Friends of the Far North Line

The September 2007 issue of the newsletter is now available on our website, www.fofnl.org.uk

Our aims include:

1. The continued retention and improvement of the line from Inverness to Wick/Thurso.

2. The development of services for local residents and tourists alike.

3. Enhancement of freight services.

4. Publicising the line, its attractions and potential.

5. Liaison with local groups to foster interest in the line.

6. Liaison with First ScotRail, statutory bodies and tourism authorities.

7. The use of the line by heritage trains.

Our 1995 conference for rail interests was the precursor of the Highland Rail Partnership a collaborative body spanning the Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, local Enterprise companies, rail operators, the Friends Groups and others.

Achievements include the Easter Ross commuter train, Beauly station, all-line winter Sunday trains, initiating the re-introduction of significant freight, the appointment of a Highland Rail Development Manager, the transporting of extremely long lengths of pipe to Wick, and the building of a footbridge alongside the Shin Viaduct. A substantial increase in freight is still needed and we will continue to persuade haulage contractors that there is an alternative to driving long distances over inadequate roads.

We continue to seek shortened journey times, new services such as the Invernet proposals and a station serving Conon Bridge. We aim to work in partnerships, we publish a thrice yearly Newsletter, we are democratically governed through our AGM and a geographically representative committee.

Annual membership is £7 through our Membership Secretary telephone 01334 475311.

Contact can be made through fofnl "at" tiscali.co.uk