The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway has fundraised £11,000 and counting as it looks to cover costs it can’t make up because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Management and volunteers at the railway had been working hard to get everything ready for the opening of their main season on April 4 and to help visitors celebrate Easter behind a steam locomotive.

But on March 20, the railway announced that it was the latest tourist facility to close in the face of the growing threat of the coronavirus.

The ‘Tracks to Recovery’ fundraising page reads: “We would normally be preparing to open for the summer season at this very moment. Instead, our railway is shut and struggling to cope with the dramatic impact that COVID-19 is having on our finances. We have reserves, but these will be eroded over time. Drastic action has already been taken to cut costs as much as we can but further may be needed if we cannot raise funds to ensure our continued success.”

To help the light railway, you can make a donation or you can sign up to become a member. Visit wllr.org.uk/covid-19-appeal-tracks-recovery for all the details you need.