NYMR launches fundraising effort to restore Bridge 42

As part of the campaign, donations of £25 or more will be rewarded with a limited-edition pin badge featuring exclusive artwork of Bridge 42.

The bridge is the vital structure that allows trains to run from Grosmont to Whitby, without which the NYMR cannot operate its full heritage route from Pickering to Whitby.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway has launched a fundraising campaign to help save Bridge 42 (Image: Supplied)

Laura Strangeway, CEO at the NYMR, said: “Bridge 42 is absolutely essential to the future of the railway.

“This campaign is an affordable way for people to feel part of saving something that really matters.

“Every donation takes us one step closer to the full repair of the bridge, and we’re hugely grateful to everyone who chooses to support us.

“We are so thankful to David for getting in touch and volunteering his time and expertise to help save Bridge 42, without which we cannot run to Grosmont and Whitby.

“It’s great to be working with a Yorkshire artist and for our supporters to be able to purchase these stunning limited-edition prints and be part of our story to save Bridge 42.”

Repairs to Bridge 42 are estimated to cost around £800,000.

A total of £215,000 has already been raised, but further support is needed to reach the fundraising goal.

Leeds-based printmaker David Cockayne has also donated his skills to the campaign.

His linocut artwork, which focuses on industrial heritage, architecture, and the relationship between built environments and landscape, will be featured in limited-edition prints.

These will soon be available for purchase in shops along the NYMR line and online.

After seeing news of the fundraiser, Mr Cockayne got in touch to offer his services to raise funds.

Following detailed inspections, it was determined that temporary propping is necessary to guarantee safety and operational reliability.

This measure will allow trains to continue crossing Bridge 42 throughout the 2026 season.

During this time, NYMR will finalise a full repair programme, scheduled for implementation over the winter of 2026/27.

To support the campaign or learn more, visit nymr.co.uk/bridge42.