A RURAL "born again" railway yesterday demonstrated its faith in its future with a multi-million pound public share offer to finance its ambitious plans to expand.

The Wensleydale Railway started operations on the old Northallerton to Redmire line just a year ago and has been a resounding success.

In addition to regular services between Leeming Bar and Leyburn, a range of special trains have also been run and earlier this year it attracted Royal patronage when the Duke of York made the journey.

Now, through its new £2.75m share offer, it plans to go even further and increase capacity, trains, speeds and open five new rural stations.

The offer is the first of its type by an active UK main line operator and should allow individuals to play a role in shaping the development of the rural network for as little as £100.

The Wensleydale Railway plc believes its plans could point the way forward for the reinvigoration of the rural network.

And new freight services are planned to help reduce the number of heavy lorries using the often narrow, country roads.

"By being responsive to the needs of the local community we have been able to bring new jobs, assist in the regeneration of the local area and bring back into use a wasted community resource, all for a fraction of the high costs we have become used to for railway projects," said chief executive Scott Handley.

The railway is the only one in the UK to have been awarded all types of railway operating licences, meaning it can operate both the trains and the track.

The new expanded services will eventually provide passenger services over all of the line and new stations will be created at Redmire, Finghall, Newton-le-Willows, Bedale and Scruton.

Trains will connect with bus services further into the dale and with the rest of the main line network at Northallerton. Through ticketing from all main line stations will be available.

Passenger trains are currently operated by refurbished diesel multiple units. As part of the development plan locomotive-hauled trains will be introduced, as may light rail on certain sections.

The company is also considering bidding to operate other rural lines _ and has already identified a number for which its business model would be appropriate.

Copies of the share prospectus can be obtained by calling (01609) 779368 or by registering on-line at www.wensleydalerailway.com.