HOPES of turning an old railway carriage into a local community centre are pressing ahead.

Fund-raising is about to start for the project in Leeming Bar, base of the16-mile Wensleydale Railway which has now been hauling passengers for more than\n 10 years.

The Leeming Bar Residents' Association, who are behind the railway carriage project, will be hosting a fair and treasure hunt in the village’s play park on August 23 from 1.30pm.

Association chair Richard Moore said: “We are hoping this event will begin the process of raising funds for the purchase and subsequent development of a railway carriage that can be turned into a local community facility.

“Not every village can boast a heritage railway and when one of our members came up with the idea of taking an old carriage and turning it into a space that can be used as a meeting place, crèche, youth venue, cinema, exhibition space, performance space – we thought it was a great idea that offers lots of potential.”

Weather allowing the August 23 fair will include tombola, books/bric a brac, face-painting , cake sale, refreshments, a bouncy castle and plenty of games.

Entry is free although there will be charges to take part in the treasure hunt and some of the activities.

Anyone further details visit lbra.org.uk or contact Richard Moore at chair@lbra.org.uk