VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help ensure a much loved heritage railway attraction can continue to run for many more years.

The Swindon and Cricklade Railway experienced a challenging 2012, mainly due to road closures immediately outside the premises in Tadpole Lane, but the volunteers who help run the attraction are looking forward to 2013 with high hopes.

However, as operations expand there is a constant need for new volunteers to join the teams that make development and public services happen.

Adrian Brodie, speaking for the railway, is keen to stress that a railway background is not necessary.

He said: “For anyone who enjoys meeting and interacting with members of the public, or with a desire to join a voluntary organisation, being a volunteer at the railway provides many opportunities.

“The railway is run entirely by volunteers, without whose commitment the railway would not exist. Virtually anyone could be a volunteer there – whatever skills a person has they will translate into worthwhile help.

“We mostly look for enthusiasm, with a degree of common sense and a liking for drinking tea.

“There is an enormous variety of positions and roles available, many of which have nothing to do with a railway or railway practice.

“For example the catering department is desperately short of staff at all levels, from management to kitchen staff.

“The Whistlestop Cafe at Blunsdon station provides an important service to the railway’s customers, as well as raising funds for the charity.”

Other examples of non-railway associated jobs include serving in the souvenir shop or working in the ticket office.

For people who like to get their hands dirty, the railway offers plenty of choice. For example, the building and works department covers a multitude of constructional jobs in most areas of the railway.

Further information about the railway is available at www.swindon -cricklade-railway.org.

Or, anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering should call Pat Scott on 01380 816077 or pat.scott@leadingedgechange.com, or Brian Pound on 07500 803245 or brian.pound@hotmail.co.uk.

The first public train of 2013 will run on March 3.