The Heritage Railway Association has announced that Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay is to become its new Chair.
Lord Parkinson, who served as Minister for Arts, Heritage and Libraries in the UK Government from 2021 to 2024, has taken-up his new role with the UK-wide trade body for the heritage rail sector from 1 October.
During his spell as Heritage Minister, Lord Parkinson secured £15m of public funding for the National Railway Museum’s new Central Hall project and took part in the centenary celebrations of Flying Scotsman. He also worked closely with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Heritage Rail on issues ranging from coal to young volunteers.
Lord Parkinson has also had a long-term commitment to diversity and widening engagement, with a passion for ensuring that people of all backgrounds can follow their talents. The North Tyneside-born peer is also a trustee of a registered educational charity.
"Both in government and in opposition, I’ve made the case for the key role heritage rail plays,” Lord Parkinson said.
“From the visitor economy to rural employment and the creative industries, our heritage railways and tramways have an essential place in our national life.”
“I hope that I can use my varied experience in this new role, but also that I can learn more about this exciting sector and the dedicated people who make it all possible.”
Lord Parkinson will take on the chair role from Paul Lewin, General Manager of the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, who has been Acting Chair since the Association’s previous chair Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill became Rail Minister in July 2024.
Paul Lewin said: “Lord Parkinson was the outstanding candidate for this role and it’s a pleasure to welcome him to the Heritage Railway Association. It’s clear to see that his high-level political experience will add an important string to our bow at a time when we face challenges such as coal and net zero, a faltering visitor economy and the need to ensure that the next generation of young volunteers can play an active role in the sector.
“I’m confident that such a high-profile appointment will be welcomed by our growing membership, and everyone with an interest in heritage railways, tramways and funiculars."
Following the appointment, Paul Lewin will remain on the board of the HRA as Deputy Chair alongside directors Andrew Barnes from the Bure Valley Railway, Stephen Clews from the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway, Noel Hartley from the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, Simon Marsh from the Kent and East Sussex Railway, Garry Mumford from the North Yorkshire Moors and Talyllyn Railways, Jenny Nunn from Seaton Tramway, Chris Price from the Talyllyn Railway and James West from Royal Deeside Railway.
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