Everton FC legend Neville Southall is backing a campaign urging people to visit Snowdon Mountain Railway in the Snowdonia National Park when the popular tourist attraction reopens later this week.

The North Wales born former goalkeeper says scousers should help Welsh tourism thrive again after the COVID-19 lockdown forced tourism businesses in the country to close.

Neville, who made a record 750 appearances for Everton, says: “I have brilliant memories of visiting Snowdon and I know that Snowdon Mountain Railway is a much loved visitor attraction. It is probably the most well known and popular attraction in Wales with thousands of visitors taking the historic trains to the summit every year.

“It has been badly affected by the COVID-19 lockdown. It has had no visitors at all this year and that’s why we all need to get behind it and visit this summer. They’ve just invested in new green technology trains too so it is worth giving them a go.

“We’ve all got to do what we can to support Welsh tourism to thrive again and that includes visiting Snowdon Mountain Railway! It is a great day out so I’m urging people to book a day trip to help to sustain the attraction for years to come. That includes scousers. It is only an hour away from Liverpool!”

The popular tourist attraction, which has operated since 1896, will reopen to the public on 10 July.

The historic railway will also unveil the world’s first mountain hybrid locomotives this summer following a £1.1 million investment in the new technology from operators Heritage Great Britain.

Heritage Great Britain says the investment in the new technology follows a commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and improve the sustainability of the experience at the Snowdonia National Park.

Since 1896, visitors have been travelling to Llanberis at the foot of Snowdon to experience a unique journey, via a five-mile rail line. Over 12 million people have taken the train ride which showcases one of the most scenic locations in Britain. The service has run uninterrupted for decades, with the exception of both World Wars and during the recent pandemic.

Snowdon Mountain Railway was constructed between 1894-1896. In just 14 months, a workforce consisting of only 150 men laid the track up the highest point in Wales and England. The summit is 1,085 metres above sea level with one of the UK’s most spectacular views.

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