A GENERAL Manager who has helped keep one of the region's best known heritage railways on track is to retire.

Nigel Park took over as working head of the Wensleydale Railway seven years ago as the company battled to restore and maintain the line amid major landslips and constant challenges.

Although he is now retiring as General Manager he can't give up his passion totally and is carrying on as a volunteer for the railway along with his wife Mo. Interim chairman Car Les said: “Nigel has been General Manager since 2011, when he stepped in to the breach when a previous incumbent left. He has spent those years meeting with, and sorting, the numerous challenges that crop up at small heritage railways. The board and shareholders of the company owe him a debt of gratitude for all his efforts.”

Mr Park added: “ There is no doubt that the last seven years have been challenging, but it has been made enjoyable and satisfying by that excellent group who make up the Wensleydale Railway`s staff, supporters and volunteers."