East Lancashire Railway: Bid to preserve 'spectacular' viaduct

Volunteers are trying to raise funds to pay for the upkeep of the viaduct on the edge of Bury

A bid to preserve a "spectacular" bridge in "one of the most picturesque spots" along a heritage railway has been launched by campaigners.

About £1.3m is needed to maintain the Higher Woodhill Viaduct on the East Lancashire Railway (ELR), which was last repaired in 1932.

Mike Kelly, chairman of ELR said the section was a favourite of visitors.

He said the charity needed to raise about £50,000 for the viaduct before it could bid for a government grant.

Volunteers have launched an online community fundraiser to gather the initial cash, which they say is needed to demonstrate support for the viaduct to the government before a grant can be applied for.

The 12.5 mile (20km) railway line runs between Heywood in Greater Manchester and Rawtenstall in Lancashire

The historic railway, launched in 1987, runs through the Irwell Valley and passes the site of the former Higher Woodhill Mill, built in 1790.

Regular inspections of the Higher Woodhill Viaduct have found no issues with safety, but the charity said repairs were needed for it to continue to carry steam and diesel trains.

The charity has called on the "tens of thousands of visitors who enjoy riding on its trains all year round to show how much they care" by donating to an online appeal.

Mr Kelly said: "As well as our trains - the track, the signals, the tunnels and bridges are all part of the immaculately preserved history that our visitors love so much".

"We need as many people as possible to show us their support, and we have an online fundraiser where every single pound donated will make a difference."