Wensleydale appeal launched to replace prewar track to Redmire

THE Wensleydale Railway has launched an appeal for funds to restore passenger services to Redmire after three years.

The deteriorating condition of the track and infrastructure on the section of the heritage line from Leyburn to Redmire has precluded passenger trains from being run over it. The track is life-expired and dates back to before the First World War. It is predominantly constructed on ash ballast, wooden sleepers, and 90lb North Eastern rail, which is heavily worn out.

Considerable vegetation needs to be removed, reballasting done, and drainage renewed. In addition, major infrastructure work is needed to such as the second platform construction and footbridge replacement at Leyburn and signalling.

It is estimated that the required track and infrastructure upgrade work will cost more than £1 million.

The appeal’s purpose is primarily to raise ‘pump-priming’ funds to provide support for larger grant applications in the future that are necessary to reopen this section of line.

Meanwhile, the railway has secured a £386,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to restore Leeming Bar station house and develop the 1920s heritage programme.

Wensleydale Railway Association (Trust) Limited chairman Nigel Park said: “The trust is pleased to launch our new appeal to upgrade the railway’s infrastructure and bring the standard of the whole route up to where we aspire it to be.

“This is probably the most important appeal we have ever made.”

Donations can be made online at www.justgiving.com/campaign/ returntoredmire