A heritage railway threatened by the financial hardships posed by the coronavirus pandemic is appealing for support.

The Epping Ongar Railway has launched an appeal to raise £200,000 to preserve the future of the railway.

The appeal has raised nearly £14,000 in its first week thanks to the support of the members of the Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society and regular passengers.

Due to the impact of the Coronavirus, the railway has been closed since March 20 and has been unable to generate any income but still needs money to undertake basic maintenance to track, bridges, stations, locomotives and carriages so it is ready to operate safely and efficiently when it reopens.

However, without any in-come the future of the railway is thought to be at risk and without any volunteers there is a real chance that it might not reopen.

Fundraising co-ordinator, Jeff Mesnard, said: “I have worked as a volunteer for many years and I am very concerned that the Railway will struggle to remain viable during a long enforced shutdown. This is why I have worked with other volunteers to get this fundraising appeal off the ground.”

Since launching the appeal, almost 200 people have made donations ranging from £10 to £2,000.

The railway’s general manager, currently on furloughed leave, said: “I am delighted by the support shown by the volunteers and public towards the railway.

"I sincerely that hope that the railway can achieve its target of £200,000 which will allow the volunteers and staff to secure the future of this important part of our industrial heritage for generations to come. Please give generously.”

To donate is to visit the railway’s website: https://www.eorailway.co.uk/the-railway/appeal

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