Northamptonshire housebuilder donates £1,500 to local railway charity
Leading housebuilder Barratt Homes had donated £1,500 to Northampton and Lamport Railway, a charitable incorporated organisation helping to help sustain the railway and preserve its local history.
Run entirely by volunteers, the Northampton and Lamport Railway (NLR) is nestled in the Northamptonshire countryside and follows the alignment of the old Northampton to Market Harborough line. Since restoration efforts began in 1983, the railway line now spans two miles, with stations at Pitsford and Brampton, and Boughton.
NLR hosts popular seasonal events at Halloween and Christmas, welcoming over 10,000 visitors annually.
Barratt Homes’ donation was made as part of The Barratt Redrow Foundation, which is designed to support national and local charities, large and small, across the UK to leave a legacy in the communities in which the housebuilder operates.
Daniel Callis, Lead Fundraiser at Northampton and Lamport Railway, said: “We were delighted to hear from Barratt Homes about this generous donation. As a volunteer-run organisation that relies entirely on public support, every contribution plays a vital role in helping us keep the railway running and improving it for future generations.
“It’s fantastic to see businesses like Barratt Homes support small local charities and community groups. This generosity makes a huge difference to smaller organisations like ours and we would just like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation.”
Of the £1,500 donation from Barratt Homes, £500 will be used by NLR to purchase a heavy-duty woodchipper. This equipment will enhance the charity’s ability to manage vegetation along the railway line, protect vital drainage infrastructure, and maintain scenic views for passengers.
The remaining £1,000 has not yet been formally allocated, but the railway has identified several potential projects that could benefit. A likely use includes the maintenance and restoration of its historic railway carriages.
Simon Francis, Managing Director at Barratt Homes Northampton, said: “We’re proud to support Northampton and Lamport Railway in its efforts to preserve local heritage and provide a unique experience for the community. Supporting volunteer-led organisations like this is an important part of our commitment to giving back and we hope our donation helps the charity continue its work.”
To find out more about the charity, visit the website at Northampton and Lamport Railway.
For more information on developments in the area, please visit the website at Barratt Homes in Northamptonshire.