This is only a temporary measure while we re-open from Covid lockdown. We have been closed for nearly 15 months and currently dont have any resident steam traction that we can use, which then requires us to hire in a loco at anything from £600 to £1200 a day. Add to that costs of road transport to/from the railway and we need to be able to ensure we have enough passengers to cover those costs. With the uncertainty of lockdown roll back and the current restrictions on seating we made the decision to reopen using our Pacer fleet, then see how numbers pan out before looking at more interesting traction on some services.
Long term the railway is planning to obtain our own suitable steam locomotives and creating servicing facilities for them, ash disposal pit, water crane etc.
I think anyone who isn't acquainted with the WR should make a visit - Yes they aren't at NYMR \ Severn Valley levels, however there is a great new impetus at the WR these days. Yes it centres around diesels, with quite a lot of Pacers appeared to be stored on site at Leeming Bar, but after all its a very long line.
They've got a proven GM in place now with clearly a supportive PLC and Trust.
I have visited a couple of times over last month and been on a guided tour of the refurbished LB Station House - Its magnificent!! What a start to a journey when they get back to full operations.
There's a new toilet block being built presently in keeping with the bricks on the Station House - The guy whose doing it (Dave?) is a really nice guy, very informative and positive- Superb craftsman as well.
Went round the Station House with the Heritage Officer, Will. What a guy, enthusiasm in bucket loads, knowledgeable and keen as mustard - simply wanted you to enjoy the experience. I called on the off chance to take a few photos. Met an Electrician, lovely guy, who welcomed me and thanked me for coming to the railway!! Never had that before!! I asked him what was happening on the railway, he too was knowledgeable and pointed out a few things, then took me to Will who was great.
That day struck me - I must have spoken to at least 6 or 7 volunteers \ paid staff and all were a real pleasure to speak to - all took time out to speak with me and were extremely polite.
Keep up the good work WR!!