RAILWAY bosses facing a cash crisis secured enough funds to pay their staff in time for Christmas.
After two days of solid talks major funding partners at Weardale Railway Ltd managed to come up with a package that ensured all 34 workers got paid on Christmas Eve.
The breakthrough came days after it was revealed that the railway, which opened in the summer, could only afford to pay its employees two weeks of its monthly wage.
Company chairman Steve Raine said talks about the future of the railway were still continuing but was pleased that staff were getting paid.
Mr Raine also assured visitors to the Dale that the railway's short winter service would not be affected and was continuing this week, from Boxing Day, with two trains a day until January 3. Tickets have been selling well.
Mr Raine was in talks last week with major funders including regeneration agency One NorthEast.
What happens next is still uncertain but One NorthEast has brought in consultants to assist with a short term business plan to help get things back on track.
Messages of support have come from Government chief whip and North West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong, and Wear Valley District Council leader Olive Brown.
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