BUSINESS leaders and regeneration experts are backing the country's newest tourist railway which could create jobs and put millions into a rural economy.

Consultants estimate the Weardale Railway, which opens in County Durham at the weekend, could attract 90,000 visitors a year, create 75 jobs, including 31 already on the railway, and put £3m annually into the pockets of local traders.

Even if the final figures fall short of these targets, the railway is bound to bring in business, as a jobs summit at Auckland Castle was told.

Margaret Fay, chairman of regeneration agency One NorthEast, will open Wolsingham station on Saturday when the first regular passenger service for 51 years arrives from Stanhope.

She said: "One NorthEast is very pleased to have been able to provide £1m funding for the Weardale Railway project, which will have a tremendous impact on the area's economy.

"It is a scheme that links to jobs, tourism, training, recreation and education.

"Not only will it help link this remote rural area to major employment centres, such as Darlington, it will also be a major tourism draw, with more than 90,000 visitors expected to use the line each year."

Councillor Bob Pendlebury, Durham County Council cabinet member for transport and sustainability, said: "This is great news for Weardale, opening up tremendous possibi-lities and job opportunities for the people of the dale.

"As well as investing in the project ourselves, the county council has been instrumental in securing over £1m of grants to help make the dream become a reality and I am confident that the contribution we have made will be more than repaid by the economic benefits that this project will bring to the dale."

For fares and timetable, contact the railway on 0845 6001348 or (01388) 529566 or visit www.weardale-railway.org.uk