OFFENDERS sentenced to community service are helping to fast track clearance work along the Wisbech and March Bramley Line. The track-clearing programme is ahead of schedule thanks to the offenders who have been helping with the huge task of clearing vege

OFFENDERS sentenced to community service are helping to fast track clearance work along the Wisbech and March Bramley Line.

The track-clearing programme is ahead of schedule thanks to the offenders who have been helping with the huge task of clearing vegetation found along the line.

Brian Bayliss, vice-chairman of the line, said: "Without these guys helping us, we would have nowhere near the amount of clearing completed.

"In all seriousness, they have done an absolutely terrific job in the work they have so far completed. Some of them are also showing an interest in becoming members of the Bramley Line in order to see the work continue after they have completed their sentence, plus they are interested in railways.

"A small number have already asked about joining the group and will soon be given forms. Their names and what they have done to be doing community service is of no importance at all, because they are treated simply as volunteers as the members of the track clearing team already are."

Mr Bayliss also reported to those at the monthly meeting that there are now more than 200 members. There was also a chance to buy some of the Bramley Line merchandise now available including baseball caps, polo shirts, fleeces and mugs, all bearing the logo.

The Bramley Line committee aims to re-open the March-Wisbech passenger rail link as a tourist attraction. Passenger services were withdrawn in 1968.

- Anyone interested in joining the Wisbech and March Bramley Line should contact the office on 01354 651188, or the membership officer on 01945 474636.