I think I've heard that too.
I hope someday they can boast a rolling stock situation which is something similar to the KWVR, where out-of-service locos are stored on display in good condition with a healthy operational home fleet being rotated according to need. As much as I'm primarily a steam fan, I also hope they don't abandon their diesels; I don't think they will realistically.
Making a success of the WR is a much more difficult task than the Worth Valley in my view (being 4x as long for starters!) but I think there's genuine potential. Could be mega for galas if they can get the signalling and passing loops sorted. I'm determined to visit soon; every time I've tried in the past my plans have been dashed! It's a shame that I'll probably be riding a pacer if I visit this year - I fully understand why and agree with their logic but nonetheless, for me as an enthusiast I'd much prefer a vintage DMU or loco-hauled train. They have to cater for the bigger tourist market tho.
I guess with the WR, its a long...
long railway and as such just keeping on top of the lineside and P-WAY will take a lot of manpower and money.
I've always thought that the WR would in an ideal world have been better operating over a shorter distance, Leyburn to Aysgarth because that end was and would have always been the place to be.
Sadly, Aysgarth was sold prematurely in my opinion irrespective of what was put out at the time about raising capital to inject into the WR, because seemingly, there was very little funds left over to put in!!.
Yes along with many others I've read the very long thread a couple of years ago and even made comment then myself on what was and still is to a large amount of people, an emotional subject.
So Aysgarth aside, the WR has a great deal of potential and there appears to be a positive impetus, with action taking place daily.
Yes I'm a steam fan, but I also like certain heritage diesels, so I think with the new and experienced GM in place, with some supportive PLC & Trust Board members, the only way is up?