MORE than half a century after the last passenger train services ran on a scenic rural branch line, rail enthusiasts say they are at last on track to restore public routes.

Already years behind the original timetable for reopening the Weardale Railway, the small company negotiating to buy the line is hoping to run summer steam specials this year.

Negotiations began with Railtrack and will continue now the country's infrastructure has been taken over by Network Rail.

Weardale Railway has already chosen its project director and is advertising the post of outdoor works manager, although neither position can be filled until some final hurdles are overcome. Director Brian Morris hopes that the track will soon be purchased, funding will be in place and final licences will be granted.

Volunteers are already clearing some of the 15 miles of overgrown track between Bishop Auckland and Stanhope and restoring engines and rolling stock at their Wolsingham workshops.

Mr Morris said: "The line is a key element in the regeneration of Weardale and we are getting offers of help from people like the Countryside Agency and One NorthEast.

"European money is funding our setting up costs and we are hoping our negotiations with Railtrack will soon be successful.

"The summer specials will keep local interest and we are looking to start regular services in the spring of next year."

Durham County Council, Wear Valley District Council and Weardale's MP Hilary Armstrong have all pledged their support to the railway project.

Some dales residents, however, are opposed to public money being used and have branded the scheme a white elephant.

One said: "I understand that the district council has put in £200,000. This could have been better spent on something for the young and old people in the dale, or on creating long-term, sustainable jobs."