In the last blog post, we were pleased to announce the grant awarded by Mick George and Grantscape. Well, this project has launched in a massive way, with a 73 move shunt to clear the Loco Yard and a gargantuan effort to clear the rail and sleepers in order that ground work for the new three road shed, The Ironstone Railway Exhibition Centre, can begin. So take a good look at the panoramic photo of the yard above, because very so this will be transformed! The benefits of this project are massive – with year round viewing for visitors in all weathers, and much better conditions to restore the exhibits.

The good news doesn’t end there on the grant front. Since our last update we have also been awarded £8,100 by the Heritage Lottery Fund to restore the cab of the massive drag line excavator, Sundew. Work has already begun, and the top priority is to get the cab weather tight. There will be a lot more on this project in due course.

Father Christmas comes to Cottesmore early this December in order to act as Station Master on the 14th and 21st. If you would like to join him on the North Pole Express, or to enjoy a ride on the Mince Pie Special on the 1st January 2015, then booking is essential – so call our hotline on 07873 721941 and see the flyer here.