Sherwood Forest Railway needs your help

Sherwood Forest Railway is appealing for help to convert a disused farm building into a locomotive and rolling stock shed.

The project has been started to allow the tourist attraction to keep the carriages for its heritage steam engines under cover.

It will also make it easier for owner David Colley and other volunteers at the not-for-profit railway to work on the trains regardless of what the weather does.

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David is appealing for donations of building materials, mostly timber, but said cash donations would not be refused for the railway, located on Gorsethorpe Lane, near Edwinstowe.

Skilled volunteers and labourers are also sought to help out with everything from painting and clearing out to general handyman duties.

Said David: “We have evolved from being Sherwood Forest Farm Park but since that closed we are a stand-alone attraction and we are progressing nicely.

“We have many customers, both from abroad and ordinary tourism. I think this will be a two-year project but it depends on what materials are available and how much help we get.”

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“There is earth to be moved, there are lights to install, there is fencing to erect and walls to be painted – the list is endless.”

But, despite the workload David insisted it would not affect opening times - which are every weekend, every Tuesday and every day during school holidays.

Sherwood Forest Railway is a 5/8th scale, 15 inch gauge steam railway running through cuttings, a tunnel and level crossings over its one-mile ride through traditional farmland.

The railway follows the design of early narrow gauge railways that were first used in construction of roads and canals during the late 19th and 20th centuries.

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Alongside locomotives there are children’s play areas, tables for picnickers, free parking and the ticket office stocks hot beverages, soft drinks, snacks and ice creams.

David said “As well as being a favourite with children, the railway appeals to all who are interested in our steam heritage with its evocative sounds and smells which emanate from either of the two steam locomotives Smokey Joe and Pet.”

If you are a volunteer, skilled or unskilled, or would like to donate money or materials please phone David Colley on 01623 515339 or email [email protected].

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