RAIL inspectors have endorsed a heritage line’s latest efforts towards establishing a connection with main line services.

The Weardale Railway is predicting a huge boost to the County Durham economy when freight and tourist services connect with Bishop Auckland later this year.

They came a step closer last week when David Keay, from Her Majesty’s Railway Inspectorate, pronounced himself satisfied with the progress made on the line so far.

HMRI will make a final inspection later this summer, allowing the line’s US-owned operator British American Rail Services to extend services from the current five-mile run between Wolsingham and Stanhope.

Ian Gardner, from volunteer support group the Weardale Railway Trust, said they had been pleased with the inspector’s verdict.

He said: "They don’t just look at the line clearing and repairs, they take in all aspects of the business.

"There were no surprises in what they said. They were very happy with what we have accomplished."

The railway’s next major hurdle is going to be providing a passenger platform at Bishop Auckland which will be west of the main line station.

The latest plan is to run a special train in August to Witton-le-Wear, where work to a level crossing needs approval.

The first train to Bishop Auckland would follow in September, although passengers will have to stay on board because there is not yet a separate platform for the Weardale service.

Mr Gardner said: "Once we get through to Bishop Auckland the possibilities are tremendous for the whole area.

"We had a big group by coach from Merseyside on Saturday showing the interest there is from other parts of the country.

"With the possibility of rail heritage tours taking in Tanfield, Shildon and Darlington there could be a huge number of people staying in and spending money in the area."