The Mid-Norfolk Railway The Story Of Its Preservation

The Mid-Norfolk Railway heritage line runs for nearly 12 miles through the Norfolk countryside between the market towns of Dereham and Wymondham. Popular with families as well as enthusiasts, it offers a range of days out by rail through a mix of steam and diesel services. After passenger services ended in 1969, freight traffic survived for another twenty years. That lifeline meant local people had time to plan a future for the line as a heritage railway, with the support of local councils. However, the way forward was challenging as, at times, rival organisations fought for control. Vandalism and dereliction just added to the preservationists’ problems. Today, the ongoing issues of life-expired track and structures contribute to a long to-do list for the army of (mostly) volunteers who keep the trains running. The railway also has 6 miles of track and land to the north of Dereham, ending at the rural County School station, and has plans for services to eventually run a full 18 miles end to end.