The Wensleydale Railway is appealing for cash so it can upgrade its track this winter.
The railway which began running trains in the dale six years ago hopes to raise over £100,000 to deal with the many speed restrictions in force on the 21-mile long railway.
The aim is that the diesel multiple units and also the heavier locomotive-hauled trains will be able to travel at 25 mph.
The railway wants to carry out as much work as possible while regular passenger services are suspended over the winter.
Passenger services run from Leeming Bar, just east of the A1 road, to Redmire, beyond Leyburn. However, the line also extends eastwards to Castle Hills, where it connects with the East Coast main line. This has to be maintained to an acceptable standard for incoming trains and Army freight trains.
The railway has plans to extend its services into Northallerton, a development which will bring into regular use more of the old track.
Any contributions, payable to the Wensleydale Railway Association Ltd, may be sent to WRA Track Appeal, Leeming Bar Station, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, North Yorks DL7 9AR. Donations can also be made online at www.WensleydaleRailwayAssociation.com
Or you can download a Wensleydale Track Appeal leaflet
The Wensleydale Railway Association was established in 1990 to campaign for the reinstatement of rail services between Northallerton and Garsdale on the Settle-Carlisle line.
In 2000 it established the Wensleydale Railway plc, a share-issuing company which is responsible for the operation of the line, which it leases from Network Rail. The WRA supports the operating company through raising funds and providing volunteers and in many other ways.
Information from Wensleydale Railway.