A volunteer-powered railway is gathering steam as its backers seek a final push of funding to keep expansion plans on track.
Lapford Mill Steam Railway, based within the grounds of Lapford Mill, is aiming to raise £2,000 to extend its line and complete the next stage of development. The attraction forms part of a wider effort to revive the historic site as a hub for arts, entertainment and community events.
The mill, a private family home with more than 700 years of industrial heritage, has hosted village and arts activities for many years. Since 2015, owner Alex Gater has led efforts to increase community engagement, drawing on family roots at the site that date back to the early 15th century.
Plans are now in place for the venue to reopen on selected dates in early summer 2026, featuring live music, outdoor theatre and family-focused events. Steam-Up Days are also scheduled to begin in May, offering demonstrations and rides on a 7 1/4-inch gauge steam locomotive and carriages.
The railway itself has been constructed entirely by volunteers, with recent work carried out across late winter and early spring. Participants have ranged from experienced engineers to newcomers.
So far, the project has secured £1,500 in private donations, logged more than 370 volunteer hours and laid over 200 metres of track, alongside what organisers describe as more than 220 cups of tea.
Organisers say the latest funding will cover essential materials and groundwork, including 16 tonnes of ballast and further earthworks needed to complete the next section of line.
They are also encouraging new volunteers to get involved as the project continues to grow.
Donations can be made via www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lmsr and further details about volunteering are available at www.lapfordmill.uk/lmsr.
