![Rio on TLR](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0001-1024x683.jpg)
The Friends of Thorpe Light Railway volunteer group was established in 2012 to restore and operate the last 15″ gauge miniature pleasure railway in County Durham.
![](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/IMG_1857-1024x778.jpg)
The Railway was formerly known as the Whorlton Lido Railway and now operating as the Thorpe Light Railway.
![](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/IMG_1863-1024x764.jpg)
We became a registered charity in 2017 and are making good progress towards restoring the railway to its former glory.
![](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Clearing-fallen-tree-Feb-2017-1024x577.jpg)
The volunteers meet regularly to carry out maintenance and improvement works to the locomotives, rolling stock, railway infrastructure, station and grounds.
![](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/FB_IMG_1556484226769.jpg)
We open to the public once a month throughout the summer, where you can join us for a train ride through this scenic corner of Teesdale. You can help us by visiting on our open days or becoming a member.
![](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Point-Lever-repair-Jan-2017-e1556886316552-577x1024.jpg)
Why not join our volunteer group? If you have skills such as engineering, mechanics, plumbing, electrics or grounds maintenance you will be more than welcome.
![](http://thorpelightrailway.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/IMG_1874-1024x864.jpg)
If you don’t have any of the above skills, we are just as keen to have volunteers to help with general maintenance, and if you can use a spade or a paintbrush we’d love to hear from you! Please Contact Us for more information.