It is clear we took the right decision because to have delayed the work for a further season would have caused the costs to escalate

Frank Spence, Llangollen Railway

The viaduct had been carrying trains for over 130 years but was in need of extensive repairs.

The contractor in charge of the operation, George Law Ltd, has now handed the trackbed across the viaduct back to the railway three weeks early.

However, although trains can cross the viaduct, works to complete the repairs, and to reinstate the platform extension for Berwyn Station, are expected to continue until July.

Services from Llangollen to Carrog in the Vale of Clwyd are set to resume on 23 March.

Railway spokesman, Frank Spence said: "It is clear we took the right decision because to have delayed the work for a further season would have caused the costs to escalate."

The railway runs alongside the River Dee

But the Railway trust says contributions are still urgently needed for the repair works to the viaduct.

Earlier this month, an anonymous benefactor stepped in to help Llangollen Railway Trust's appeal to raise cash for the repair and renovation work.

The trust were offered an interest free loan of up to �150,000 to be paid back over five years.

Money for the project will also be received through Objective One, a European fund to help regenerate parts of Wales.

The project funding will allow the track to be removed over the viaduct, the replacement of the waterproof membrane, which protects the viaduct, and the stabilising of the structure.

The railway closed to passenger traffic in 1965, and to goods in 1968.

A group of train enthusiasts started up the line again in 1975.