The outstanding work of hundreds of volunteers who keep one of north Norfolk’s main tourist attractions firmly on the right track has been recognised with a royal award.

The North Norfolk Railway has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

It is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is the equivalent of an MBE.

North Norfolk News: Deputy Lieutenants Adel MacNicol and Patrick Peal joined steam locomotive crew for a footplate ride aboard the powerful 2-10-0 locomotive, No. 92203 “Black Prince”. Deputy Lieutenants Adel MacNicol and Patrick Peal joined steam locomotive crew for a footplate ride aboard the powerful 2-10-0 locomotive, No. 92203 “Black Prince”. (Image: L Caudwell)

Hugh Harkett, managing director, said: “We are extremely proud to receive this award, our volunteers really are the lifeblood of the railway and we are continually thankful for their dedication and support. 

READ MORE: North Norfolk Railway murder mystery evenings planned for 2023

“The North Norfolk Railway is a not-for-profit enterprise so the support of volunteers is really crucial to our survival and we are delighted that the fantastic contribution they make has been officially celebrated in this way. 

MORE: Hollywood star rides the Norfolk Lights Express

North Norfolk News: Some of the railway’s volunteer team pose at Holt Station for a photo. Some of the railway’s volunteer team pose at Holt Station for a photo. (Image: L Caudwell)

“The ceremony is a great boost ahead of our main season, which begins on April 1.”

More than 500 volunteers help run the railway, which operates along five-and-a-half miles of restored track from Sheringham to Weybourne and Holt. 

The line welcomes around 165,000 passengers each year, with steam trains running on most days from April to October.