Seaton Tramway is one of 445 heritage organisations across the country set to receive a lifesaving financial boost from the government thanks to the £1.57billion Culture Recovery Fund to help them through the coronavirus pandemic.

The award of £435,100 will directly support wages, major overheads such as track and tram maintenance and the creation of new offers and opportunities with world class partners and exhibitions.

This vital funding is from the Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage and the Heritage Stimulus Fund - funded by Government and administered at arms length by Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Jenny Nunn, chief executive of Seaton Tramway, said: "Having to close the Tramway on March 23rd and consequently cancel any income for the next three months is on of the toughest things any business and employer has had to implement.

"In an unprecedented year for all, I am extremely grateful that the Cultural Recovery Fund has recognised the extreme difficulties faced by tourism and hospitality and has agreed to support us in this way. The months ahead will still be very challenging but the award also ensures the sustainability of the charity as an important economic driver for the area."

Seaton Tramway, which is a registered charity, has been operating in Seaton since August 1970 and celebrated its 50th anniversary this year.

The Tramway operates a three-mile track between Seaton and Colyton and has a fleet of 14 trams. The trams range in age from 1904 to 2007 and include a fleet of heritage trams of which ran on the streets of London, Bournemouth and includes the last surviving tram to run on the streets of Exeter.

The funding comes at welcome time for the Tramway as it has had to endure huge losses during the COVID-19 lockdown. Since reopening on July 4th, the Tramway has been awarded the 'We're Good To Go' accreditation from Visit England and the AA 'COVID-Secure' badge.

The trams have been running at a lower capacity since July 4th due to social distancing. Staff and volunteer have worked hard to keep the site COVID secure and have welcomed many visitors over the brief summer season.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: "As a nation it is essential that we preserve our heritage and celebrate and learn from our past. This massive support package will protect our shared heritage for future generations, save jobs and help us prepare for a cultural bounce-back post COVID."