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

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.

Below you can choose a set amount to donate or opt for the “Choose an Amount to Donate” where you can decide how much you would like to donate.