THE charity that had its contract to operate Poole Park’s miniature railway terminated is now selling off its rolling stock.

Borough of Poole (BOP) bosses called time on Friends of Poole Park (FoPP) earlier this month, after putting them on notice in May following derailments and a mass walkout of volunteers and staff.

Now, the Friends have put an advert on their Facebook Page, selling off their 10.25 gauge locomotive, Princess Swee’Pea, for £18,000.

Six carriages are also up for sale for an additional £16,000.

However, some concerns have been raised by railway supporters, who point out sale of charity assets may need permission from the Charity Commission.

BOP cabinet portfolio holder for environment and open spaces, Cllr John Rampton, said: “We are aware the FoPP and its wholly-owned operational subsidiary, Poole Park Railway Community Interest Company (CIC), are advertising the sale of a miniature train engine and carriages.

“Any sale of these assets will need to comply with their rules and those of the Charity Commission.”

Earlier this week former Poole Park mini rail operator Chris Bullen revealed he’d expressed an interest in working with BOP by taking over the running of the attraction again.

Council bosses overlooked Mr Bullen in favour of the FoPP, last year, when the service was put out to tender.

Cllr Rampton said: “Poole Park Miniature Railway is treasured by so many people, both users and volunteers, it is important the council carefully considers all the options and fully understands what is required to deliver a safe, reliable and sustainable miniature railway attraction for all who really love it in the future.

“We have been assured that there are other trains and carriages available for sale or hire, in addition to those being offered by FoPP and CIC, and will consider how best to proceed once we have a clear way forward for ensuring this much-loved attraction remains in Poole Park.”

After their contract was terminated, FoPP said: “The FoPP, together with our external funders, have highly accreditable plans in place that would have invested at least £3m into the park over lifetime of the lease we were hoping to get.”