The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has launched a Volunteer Voices exhibition in the Learning Coach at Goathland station.

The exhibition forms part of the Railway’s fiftieth anniversary celebrations, and visitors may view it until November. Other events to mark the anniversary include a gala in September.

The exhibition displays the stories of volunteers over the last half century, and what the Railway describes as their “camaraderie, dedication, and shared passion for preserving a bygone era.” Beginning with just one volunteer in 1972, the NYMR now has more than five hundred and fifty.

During their viewing, visitors will learn about the early days of the Railway, and get a feeling of motivation and efforts of the small group of enthusiasts who planned the heritage railway and brought it into being.

The NYMR sees the Volunteer Voices exhibition as “a tribute to the dedication of its volunteers”, and believes that the most appropriate way to do this is by using the volunteers’ own words, arguing that they “shed light on the experiences they have had while dedicating their time and skills to the railway’s preservation”.

Michelle Baggaley, Community Engagement Manager, said, “At the heart of the NYMR lies a community bonded by their shared love for our living museum. The exhibition showcases the teamwork and collaboration that goes into maintaining and operating the heritage railway, creating an unforgettable experience for our visitors. With over 900 active volunteers at the NYMR, they really are the lifeblood who work together to preserve and operate it, ensuring its legacy for future generations. The wealth of knowledge, experience, and expertise that they bring to the NYMR never ceases to amaze me”.

Holders of an NYMR Unlimited Annual Pass for £45 may visit the exhibition without charge. The Pass allows visitors to benefit from free travel for twelve months from the date of their first visit at no extra cost. This year, children aged 0-15 go free, and Carers travel for free when accompanying a full-fare-paying passenger.

For more information about the exhibition, click here.