Damaged heritage railway raises £2,500 for repairs

A fundraising appeal to repair a heritage railway carriage in East Sussex after it was vandalised has raised almost £2,500 in a week.

The Lavender Line said more than £5,000 worth of damage was caused on 3 May when windows were smashed on the carriage, which was being restored at Isfield railway station.

Sussex Police said it was appealing for information following a report of criminal damage to trains.

Amanda Matthews, from the Lavender Line Preservation Society, said the railway was "very grateful" for public donations.

"A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated so far – we are very grateful for your kindness," she said.

"We have increased our fundraising goal from £2,000 to £3,000 with the hope that we can cover more of the costs we will be incurring following the vandalism."

The Lavender Line was originally part of the Lewes to Uckfield Railway which opened in 1858, while the carriage dates from 1962.

The line currently operates as a tourist attraction offering a two-mile (3.2km) round trip from Isfield, on either diesel or steam locomotives.

Funds raised will go towards specialist restoration work, including authentic glass replacement, and upgrading security to prevent future incidents, the railway said.

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