RAIL enthusiasts aiming to develop the Heritage Line between Bishop Auckland and Darlington are calling community groups together next week.

The Association of Community-Rail Partnerships (ACoRP) is leading a conference at Shildon's Sunnydale Leisure Centre on Monday looking at ways of promoting the line.

The event is part of a new initiative involving local authorities, railway companies and development agencies in partnership with communities in the south of County Durham. The aim is to get stronger support for the Heritage Line, leading to better services and station facilities.

ACoRP director Dr Paul Salveson said: "Where community-rail partnerships have been established we have seen a steady growth in passengers using the line, leading to more frequent services and better station facilities. The same approach can work for the Heritage Line.

"The proposed establishment of the National Railway Museum's new centre at Shildon is a particularly exciting opportunity for the line." After an address by Dr Salveson, six discussion groups will cover community involvement, arts projects at stations, encouraging extra use, promoting the line's railway and social heritage, links with the Weardale Railway and making stations safer.

Dr Salveson said: "We want to get good, practical ideas for how we can start a renaissance of the line and welcome representatives of any community group of local business." Call (01484) 549737 to book a place.