An association of enthusiasts
The team of volunteers takes care of the maintenance of the equipment, the reception of the passengers, the driving of the trains, the animation of the trains with themes and events, the training and internal authorizations, and the administrative tasks.
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The history of the CFTVA
In 1988, Jean-Marc CHAMBELLAND created the Aa Valley Tourist Railway Association (CFTVA) to promote local tourist sites via a railway network in good condition.
A very active small group is immediately set up because the task is immense: acquiring rolling stock, finding sufficient financial resources for the purchase of railcars, a steam locomotive, obtaining traffic permits, etc…
With pugnacity, the team spares no effort! Despite a very successful first attempt in 1992, it was not until 1998 that the tourist train ran on a regular basis. Today, the association includes a hundred members, of which around thirty are active members.
The CFTVA has three objectives
Save rolling stock
Save and restore railway vehicles to historic running condition.
Safeguarding railway heritage
Save the stations on the line between Arques and Lumbres and the goods hall at Arques station.
Save the Arques and Lumbres line
Save the circulation of a tourist train between Arques and Lumbres (former line from Saint-Omer to Boulogne sur mer via Desvres).
Our rolling stock
Support us!
To ensure the circulation of our trains, we must, tirelessly, maintain and restore our rolling stock. Major works have been carried out. Major works are still necessary. Even if the many hours spent by the volunteers have no financial cost, the costs of equipment, and the services of specialized external companies, represent a very significant cost for our association.
So, the CFTVA needs your help! Make an online donation, and immediately receive your tax receipt for tax reduction, our association being recognized as being of general interest. The payment is secure via the HelloAsso platform; no need for an account to connect, you just have to fill in your details, necessary for the tax receipt. Many thanks in advance!
