Bluebell Railway invites supporters to take part in virtual Track Trek fundraiser

Bluebell Railway has been unable to run its annual Track Trek fundraising event, where participants are sponsored to walk 4.5 miles along the line, due to the lockdown.

Fundraising efforts have resulted in great support for the railway, which has helped to recover some of its lost income, however Bluebell Railway staff know that the recover period will be critical.

Roger Kelly, a trustee of the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society, said: “We invite people to help raise money for our Covid-19 Emergency Appeal by participating in a Virtual Track Trek on Saturday, June 27.”

“Inspired by the way members of the public have embraced the virtual world during this period of lockdown, Roger plans to lead a team of senior Bluebell Railway members to walk in the only heritage railway event of this kind.

The 4.5 mile trek is the distance between Sheffield Park Station in East Sussex and Horsted Keynes Station (otherwise known as Downton Station from television’s Downton Abbey) in West Sussex.

This can not be walked along the Bluebell Railway line this year, as it is closed to the public.

Instead, this can be walked at home, in the garden or on local daily walks – as long as social distancing can be maintained.

The event has been supported by councillor Danny Favour, mayor of East Grinstead, and his wife Mabel, who will walk their 4.5miles around the council offices grounds at East Court in East Grinstead.

Participants can create their own fundraising page or download a sponsorship form by visiting https://www.bluebell-railway.com/whats_on/virtual-track-trek/.

Bluebell Railway are encouraging anyone who takes part to share photos and videos on social media using the hashtag #SteamingThrough60.

To donate, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/support-bluebell.