Christmas, is such a magical time for children to enjoy, which makes it just so sad to hear, that due to COVID and being in Tier 4 restrictions, Nene Valley Railway (NVR) has decided it has to close the doors of the Santa Special train for the festive period. The general manager described the decision as 'heart wrenching'. Many families have made a real event of going to see Santa trains at Nene Valley Railway, which has been part of Peterborough for over 40 years. The line originally opened in 1845.
This Christmas things have been different, with the regulations in force and allowing for changes in them the railway has had to adapt. This has meant that the railway has had to run fewer trains, with fewer passengers on each. Carriages have had to be cleaned by a team of volunteers between services and lots of extra work has been needed. It is fair to say that without the volunteers working with and supported by the small paid staff there would have been no Santa trains.
The railway did not wish to disappoint all the children and Santa wanted to be there
to meet them and make sure they all got a present. Tier 4 restrictions have meant the last four days of services have been canceled. NVR now starts the task of issuing refunds to those unable to travel. They are also looking for ways to keep their business (NVR are a charity) afloat as the majority of their income comes from fare-paying passengers and visitors, and the current circumstances have left the railway's finances depleted this year. If you feel you are able to support the railway with a donation then please contact the office at Wansford station. https://nvr.org.uk/
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