Trust changes – statement from the L&BR Trust Chairman

It is over eighteen years ago that I was persuaded to take the role of Chairman on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Trust. That is a long time however you look at it but in many ways it has flown past. There have been all sorts of challenges in that time, most of which were dealt with by the Trust team successfully. The L&BR reconstruction has made substantial progress from where we were in 2007 to the current recreation of the railway which is a highly regarded representation of what was there before closure.

For some while I have been of the opinion that it is time (well past time?) for someone else to take up the position of Chairman and that is what is now happening. I intend to retire in March and will remain a trustee for the remainder of my current term. I will of course give support to my successor as and when required.

The rebirth of the L&B has progressed in ways that very few thought would ever happen, certainly that was the case when I first joined in the 1980s. Of course, we need a longer running line and with that more carriages, locos, wagons and volunteers but I am sure all this will arrive in time. The country is going through a rough patch currently – and that must affect the L&BR – but I am optimistic that we can weather this and continue with our plans.

I hope the new Chair gains as much enjoyment and satisfaction from his work as I have. That includes seeing the public enjoying our railway, working with volunteers and staff as well as directors and others including the local landowners and supporters who all play their part in the sometimes-daunting task we have been set.

Peter Miles, L&BR Trust Chairman

Note: The trust has elected Giles Perkins, current Vice Chair, to take over the role from April 2026.