Rail enthusiasts want to bring steam trains back

The Aln Valley Railway Trust wants to bring locomotives back to the Alnmouth to Alnwick route as part of a �10m scheme to attract tourists.

The project has taken a step forward after planning permission was granted to turn cottages at Alnmouth Station into workshops and a visitors' centre.

Permission is also needed to build a bridge for trains over the A1.

'Fervently optimistic'

The Alnwick to Alnmouth branch line closed in 1968 and much of the track has fallen into disrepair.

But Martin Robinson, trustee for the charity, said enthusiasts were "optimistic" that the line would eventually re-open despite hurdles.

He said: "Since the branch line closed the A1 dual carriageway has opened so it is more a case of going over it rather than around it, we want to build a bridge for steam trains.

"There are hurdles to overcome but you have to be fervently optimistic to turn the project into a major tourist attraction."

The trust has also been handed the keys to Longhorn Station in Alnwick where it is hoped carriages and locomotives will be stored.