THE miniature railway which is a highlight for many families visiting Poole Park is unlikely to be back this summer.

Poole council announced last Friday that it had terminated its contract with the Friends of Poole Park, which had been running the attraction.

The council had picked the Friends group to run the railway only last year, after deciding not to renew its contract with Chris Bullen, who had run the railway for 13 years.

But the trains have been out of action since May 18 after derailments and a walkout of staff.

Cllr John Rampton, the council’s cabinet member for environment and open spaces, told the Daily Echo it was unlikely the trains would be back this tourist season.

“I would say from the information we have so far that it’s not that likely we’ll be able to get it up and running this season. We’ll wait until we see the final technical details,” he said.

He said of the recent troubles: “This isn’t something within Borough of Poole’s control in terms of what’s happened. What’s is important is how we deal with it.

“We’re dealing with it in such a way that we will ensure there’s a sustainable and safe railway.”

He said reports were being carried out into the state of the railway.

“We understand there are significant issues with the infrastructure, particularly the track and sleepers underneath. There’s a lot that needs doing,” he said.

“It’s unfortunate it’s happened but we really do intend to get this railway up and running sustainably and safely.”

Families visiting Poole Park yesterday were sad at the absence of the trains, which have been part of a trip to the park since 1949.

Paula Joyce, visiting relatives in Poole from London, said: “We come to Poole regularly and the children have enjoyed the railway in the past. It would be nice if they could sort it out in time for the summer holidays because it will be bad for business for the café and play area.”

Edward Johnson from Bournemouth was at the park with his two daughters, aged four and six. He said: “We’re going out for lunch for Father’s Day and thought we would come to the park first. I was disappointed to see the railway closed. It is part of a trip to the park so it’s silly to keep it closed any longer than necessary.”

A mum, who did not wish to be named, said: “It is ridiculous that they can’t get this sorted. The railway has been here for years and it is part of Poole Park.”