Railway fans in a rush to save canopy

The 19th century canopy which enthusiasts from the East Lancs Railway company want to preserve

£50,000 needed to avoid demolition

RAILWAY enthusiasts are running out of time to save the historic canopy at Mumps station in Oldham.

The line closed in October for conversion to the Metrolink tram service, and the building is due to be demolished.

But train buffs from the East Lancashire Light Railway Company want to raise £50,000 to buy the 19th century canopy and transport it to their Bury base.

Following behind-the-scenes negotiations the railway, a charity, has been offered the chance to purchase the large canopy, which is due to be demolished in the next few weeks.

But East Lancs general manager Andy Coward said time is running out: “We need to raise funds to secure the Oldham Mumps station canopy for the benefit of future generations at stations on the near-by Heywood to Rawtenstall railway line, which we operate.

“We are also attempting to source some external funding towards this project, but we need as much financial support as possible.

“By purchasing the canopy we will be able to safeguard the structure and ensure it is taken down sympathetically by the contractors who are working on the conversion of the Oldham Loop line for Metrolink.

“The component parts, along with existing canopy components already on site, would allow us to provide canopies at all of our staffed stations.

“If we are unsuccessful, this historic remnant of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway will be lost forever.

“We are urgently seeking donations or firm offers of interest-free loans towards this project, but we are urging supporters to act fast, as time for this appeal to be successful is short and the canopy could be demolished within a few weeks.”

Details of how people can help are available on 0161-764 7790 or on the website (www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk).