Basildon Miniature Railway says 'thank you' after reopening

The Basildon Miniature Railway, at Pitsea's Wat Tyler Country Park, was closed since 2019 before it began welcoming its first passengers last weekend. 

Restored by a team of volunteers, led by Wickford resident Dan Harrison, it will run on weekends and school holidays between April and September. 

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“Thank you for the wonderful support over the last few days. We’ve been overwhelmed by the kind words and comments,” said Dan.

“We look forward to welcoming you on board.”

The railway is one of the longest in Essex, stretching just over a kilometre in length and taking roughly 20 minutes to complete a round trip.

Restored - The miniature railway has been closed since 2019 (Image: Dan Harrison) Dan and his team of volunteers have dedicated much of their free time in recent years to bringing the railway back into service.

Dan added: “When I saw the railway I helped construct in 1987/8, falling into disrepair back in 2019, I knew I had to save it and get it reopened.

“It wasn’t an easy journey, but with the support of great volunteers, the local authority and other railways, I’m so pleased to have been able to achieve this.

“The smiles on people’s faces, the joy this little railway brings, has made all the hard work worth it. Thank you.”