Donations pour in after 'mindless' vandals smash windows of beloved railway

Over 28 windows of the beloved East Lancashire Railway stock were shattered in the 'senseless' attack

The team behind the East Lancashire Railway (ELR) have thanked the community after raising nearly £15,000 after their carriages were 'smashed' in a 'mindless' act of vandalism.

More than 28 windows were smashed across the heritage railway on the weekend of April 12 and 13. Evidence of attempted arson was also discovered at the scene on Baron Street in Bury.

The group were issued a £5,000 bill tio repair the damage done to the coaching stock and a privately owned diesel railcar, as windows were shattered and treated 'with complete disregard'. But today, the ELR has issued a heartfelt thanks to community members as their fundraiser approaches a huge milestone.

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"In the wake of the recent vandalism at our Baron Street engineering workshop in Bury—where over 28 windows of our carriages and a diesel multiple unit were senselessly smashed, we have been truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our community," they wrote.

"This mindless act not only inflicted a £5,000 repair bill but also deeply affected our dedicated volunteers who pour their hearts into preserving our railway heritage. Any donations unused will help us to improve our CCTV infrastructure at Buckley Wells.

"However, amidst this adversity, your generosity has shone brightly. Donations have been pouring in, and countless individuals have offered their time and skills to assist in the restoration efforts. Your support reaffirms our mission and fuels our determination to continue preserving the rich history of our railway for future generations.

"If you would like to continue supporting the East Lancashire Railway, any donations—big or small—would be gratefully received: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/supporttheelr

"From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Together, we will overcome this setback and emerge stronger."

A spokesperson said the carriages 'represent years of dedicated restoration work, carried out by volunteers and supported by donations from individuals who care deeply about preserving our region's rich transport history'.

Railways enthusiasts and locals have given their support in the comments section of the JustGiving page. Phil Pearson wrote: "Great organisation sorry you had to raise money to repair the vandalism and hope this small amount helps."

Alan and Carolyn Opie added: "We were made so welcome when we visited the East Lancashire Railway last month. The railway is a real gem and were very sorry to hear of the mindless vandalism of the wonderful rolling stock."

An anonymous contributor wrote: "Been on the railway recently and was a great day out with the kids. Heard about vandals smashing the windows. What a lack of respect. Keep up the good work."