Wensleydale Railway appeals for help to restore steam services

One of the coaches which Wensleydale Railway is hoping to buy.

The Wensleydale Railway has launched an appeal to buy two coaches for use with steam locomotives.

The railway is looking to buy two vacuum-braked coaches which would mean it could expand its steam-hauled services.

The coaches have been recently refurbished and are described as “ready to use 1950s Mk1 coaches in truly outstanding condition”.

They are:

  1. The Tourist Second Open (TSO) seats 64 people and has retained all its original 1950s features, including woodwork and roof lights!
  2. The Brake Standard Open (Micro-Buffet) (BSOT) is complete with micro-buffet, passenger section (31 seats), Guards compartment and disabled access space with double doors, ramp and fixed seating for carers.

Rachael Roberts, spokesperson for Wensleydale Railway, said: “There is certainly something magical about the sight and sound of a steam locomotive thundering through the open countryside.

“The popular heritage railway is looking to expand its steam offering to meet demand, however, there are obstacles in the way towards making this dream a reality.”

Rachael said the Wensleydale Railway has made” incredible progress” in the last couple of years.

“In addition to the restoration of the award-winning Scruton Station, the restoration of Leeming Bar Station House has now been completed and an excellent heritage education and community engagement programme created.

“Significant improvements to the track and infrastructure have been undertaken, the restoration of the class 121 DMU/bubble car and four Mk2 coaches.

“These and other achievements have been topped off by the return of the hugely successful Polar Express Train Ride event.”

She said the Wensleydale Railway was committed to making the railway a place that the local area can be proud of and the restoration of steam services was part of that plan.

An appeal for donations has been issued to allow the line to purchase the coaches.

For more information, click here https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/fullsteamahead

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