'Mindless' vandals wreck heritage train carriages

Heritage train carriages that were being restored by volunteers have been damaged by vandals in act of "mindless destruction", a charity has said.

The carriages were broken into over the weekend at the shed and workshop on Baron Street in Bury, according to the East Lancashire Railway Trust (ERL)

Windows were smashed causing more than £5,000 worth in damage.

However, chairman Mike Kelly said volunteers would not let the vandalism "derail the important work we do" and called for "the support of our community during this difficult time".

The trust said evidence of attempted arson was also discovered at the carriage shed, while window fixtures were ripped apart.

A spokesman said: "This is not simply about physical damage.

"These carriages represent years of dedicated restoration work, carried out by volunteers and supported by donations from individuals who care deeply about preserving our region's rich transport history."

Mr Kelly said: "We remain committed to operating for the benefit of local families, tourism, and the preservation of historical transport.

"But incidents like this place an even greater strain on our limited resources."

Greater Manchester Police has been contacted for comment.

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