Fundraising weekend to pay for heritage railway landslip (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Fundraising weekend to pay for heritage railway landslip

4:03pm Monday 18th March 2013 in News By Joe Willis, Regional Chief Reporter

A FUNDRAISING weekend has been organised to get a heritage railway back on track after a landslip.

The Wensleydale Railway needs an estimated £40,000 to repair the embankment at Akebar, between Leyburn and Bedale.

So far, more than £31,500 has been raised by members of the railway and the public.

This weekend (March 23 and 24), a range of activities have been organised at Leeming Bar Station to boost the appeal.

These include a chance for adults to drive a diesel shunter for £5, a toy and book sale, a cake stall, games and a chance to contribute to a 40-mile coin collection.

Visitors will also get the chance to ride the trains for free at 10am, 12pm and 3pm.

Wensleydale Railway Association chairman, Ken Monkman, said staff and volunteers were working flat out to repair the track so a normal service could resume ahead of the Easter holidays.

He added: "Our members and the public have been very supportive and we thank them very much for their contributions to date.”