The Churnet Valley Railway based near Leek in Staffordshire has launched an appeal to raise sufficient funds to purchase a BR Sealion wagon.

The decision to purchase a BR Sealion wagon comes after the railway was loaned a BR Whale ballast wagon.

That led to the railway deciding to purchase their own wagon, for which an appeal was launched last autumn 2023 to raise sufficient funds to purchase a BR Sealion wagon.

When the opportunity arose to acquire a SR Walrus wagon, the railway realised that it would complete a set of vacuum braked bogie ballast wagons and would also prove useful for future works that are planned for the line.

Money raised so far means that just £2,500 is needed to complete the purchase of the BR Sealion wagon.

To this end, the North Staffordshire Railway Company (1978) Ltd, which is the supporting charity for the Churnet Valley Railway is looking for 20 individuals or groups to each sponsor £100 which, with the benefit of Gift Aid, will provided the necessary amount to purchase the wagon.

The railway reiterates that by supporting the charity with this appeal, sponsors will play a crucial role in helping the railway to acquire the wagon, thereby significantly improving the railway s engineering train’s capabilities.

Further information about the appeal and sponsorship details can be found at https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/bogieballast

Gift Aid can be claimed on donations because North Staffordshire Railway Company (1978) Ltd is a registered charity.

The benefit of being able to claim Gift Aid on donations is that it enables the railway to reach its fundraising goal swiftly, with every contribution, no matter how large or small, making a tremendous difference to reaching the final target

Although most visitors only see the railway from its operational train services, it is the behind-the-scenes work that keeps it thriving and moving forwards. By supporting the railway, it can be ensured that it will continue to create memorable experiences for years to come.

For further information about the railway and to book tickets, please visit http://churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk