Funds needed to repair historic railway bridge

A fundraising appeal has been launched to repair a historic bridge on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR).

Bridge 42, which connects Goathland and Grosmont, is considered the busiest bridge on the heritage line, handling about 10,000 locomotive or train movements each year.

However after 180 years of service, the Grade II-listed structure needs urgent repairs to its stone and brick arch masonry.

Work will include scaffolding and track removal, followed by strengthening the brick arch protect it from water damage, and secure drainage.

As a registered charity, the NYMR said it relied on its supporters to fund projects of the scale that require specialist materials, skilled contractors, and careful working in a sensitive environment.

Laura Strangeway, chief executive, said: "The repair of Bridge 42 is vital for the future of the NYMR and as a complex project, it is a costly one which is why we are asking for generous support to ensure that we can continue running and secure the future of our much-loved railway.

"The NYMR is much more than a tourist attraction - it is a vital heritage, economic, and community asset that boosts the regional economy, protects railway heritage, and supports local livelihoods."

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.