Moorsline launches second Love Your Railway campaign
MORE than 70 UK heritage railway organisations have joined the second Love Your Railway campaign, aimed at promoting awareness of the sector as a major tourist destination, a national cultural asset, and a source of employment.
The six-week campaign, founded by the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Britain’s leading heritage line for many years in terms of passenger numbers, was officially launched on July 25 and runs until September 4.
Among the organisations that have signed up so far are the Heritage Railway Association, National Railway Museum, and modelmaker Hornby.
Weekly themes cover history, conservation, partnerships, family, volunteers and education, conservation, education and research.
NYMR general manager Chris Price said: “Last year we were completely blown away by the response to Love Your Railway.
“To have more than 50 heritage railways taking part in the campaign’s first year shows the incredible support and solidarity running through the sector.
“We have some exciting new ideas and elements planned for 2022, and love that even more organisations have come together this year to help us spread the word.
“The aim is simple. There are more than 150 operational heritage railways which protect, conserve and bring to life part of the nation’s rich cultural heritage, giving enjoyment and learning to thousands of people every year. We want to do all we can to raise awareness of every heritage railway throughout the country.”
The Mid-Hants Railway has called on knitters, crochet enthusiasts, and crafters to create a fleet of mini trains and engines inspired by the Watercress Line’s fleet and stations for use in a 3D yarnscape.
The railway also wants to gather memories from people who remember the line in its operating days, and will display these alongside the yarnscape in September.
To take part, email education@ watercressline.co.uk
HRA chief executive Stephen Oates said: “In 2021, Love Your Railway secured collaborations from as far afield as Cornwall, Suffolk, North Wales, north east Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with more than 50 heritage railway organisations taking part. We are really proud to back this campaign and look forward to seeing many more rail organisations get involved.”
UK heritage railways carry more than 13 million passengers each year over 560 miles of track, and contribute £400 million in economic impact. A total of 22,000 volunteers and more than 4000 paid employees keep the UK’s heritage railways on track, highlighting the significant role railways played through the industrial revolution.