Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway Association
The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway Association is a Registered Charity (No.1127688). The objects are “To preserve and maintain the historic miniature trains and associated elements on the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway for the benefit and education of the public in particularly but not exclusively by the provision of a Heritage Centre as well as financial and human resourcesâ€.
During the winter months regular working parties are arranged, normally at about two/three weekly intervals. Occasional working parties are arranged during the summer months. For those wishing to work on the railway during the operating season, training can be given in a number of jobs.
A Heritage Group operates within the Association to collect and catalogue items of Heritage interest on the Rail-way. This group is funded by the Association and donations of cash and offers of heritage items are always welcome.
The Association can be seen at most of the main carnivals in East Kent and some in East Sussex during the summer months. These days our float is the Railway Van which has been vinylled with photos of three of the Railways locomotives. Members are always welcome to assist with carnivals in their own locality or at other carnivals. Our carnivals organiser will be pleased to hear from you.
Over the years the Association has built up a sizable shareholding in the Railway and is now the largest share-holder in the Railway Company. The Association presently enjoys representation by one of the management committee on the board of the operating company.
Members wishing to become shareholders themselves can take advantage of the Association’s Share Installment Scheme. Full details can be obtained from the Treasurer on confirmation of membership.
The Association was formed over 40 years ago in 1967. All members receive The Marshlander (one copy only for a family), a quarterly magazine which includes both historical articles on the line and reports of current events and plans. All classes of members are allowed to make an unlimited number of privilege rate journeys each sea-son, offering a saving of up to 75% on ordinary fares. (The railway reserves the right to suspend the issue of privilege tickets in the event of overcrowding.) Members are able to obtain a free platform ticket for entry to the platform at New Romney (except Special Event days) upon production of their membership card to the booking clerk. Discounts are available to members in the railway shops on some items for purchases over £5.00.
