Following the announcement that it has delayed its 2020 season opening, North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has launched a crisis appeal to secure its livelihood and keep it on track to reopen later this year.

The attraction was first formed in 1967, and as the UK’s favourite heritage railway has played a vital role in providing an authentic evocation of the steam age for everyone to enjoy, helping preserve the past and protect the legacy of steam travel for future generations.

Chris Price, General Manager at NYMR, comments: “We’re launching this plea for help as we need a fighting chance to keep the railway going. The NYMR is unable to claim insurance compensation for business interruption and as the situation currently stands, monetary aid has not been offered to charities. The only government help available at present would put the railway into significant debt, which could take years to pay off”.

“We could potentially lose up to £1 million over the upcoming weeks, and figures of this magnitude could threaten the very existence of the railway, which is why we’re asking, no, pleading, for help from members of the public”.

“We want to continue with the incredible restoration and preservation work the whole team here has been doing for decades and hopefully will be for many more years to come. But it’s imperative we don’t run out of steam.”

To find out more about the crowdfunding campaign or to donate, visit: nymr.co.uk/crisis-fund

PHOTO: Keith Harris