“It’s our privilege to restart these successful days. We’ve had to cancel the last few because of the pandemic but now they’re returning as a regular fixture in our calendar” – all aboard for a popular miniature railway fundraiser in Norwich

A popular miniature railway fundraiser is back on track and hoping to prove just the ticket for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The special charity day is taking place at Eaton Park, in Norwich, on Bank Holiday Monday, 1^st May. Miniature trains will be running throughout the day, from 11.30am until 4.30pm, and the revenue from all fares is being donated to EACH. Regular steam, electric and internal combustion locomotives will be present and it will be Eaton Park Miniature Railway’s sixth fundraiser for the charity, which supports families and cares for children with life-threatening conditions across East Anglia. Railway spokesman Steve Adams said: “It’s our privilege to restart these successful EACH days, having held the first in 2015. “We’ve had to cancel the last few because of the pandemic but now they’re returning as a regular fixture in our calendar.” The railway runs a number of special fundraising days each year and the trains will operate every few minutes, weather-permitting. Park visitors are invited to bring a picnic, have a ride and watch them go by. Anyone can turn up on the day and there is no need to book in advance. The cost is £1.50 for adults and £1 for children. EACH Community Fundraising Assistant Megan-Louise Kemp said: “It’s great that this fundraiser is returning as it’s something we always appreciated pre-Covid and our thanks go to everyone at Eaton Park Miniature Railway. “Hopefully the sun shines and it’s another successful and popular day, with lots of people turning out to enjoy some Bank Holiday fun. “The funds raised will help us continue our vital work supporting families and caring for children and young people with life-threatening conditions.” Eaton Park Miniature Railway is operated by the Norwich and District Society of Model Engineers (N&DSME). A not-for-profit organisation, it exists to promote model engineering in all forms, including road and stationary engines, model boats, clock making and railways. New members are always welcome and further information can be found on the society website or via its Facebook page. The day is being supported by The Nook Friends group, who will be sharing information about EACH from 10.30am until 4.30pm. Volunteers Marianne Betts, Gill Gooderham, Lynn Gooderham and their respective husbands will be running a stand with a competition to name and win a “Royal” bear, a matchbox game, a surprise bag game and – weather-permitting – a tombola. Images provided by EACH