Railway needs £180k to get it back on track

A railway said it still has some way to go to refill its financial reserves despite a "fantastic" year of fundraising.

Last year The Nene Valley Railway (NVR) launched an urgent appeal to raise £300,000 to keep it running in the face of financial challenges.

The railway, which has been running near Peterborough since the 1970s and featured in a 1980s James Bond movie, has since raised £120,000.

Chairman Michael Purcell said NVR was "more than just a railway attraction; it's a community of volunteers, a legacy, and a symbol of our industrial heritage."

NVR's financial challenges followed a combination of a two-year deficit after the Covid pandemic and an increase in operating costs.

A fundraising target was created to refill its reserves, maintain operations, conduct essential repairs and infrastructure upgrades.

The heritage railway said it had received grants and donations, but the best way for the public to support it was riding on the train.

Mr Purcell said: "We are calling upon all those who cherish the heritage and charm of Nene Valley Railway to join us in this crucial effort.

"Your contributions will not only help us weather the current storm but will ensure that the railway can continue to inspire and delight our visitors and volunteers for years to come."

The railway runs for 7.5 miles (12km) from Peterborough Nene Valley station, through Orton Mere, Overton station, Wansford - and finishing at Yarwell Junction.

NVR has featured in 150 commercials, TV programmes and films, including Octopussy, which starred Roger Moore as Bond.

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.