Mid-Norfolk Railway launches 'Back on Track' appeal

The Mid-Norfolk Railway, which runs between Dereham and Wymondham, was due to reopen for the season on March 4. However, a recent inspection revealed that part of the track has deteriorated so much that it is unusable.

The railway, known for its Polar Express, has started the ‘Back on Track’ emergency appeal to help fund the restoration of the bridge, and associated works to reopen. 

80078 crosses Crownthorpe Bridge (Image: Ian McDonald MNR)

Charlie Robinson, chairman of the railway's preservation trust, said: “Despite significant investment in the railway's infrastructure in recent years, the reality is that when the railway started in the 1990s, it began with a railway line that had not been maintained since the 1960s.

READ MORE: Mid-Norfolk Railway launching emergency appeal to survive

“Significant progress in addressing this has previously been made, but the rate of deterioration is accelerating and costs for long-term refurbishment have risen significantly.

"This means additional funding must be found just to maintain what we have. This appeal is designed to get the railway running again, as quickly as possible.

Charlie Robinson, chairman of the MNRPT (Image: Archant)

“Every pound donated is a small step to ensuring the railway's future.”

The appeal hopes to raise £95,000 and along with money already committed by the railway, meet the costs of a staged reopening. Initially, it is planned that trains will run to Thuxton. 

The major work to fully reopen is at Crownthorpe bridge and associated track work.

Crownthorpe Bridge aerial view (Image: MNR)

READ MORE: Major restructure starting at Mid-Norfolk Railway in Dereham

For details on how to donate visit www.midnorfolkrailway.co.uk/donations.

Donation packages will give access to a special ‘Back on Track’ train service that is planned to run on Saturday, April 13. 

The service - which is just for donors - will travel from Dereham, through Wymondham Abbey to Wymondham Junction.