This month, the Swindon and Cricklade Railway started the next phase of returning the line to Cricklade.

Major groundwork and vegetation clearance started on the 8th of February, with work on drainage and boundary fencing set to begin.

Furthermore, once the fencing and drainage work is complete, a ballast delivery can be arranged by the railway so that it can be laid along with track to Fairfield Lane.

Vice-Chairman and spokesperson of the Swindon & Cricklade Railway, Allan Bott explains why this is exciting news. “It’s so good to see substantial progress being made to reach the northern destination of our line, and soon we’ll be able to fully embrace our namesake the Swindon & Cricklade Railway. This work however doesn’t come cheap and the de-veg alone cost several thousand pounds, however it was well worth the money.”

“To complete the works we need to raise a lot more money and whilst we have submitted grant applications, any further donations will be greatly appreciated. Once the ballast is on site, we can begin laying track and finally reach our intended destination.”

2021 is the 60th Anniversary of the last train to leave Cricklade, which ran on the old MSWJR line that has been partly recreated by the Swindon and Cricklade Railway.

Donations can be made by contacting the Swindon and Cricklade Railway via their website.

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