A LEVEL crossing on a heritage railway line has been replaced on time and on budget.

Volunteers worked tirelessly to carry out the £20,000 project on the Wensleydale Railway line at Bedale.

Preparatory work began after trains stopped running following the festive period on January 2.

The road was then closed over the weekend and on Monday to allow the main work to take place.

Volunteers and staff gave up their time to complete the job, which included installing new ballast, sleepers, rails and road deck.

Ken Monkman, chairman of Wensleydale Railway Association, said: “The crossing was absolutely shot, especially after taking a lot of the wagons that were involved in the A1 upgrade.

“It was becoming unsafe and needed replacing. Lots of people have given up their time and the support from local residents was excellent.

“The project was completed on time and on budget – it was a great success.”

A free shuttle train service was laid on between Leeming Bar and Bedale, which was used to bring in school pupils to Bedale High School.