Three heritage railways join forces

The Apedale Valley Light Railway, the West Lancashire Light Railway and Amerton Railway are 2’0” gauge railways with a lot in common. All are entirely volunteer-managed and operated, all rely heavily on steam traction, and all are underpinned by charitable organisations. A memorandum of understanding has been agreed between the three. This will foster closer working, the sharing of good practice and knowledge between the three organisations.

Mike Spall, chair of the West Lancashire Light Railway, said “In an era of increasing pressures on heritage railways, we are better working in cooperation rather than in competition. The three organisations have always worked together – and many people are already members of at least two of the railways. Rather than three small organisations, we can now speak and influence with one voice. All three organisations will, of course, remain separate and distinct, with their own memberships and associated charities – but this agreement will open up further opportunities for each organisation”.

The West Lancashire Light Railway is a 2’0” gauge railway operating at Hesketh Bank, located between Preston and Southport. Amerton Railway is located near to Stafford, and is owned and operated by Staffordshire Narrow Gauge Railway Limited. The Apedale Valley Light Railway, located near Newcastle-under-Lyme, is owned and operated by the Moseley Railway Trust.