Volunteers at the Yorkshire Wolds Railway are busy preparing to welcome a very special visitor – Father Christmas! Taking time away from his busy schedule, Father Christmas will be at the heritage railway at Fimber Halt on Saturday 30 November, along with the 7 and 14 December from 10-3.
The YWR, which is run entirely by volunteers is now busy preparing the grotto that will be accessed just off platform 1 at Fimber Halt.
Celia Wilkinson, a volunteer on the YWR said “As its such a busy time for Father Christmas, we have been working hard since September to ensure that everything is just right from decorations to the mince pies! Everyone has come together to make his visit special, and children under 10 will be able to visit him for only £5 with seasonal childrens crafting also available.
Membership and Media director Matthew Brown explained, “in addition to being able to visit Father Christmas, we will also have our beautiful, locally grown Nordmann Fir trees available ranging in size from 5-8ft for only £30. We will also have a full operational crew, so families of 5 can enjoy a winter brake van ride along the almost ¼ mile of track for £12.50, or can have a tree AND a ride for only £40. We are aware that money can be tight at this time of the year, so have worked hard to offer something that we feel is really good value. Trains will depart every 20 minutes from 10am with the last train at 2.40pm and you can book ride tickets online by visiting www.yorkshirewoldsrailway.org.uk .
Phil Robson, Finance Director said “As always, we are really grateful to the volunteers who have worked very hard to prepare the site. These will be the last operating days of 2024 for the YWR. We will then close the site for the essential maintenance to start over the winter period before we reopen to the public on Sunday 6 April 2025. We have had an excellent operational year and would like to take this opportunity to thank all members, visitors, and businesses for their continued support – and wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
The YWR is always keen to involve new people, and anyone interested in becoming a member or volunteering, making a donation or just finding out more can visit the Yorkshire Wolds Railway website or call 01377 338053 for more information. All trains run subject to availability, and the platform is currently accessed by a set of steps.
