The Fancott Miniature Railway, found at the Fancott Pub in Fancott, Bedfordshire has launched a Just Giving page to raise funds to improve track as well as build a ticket office for the railway.

Like other railways in the UK, the pandemic has meant limited running days for the Fancott Miniature Railway, but bills still needed to be paid, meaning the railway’s funds were reduced further.

Halloween trains operated, which helped bring in additional funds, but the cancellation of Santa trains, due to Luton and Bedfordshire being placed into additional restrictions, meant that another popular event didn’t take place and more income was lost.

For 2021, a reopening could take place in April/May after the latest restrictions are lifted.

Late in 2020 saw the Fancott Miniature Railway purchase ballast, sleepers and other equipment in order to realign track from the tunnel to the bottom loop point.

The realignment will allow engines, such as steam locomotive Davanna, to have a straight run up the hill where previously they had to slow for the bend.

The plan is also to have a ticket office built at the platform entrance to give shelter and for staff and provide social distancing for passengers.

The fundraising appeal is for just £1,500, so please give what you can to help the railway to improve the experience for passengers.

If you would like to donate, please visit the Fancott Miniature Railway Just Giving page.