Yorkshire Wolds Railway (YWR) at Fimber in East Yorkshire is celebrating its tenth anniversary since opening to the public.
To mark the milestone and a decade of dedication, restoration, and community, the railway attraction is inviting visitors old and new to join in a day of free travel on Sunday, May 25 at the Fimber Halt site. The idea for opening a heritage railway was first suggested at the inaugural meeting on October 10, 2008.
The sum of £24,000 was then needed to be raised for the planners’ feasibility study so construction could be started in preparation for the grand opening on May 25, 2015 by Sir Tatton Sykes. Since then, the YWR has grown from a passionate vision to a heritage railway destination, preserving a key piece of local railway history on the former Malton & Driffield Junction Railway.
Entirely volunteer-run, the railway has welcomed thousands of visitors, offering a unique glimpse into East Yorkshire’s rail heritage with regular train rides, and an informative visitor centre. Phil Robson, financial director, said: “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved over the past ten years.
“This anniversary is a testament to the hard work of our volunteers and the amazing support from the local community and all visitors who keep the railway running. We can’t wait to celebrate with everyone who have been part of our journey and we thought offering free travel as a thank you for the day was a great way to do that.
(Image: Mike Hopps)
“Visitors will also be able to see progress on the UK Shared Prosperity Funded Visitor Centre and Working Facility along with the many improvements to the site, including the new shop”. The YWR is always keen to involve new people, and anyone interested in becoming a member or volunteering, making a donation or just finding out more can visit the Yorkshire Wolds Railway website or call 01377 338053 for more information.
The YWR will be running trains and opening the visitor centre every Sunday and Bank Holiday until the end of October and every Wednesday during school holidays from 10am to 4pm. All trains run subject to availability.
The visitor centre only will be open every Wednesday until the end of October, 10am to 4pm. Additionally, there are members on site most Saturdays who will be happy to show what is being done, subject to safety requirements.