

A £15,000 SOS appeal launched last autumn to cover the essential running costs that the railway experiences in a year has so far raised £7000.

To donate to the appeal, visit www.deesiderailway.co.uk