Pop music legend Pete Waterman has recorded a heartfelt plea for people to support the East Lancashire Railway.
The music mogul, who helped launch the careers of such stars as Kylie Minogue and Rick Astley, is the president of the railway's preservation society.
The railway line runs through Bury on its course between Heywood and Rawtenstall - with stops at Bury Bolton Street, Burrs Country Park, Summerseat, and Ramsbottom.
All operations at the railway, which had 800 volunteers, came to a halt in March, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
With no income, no volunteers and just three members of staff not furloughed, Pete claims it will struggle to open again post-lockdown if funding is not found.
He said: "For the last 30 years, we've built the East Lancashire Railway to what it is today.
"As president, it's been a long trip, but unfortunately in these hard times, we've had to close.
"We need volunteers to get the railway workable again. It's unlikely we'll reopen until the end of June."
Last week, the chairman of the East Lancashire Railway admitted that it was "fighting for survival".
It costs around £2,000 just to get a steam engine down the track each day and a support fund is hoping to raise £200,000.
More than £60,000 has already been donated but the former Pop Idol judge is urgently asking for more people to help reach the target.
Pete added: "We need your help to survive. Pledge as much as you can afford.
"We need it for our future. Thank you."
To donate, visit the East Lancashire Railway support fund.
