RICHMOND MP Rishi Sunak has endorsed an appeal to transform an old train carriage into a community hub.

The project was launched by the Leeming Bar Residents’ Association, which formed in July 2012 with the view to improving community and social life for residents.

The group, led by acting chairman Robert Hastie and deputy chairman Richard Moore, wanted to regain a space for community events after the loss of the village hall, and after working with the Wensleydale Railway found an old railway carriage they thought would meet the bill.

Mr Moore said: “Our membership has gradually increased and we have had the opportunity to put on a number of Easter Hunts, Halloween events and picnics in the park, along with three village litter picks.

“We have also established a village wide Neighbourhood Watch, our own website at www.lbra.org.uk, and a Facebook Group.”

Mr Moore said three months ago local beef processing firm ABP Wessex got in touch to offer to donate £4,000 needed to pay for the carriage.

Last month, Mr Sunak was invited to launch the call for volunteers to held make the carriage fit for use for the whole community.

He said: “This is an exciting and innovative project that will use the wonderful history of our railroad to provide a vibrant community hub for Leeming Bar and beyond."

"We are blessed with strong communities here in North Yorkshire. Innovative projects like the Leeming Bar rail carriage will help ensure our communities continue to thrive and grow closer together."

"This is a wonderful example of business, Wensleydale Railway and residents coming together to help our local communities thrive."