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Mini JCB Digger Destroyed in Vandalism Spree
2 Aug
Summary
- A mini JCB digger was destroyed in a vandalism incident.
- A newly fitted fence for a future station was also dismantled.
- Volunteers are impacted by the loss of essential equipment.
The Churnet Valley Railway (CVR), a volunteer-led heritage line, has reported a significant vandalism incident. A mini JCB digger, present for less than a day while awaiting maintenance collection, was found completely destroyed. Vandals reportedly ripped off controls, removed electrical components, and poured dirt into the engine sump, rendering the vital equipment unusable.
In addition to the machinery damage, a newly erected fence at the site designated for the future Leek Station was also targeted. This fence was carefully dismantled, with screws removed, rather than being damaged accidentally. The CVR highlighted that the true victims are their volunteers, who dedicate their free time to improving the railway.
The destruction of the digger presents a major challenge for the railway's maintenance operations, impacting tasks that were made quicker, safer, and easier by the equipment. The CVR faces the prospect of either sourcing a costly replacement or finding expertise to repair the damaged vehicle. The group expressed bewilderment at the senseless destruction, noting it serves no purpose and diverts resources from railway improvements.
