VANDALS have attacked a heritage railway's historic teak carriages, which are regularly used for films and dramas. 

In the early hours of this morning, North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s (NYMR’s) carriages were deliberately vandalised. The carriages were parked in the siding, at the far side of the main visitor car park at Pickering.

The railway says North Yorkshire Police are currently onsite, assessing the situation.

The beautiful varnished teak carriage set, comprised of eight carriages, dating from 1930 to 1950.

These carriages have regularly appeared in films and television, recent appearances including Downton Abbey and the remake of the Dad’s Army film.

Chris Price, NYMR’s general manager said, “We were absolutely devastated to discover that the carriages had been damaged overnight.

"The set was found with the windows smashed and the furniture and fixings completely ruined, obviously all the staff and volunteers are extremely upset.

"Until the set has been completely assessed we will not know the full extent of the damage caused, I doubt very much that the set will run again in the 2017 season.”

Saturday, July 22 was the launch of the new bigger and better ‘60s Fest’ event which was taking place over the weekend.

The railway welcomed thousands of passengers, who enjoyed live music, just meters away from where the carriages were vandalised.

Laura Strangeway, NYMR’s marketing manager said: “Unfortunately there will be service disruptions today and any visitors wanting to travel along the line will need to check the website, nymr.co.uk or call customer services, on 01751-472508 for updates.

"The live music and displays planned for ‘60s Fest will go ahead along the line as planned.”

The teak carriages are owned and maintained by the London and North Eastern Railway Coach Association (LNERCA), who are a volunteer run, charitable organisation which restores the heritage coaches for use on the NYMR.

The North York Moors Historical Railway Trust is a not for profit charitable organisation run as part of the local community. Day to day operation is carried out by volunteers with railway operations and business experience. 

North Yorkshire Moors Railway is one of the most historic lines in the North of England, taking visitors on picturesque journeys along an 18-mile railway line aboard steam and heritage diesel trains.