TV Historian & Rail Expert Backs South Devon Railway’s £3m Share Issue Campaign to Preserve Heritage Line
Popular TV presenter, historian and railway writer Tim Dunn visited South Devon Railway this week to help raise awareness of its £3 million share issue campaign aimed at safeguarding the heritage attraction’s long-term future.
Tim was guest speaker at the exclusive event hosted by SDR for current and prospective shareholders which outlined their crucial role in preserving this unique piece of railway history.
Known for his enthusiasm and support for both the heritage sector and modern rail system, Tim is a familiar face to many, having fronted more than 80 episodes of railway-based TV including ‘The Architecture the Railways Built’ and ‘Secrets of the London Underground’.
Describing South Devon Railway as ‘a perfect rural GWR branch line’ he encouraged people to back the campaign to ‘fund some smart 21st Century improvements’.
“This Railway has survived closures, takeovers, and now it's surviving yet again,” said Tim.
“You are trying to renew this railway, and you need to do it now. Invest in your perfect railway, bring people in, and make it special,” he added “This is the chance for you, those who love this line - the real, grown-up Railway Children - to take it forward for the next generation.”
Attendees had the chance to learn more about the projects and initiatives South Devon Railway plans to develop and enjoyed a delightful return journey from Buckfastleigh to Totnes, experiencing the joy of a steam train adventure along the picturesque River Dart.
The share issue offers a unique opportunity for individuals, businesses, and railway enthusiasts to contribute to ongoing conservation efforts and play a crucial role in preserving a unique piece of railway heritage.
Planned projects include new visitor facilities and an upgraded museum at Buckfastleigh, station improvements, locomotive restorations, a new building for carriage repairs, construction of phase 2 of the running and maintenance shed, and initiatives to reduce environmental impacts.
"The investment is towards new facilities and maintenance work so we can improve what we do, ensuring visitors to South Devon Railway have a better overall experience,” said Alan Taylor, Trustee of South Devon Railway.
By purchasing shares, investors will not only become stakeholders in this preservation project but also join a community dedicated to upholding the legacy of steam travel.
Shareholders will enjoy additional benefits, including two return tickets each year, regular newsletters, discounts at South Devon Railway Gifts & Models, and exclusive members’ train journeys and receptions.
The multi-award-winning South Devon Railway is one of Devon’s and the West Country’s most cherished tourist attractions.
Celebrating over 50 years in preservation, it is the longest established steam railway in the South West. The SDR is a seven-mile former Great Western Railway branch line, built in 1872, running along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.
- For more information on the South Devon Railway Share Campaign, visit www.southdevonrailway.co.uk/shares. The minimum subscription is 250 x £1 shares, and the maximum is 100,000 x £1 shares.
