Nene Valley Railway

Many years ago, the pump trolley was used to give youngsters rides at about 50p a time. I was “volunteered” to be the motive power on one occasion. Certainly kept you fit.

 

We're looking where we can do yard running for galas and events as well, either and Wansford or Overton. Sadly these days it's 16+ I think!

Not only does it keep you fit, but it's not exactly ergonomically designed. Most of the movement come from pivoting at the base of your spine, so you can end up with a pretty sore back after too long on it!

 

Enjoyed having a go at Gotherington a couple of years ago, on one time running alongside the service train. Don’t know if I could manage a couple of hours of it though!

 

Yesterday, I visited the Nene Valley to see and ride behind 34081 on its first day in public service since undergoing major firebox repairs. The BBLS really have got a gorgeous loco, many thanks to the NVR for an excellent day.










More photos here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/200104535@N06/albums/72177720316219839

 

Glad you enjoyed your day with our wonderful loco.

 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-68908072

A recent update on the moving of the Wansford Road station building.

This was the first station along the branch to Stamford, after leaving Wansford.
It is being moved to adjacent to the NVR 's station at Peterborough to act as a joint entrance building for the NVR and Railworld help from some funding from National Highways.

 

Thanks for that - I did wonder what was going on with the station as groundworks for the road are now progressing apace.

 

NVR has launched an urgent appeal - the attached is exactly as posted on the NVR FB:

https://www.facebook.com/NeneValley...Eoy1qaERzzT9xvJNoQoLpZRkvkCjLYc24tT65VkbTvypl

It’s where memories are made, stories are told and history comes alive.
Nene Valley Railway Launches Urgent £300,000 Appeal to get the Railway Back on Track
Nene Valley Railway, a popular heritage railway running for 7.5 miles through the picturesque north Cambridgeshire countryside, has launched a fundraising campaign aimed at securing £300,000 to keep the railway running in the face of stark financial challenges.
With operating costs rising sharply and passenger numbers remaining subdued since the pandemic, Nene Valley Railway urgently requires financial support to sustain its operations and safeguard its future as a cherished heritage attraction and working museum.
Since its inception, Nene Valley Railway has offered visitors an immersive unique journey through time aboard meticulously restored steam and diesel locomotives. From families seeking an unforgettable day out to enthusiasts passionate about Britain’s railway heritage, Nene Valley Railway has captivated hearts and minds for over 40 years.
However, the current economic climate has placed immense strain on the railway's finances. Reduced visitor numbers across the heritage sector combined with mounting running and maintenance costs has left Nene Valley Railway facing unprecedented financial pressure. Without immediate financial support there is a real risk that this valued local attraction and working museum could face closure, depriving future generations of the opportunity to experience its magic.
In response to this urgent need, Nene Valley Railway is appealing to the generosity of the public, businesses, and grant funders alike. The £300,000 fundraising target will enable the railway to maintain operations, conduct essential repairs and embark on vital infrastructure upgrades and restoration projects to ensure its long-term viability.
"Nene Valley Railway is more than just a railway attraction; it's a community of volunteers, a legacy, and a symbol of our industrial heritage” said Michael Purcell, Chairman of Nene Valley Railway. “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."
Donations to the Nene Valley Railway fundraising campaign can be made securely online through the official website at https://nvr.org.uk/product.php/164.
GoFundMe Link https://gofund.me/5f75ca51
Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in safeguarding the future of this much-loved heritage railway.

 

Finally found the time to have a ride behind the Danish F-class tank locomotive no. 656 at the Nene Valley today, in weather that varied from weak sunshine to pouring rain.

A few pictures - firstly, arriving at Wansford with the first train back from Peterborough:



This was taken just prior to being watered.



On to Yarwell Junction:



... and then on to Peterborough.



Lots of school parties today and parents with children, some clearly loving every minute of it

On the return trip, the heavens opened at Overton.

Oh, and something large and blue at Wansford.

 

Unfortunately, after all the hard work which gave us a very successful bank holiday weekend, this weekend's Mail by Rail event (1st/2nd June) has been cancelled by the railway, despite the best efforts of the TPO group.

I can't go in to detail, but suffice to say there are a lot of very unhappy volunteers right now.

 

I think “very unhappy” is putting it mildly.

 

Oh dear! Yet another railway where the management (with or without good cause, we don't know) is upsetting the volunteers whom the railway depends upon.

 

Whilst holding out the begging bowl.

 

Not just the volunteers, but also the general public who planned to visit another event now cancelled a short notice

 

The much publicised visit by Tornado, twice cancelled through no fault of the NVR can’t have helped either.

 

Lots of phone calls/e-mails to disappointed punters. From what I've been told, most of the footex bookings have been carried over as the punters are prepared to wait. Not so sure about general travel bookings though. Financially the visit would have been a welcome shot in the arm before the summer season.

 

We lost a few on the photo charter - despite the most excellent substitute loco

 

Those people were obviously totally lacking in taste.

 

Some people may remember this lady tending to the gardens at Orton Mere station.

http://www.nenevalleyrailway.co.uk/NVR_blog/?p=1803