VOLUNTEERS at the Wensleydale Railway are hoping to raise up to £100,000 for vital track maintenance to keep the line going.

They've launched a justgiving page to ensure the line can take advantage of the relaxation of pandemic restrictions and the all important Christmas events.

Railway inspectors have warned much of the trackwork is reaching the end of its useful life. Organisers say work needs to be carried out to ensure the track is fully operational to Constable Burton for their Polar Express trips and to Leyburn for Christmas.

Work includes replacement of expired or sub standard track, sleepers and ballast, cutting back of overgrown vegetation including 200 diseased ash trees which need felling and miles of fencing which needs replacing.

A spokesperson said: "Trains cannot run without tracks and tracks must be safe and meet the required standards in all respects. Our existence depends on the availability and security of the track."

For info go to https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/infrastructureappeal