MORE than £350,000 has been donated to a heritage railway to help secure its future.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) launched an appeal in March after the charity-run attraction was unable to restart its new season due to coronavirus.

Chris Price, general manager of the NYMR, which is now preparing to reopen with easing of restrictions, said: “The public support has been overwhelming and thanks to local companies, the railway sector, and the general public who have rallied together and demonstrated their support over the past three months, I’m optimistic about the railway’s future.”

He added: “To help save vital funds where we can, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year’s annual steam gala event, which was originally planned for September.

“This will no doubt come as a real disappointment for many, ourselves included as the event is one of our highlights, but we’re doing everything we can to ensure we have a future beyond the summer.

“We just need your continued support to help us get through this last stage and over the final hurdle in our mission to begin operating once more.”

To donate to the appeal, go to nymr.co.uk/crisis-fund