Heartbreak for heritage railway after vandals cause £30,000 worth of damage

Damage to trains on East Lancashire Railway

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East Lancashire Railway has been subject to a series of vandal attacks causing £30,000 worth of damage to carriages on the popular heritage line, which runs between Heywood and Rawtenstall.

The vandal attacks took place around the railway’s Bury hub on 20, 21, 22 and 25 July and saw a number of vehicles damaged by graffiti, forced entry and smashed windows.

In relation to the incident on 25 July, three teenagers were discovered on the morning of the 26 July, the police were called and they were arrested.

East Lancashire Railway General Manager, Tracey Parkinson, said: “It’s been a week of mixed emotions for the railway, from celebrating our 30th anniversary and the dedication of our inspiring volunteers to cleaning up the aftermath of mindless vandals. It is deeply saddening for me and the entire ELR family to see both our heritage and hard work destroyed.

“We have estimated that it will cost in the region of £20,000 - £30,000 to repair the damage that has occurred over the past week, as well as a lot of time and effort.

"The railway is a registered charity which is run predominantly on the goodwill of our volunteers and supporters, making these attacks even more upsetting to our community.

"I would like to take this opportunity to praise the efforts from Greater Manchester Police, who have been fantastic at dealing with these devastating incidents.”

A police spokesperson said: "Three teenagers have been charged with criminal damage in Bury.

"A 13-year-old boy and two girls aged 13 and 14 were arrested and have been charged with criminal damage. They cannot be named for legal reasons.

"This charge is in connection with damage to a train carriage at the East Lancashire Heritage Railway Centre.

"They have been charged and are bailed due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on Wednesday 16 August 2017."

Appeal

By supporting the 'Vandal Attacks Appeal' the ELR team will be able to commence the repairs on the vehicles and carriages as quickly as possible, getting them back into traffic for visitors to enjoy.

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