Mid-Suffolk Light Railway scoops £64,200 grant to develop workshop building

An award winning heritage railway group is moving full steam ahead with a project to develop a workshop building after scooping a £64,200 grant.

The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, based at Brockford Station in Wetheringsett, will use the Heritage Lottery Fund money to create the Edwardian style engine shed.

The building will be used to better sustain the restoration of historic railway equipment and deliver a programme of heritage learning and social engagement to the over 60s.

The grant follows funding already secured from the Alfred Williams Charitable Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation, Mid Suffolk District Council, The Pargiter Trust and Suffolk County Council for the project.

The project will be led by volunteer staff members from the group, also known as the Middy, to encourage the sharing of heritage skills and knowledge between them and other participants.

Jon Taylor, chairman of Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, said: “We hope not only to give individuals participating an enjoyable time but use the massive skills base these people have acquired over their working lives to benefit the restoration activities at the museum.

“We’re thrilled at receiving support from the Heritage Lottery Fund ensuring we can introduce more people to the local historic heritage that remains of this railway line that once played such a central part to life in rural Suffolk.”

Robyn Llewellyn, head of HLF East of England, added: “This project will not only preserve important heritage skills, but will introduce a large number of people to the fascinating heritage of transport in their local area.”

The railway operates a full programme of steam trains and special events from March 27 to September 11.