Originally built during the 1840s railway mania, the ELR was closed to passengers by British Rail in 1972.
Richard was among the preservationists who rebuilt the line in the 1970s and 1980s.
It reopened between Bury and Ramsbottom in 1987 before extending to Rawtenstall and Heywood.
Today, this 12.5 mile (20km) heritage route runs through the scenic Irwell Valley, passing industrial relics, factories, fields and cottages.
It remains a popular tourist attraction, particularly at Christmas when it runs Santa Specials, only made possible by a team of more than 800 volunteers.