HIGH-speed trains are to stop at a North-East station giving travellers a direct rail link to the South-West.

Chester-le-Street railway station narrowly escaped closure during the 1960s, but was yesterday granted Intercity status.

Slow local trains will be replaced by cross-country services and people will be able to visit major towns and cities en route.

Twelve 125mph trains will call at the station every day, replacing the 75mph Pacers.

Stationmaster and director of Chester-le-Track Alex Nelson said: "This is a great day for Chester-le-Street. We have waited a long time for it to happen."

He added: "To celebrate the new service, Chester-le-Track is resurrecting one of its most popular and unusual promotions.

"If you've still got that 1960s or 70s nylon shirt you could get yourself a free railcard or a day return ticket to York at any time until the end of June."

Chester-le-Street will be served by Virgin, TransPennine and Arriva Trains Northern, allowing day trips to places such as York, Leeds and Derby.

Longer journeys to Bristol, Plymouth and Devon are also now an option.

Yesterday, Chester-le-Street dignitaries boarded the first Virgin train for a short trip to Darlington, while youngsters from Bullion Lane Primary School visited York's National Railway Museum.

Colin Harris, regional manager North-East for Virgin CrossCountry, said: "We welcome the arrival of Virgin Trains at Chester-le-Street.

"Passengers can now travel much further afield, as well as on local journeys, thanks to train operating companies working together under the leadership of the Strategic Rail Authority to produce a timetable that gives the people of Chester-le-Street new journey opportunities."