RAILWAY police have mounted an education campaign telling youngsters and adults to keep off the country's newest tourist line.

With the Weardale Railway, in County Durham, due to start its first regular passenger service for 51 years on Saturday, British Transport Police have been brought in to patrol the track.

Officers have been explaining the dangers to children in Weardale schools this week and are already warning people they see near the line.

Sergeant Mick Turnbull, based at Darlington, said: "It is all about educating people. Because the line has been closed for so long, people have got used to using it as a footpath.

"We need to tell them that is no longer safe to do that because trains will be running again. It is a dangerous place to be.

"The majority of people we have talked to have been reasonable and understand why they should stay away.

"But there are holidaymakers coming to the area who don't know and they need to be aware as well.

"We would rather warn people than come down heavy, but, ultimately, they could be taken to court and fined up to £1,000. We don't want to do that and hope they will stay away."

The line officially reopens on Saturday morning with a ceremony at Stanhope Staion and a celebration journey from Stanhope Station to Frosterley and Wolsingham. Fares on the first train are £30 for adults and £18 children, and include special presentation bags. Normal fares are £5 return for adults, £4 senior citizens and £3 children, or ask for family rates.

To book, call 0845 6001348 or (01388) 529566 or visit. www.weardale-railway.org.uk

* To report anyone trespassing on the line, call 0800 405040 .