AN appeal has been launched to help recover some of the losses faced by the Swindon and Cricklade Railway following a major fire last Friday.

At around 6pm, volunteers discovered the ‘Thumper’ train, along with three wagons alight.

The blaze has destroyed the train as well as the wagons and their contents. Assessors have yet to calculate the exact cost but it is estimated the value of everything lost is more than £100,000.

Insurance will cover some of what is lost but due to the historical nature of the destroyed items, it is unlikely to cover the true value.

“The Thumper is gone and while there is some things, such as casting, which may be salvageable, a lot of it is lost,” said secretary Roger Barber.

“We have been asked not to touch anything while the investigation is carried out so it is hard to say exactly what is gone.

“But there was a lot of things of historical value which are no longer made or need to be specially made. It is unlikely the insurance will cover this.

“Any money we raise can help towards replacing these things.”

Since news of the fire broke, the railway has been inundated with support, not only from those within the railway community but across the town.

Roger said: “We have been surprised by the response. The railway is one of Swindon’s best kept secrets but by the response it is clear a lot of people have been affected.

“We are all really grateful for the support which has been given so far.”

Investigations are continuing into exactly what caused the blaze.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has examined the scene but said it is unlikely to ever be able to conclude exactly how it started.

A spokesman said: “A fire investigation was carried out immediately after the fire; however, the train was too badly damaged for any firm conclusions to be drawn.

“Unless further information comes out of the police investigation, it is likely that we won't be able to determine a cause."

Officers from Wiltshire Police are continuing to look at the incident and asked anyone with information to come forward.

“Several carriages and lineside buildings were severely damaged,” said a spokesman.

“An investigation is underway to identify the cause of the fire. Anyone who saw anything suspicious around the time of the incident is asked to call Wiltshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

To find out how to help and donate to the railway, visit www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org.