Can you help South Tynedale restart?
THE South Tynedale Railway has renewed an appeal both for cash donations and new volunteers to help it reopen after lockdown.
The 2ft gauge Cumbrian line ceased services at the start of the first lockdown in March 2020, and like other heritage railways, launched an SOS survival appeal after finding itself devoid of income throughout last year. In late summer, its trading company went into administration with the loss of five jobs.
However, the South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society plans to keep the railway open and in October received an £84,300 lifeline from the Government's £1.57-billion Culture Recovery Fund. The grant will cover costs only until the end of March so it can prepare for the coming season. However, because of current restrictions, the line's volunteer groups are not operating.
Society chairman David Granath said: “We are likely to be even more reliant on volunteers when we reopen. There are volunteering opportunities on all parts of the railway. These include train crew, signallers, retail in our shop and infrastructure work including trackwork, gardening etc.”
Anyone who is interested can contact volunteering@southtynedale-railway.org.uk
Preparations
Biofuel-powered Hunslet 0-4-2T No. 16 of 1937 Green Dragon and Thomas Green 0-6-2ST No. 441 of 1908 Barber will be undergoing annual boiler tests in early March, while behind the scenes work is being carried out on the railway safety management system and preparation for recertification of operating crew competencies.
Infrastructure inspection work and maintenance renewals are being carried out in a socially distanced manner and all the major structures on the line are being inspected by an outside civil engineering firm before passenger trains recommence.
The target for resuming passenger services is July 3. The railway is expecting a visit from the industry regulator, the ORR over the summer.
Work is being carried out on carriage screening to aid Covid safety in preparation for the coming season. Carriage heaters are also being installed to add extra passenger comfort.
➜ You can donate to the South Tynedale Railway via bank transfer: sort code 09-02-22, account number 10568232, South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society, or by cheque payable to South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society and sent to Station House, Alston, Cumbria CA9 3JB.