The Ayrshire Railway Preservation Group (ARPG) has announced it is to acquire the Scottish Industrial Railway Centre in Patna.

The acquisition was possible after a fundraising effort, a lengthy legal process and a £20,000 grant support from the council and Cumnock and Doon Valley Minerals Trust (CDVMT).

ARPG has now managed to buy and lease part of the site which they've used as a base for their registered charity since moving there in 2005.

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Councillor Bobby McDill said: "This acquisition by the ARPG secures the future of Dunaskin and ensures new generations will be able to learn about and appreciate our vital Industrial heritage.

"Ownership of many of the buildings and lease arrangements for the surrounding land will enable the group to extend the scope of the railway, improve the visitor centre and run skills courses for schools and provide training placements for Modern Apprentices."

Norman Gee, ARGP Board Director said: "Through a direct fundraising effort we raised £17,000 – far more than we hoped, which, together with the money raised from East Ayrshire Council and CDVMT means we can progress with our plans.

"We're hoping very soon to extend the run of our tracks and we’ve got great plans for the existing facilities."

(LM)