APPEAL – SECURING THE FUTURE OF “STEAM THROUGH THE PEAK”

We hope that you are keeping safe and well in these exceedingly difficult life changing times. Peak Rail is seeking your urgent help in enabling our railway to prosper once again now that Covid-19 pandemic restrictions have been slightly eased.

Heritage railways have suffered as much as many other organisations as a
consequence of this unanticipated crisis and Peak Rail is no exception.

We were still recovering from the serious flooding event in November 2019 which resulted in £100,000 worth of damage to bridge 35 over the River Derwent north of Matlock. The timing of the Governments imposed lockdown in March and the subsequent need to close our railway operation came at the worst possible time, just as our 2020/21 season was getting underway. This meant that we were not able to secure any regular income from our trains, special events, driving courses, dining experiences, buffet, or shops. We estimate around £200,000 was lost for the summer and beyond completely overnight due to the cancellation of all restaurant car, steam experience and coach/group bookings.

Before we can re-open we need to ensure that finances are in place to continue to cover our overheads until our revenue is back on track and to enable us to accommodate new safe guide lines making sure that everyone – staff, volunteers and visitors alike – will be safe when visiting our railway.

To secure the future of the railway for generations to come the board of directors is setting a target to raise £250,000. Urgent priority of around £60,000 plus is required to complete the boiler works and other outstanding repairs on our own 0-6-0 ST “Austerity” “Royal Pioneer”, thus making us more self-sufficient and reducing overhead expenditure on locomotive hire and steaming fees. Read more about the History of the Royal Pioneer.

There are several ways in which you can help: –
• EITHER BY DONATING ONLINE
• BACS – BACS – Peak Rail plc main account – Sort Code 089075 Account Number 70971237
• Cheque – Made payable to Peak Rail plc
• Becoming a Peak Rail Shareholder or joining our monthly Share Club.  Find out more here: www.peakrail.co.uk/support/shareholders/

If you feel you can donate any amount whether large or small, it will be greatly appreciated to complete our target. Giving money is not the only way you can help, we are always looking to recruit people to volunteer on the railway and our need is now even more urgent as we plan for re-opening. If you are interested in helping please visit the Peak Rail Association Webpage to find out more, or contact us on 01629 580381 or via email.

Finally, we would like to thank you sincerely in advance for your support for our appeal and look forward to welcoming you back to Peak Rail as and when we are able to
re-open, hopefully in the near future.