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Coronavius Kent: Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway sells new tickets to gain support during closure
13:12, 20 April 2020
updated: 13:13, 20 April 2020
A long-running and popular tourist attraction in Kent has come up with novel ideas to keep its supporters involved during its closure.
The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR) shut temporarily last month following government advice on Covid-19.
But since then, the light railway has struggled financially, as it relies heavily on income from ticket sales, catering and souvenirs.
And with lockdown now guaranteed to last another three weeks, the team have come up with innovative ways people can still support the beloved business.
This includes selling two new types of tickets - a virtual supporters ticket and a virtual supporters and travel ticket.
Marketing manager Jade Ashton explains: "We found we were receiving lots of requests from people who were looking to travel over Easter wanting ways in which to still contribute.
"Contributors to the virtual supporters ticket will receive an e-certificate with a quote of thanks from our general manager.
"The virtual supporters and travel ticket benefits from the same e-certificate plus a journey on the railway on our first public running day when we return."
The virtual ticket is £10 and the travel ticket is £50, and limited to 100 sales.
Danny Martin, general manager, explains on the company's website: "I have been personally involved with our railway for 49 years and the coming months will be the toughest since the railway almost closed in 1971.
"Many people have worked hard for many years to keep the railway going and to ensure it gives pleasure to hundreds of thousands of people.
"We stand ready to do that again, to hear steam engine whistles over the Marsh and to enjoy doing something worthwhile.
"However to achieve that we must ensure we survive the coming weeks financially. Any virtual tickets sold will be directly for that purpose. Please help if you can."
The team are also looking at other ways to raise support, including the possibility of launching a 'coal message' campaign, where people can pay to have their name on a piece of coal and put into the coal bucket to be used by the first locomotive to run when the railway re-opens.
Ms Ashton added: "It’s been great to see the community spirit and the support received so far from lots of a regulars but we’ll still be needing more help and support.
"Missing Easter running and some of our large events such as our Steam and Diesel Gala have been very disappointing but we absolutely stick by the government's decision to keep everyone safe and at home where possible.
"Our small teams are doing their best to keep in touch with our army of volunteers, many of whom fall into the ‘vulnerable’ category, and keep spirits up ready for our return."
For tickets, visit here.
