THE Swindon and Cricklade Railway has set up an appeal, after a rare vintage train stationed at the railway was left gutted by a fire in a suspected arson attack, causing more than £100,000-worth of damage.

A diesel Thumper unit and three wagons on an adjacent line caught fire on the track at Blunsdon on Friday, May 20.

The Thumper was one of only three of its kind left in the country and it alone was estimated at £80,000, with the wagons costing a further £20,000.

The railway’s website said “the obvious conclusion was arson”.

It went on to say: “[The train] was important for the railway’s passenger services as well as being a significant historical survival.

“It was clearly appreciated by enthusiasts and family visitors and by many school children during their holidays.

“In the months before the fire, it had been the subject of extensive refurbishment for the 2016 season.

“It is a serious blow to the railway and to railway preservation nationally.

“The trailer car is a total loss. But, providentially, the driving car is relatively intact. It will need much work, but that is what the railway is good at.”

The railway has now launched an appeal to get funding to replace the trailer car.

A statement on their website said: “We believe that we can find a vehicle to replace the trailer car, but we need financial help to obtain it,” said their website.

“We are facing a huge expense that we cannot add to our existing commitments. But, with your help and our expertise, the Thumper can run again. Anything you can give will help bring that day closer.”

To find out how to donate to the railway, visit swindon-cricklade-railway.org

An investigation is currently underway by Wiltshire Police to find out how the fire started.

Firefighters from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue attended the scene on the day, but by the time they arrived there was little left to do, as the fire had gutted the carriages.

A fire investigator was unable to draw conclusions from the damage and so the investigation into its cause was handed to police.

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: “Officers attended reports of a fire at the Swindon and Cricklade Railway at around 5pm on May 20.

“Several carriages and lineside buildings were severely damaged.

“An investigation is underway to identify the cause of the fire.

“Anyone who saw anything suspicious around the time of the incident is asked to call Wiltshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”