AN appeal that could save one of Britain’s most popular heritage railways has passed its first critical milestone.

The North York Moors Railway’s Bridge and Wheels appeal aims to raise £1m to replace a vital river crossing and restore an engine.

Only weeks after the appeal was launched, the organisation has raised £100,000 from public donations, with another £300,000 pledged.

Although the railway wants £350,000 to restore the British Rail’s 80135 engine, the vital element is the £650,000 needed to replace a 173-year-old iron bridge.

The single-track bridge, over a tributary of the River Esk, carries 24 trains a day between Pickering and Whitby.

However, it is in poor repair and needs to be replaced.

Phil Bustard, from the railway, said: “If we do not get the bridge replaced, then we will not have a railway. That is a worrying feeling, not just for us, but for the local community.”

The railway brings about 300,000 visitors a year to the area – contributing about £18m a year to the local economy as a result.

Support for the appeal has come from railway supporters and members of the public attending gala events.

The railway has also had a pledge of £300,000 from North Yorkshire County Council.

A bid is also likely to be made for £100,000 from European funding aimed at communities on the North York Moors, which has £2.6m available for community schemes over the next four years.

Mr Bustard said: “It has been pleasing to see the appeal taken up by a number of our volunteers at stations and in service.

“One of our volunteers, Dave Fenny, has made a brilliant model of the bridge, which is on display to the public on Platform One of Pickering Station.

“This allows our visitors to see what it is all about, and to make donations towards the appeal.”

To donate, visit bridgeand wheels.co.uk or send cheques, payable to NYMHRT Ltd, to the North York Moors Railway, 12 Park Street, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AJ.